Are Spark Drivers Walmart Employees Unpacking the Gig Economy Reality

Are Spark drivers Walmart employees? That’s the question at the heart of a fascinating and evolving relationship, one that blurs the lines between traditional employment and the gig economy. This isn’t just about delivering groceries; it’s a story of contracts, classifications, and the ever-shifting landscape of work. We’ll peel back the layers to understand the true nature of the connection between Spark drivers and the retail giant, exploring the nuances of their agreements and the realities they face on the road.

From legal definitions to practical interactions, we’ll delve into the specifics. You’ll discover the differences in benefits, the extent of Walmart’s influence, and the types of support available. We’ll examine how drivers navigate the stores, interact with staff, and the steps involved in completing a typical delivery. The journey will continue into the perceptions, challenges, and the potential future of this unique arrangement, offering a comprehensive view of the gig economy’s impact on everyday life.

Table of Contents

Driver Employment Status with Spark: Are Spark Drivers Walmart Employees

Navigating the world of gig work, particularly with platforms like Spark, can sometimes feel like deciphering a complex legal code. Understanding your employment status is paramount, impacting everything from taxes and benefits to the rights and responsibilities you have. This section aims to demystify the relationship between Spark drivers and Walmart, clarifying the specifics of their arrangement.

Contractual Relationship with Spark

The foundation of the Spark driver-Walmart relationship is built on a contractual agreement. Spark drivers are not employed directly by Walmart. Instead, they operate as independent contractors, offering their services to Spark, which in turn facilitates deliveries for Walmart. This means drivers are responsible for their own vehicles, expenses, and taxes.

Legal Classifications for Spark Drivers

The primary legal classification for Spark drivers is that of an independent contractor. This classification carries specific implications.

Independent contractors are generally responsible for their own self-employment taxes, including both the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes.

The IRS provides detailed guidance on the factors used to determine worker classification, including the level of control Walmart or Spark exerts over the driver’s work. This includes things like:

Behavioral Control: Walmart or Spark has the right to direct or control how the driver performs the work. This can be through instructions, training, or supervision.
Financial Control: The economic aspects of the driver’s job, such as who provides the tools and equipment, how expenses are reimbursed, and the method of payment.
Type of Relationship: How the parties perceive their relationship. This includes whether there is a written contract, and whether the work is performed on an ongoing basis.

This classification contrasts sharply with traditional employment, and understanding the differences is crucial.

Key Differences: Walmart Employee vs. Spark Driver

The distinctions between being a Walmart employee and a Spark driver are significant and touch upon various aspects of the working relationship. These differences directly influence compensation, benefits, and responsibilities.
Here’s a table that summarizes the key differences:

Feature	Walmart Employee	Spark Driver (Independent Contractor)
Employment Status	Employed by Walmart	Independent Contractor for Spark
Benefits	Eligible for benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans (based on eligibility criteria).	Generally not eligible for benefits provided by Walmart or Spark. Drivers are responsible for their own insurance and retirement planning.
Taxes	Walmart withholds income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare taxes from the employee’s paycheck.	Drivers are responsible for paying self-employment taxes (including both the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes) and estimated income taxes.
Expenses	Walmart typically covers work-related expenses.	Drivers are responsible for all expenses, including vehicle maintenance, fuel, insurance, and other operational costs.
Control over Work	Walmart has significant control over work schedules, tasks, and procedures.	Drivers have more flexibility in setting their own schedules and choosing which deliveries to accept. However, they are still subject to Spark’s platform rules and guidelines.

For example, consider Sarah, a long-time Walmart employee, and John, a Spark driver. Sarah receives a regular paycheck, with taxes automatically deducted, and is eligible for health insurance. John, on the other hand, manages his own taxes, including quarterly estimated tax payments, and is responsible for his own health insurance coverage. This difference in responsibility is a key differentiator between the two employment models.

The choice between being a Walmart employee or a Spark driver involves evaluating individual needs and priorities.

Walmart’s Influence on Spark Drivers

The relationship between Walmart and Spark drivers is a complex dance of independence and influence. While Spark drivers are technically independent contractors, Walmart’s presence casts a long shadow, shaping their work experience in significant ways. This influence extends beyond simple transactions, impacting pay, delivery logistics, and even the subtle nuances of driver behavior.

