Effect of social capital on enrolment of informal sector occupational groups in the national health insurance scheme in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND: Enrolment of informal sector workers in Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is critical to achieving increased risk-pooling and attainment of Universal Health Coverage. However, the NHIS has struggled over the years to improve enrolment of this subpopulation. This study analysed effect of social capital on enrolment of informal sector workers in the NHIS. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 528 members of hairdressers and beauticians, farmers, and commercial road transport drivers' groups. Descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, and multinomial logit regression model were used to analyse the data. RESULTS: Social capital including membership in occupational group, trust, and collective action were significantly associated with enrolment in the NHIS, overall. Other factors such as household size, education, ethnicity, and usual source of health care were, however, correlated with both enrolment and dropout. Notwithstanding these factors, the chance of enrolling in the NHIS and staying active was 44.6% higher for the hairdressers and beauticians; the probability of dropping out of the scheme was 62.9% higher for the farmers; and the chance of never enrolling in the scheme was 22.3% higher for the commercial road transport drivers. CONCLUSIONS: Social capital particularly collective action and predominantly female occupational groups are key determinants of informal sector workers' participation in the NHIS. Policy interventions to improve enrolment of this subpopulation should consider group enrolment, targeting female dominated informal sector occupational groups. Further studies should consider inclusion of mediating and moderating variables to provide a clearer picture of the relationship between occupational group social capital and enrolment in health insurance schemes.

Potential demand for National Health Insurance in Zimbabwe: Evidence from selected urban informal sector clusters in Harare.

BACKGROUND: Zimbabwe's tax-based healthcare financing model has been characterised by perennial financing deficits and widespread application of user fees and has thus been socially exclusive. The country's urban informal sector population is not spared from these challenges. The study explored the potential demand for National Health Insurance (NHI) among respondents from selected urban informal sector clusters of Harare. The following clusters were targeted: Glenview furniture complex, Harare home industries, Mupedzanhamo flea market, Mbare new wholesale market and Mbare retail market. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was administered to 388 respondents from the selected clusters, and data on the determinants of Willingness to Join (WTJ) and Willingness to Pay (WTP) was gathered. Respondents were recruited via a multi-stage sampling procedure. In the first stage, the five informal sector clusters were purposely selected. The second stage involved a proportional allocation of respondents by cluster size. Finally, based on the stalls allocated by municipal authorities in each area, respondents were selected using systematic sampling. The sampling interval (k) was determined by dividing the total number of allocated stalls in a cluster (N) by the sample size proportionate to that cluster (n). For each cluster, the first stall (respondent) was randomly chosen, and thereafter, a respondent from every 10th stall was selected and interviewed at their workplace. Contingent valuation was adopted to elicit WTP. Logit models and interval regression were applied for the econometric analyses. RESULTS: A total of 388 respondents participated in the survey. The dominant informal sector activity among the surveyed clusters was the sale of clothing and shoes (39.2%), followed by the sale of agricultural products (27.1%). Concerning employment status, the majority were own-account workers (73.1%). Most of the respondents (84.8%) completed secondary school. On monthly income from informal sector activities, the highest frequency (37.1%) was observed in the Zw$(1000 to <3000) or US$(28.57 to <85.71) category. The mean age of respondents was 36 years. Out of the 388 respondents, 325 (83.8%) were willing to join the proposed NHI scheme. WTJ was influenced by the following factors: health insurance awareness, health insurance perception, membership to a resource-pooling scheme, solidarity with the sick, and household recently experiencing difficulties paying for healthcare. On average, respondents were willing to pay Zw$72.13 (approximately US$2.06) per person per month. The key determinants of WTP were household size, respondent's education level, income, and health insurance perception. CONCLUSIONS: Since the majority of respondents from the sampled clusters were willing to join and pay for the contributory NHI scheme, it follows that there is potential to implement the scheme for the urban informal sector workers from the clusters studied. However, some issues require careful consideration. The informal sector workers need to be educated on the concept of risk pooling and the benefits of being members of an NHI scheme. Household size and income are factors that require special attention when deciding on the premiums for the scheme. Moreover, given that price instability hurts financial products such as health insurance, there is a need for ensuring macroeconomic stability.

Is chemical exposure present in informal work associated with Sars-CoV-2 infection?

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To compare the incidence of covid-19 symptoms between informal home-based workers and a control group and to assess the association of these cases with blood elements concentrations and other relevant risk factors for Sars-Cov-2 infection. METHODS Welders chemically exposed to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) (n = 26) and control participants (n = 25) answered questionnaires on adherence to social distancing and signs and symptoms of the disease for five months during the covid-19 pandemic. After follow-up, covid-19 serology tests were performed on a subsample of 12 chemically exposed workers and 20 control participants. Before the pandemic, PTE concentrations in blood (As, Mn, Ni, Cd, Hg, Sb, Sn, Cu, Zn, and Pb) were measured by ICP-MS. RESULTS The chemically exposed group had higher lead and cadmium levels in blood (p < 0.01). The control group presented lower adherence to social distancing (p = 0.016). Although not significant, welders had a 74% greater chance of having at least one covid-19 symptom compared with control participants, but their adherence to social distancing decreased this chance by 20%. The use of taxis for transportation was a risk factor significantly associated with covid-19 symptoms. CONCLUSION The lower adherence to social distancing among the control group greatly influences the development of covid-19. The literature lacks data linking exposure to PTEs and Sars-Cov-2 infection and/or severity. In this study, despite chemical exposure, working from home may have protected welders against covid-19, considering that they maintained greater social distancing than control participants.

