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Impact of Working Conditions and Health During the Pandemic
This paper analyzes the lifestyles of general services and maintenance personnel at various higher education institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews, surveys, and focus groups were conducted in six institutions, both public and private, with the participation of 72 workers. Using key theoretical concepts from critical theory and labor studies, it seeks to understand how working conditions and production relations influence the health and well-being of these workers. Quantitative results reveal high levels of stress (85%), chronic fatigue (78%), and symptoms of anxiety and depression (68%) among workers. Factors such as lack of control over working conditions and internalization of exploitation narratives were identified as key contributors to these issues. Conclusions highlight the need for specific interventions to improve stress management and promote physical activity, as well as to address the structural causes of labor exploitation. Continuous monitoring of working conditions and health is recommended, as well as the promotion of solidarity and class consciousness among workers to foster significant changes in their working conditions and well-being.