Pay Rates and Delivery Zones

Walmart directly influences the financial aspects of a Spark driver’s work, which is very important for their earnings. They have a considerable impact on both pay rates and the geographical boundaries within which drivers operate.The process of setting pay rates is not as straightforward as it might seem.

Walmart provides the data regarding order volume, anticipated delivery times, and the distance to be traveled. This data is fed into Spark’s algorithm, which then calculates the base pay for each delivery.
Factors like surge pricing during peak hours and tips from customers can further adjust the final amount drivers receive.
The delivery zones are often determined by Walmart’s store locations and the surrounding areas. These zones dictate where drivers can pick up and deliver orders, essentially creating the driver’s service area.
The algorithm might also consider factors like driver availability and the number of other drivers competing for orders.

Walmart’s Influence: Drivers vs. Traditional Employees

Comparing Walmart’s influence on Spark drivers to its influence on its traditional employees reveals some stark differences. This comparison highlights the unique challenges and opportunities faced by independent contractors in the gig economy.Walmart exerts control over traditional employees through a direct employment relationship, which is not the case for Spark drivers.

Traditional employees receive a fixed hourly wage or salary, along with benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. They are subject to Walmart’s policies and procedures, including performance reviews and disciplinary actions.
Spark drivers, on the other hand, are not employees. They are independent contractors who are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.
While Spark drivers are free to set their own schedules and choose which deliveries to accept, their earnings are directly influenced by Walmart’s order volume, pricing strategies, and operational efficiency.
Walmart’s control over its employees is more direct, including mandatory training, adherence to dress codes, and the use of company-provided equipment. Spark drivers have more autonomy in these areas, as they are not directly managed by Walmart.
The impact of Walmart’s decisions on drivers can be significant, as they are dependent on the flow of orders from Walmart for their income.

Indirect Control of Driver Behavior

Walmart can indirectly influence driver behavior through a variety of mechanisms, which may not be obvious at first glance. These tactics can subtly shape how drivers operate, ensuring efficiency and customer satisfaction.Walmart’s influence extends beyond setting rates and zones, reaching into the realm of driver behavior.

The order acceptance rate is a metric that Spark drivers are aware of. While not explicitly required, drivers who consistently decline orders may see a reduction in the number of offers they receive. This incentivizes drivers to accept a higher percentage of orders, even if they are less profitable.
Customer ratings and feedback also play a significant role. Consistently low ratings from customers can lead to drivers being deactivated from the platform. This creates pressure for drivers to maintain a high level of service, including prompt delivery, friendly interactions, and accurate order fulfillment.
Walmart’s operational efficiency, such as the speed at which orders are prepared and loaded, can directly impact a driver’s earnings. Delays at the store can lead to longer delivery times and reduced income for drivers.
Walmart’s promotional strategies, like offering discounts or free delivery, can increase order volume, which can lead to more opportunities for drivers.
The implementation of new technologies, such as route optimization software, can influence driver behavior by dictating the most efficient delivery routes and reducing the flexibility drivers have.

Driver Benefits and Protections

Let’s dive into the often-overlooked world of Spark driver benefits and protections. Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone considering or currently working as a Spark driver. This information contrasts sharply with the benefits enjoyed by traditional Walmart employees, highlighting the differences in employment models and the implications for driver well-being.

Available Benefits and Protections for Spark Drivers

Spark drivers, classified as independent contractors, find themselves in a unique position regarding benefits and protections. Unlike traditional employees, they are not automatically entitled to the same safeguards.Spark drivers have access to some benefits, although they are limited compared to those offered to Walmart employees.

Earnings and Payments: Spark drivers receive payments based on completed deliveries. The app provides a breakdown of earnings per delivery, including base pay, tips, and any applicable bonuses. Payments are typically made weekly, though some drivers may have access to faster payment options for a fee.
Background Checks: Spark requires background checks to ensure driver safety and customer security. These checks are conducted by a third-party company before a driver can begin working on the platform.
Delivery Support: The Spark Driver app offers support for delivery-related issues. Drivers can contact support to address problems like delayed pickups, navigation issues, or customer complaints.
Insurance: Spark provides some form of liability insurance while drivers are actively engaged in deliveries. This insurance is not comprehensive and might not cover all types of incidents or damages.
Independent Contractor Status: The classification as an independent contractor means drivers are responsible for their taxes and business expenses, including vehicle maintenance, fuel, and insurance. This status also provides flexibility in setting their schedules.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the areas where Spark drivers may lack protection.