Correr atrás do vento: o trabalho dos mototaxistas de Sobral, Ceará / Chasing the wind: the work of motorcycle taxi drivers from Sobral, Ceará / Perseguir el viento: el trabajo de los mototaxis de Sobral, Ceará

A pesquisa teve como objetivo geral analisar a atividade e o ofício dos mototaxistas de Sobral, Ceará. O objetivo específico foi compreender: a) a atividade exercida e o conceito de real da atividade; b) as prescrições; c) as regras informais; e d) as relações profissionais. A investigação adotou o referencial teórico da Clínica da Atividade, e participaram oito mototaxistas. Inspiradas no método da Instrução ao Sósia, foram realizadas e gravadas entrevistas semiestruturadas. Seu áudio foi transcrito e o conteúdo passou por análise construtivo-interpretativa. Os resultados mostraram que a atividade era regulamentada pela prefeitura e dependia da manutenção dos instrumentos utilizados. O expediente era organizado por uma regra do coletivo de trabalho relacionada ao horário de funcionamento de escolas e universidades. A busca por passageiros variava, sendo possível ficar em pontos fixos ou circular pela cidade. As condições ambientais demandavam cuidados como o uso de protetor solar e hidratação. A autonomia da profissão permitia organizar o próprio expediente e o ganho mensal. Entretanto, houve queixas relativas à falta de direitos previdenciários e ao fato de que a flexibilidade geraria uma sobrecarga de trabalho que poderia trazer prejuízos à saúde. Riscos foram identificados em acidentes de trânsito e violência urbana. Os relatos acerca das relações com os colegas mostraram um ambiente amistoso, e as relações com os passageiros eram definidas por cada situação, abrangendo desde interações objetivas até conversas pessoais.(AU)

The research had as general objective to analyze the activity and the work of motorcycle taxi drivers in Sobral, Ceará. Specific objectives were to understand: (a) the activity performed and the real of activity; (b) the prescriptions; (c) informal rules and (d) professional relationships. The investigation adopted the theoretical framework of the Clinic of Activity. Eight motorcycle taxi drivers participated in the investigation. Inspired by the instruction to the double method, semi-structured interviews were conducted. The audio of the interviews was transcribed and underwent constructive-interpretive analysis. The results showed that the activity was regulated by the city and depended on the maintenance of the instruments used. The working hours were organized by a collective labor rule related to the opening hours of schools and universities. The looking-for for passengers also varied: it was possible to stay at fixed points or move around the city. Environmental conditions required care such as the use of sunscreen and hydration. The profession's autonomy made it possible to organize its own hours and monthly earnings. However, there were complaints regarding the lack of social security rights and that flexibility would create an overload of work that could harm health. Risks have been identified in traffic accidents and urban violence. Reports about relationships with colleagues showed a friendly atmosphere. Relations with passengers were defined by each situation, ranging from objective interactions to personal conversations.(AU)

La investigación tuvo como objetivo general analizar la actividad y el trabajo de los mototaxis en Sobral, Ceará. Los objetivos específicos eran comprender: (a) la actividad realizada y la real de la actividad; (b) las prescripciones; (c) reglas informales y (d) relaciones profesionales. La investigación adoptó el marco teórico de la Clínica de Actividad. En la investigación participaron ocho mototaxis. Inspirándose en el método de instrucción al doble, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas. El audio de las entrevistas fue transcrito y sometido a un análisis constructivo-interpretativo. Los resultados mostraron que la actividad estaba regulada por la prefectura municipal y dependía del mantenimiento de los instrumentos utilizados. Los horarios de trabajo fueron organizados por una norma laboral colectiva relacionada con los horarios de apertura de escuelas y universidades. La búsqueda de pasajeros también variaba: era posible permanecer en puntos fijos o moverse por la ciudad. Las condiciones ambientales requerían cuidados como el uso de protector solar e hidratación. La autonomía de la profesión permitió organizar sus propias horas y ganancias mensuales. Sin embargo, hubo quejas sobre la falta de derechos de seguridad social y que la flexibilidad crearía una sobrecarga de trabajo que podría dañar la salud. Se han identificado riesgos en accidentes de tráfico y violencia urbana. Los informes sobre las relaciones con los colegas mostraron un ambiente agradable. Las relaciones con los pasajeros se definieron por cada situación, desde interacciones objetivas hasta conversaciones personales.(AU)

Concentrações de metais em poeira depositada em casas de trabalhadores informais e domiciliares da cadeia produtiva de joias e bijuterias de Limeira, SP: avaliação de risco à saúde infantil / Metal concentrations in dust deposited in the homes of informal and home-based workers in the jewelry and fashion jewelry production of Limeira, SP: risk assessment for children's health

