Qualidade de vida no trabalho durante a pandemia: um estudo de caso no PAC-Parintins

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyze the perception of workers at the Citizen Service Center (PAC) in Parintins regarding their quality of work life post-pandemic. The research was conducted with PAC workers in Parintins during the critical periods of the pandemic, utilizing standardized questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to collect qualitative data on the workers' experiences and perceptions. The study took place in the municipality of Parintins, on the right bank of the Amazon River, between March and June, adopting a case study approach for a detailed analysis of phenomena in their real contexts. Data collection included questionnaires consisting of 17 questions covering various dimensions of work life quality, based on Walton's (1973) Quality of Work Life (QWL) model and adapted with the 8 dimensions described by Alves, Correia, and Silva (2019).. The sample included 7 PAC-Parintins workers, chosen for convenience. Benefits of the questionnaires included time and resource savings, geographical coverage, quick and accurate responses, and greater security and freedom for participants. During the pandemic, many workers faced concentration problems due to remote work distractions, anxiety, psychological pressure, personal concerns, irritability, and stress. To cope with distress, interviewees used strategies such as crying, sleeping, staying strong for their families, and engaging in family activities to avoid negative news. Adaptation to remote work varied, with some adopting permanent home office arrangements, while others worked in person or on a rotating schedule, with varying levels of protective equipment and COVID-19 testing provided. Despite the difficulties, all interviewees reported no salary reductions during the pandemic, which helped maintain financial stability. This study highlights the challenges workers faced during the pandemic, the strategies used to cope with stress and anxiety, and the importance of financial stability in times of crisis.