No Guaranteed Minimum Wage: Unlike hourly employees, Spark drivers are not guaranteed a minimum wage. Their earnings depend entirely on the number of deliveries they complete and the tips they receive.
No Paid Time Off: Spark drivers do not receive paid vacation, sick leave, or holidays. They are only paid for the deliveries they complete, meaning time off results in lost income.
Limited Benefits: Spark drivers do not receive health insurance, retirement plans, or other benefits typically offered to full-time employees.
No Employment Protections: As independent contractors, Spark drivers do not have the same employment protections as employees. They can be deactivated from the platform without notice, and they have limited recourse in cases of unfair treatment.

Comparing Benefits: Spark Drivers vs. Walmart Employees

The stark contrast between Spark drivers and Walmart employees becomes apparent when comparing their benefits packages. The following table provides a clear comparison.

Benefit	Spark Drivers	Walmart Full-Time Employees	Notes
Health Insurance	Limited, if any (often requires individual purchase)	Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options	Walmart employees are eligible for various health plans, including options with low premiums and deductibles.
Paid Time Off	None (drivers are paid per delivery)	Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays	Walmart employees accrue paid time off based on their tenure.
Retirement Plans	None (drivers are responsible for their retirement savings)	401(k) with company match	Walmart employees can participate in a 401(k) plan, and Walmart often provides a matching contribution.
Workers’ Compensation	Limited coverage (primarily through the provided liability insurance)	Comprehensive workers’ compensation coverage	Walmart employees are covered by workers’ compensation in case of work-related injuries or illnesses.
Minimum Wage	No guaranteed minimum wage (earnings per delivery)	Hourly wage, with potential for increases based on performance and tenure	Walmart employees receive a minimum hourly wage, which may vary depending on location and role.
Employee Protections	Limited (at-will independent contractor)	Protected by employment laws (e.g., anti-discrimination, wrongful termination)	Walmart employees are protected by federal and state employment laws.

Implications of Not Being a Walmart Employee Regarding Worker’s Compensation

The distinction between independent contractors and employees has significant implications for worker’s compensation. Walmart employees are covered by workers’ compensation insurance, which provides benefits in the event of a work-related injury or illness. This coverage includes medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments.Spark drivers, on the other hand, are not covered by traditional workers’ compensation. While Spark provides some form of liability insurance, it may not be as comprehensive as workers’ compensation.

If a Spark driver is injured while making a delivery, they may have to bear the financial burden of medical expenses and lost wages.

This situation highlights a crucial difference: Walmart employees have a safety net, while Spark drivers often face greater financial risk in case of accidents or health issues related to their work.

Driver Training and Support

Navigating the world of gig work, especially when it’s intertwined with a retail giant like Walmart, requires understanding the support system available. The experience for Spark drivers, specifically concerning training and assistance, is a key element that shapes their day-to-day realities. Let’s delve into the details of what Spark drivers encounter in this area.

Spark Driver Training and Support: An Overview

The onboarding process for Spark drivers is relatively straightforward, designed to get drivers on the road quickly. Training is primarily self-directed and conducted through the Spark Driver app. This involves watching video tutorials and reviewing informational materials covering order acceptance, delivery procedures, and app navigation. The emphasis is on providing the necessary tools to perform the job, but it leans heavily on the driver’s ability to learn independently.

Resources Available to Spark Drivers

Walmart offers a limited set of resources for Spark drivers. These resources are mainly accessible through the Spark Driver app and are designed to address immediate operational needs.

In-App Support: This is the primary channel for assistance, offering access to FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and a messaging system to connect with support representatives.
Delivery Instructions and Guidelines: The app provides detailed instructions on how to handle deliveries, including customer communication, package handling, and delivery protocols.
Payment and Earnings Information: Drivers can access detailed information about their earnings, payment schedules, and any adjustments to their pay.
Safety Guidelines: The app contains safety guidelines related to driving, personal safety, and handling various delivery scenarios.