Introdução: O trabalho informal é acompanhado de diversas particularidades, além do manuseio de produtos químicos sem equipamentos adequados, pode acontecer a exposição passiva de familiares ou amigos próximos, como por exemplo as crianças. Na cidade de Limeira, no interior de São Paulo, há a produção informal de joias e bijuterias, envolvendo atividades que vão desde a montagem de peças até a solda. Objetivos: este estudo avaliou a exposição de crianças à poeiras contendo metais, nas residências de trabalhadores informais e domiciliares da cadeia produtiva de joias e bijuterias de Limeira. Método: foram coletadas amostras de poeira com lenços eletrostáticos em 21 domicílios do grupo exposto e 23 do grupo controle e determinados os Elementos Potencialmente Tóxicos (EPT) Cr, Sn, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb e As, nos ambientes. As análises foram realizadas no Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas do Estado de São Paulo (IPT), por ICP-MS. Também, foram cedidos os resultados das concentrações de EPT no sangue de uma subamostra de crianças, presentes na população de estudo, pela coordenadora do projeto (KPKO). Resultados: As concentrações de Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd e Sn na poeira doméstica foram significativamente maiores no grupo exposto (<0,05), assim como as concentrações de Pb e Cd no sangue das crianças do grupo exposto (<0,05). As concentrações de EPT na poeira doméstica e no sangue das crianças apresentaram correlação moderada para Cr (Coeficiente de Correlação de Spearman (Rho) 0,40), Zn (Rho -0,43) e As (Rho 0,40), e uma forte correlação para Cd (Rho 0,80) (p <0,05). Conclusões: Os resultados do estudo apontaram riscos para a exposição infantil ao Cd, As e Cr durante a produção informal e doméstica de joias e bijuterias, salientando a importância de proteger a saúde infantil através da promoção de ações de segurança. Adicionalmente, os lenços eletrostáticos se mostraram ferramentas de baixo custo e eficazes para avaliação da exposição a EPT.

Introduction: Informal work is followed by several particularities, besides the handling of chemicals without proper equipment, there may happen the passive exposure of family members or close friends, such as children. In the city of Limeira, in the interior of São Paulo, there is informal jewelry production, involving activities ranging from assembling pieces to welding. Objectives: This study evaluated the exposure of children to dust containing metals in the homes of informal and home-based workers in the jewelry production industry in Limeira. Method: dust samples were collected with electrostatic cloths from 21 households in the exposed group and 23 in the control group, and the Potentially Toxic Elements (PTE) Cr, Sn, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, and As were determined in the environments. The analyses were carried out at the Technological Research Institute of the State of São Paulo (IPT), by ICP-MS. Also, the results of PTE concentrations in the blood of a subsample of children, present in the study population, were provided by the project coordinator (KPKO). Results: Concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd and Sn in household dust were significantly higher in the exposed group (<0.05), as were concentrations of Pb and Cd in the blood of children in the exposed group (<0.05). PTE concentrations in house dust and children's blood showed moderate correlation for Cr (Spearman's Correlation Coefficient (Rho) 0.40), Zn (Rho -0.43) and As (Rho 0.40), and a strong correlation for Cd (Rho 0.80) (p <0.05). Conclusions: The results of the study indicated risks for children's exposure to Cd, As and Cr during informal, domestic jewelry production, highlighting the importance of protecting children's health by promoting safety actions. Additionally, electrostatic cloths proved to be low-cost and effective tools for assessing exposure to PTE.

O mal-estar na uberização: reflexões acerca do trabalho na perspectiva da lógica neoliberal / Uberization malaise: reflections about work under neoliberal capitalism

O aumento do desemprego e a ampliação das condições de informalidade podem ser considerados fontes de mal-estar e sofrimento psíquico. A fluidez do vínculo entre empregador e empregado suprime as possibilidades de direitos e garantias trabalhistas. Esse é o caso do trabalho uberizado, em que os profissionais atuam na condição de prestadores de serviço e, em geral, são integralmente responsáveis pelo serviço prestado. Considerando essa situação, este estudo buscou discutir as consequências subjetivas ocasionadas pela uberização a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas, compostas por perguntas disparadoras de conteúdo e amparadas na investigação clínico-interpretativa do método psicanalítico. Para tanto, foram entrevistados quatro entregadores de delivery do município de Catalão (Goiás), que apontaram as condições de informalidade no trabalho, exploração e exaustão. Além disso, as entrevistas evidenciaram a complexidade da lógica neoliberal e o sofrimento psíquico determinado pelos atuais modos de degradação da vida

Increased unemployment rates and work informality are sources of malaise and psychic suffering. Flexible relations between employer and employee suppresses labor rights and guarantees. Such is the case of uberized work, in which professionals act as service providers and are usually fully responsible for the service provided. Hence, this study discusses the subjective consequences caused by uberization. Semi-structured interviews consisting of content-triggering questions and supported by clinical-interpretive investigation were conducted with four delivery workers from Catalão (Goiás). Interviewees highlighted the conditions of work informality, exploitation, and exhaustion, thus revealing the complexity of the neoliberal logic and the psychic suffering caused by the current precarization of life

Leveraging Innovative Financing Strategy to Increase Coverage and Resources Among Informal Sector for Social Health Insurance Within the Nigerian Context of Devolution: Evidence From Adoption Model Implementation.

