Precarity and sleep problems among online platform workers: Evidence from a survey of German-speaking workers

This study investigates the association between sleep and precarious working conditions in the digital platform economy. Specifically, we examine how six dimensions of employment precariousness are associated with the likelihood of experiencing sleep problems among online platform workers (OPW).

We analyze survey data from German-speaking OPW (N = 1969). Sleep outcomes are measured using the Jenkins Sleep Scale (JSS-4), and precariousness is captured by six factor scores derived from an exploratory factor analysis, based on adapted questionnaire items from the Employment Precariousness Scale (EPRES). Logistic regression models with average marginal effects are used to estimate associations, controlling for sociodemographic and work-related characteristics.

Among the six dimensions of precariousness, two are robustly associated with higher likelihood of reporting sleep problems: Time poverty (the inability to take breaks and leave when needed) and vulnerability (reflecting opaque rating and payment systems). A typical variation across each of these scales corresponds to a 7.7%-8.1% increase in the probability of reporting elevated sleep problems.

Our findings highlight that platform-related working conditions, particularly opaque management systems and limited ability to take time off, are important correlates of sleep problems among OPW. Addressing these factors may contribute to improving sleep health in this growing segment of the workforce.