The big picture: A new systematic review protocol, set for publication in BMJ Open in 2025, aims to comprehensively identify and describe common occupational health outcomes, risk factors, and existing support systems for workers in the gig economy. This research seeks to fill a critical gap in understanding the health implications of this rapidly expanding work model.

Why it matters: For staffing leaders and HR executives, understanding the health landscape of gig workers is crucial for talent attraction, retention, and mitigating potential compliance risks. Poor occupational health can impact worker availability, performance, and lead to increased regulatory scrutiny.

Between the lines:

• The review will analyze studies from 2015-2025 across four global databases, focusing on peer-reviewed journal articles.
• Key areas of investigation include burnout, mental health, occupational stress, and psychological stress among gig workers.
• It will also assess interventions and support systems currently in place to promote gig worker health.

Staffing & HR impact: Staffing firms leveraging contingent or gig talent must proactively address worker well-being to maintain a healthy and productive workforce, potentially influencing operational costs and gross margins. Proactive measures could also reduce future HR compliance challenges related to worker classification and safety standards.

The bottom line: The findings of this review will provide a foundational understanding of gig worker health, likely prompting new considerations for how companies engage and support their flexible talent.