Background: Enrollment in sub-national social health insurance schemes (SSHIS) can be challenging in developing countries like Nigeria, particularly among people in the informal sector. This could be due to a lack of knowledge on its mode of operation and benefits, distrust in government, inimical religious and traditional beliefs, as well as constraining economic factors. A complementary and innovative financing strategy such as the philanthropist adoption model (ADM) could be beneficial in improving SSHIS coverage and financial resources among persons in the informal sector. The study provides new evidence on how ADM influenced health insurance coverage and resources within SSHIS among informal settings in Nigeria. It also highlights contextual factors influencing the implementation of ADM. Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods case-study approach undertaken in Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria. Data were collected through in-depth interviews (n = 14), document review (n = 12), and quantitative (enrollment data) methods. The respondents were purposively selected based on their involvement with the implementation of the SSHIS. Data analysis for qualitative data was done using the manual thematic framework approach while descriptive analysis was performed for the quantitative data. Results: The implementation of ADM was a valuable and effective strategy for improving knowledge, coverage, and resource mobilization (annual premium pool) within the SSHIS in the informal sector. The main enablers of the implementation of ADM include strong political will and commitment, wider stakeholders' consultation and collaboration, numerous public-spirited philanthropists, and legal institutionalization of health insurance. Other enablers include organizational factors like good teamwork among Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) staff, enabling work environment (incentives, supervision, office space), and experienced marketers in the agency. However, ADM had several barriers that affected its implementation-acceptability issues due to distrust for government and the health system, health systems barriers including substandard health facilities and equipment, and inimical cultural and religious beliefs about health insurance. Conclusion: The study demonstrates a case for the implementation of innovative ADM as a strategy for enhancing SSHIS financial sustainability and coverage of persons in the informal sector. Hence, the strategy should be adopted in settings where philanthropy abounds for increasing access to quality healthcare delivery to poor beneficiaries toward achieving universal health coverage in developing countries.

Exploring heterogeneity of national health insurance scheme enrolment among persons in the informal sector.

The Ghanaian government began implementing the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in 2005, anchored on the universal health coverage principle. However, informal sector workers contribute to the low enrolment into the scheme. This paper examines the factors that influence enrolment status in Ghana's NHIS among individuals in the informal sector. The study employed the fixed-effects logit model, using the Ghana Socioeconomic Panel Survey datasets. The findings revealed that gender, age, education, marital status, household size, physical activity, income, savings and subjective social welfare determine enrolment decisions of persons in the informal sector. Drivers of NHIS enrolment for male and female household heads were secondary education and household size. Heterogeneously, age, Junior High School education, married, physical activity, subjective social welfare and savings influenced only male-headed households' enrolment status. The study shows differences in enrolment status among rural and urban residents, as age, education, marital status, household size, and physical activity influenced rural residents, while for urban inhabitants', savings determined their NHIS enrolment decisions. However, gender, obesity, income and subjective social welfare predicted enrolment decisions for rural and urban residents. Finally, two variables, gender (male) and physical activity predicted the NHIS enrolment decision among the poor, whereas subjective social welfare and savings influenced the wealthiest enrolment decisions. For Ghana to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of universal health coverage, the study recommends enhanced public education on NHIS benefits among informal workers to promote enrolment.

Risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders among welders in the informal sector under resource constrained settings.

BACKGROUND: Welding tasks involve the use of awkward working postures and repetitive movements and therefore pose a risk for developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs). OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, severity and risk factors for WRMDs among welders in the informal sector. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 128 welders (33±10.5 years) were purposively selected from three urban centers in Zimbabwe. WRMDs were assessed using a Modified Cornell Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (MCMQ). The Quick Exposure Check (QEC) and the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) were used for postural risk analysis. P < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Analyses showed a high prevalence of pain in the lower back (78%), right shoulder (66%), left hand wrist (62%) and right hand wrist (61%). With regards to the severity of lower back pain, 4% reported low pain, 24% mild pain and 48% were severe cases of pain. Elevated grand REBA scores were significantly associated with self-reported in various body regions. Multinomial regression analyses showed that smoking, prolonged working hours and not engaging in physical activities were significant predictors for pain. High job satisfaction and taking adequate work-rest breaks were protective factors for WRMDs (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: There is a high prevalence of WRMDs among welders due to individual and work-related risk factors. Ergonomics education is required to address the risk factors for and progression of WRMDs among welders.

Respiratory Disorders Related to e-Waste Exposure among Workers in the Informal Sector in a Sub-Saharan African City: An Exposed Nonexposed Study.

INTRODUCTION: Exposure to electrical and electronic equipment waste (e-waste) has become a growing health concern. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of exposure to e-waste on respiratory symptoms and on lung function parameters in workers involved in informal recycling activities in Cotonou city, Benin. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study, in which exposed e-waste workers in Cotonou city were randomly selected. A matching nonexposed group based on age and sex was recruited from the general population. Respiratory symptoms were investigated using a questionnaire adapted from the British Medical Research Council's standardized respiratory questionnaire. Participants underwent lung function test using a portable spirometer (MIR SPIROBANK). Data were analyzed with STATA version 15 software. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of respiratory symptoms in e-waste workers was statistically higher in the exposed group (33.1% vs. 21.6%; p = 0.027). Chest tightness (11.8% vs. 2.1%; p = 0.003) and breathlessness (6.8% vs. 1.4%; p = 0.018) were the most reported symptoms by e-waste workers. Lung function testing showed a higher proportion of disorders among e-waste workers (25.0% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.029), with a higher proportion of probable restrictive (10.8% vs. 2.7, p = 0.005) and mixed (4.1% vs. 0%, p = 0.013) ventilatory disorders. Handling or working with e-waste was found associated with a significant reduction in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) by 0.4 L (95% CI: 0.3-0.6) and forced vital capacity (FVC) by 0.75 L (95% CI: 0.6-0.9) after adjustment for age, BMI, smoking habits, asthma history, and daily income. CONCLUSION: Work involving e-waste is associated with a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms and with an increased risk of FEV1 and FVC decline, as well as of lung function impairment, particularly of restrictive disorders. Further studies to better clarify this association are needed. Awareness on this major public health threat should be raised in other sub-Saharan and Asian urban areas.

