Work has moved home: remote work in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objective:

to discuss the workers’ experiences with the wide implementation of remote work activities, carried out at home, using information-communication technologies, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

based on official data and literature review, we discussed the characteristics of remote work (RW) and its potential repercussions, emphasizing gender issues.

Results:

control and prevention measures against COVID-19, especially social distance, changed social and family life. Part of the workers kept engaged in their work activities at home. RW was imposed even without the necessary structure and training conditions, intensifying the effects of the working hours without defined limits. At home, new demands were put forward (educational support for children and increased housework).

Discussion:

by losing its borders, the private world becomes public; the household is incorporated into the world of work. New questions emerge. What demands rise from this new productive-reproductive arrangement? What changes take place in household and family care activities? These issues tend to persist, even after the critical situation of the pandemic. Part of this way of operating work processes will remain and life in society will be shaped by these changes. These challenges should demand attention and interventions.

Keywords:
occupational health; working conditions; remote work; gender inequality; housework