Contrasting Support Systems: Spark Drivers vs. Walmart Employees

The support systems available to Spark drivers and Walmart employees differ significantly. Walmart employees benefit from a more structured and comprehensive support network.

Walmart employees have access to:

Formal Training Programs: Walmart employees receive structured training programs that cover various aspects of their jobs, including customer service, store operations, and product knowledge.
Managerial Support: Employees have direct access to managers and supervisors who provide guidance, performance feedback, and support.
HR Department: Walmart employees can access the HR department for issues related to employment, benefits, and workplace concerns.
Team Environment: Employees work within a team environment, which fosters collaboration and peer support.

In stark contrast, Spark drivers often operate with limited direct contact with Walmart management or fellow drivers. The emphasis is on individual performance and self-reliance.

This disparity highlights a fundamental difference in the nature of employment. Walmart employees benefit from a more traditional employer-employee relationship, while Spark drivers operate under a contract-based agreement, influencing the types and extent of support provided.

Driver Interaction with Walmart

The relationship between Spark drivers and Walmart is a crucial element in the delivery ecosystem. It’s a dance of independent contractors and a retail giant, a dynamic that impacts efficiency, driver experience, and ultimately, customer satisfaction. Understanding the nuances of this interaction is key to appreciating the intricacies of the Spark platform.

Types of Interactions with Walmart Employees

Spark drivers interact with Walmart employees in a variety of ways, primarily centered around order fulfillment and pickup. These interactions are often brief but essential for a smooth delivery process.

Store Associates: These are the primary points of contact. Drivers typically interact with associates in the pickup area (often labeled “Pickup” or “Online Grocery”) to receive the order. This involves verifying the order, potentially assisting with loading groceries, and sometimes addressing any issues with the order.
Management/Supervisors: While less frequent, drivers might need to engage with managers or supervisors to resolve more complex issues, such as missing items, delayed orders, or complaints.
Personal Shoppers: Although drivers don’t directly interact with personal shoppers, the efficiency and accuracy of the shopping process by Walmart employees directly impacts the driver’s experience and the delivery time.
Asset Protection/Security: In some instances, drivers might interact with security personnel, particularly during after-hours pickups or if there are concerns about safety or order integrity.

Step-by-Step Delivery Pickup Procedure

The following Artikels the typical steps a Spark driver takes when picking up an order at Walmart. This process is designed to be relatively straightforward, but variations may exist based on store layout and procedures.

Arrival and Check-In: Upon arriving at the designated pickup area, the driver typically uses the Spark app to “check in” or “arrive.” This notifies Walmart staff of their arrival.
Locating the Pickup Area: Drivers must locate the designated pickup area, often marked with signage.
Order Verification: The driver provides the order number or a QR code (generated by the Spark app) to a Walmart employee. The employee then retrieves the order.
Order Inspection: The driver usually has the opportunity to briefly inspect the order to ensure it matches the items listed in the app. This is crucial for addressing potential issues before leaving the store.
Loading: Walmart employees often assist in loading the order into the driver’s vehicle. Drivers may also be responsible for loading, depending on the store’s policies and the nature of the items.
Issue Resolution (if needed): If there are missing or damaged items, the driver and Walmart employee will work together to resolve the issue. This might involve contacting the customer, substituting items, or adjusting the order.
Departure: Once the order is loaded and any issues are addressed, the driver is ready to depart for the delivery location.

Comparing Working Relationships

The working relationship between Spark drivers and Walmart employees differs significantly from traditional employer-employee dynamics. The key difference lies in the independent contractor status of Spark drivers.

Here is a comparison:

Feature	Spark Driver & Walmart Employee	Traditional Employee
Employment Status	Independent Contractor (Driver), Employee (Walmart)	Employee (Both)
Supervision	Limited; primarily interacts for order pickup.	Direct supervision by managers and supervisors.
Benefits	No benefits from Walmart (health insurance, paid time off, etc.).	Full benefits package (health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, etc.).
Training	Limited training, primarily related to order pickup procedures.	Comprehensive training on job duties, company policies, and procedures.
Control over Work	Drivers have more flexibility in terms of hours and accepting/rejecting orders.	Employees are typically required to work set schedules and perform assigned tasks.
Compensation	Paid per delivery, based on order size and distance.	Hourly wage or salary, plus potential for bonuses or commissions.