A dinâmica da informalidade no Brasil e na Argentina (2012-2019) e a vulnerabilidade da classe trabalhadora / The dynamics of informality in Brazil and Argentina (2012-2019) and the vulnerability of the working class / La dinámica de la informalidad en Brasil y Argentina (2012-2019) y la vulnerabilidad de la clase trabajadora

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar o comportamento da informalidade no Brasil e na Argentina, no período de 2012 a 2019. A definição conceitual de informalidade tem como base a legislação e as relações trabalhistas. Fundamentado nas informações das pesquisas domiciliares oficiais, explorou-se o comportamento da informalidade segundo os distintos setores de atividade econômica e a classificação dos trabalhadores por faixas de rendimentos. O período em questão foi caracterizado por transformações que ampliaram a flexibilização das relações de trabalho, em um processo de reconfiguração do mercado de trabalho impulsionado por reformas trabalhistas que, em teoria, proporcionariam uma redução do peso do emprego informal na estrutura ocupacional, à medida que essa flexibilização avançasse. Os resultados não sugerem mudanças significativas no comportamento da informalidade, e corroboram que esse fenômeno continua afetando negativamente, com mais intensidade, os trabalhadores que mais necessitam de proteção social e garantia de direitos. Desse modo, as medidas de flexibilização das relações de trabalho, ao menos considerando o período em análise, não produziram os resultados prometidos. Destaca-se, ainda, uma relativa convergência nos resultados encontrados para os dois países.

Abstract The objective of the study was to identify the behavior of informality in Brazil and Argentina, from 2012 to 2019. The conceptual definition of informality is based on legislation and labor relations. Based on information from official household surveys, the behavior of informality was explored according to the different sectors of economic activity and the classification of workers by income bracket. The period in question was characterized by transformations that increased the flexibility of labor relations, in a process of reconfiguration of the labor market driven by labor reforms that, in theory, would provide a reduction in the weight of informal employment in the occupational structure, as this flexibility to advance. The results do not suggest significant changes in the behavior of informality, and corroborate that this phenomenon continues to negatively affect, with greater intensity, the workers who most need social protection and guarantee of rights. Thus, the measures to make labor relations more flexible, at least considering the period under analysis, did not produce the promised results. There is also a relative convergence in the results found for the two countries.

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue identificar el comportamiento de la informalidad en Brasil y Argentina, de 2012 a 2019. La definición conceptual de informalidad se basa en la legislación y las relaciones laborales. Con base en informaciones procedentes de las encuestas oficiales de hogares, se exploró el comportamiento de la informalidad según los diferentes sectores de la actividad económica y la clasificación de los trabajadores por rango de ingreso. El período en cuestión se caracterizó por transformaciones que ampliaron la flexibilización de las relaciones laborales, en un proceso de reconfiguración del mercado de trabajo impulsado por reformas laborales que, en teoría, propiciarían una reducción del peso del empleo informal en la estructura ocupacional, a medida que esta flexibilización avanzase. Los resultados no sugieren cambios significativos en el comportamiento de la informalidad, y corroboran que este fenómeno continúa afectando negativamente, con mayor intensidad, a los trabajadores que más necesitan protección social y garantía de derechos. Así, las medidas de flexibilización de las relaciones de trabajo, al menos considerando el período bajo análisis, no produjeron los resultados prometidos. También se destaca que hay una relativa convergencia en los resultados encontrados para los dos países.

Compreensão de Trabalho Decente entre Jovens com Baixa Qualificação / Sense of Decent Work among Low-Skilled Youth / Sentidos de Trabajo Decente entre Jóvenes Poco Calificados

Trabalho decente é um conceito proposto pela Organização Internacional do Trabalho (OIT) com base nos contextos de trabalho dos países desenvolvidos e em fatores socioeconômicos. A psicologia e os países do Sul global podem contribuir na ampliação do conceito. Assim, fundamentados na pesquisa qualitativa consensual e por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas em profundidade, visamos compreender as concepções de trabalho decente de 20 jovens brasileiros/as com baixa qualificação a partir de uma leitura psicossocial com base na teoria da psicologia do trabalhar (PWT). Os principais resultados indicaram a compreensão de que o trabalho realizado pelos/as participantes não era um trabalho decente, não seria estruturante da vida, e que atenderia às necessidades de sobrevivência, mas impediria a autodeterminação. As implicações do estudo apontaram, em termos conceituais e políticos, para a necessidade de contextualizar a concepção de trabalho decente, agregando a ideia de versões distintas do trabalho decente, variando em função de contextos distintos, e reconstruir as práticas de orientação profissional, de carreira e de gestão de pessoas, de acordo com as características socioculturais do público-alvo, visando sua ampliação e diversificação. (AU)

