Haze leaves food delivery riders working through health risks

Food delivery riders are working through the haze despite health risks as limited occupational safety guidance leaves them with little choice, according to North-South Initiatives executive director and co-founder Adrian Pereira. The real question is whether they truly have a choice or not. When sick or unable to ride, there is no guaranteed compensation, making it challenging for them to stop working.

Pereira expressed concern over the lack of clear guidance, as prolonged exposure to haze could have unseen effects on workers. The organization, in collaboration with partners including Gabungan E-Hailing Malaysia (GEM) and Transformasi Pengangkutan Awam Darat (TPAD), has been advising gig workers on occupational safety and health, urging delivery platforms to share responsibility for workers' well-being.

Muhammad Riezwan Ishak, 30, explained that the haze makes it difficult for him to focus on the road due to irritated eyes, affecting his ability to deliver safely. He wears black sunglasses to improve visibility, although they offer limited relief. Despite slowing down his rides during severe haze, Ishak continues to accept orders and informs customers that their food may take longer to arrive.

For part-time rider Muhammad Zaki Abdul Rahim, 26, who suffers from asthma, the haze has impacted his breathing, causing chest tightness and frequent use of his inhaler. Zaki minimizes exposure by waiting indoors between deliveries and remains concerned about the haze's long-term health effects. Delivery rider Mohd Amirul Hakim, 31, has reduced his working days and shifted to night shifts due to persistent coughing and eye irritation.

He prefers delivering at night to avoid the combination of daytime heat and haze. The riders shared that they use masks, limit outdoor time, seek shelter between deliveries, and adjust their schedules to reduce exposure while continuing to work.