This difference has significant implications. While Spark drivers enjoy flexibility, they bear the responsibility for their own expenses and lack the benefits of traditional employment. Walmart employees, on the other hand, benefit from the structure and support of a traditional employment model.

Public Perception and Legal Challenges

The public’s understanding of Spark drivers is often a complex mix of assumptions and uncertainties. This section delves into common misconceptions, the legal battles surrounding driver classification, and offers a glimpse into the daily reality of a Spark driver’s work life.

Common Misconceptions About Spark Drivers

The public often misunderstands the nature of Spark driver employment, leading to several prevalent misconceptions.

The “Employee” Assumption: Many people incorrectly assume Spark drivers are traditional Walmart employees. They might believe drivers receive employee benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and access to company resources.
The “Easy Money” Myth: Some perceive Spark driving as a simple, lucrative gig. They may underestimate the expenses involved, such as vehicle maintenance, fuel, and the unpredictable nature of earnings.
The “Walmart-Controlled” Belief: There’s a common belief that Walmart exerts complete control over Spark drivers, dictating their schedules, pay, and overall working conditions.
The “Unskilled Labor” Assumption: Many people see the job as requiring minimal skill or effort, overlooking the navigational challenges, customer service demands, and the need to manage time and resources efficiently.
The “Unprotected Worker” Perception: Some believe Spark drivers lack legal protections afforded to traditional employees, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and without recourse in disputes.

Legal Challenges Related to Spark Driver Classification

The classification of Spark drivers as independent contractors, rather than employees, has been a significant source of legal contention. This classification directly impacts their rights, benefits, and protections.

Wage and Hour Lawsuits: Drivers have filed lawsuits alleging wage theft, claiming they were not paid minimum wage, overtime, or were not reimbursed for expenses.
Misclassification Claims: These lawsuits argue that Walmart improperly classified drivers as independent contractors to avoid employer responsibilities, such as paying payroll taxes, providing workers’ compensation, and offering benefits.
Class Action Lawsuits: Multiple class-action lawsuits have been filed, representing numerous drivers, seeking to collectively address issues related to pay, working conditions, and misclassification.
California’s AB5 Law: The implementation of California’s AB5 law, which aimed to reclassify many independent contractors as employees, has significantly impacted gig economy companies, including those that use drivers like Spark.
Federal Lawsuits and Regulations: The U.S. Department of Labor has scrutinized the classification of gig workers, potentially leading to federal regulations and lawsuits that could redefine the employment status of Spark drivers and others in the gig economy.

A Day in the Life: A Spark Driver at Walmart, Are spark drivers walmart employees

Picture this: The fluorescent lights of the Walmart parking lot hum, casting long shadows as dawn breaks. Maria, a Spark driver, pulls into a designated pickup zone, her compact car already showing signs of the miles it covers daily. She’s wearing comfortable shoes, a necessity for the constant in-and-out of the vehicle.Maria checks her Spark app, the screen illuminating her face with a soft glow.

She’s accepted an order—a grocery delivery—and now waits, tapping her foot, a habit she’s developed during the inevitable wait times. The air smells of freshly baked bread and cleaning products.The Walmart employee, clad in a blue vest, wheels out a cart overflowing with groceries. They greet each other with a brief, efficient exchange. The employee scans the order, confirming everything is correct.

Maria helps load the groceries into her car, carefully arranging them to prevent damage. She knows that a damaged item can mean a hit to her ratings and potential earnings.She navigates the route on her phone, which is mounted on the dashboard, using a GPS app. The route is optimized for efficiency, but she’s also prepared for unexpected detours due to traffic or construction.

The car’s interior is equipped with insulated bags to keep the temperature-sensitive items at the correct temperature.Her first delivery is a short drive to a suburban home. She approaches the front door with a friendly smile, greeting the customer. She places the groceries according to the delivery instructions, sometimes carrying them to the door and sometimes leaving them at the doorstep.