Decent work is a concept proposed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) based on working contexts from developed nations and on socioeconomic factors. Psychology and the global South countries may contribute to broaden the concept. Thus, grounded in the Consensual Qualitative Research and by means of in-depth interviews, this study sought to understand senses of decent work among 20 low-skilled youths in Brazil from a psychosocial reading based on the Psychology of Working Theory (PWT). Findings showed the sense that participants' working was not a decent work, not structuring life, and it met survival needs, however, prevented self-determination. In a conceptual and political way, study implications pointed out the need to contextualize the concept of decent work, aggregating the idea of different versions of decent work, varying according to different contexts. Moreover, practical implications highlighted the need to reconstruct career guidance and counseling practices and personnel management according to the socio-cultural characteristics of the target audience, aiming at expanding and diversifying them. (AU)

El trabajo decente es un concepto propuesto por la Organización Internacional del Trabajo (OIT) basado en contextos de trabajo de países desarrollados y en factores socioeconómicos. La psicología y los países del Sur global pueden contribuir a ampliar el concepto. Por lo tanto, basado en la investigación cualitativa consensuada y mediante entrevistas en profundidad, este estudio buscó comprender los sentidos del trabajo decente entre 20 jóvenes poco calificados en Brasil a partir de una lectura psicosocial basada en la teoría de la psicología del trabajar (PWT). Los resultados mostraron que el trabajo de los participantes no era un trabajo decente, no estructuraba la vida, y satisfacía las necesidades de supervivencia, sin embargo, impedía la autodeterminación. De manera conceptual y política, las implicaciones del estudio señalaron la necesidad de contextualizar el concepto de trabajo decente, agregando la idea de diferentes versiones de trabajo decente, variando según los diferentes contextos. Además, las implicaciones prácticas destacaron la necesidad de reconstruir las prácticas asesoramiento profesional y gestión de personas de acuerdo con las características socioculturales del público objetivo, con el objetivo de ampliarlas y diversificarlas. (AU)

Why did informal sector workers stop paying for health insurance in Indonesia? Exploring enrollees' ability and willingness to pay.

Indonesia faces a growing informal sector in the wake of implementing a national social health insurance system-Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN)-that supersedes the vertical programmes historically tied to informal employment. Sustainably financing coverage for informal workers requires incentivising enrolment for those never insured and recovering enrolment among those who once paid but no longer do so. This study aims to assess the ability- and willingness-to-pay of informal sector workers who have stopped paying the JKN premium for at least six months, across districts of different fiscal capacity, and explore which factors shaped their willingness and ability to pay using qualitative interviews. Surveys were conducted for 1,709 respondents in 2016, and found that informal workers' average ability and willingness to pay fell below the national health insurance scheme's premium amount, even as many currently spend more than this on healthcare costs. There were large groups for whom the costs of the premium were prohibitive (38%) or, alternatively, they were both technically willing and able to pay (25%). As all individuals in the sample had once paid for insurance, their main reasons for lapsing were based on the uncertain income of informal workers and their changing needs. The study recommends a combination of strategies of targeting of subsidies, progressive premium setting, facilitating payment collection, incentivising insurance package upgrades and socialising the benefits of health insurance in informal worker communities.

Trabalhadores informais de aplicativos e o impacto da doença pelo novo coronavírus: uma reflexão teórica / Trabajadores de aplicaciones informales y impacto de la enfermedad por el nuevo Coronavirus: reflexión teórica / Informal app workers and the impact of disease by the new Coronavirus: a theoretical reflection

Objetivo: refletir sobre o impacto da pandemia ocasionada pelo novo Coronavírus na atuação de trabalhadores informais de aplicativos no Brasil. Método: estudo teórico reflexivo desenvolvido entre os meses de março e abril de 2020, que incluiu prestadores de serviços das empresas Uber, 99 e iFood, por meio de três depoimentos consultados em matérias online dos jornais The Intercept e Correio do Povo, além levantamento de dados na plataforma Google Trends. Resultados: observou-se a carência de garantias sociais aos trabalhadores de aplicativos, embora tenha havido crescente busca por serviços de alimentação e transporte das três empresas, devido ao isolamento social da população. Conclusões: a pandemia impacta em diversos âmbitos da sociedade, com valores mais custosos para os que não possuem contrato formal de trabalho, levando a dificuldades de renda e a negação de garantia de auxílio de saúde.(AU)

Objective: to reflect on the impact of the pandemic caused by new coronavirus on the performance of informal app workers in Brazil. Method: reflective theoretical study developed between the months of March and April 2020, which included service providers from Uber, 99 and iFood companies, through three testimonies consulted in online materials from the newspapers The Intercept and Correio do Povo, in addition to survey data on the Google Trends platform. Results: there was a lack of social guarantees for app workers, although there was an increasing search for food and transportation services from three companies, due to the social isolation of the population. Conclusions: the pandemic impacts on several areas of society, with more expensive values for those who do not have a formal employment contract, leading to income difficulties and the denial of guaranteed health assistance.(AU)

