Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia de Produção da Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Rua Passo da Pátria, 156, sala 309, Bloco D, São Domingos, 24210-240, Niterói - RJ, Brasil
Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública da Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (ENSP/FIOCRUZ), Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1480 - Manguinhos, 21041-210, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brasil
Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública da Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (ENSP/FIOCRUZ), Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1480 - Manguinhos, 21041-210, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brasil
This article analyzes, in a situated perspective, the antecedent norms that affect the work of platform drivers and food delivery couriers who work using on-demand apps, in order to discuss the implications of these current forms of control and algorithmic management of work. It also seeks to identify elements of collective action that refer to the mobilization and construction of reserves of alternatives. From the ergological perspective, the research method was based on Meetings about the Work, preceded by documentary analysis, questionnaires, and interviews. The results point to demands and challenges imposed by this management method, as well as to the renormatizations carried out in the construction of reserves of alternatives, and, among them, the establishment of sociability networks. It also discusses how the absence of state regulation, as well as the sophisticated and complex technology incorporated by the platform companies can contribute to deepening the process of social insecurity and exploitation of workers.