A quick photo to confirm the delivery is complete, and she’s back in her car, ready for the next order. The whole process, from the initial pickup to the final delivery, is a blend of efficiency, customer service, and the ever-present pressure to maximize earnings in a dynamic environment. She is always aware of the rating system that directly impacts her ability to receive future orders.

Future of the Relationship

The relationship between Walmart and Spark drivers is poised for significant transformation. As the gig economy matures and labor laws adapt, the dynamics between these two entities are destined to shift, impacting everything from driver classification to the very nature of the delivery role. The next few years promise a landscape of evolving partnerships, challenges, and opportunities for both Walmart and the individuals who power its delivery network.

Potential Changes in the Relationship Between Walmart and Spark Drivers

The relationship between Walmart and its Spark drivers is likely to become more complex, influenced by legal, economic, and technological factors. This evolution could manifest in several key areas.

Increased Employee-Like Protections: Expect to see more drivers receiving benefits and protections traditionally associated with employees. This could include minimum wage guarantees, access to paid time off, and contributions to unemployment insurance. California’s Proposition 22, while now overturned, served as a blueprint for potential changes in driver classification and benefits.
More Transparent Communication and Performance Metrics: Walmart might enhance communication channels with drivers, providing clearer expectations, performance metrics, and feedback mechanisms. This can lead to a fairer system.
Technological Integration and Automation: Technology will play a bigger role. Walmart may integrate more automation into its delivery processes, impacting how orders are routed, the types of deliveries offered, and how drivers interact with the system.
Strategic Partnerships and Third-Party Involvement: Walmart might diversify its delivery strategies by partnering with other logistics companies or utilizing different models, which could influence the role of Spark drivers and create new opportunities or challenges.
Focus on Driver Retention and Satisfaction: With increased competition for drivers, Walmart is likely to focus more on retention strategies, potentially including performance-based bonuses, improved training, and enhanced support systems to retain their best drivers.

Impact of Evolving Labor Laws on the Classification of Spark Drivers

The classification of Spark drivers as independent contractors is under constant scrutiny, and evolving labor laws will significantly shape this. The legal landscape is a complex battlefield with significant implications for both Walmart and its drivers.

Increased Scrutiny of Independent Contractor Status: Regulatory bodies, like the Department of Labor, will continue to examine the nature of the relationship between Walmart and its drivers. The “economic realities test,” which considers factors like the level of control Walmart exerts over drivers, is a key focus.
State-Level Legislation: States will continue to introduce and refine laws regarding gig workers. These laws could force reclassification of drivers, leading to benefits and protections like minimum wage, workers’ compensation, and unemployment insurance.
Federal Regulations: The federal government might step in with comprehensive regulations affecting gig economy workers. This could involve creating a new employment classification, providing benefits to independent contractors, or setting standards for working conditions.
Impact of Court Cases: Court decisions in lawsuits challenging the independent contractor status will set legal precedents, potentially reshaping how drivers are classified and the rights they possess.
The Rise of Collective Bargaining: Drivers might organize and collectively bargain for better working conditions and pay. This could lead to a more formalized relationship between drivers and Walmart, similar to traditional employment models.

Forecast of How the Spark Driver Role Might Evolve in the Next 5 Years

The Spark driver role is not static; it will change dramatically in the next five years, driven by technology, market forces, and legal developments. This evolution will likely bring both challenges and opportunities.

Specialization and Niche Deliveries: Drivers may specialize in specific types of deliveries, such as groceries, oversized items, or even more specialized services like pharmacy pickups.
Integration with Autonomous Vehicles: The increasing use of autonomous vehicles will change the role of drivers. They might become supervisors of autonomous delivery systems or focus on “last-mile” delivery tasks, bridging the gap between autonomous vehicles and customers.
Dynamic Pricing and Earnings: The pay structure for drivers will become more dynamic, with earnings influenced by factors like demand, time of day, and delivery complexity. This could lead to higher earning potential but also increased variability.
Enhanced Training and Skill Development: Drivers will need to develop new skills, such as advanced navigation, customer service, and potentially basic vehicle maintenance. Walmart may invest more in driver training programs to enhance driver capabilities.
Data-Driven Optimization: Technology will enable more data-driven optimization of delivery routes, order assignments, and driver performance. This will improve efficiency but could also lead to increased surveillance and monitoring.