Objetivo: reflexionar sobre el impacto de la pandemia causada por el nuevo coronavirus en el desempeño de los trabajadores de aplicaciones informales en Brasil. Método: estudio teórico reflexivo, realizado entre marzo y abril de 2020, que incluyó a proveedores de servicios de las compañías Uber, 99 e iFood, a través de tres testimonios consultados en artículos en línea de los periódicos, The Intercept y Correio do Povo, además de la recopilación de datos en la plataforma Google Trends. Resultados: se observó ausencia de garantías sociales para los trabajadores de aplicaciones, aunque hubo una búsqueda cada vez mayor de servicios de alimentación y transporte de las tres empresas, debido al aislamiento social de la población. Conclusiones: la pandemia impacta en varias áreas de la sociedad, con valores más caros para aquellos que no tienen un contrato de trabajo formal, lo que genera dificultades de ingresos y la negación de asistencia médica.(AU)

Why Do Informal Sector Workers Not Pay the Premium Regularly? Evidence from the National Health Insurance System in Indonesia.

BACKGROUND: The challenges of universal health coverage (UHC) in developing countries with a significant proportion of the labor force that works in the informal sector include administrative difficulties in recruiting, registering and collecting regular contributions in a cost-effective way. As most developing countries have a limited fiscal space to support the program in the long run, the fiscal sustainability of UHC, such as that in Indonesia, relies heavily on the contributions of its members. The failure of a large proportion of voluntary enrollees/self-enrolled members/informal sector workers (Peserta Mandiri/Pekerja Bukan Penerima Upah [PBPU] members) to pay their premiums may lead to the National Health Insurance System (NHIS) in Indonesia being unable to effectively deliver its services. OBJECTIVE: This study aims at exploring the important factors that affect the compliance behavior of informal sector workers (PBPU members) in regularly paying their insurance premium. This analysis may be a basis for designing effective measures to encourage payment sustainability in informal sector workers in the NHIS. METHOD: This study utilizes the survey data collected from three regional offices of the Indonesian Social Security Agency for Health (SSAH), which cover approximately 1210 PBPU members, to understand the relationship between members' characteristics and their compliance behavior regarding the premium payment. We applied an econometric analysis of a logit regression to statistically estimate which factors most affect their compliance behavior in paying the insurance premium. RESULTS: This study reveals that almost 28% of PBPU members do not pay their insurance premiums in a sustainable way. Our logistic regression statistically confirms that the number of household members, financial hardship, membership in other social protection arrangements, and the utilization of health services are negatively correlated with the compliance rate of informal sector workers in paying their insurance premium. For instance, people who experience financial hardship tend to have a 7.7 percentage point lower probability of routinely paying the premium. In contrast, households that work in agricultural sectors and have income stability, the cost of inpatient care incurred before joining the NHIS, a comprehensive knowledge of the SSAH's services, and the availability of health professionals are all positively correlated with regular premium payment. CONCLUSION: Although there is no single policy that can ensure that informal sector workers (PBPU members) regularly pay their premiums, this study recommends some policy interventions, including (1) flexibility in applying for a government subsidy for premiums (Penerima Bantuan Iuran [PBI]), especially for people who have financial hardship; (2) an intensive promotion of insurance literacy; (3) expanding the quantity and quality of healthcare services; and (4) tailor-made policies for ensuring the sustainability of premium payments for each regional division.

Salão parceiro na prática: submissão ou autonomia? / salão parceiro en la práctica: ¿sumisión o autonomía? / Beauty salon partner in practice: submission or autonomy?

Resumo A Lei do Salão Parceiro em 2016 foi aprovada sob o discurso da flexibilização e formalização do trabalho autônomo; entretanto, o processo de pejotização dos trabalhadores tem sido um de seus efeitos e estudado sob o olhar da precarização do trabalho. A presente pesquisa objetivou caracterizar a percepção de manicures e cabeleireiras(os) acerca de suas experiências de trabalho e confrontá-la com os argumentos presentes na proposição da lei. Para isso, realizamos entrevistas semiestruturadas com 11 cabeleireiras(os) e manicures e aplicamos análise hermenêutica-dialética. Os resultados indicaram três unidades de sentido: Caracterização mercadológica e ocupacional; Tradições trabalhistas no setor de beleza; e Realidade após a Lei do Salão Parceiro. Elas apontaram a ausência de uma autonomia real na mudança e no exercício da atividade como parceiro do salão de beleza e a desinformação acerca da figura jurídica do microempreendedor individual.

Resumen La Lei do Salão Parceiro, de 2016, fue aprobada bajo el discurso de la flexibilización y formalización del trabajo autónomo; sin embargo, el proceso de pejotização (prestador de servicios legal) ha sido uno de sus efectos y, estudiado bajo la mirada de la precarización del trabajo. Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo caracterizar la percepción de manicuras y peluqueras(os) sobre sus experiencias laborales y confrontarla con los argumentos presentes en la proposición de la ley. Para esto, realizamos entrevistas semiestructuradas con 11 peluqueras(os) y manicuras y aplicamos el análisis hermenéutico-dialéctico. Los resultados indicaron tres unidades de sentido: Caracterización mercadológica y ocupacional; Tradiciones laborales en el sector de belleza; y Realidad posterior a la Lei do Salão Parceiro. Ellas señalaron la ausencia de una autonomía real en el cambio y en el ejercicio de la actividad como "colaborador" del salón de belleza y desinformación sobre la figura legal del microemprendedor individual.

Abstract The Lei do Salão Parceiro (Salon Partner Law) was approved in 2016 under speeches of flexibilization and formalization of autonomous work. However, the pejotização of workers has been one of its effects and it has been studied as work precariousness. This research aimed to characterize the perception of manicurists and hairdressers on their work experiences, and to confront it with the arguments present in the law proposal. For this, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 hairdressers and manicurists, and applied hermeneutic-dialectical analysis. The results indicated three meaning units: Marketing and occupational characterization; Labor traditions in the beauty sector; and Reality after the Lei do Salão Parceiro. They pointed to the absence of a real autonomy in the transition and in the work practice as beauty salon partner, and to the misinformation about the legal figure of the individual microentrepreneur.

Predictors of enrollment in a health protection scheme among informal sector workers in Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana.

OBJECTIVE: Informal sector workers are exposed to occupational hazards which could escalate their healthcare expenditures. Thus, enrollment in a health protection scheme among informal sector workers is useful for reducing their catastrophic healthcare expenditures. However, there is scant information on factors predicting their enrollment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Ghana, a gap this quantitative study aims to fill. A sample of 350 informal sector workers was involved in a cross-sectional survey. RESULTS: Approximately 17% of the participants were enrolled in NHIS. Respondents who had worked between 5 and 7 years were significantly more likely to enroll in NHIS compared with those who had worked below 2 years (AOR = 13.159, CI 1.135-152.596, p = 0.039). The study further found that apprentices (AOR = 0.72, CI 0.353-1.056, p = 0.005) were less likely to enroll in NHIS compared with their masters. Participants who were exposed to electrical hazards (AOR = 2.93, CI 1.56-5.10, p = 0.013) and suffered from occupational diseases (AOR = 2.75, CI 1.743-5.17, p = 0.001) were significantly more likely to enroll in NHIS. Also, respondents who were non-Christians were significantly less likely to enroll in NHIS compared with their respective counterparts (AOR = 0.726, CI 0.067-2.503, p = 0.011). The findings are useful for increasing the NHIS enrollment rate among informal sector workers in Ghana.

Lombalgia e alterações funcionais em feirantes: um estudo transversal / Low back pain and functional changes in marketers: a cross-sectional study

INTRODUÇÃO: A dor lombar atinge níveis epidêmicos na população em geral, sendo uma das causas de incapacidade funcional e motivo mais comum para a consulta médica. Sua etiologia é multifatorial e os fatores mais comuns para esta sintomatologia envolvem os elementos biomecânicos, ocupacionais e as características individuais. OBJETIVO: investigar a ocorrência das lombalgias e as repercussões funcionais entre os feirantes do setor de hortifruti (varejo). METODOLOGIA: Foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, de natureza descritiva, com desenho de estudo transversal. Para tanto, aplicou-se o formulário de incapacidades Oswestry (modificado) e para a mensuração da dor, a Escala Visual Analógica. Os dados foram avaliados descritivamente, por meio de frequência absoluta e relativa. RESULTADOS: Foram entrevistados 100 feirantes, com a idade média de 43 anos. Destes, 73% apresentam alguma dor ou desconforto na região lombar e para minimizar tal ocorrência, 39,7% faziam uso de remédio oral/tópico sem orientação médica. Com relação às alterações funcionais, 14% apresentam incapacidade intensa. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo permitiu identificar, que os indivíduos com lombalgia, possuíam algum grau de incapacidade que repercutiam no seu contexto de vida.

INTRODUCTION: Back pain affects epidemic levels in the general population, one of the causes of disability and the most common reason for medical consultation. Its etiology is multifactorial and the most common factors for these symptoms involve biomechanical elements, occupational and individual characteristics. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the occurrence of low back pain and the functional consequences of the fairground's grocery sector (retail). METHODS: a quantitative study was conducted descriptive, cross-sectional study design. Therefore, the form applied Oswestry disability (modified) and pain measurement, the Visual Analogue Scale. The data were analyzed descriptively, through absolute and relative frequency. RESULTS: We interviewed 100 stallholders, with a mean age of 43 years. Of these, 73% have some pain or discomfort in the lower back and minimize such an occurrence, 39.7% were using oral medicine/topic without medical advice. With regard to functional alterations, 14% have a severe disability. CONCLUSION: The study revealed that individuals with low back pain, had some degree of disability that had repercussions in the context of his life.

Valor nutricional de espécies marinhas comercializadas no mercado informal / Nutritional value of marine species comercialized in the informal market

No Brasil, além das espécies marinhas tradicionais de consumo há captura não reportada e comércio informal de espécies não convencionais, com crescente demanda gastronômica. Este estudo analisou o valor nutricional e rendimento do saquaritá Stramonita haemastomae e do pepino-do-mar Holothuria grisea coletados na Baía de Santos, SP, de fevereiro/2018 a junho/2018. Foram coletados indivíduos das duas espécies e a composição centesimal determinada com metodologias oficiais ou reconhecidas. Os resultados indicaram importante aporte nutricional e o rendimento de 29,72% e 22,57% para o pepino-do-mar e saquaritá, respectivamente. Sendo recomendados estudos e ações de gestão ambiental e sanitária, de forma a assegurar a oferta de um produto seguro para consumo humano, em especial dos equinodermas que não são contemplados na regulação para alimentos.