Analysis of the perception of occupational hazards among workers in a textile industry, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the perception of workers of a textile factory in relation to environmental risks and possible health problems, aiming to provide reflection-action process among these professionals. It was a descriptive research, carried out from October 2009 to January 2010, in a textile factory, located in a city in the countryside of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Twenty-four employees considered for their respective work shifts, morning or afternoon, and also by their sectors participated in the survey. The workers spoke about the risks they were exposed to and were able to correlate with possible adverse health repercussions. The findings indicated that 25% of the interviewees suffered some type of accident associated with the exacerbation of environmental risks, causing injuries with greater or lesser severity. In another aspect, the workers demonstrated awareness regarding the possibility of the occurrence of long-term occupational diseases acquired. In addition, 29% of the respondents reported having at least one type of pathology, and only one of them reported a pre-existing disease condition at admission to work in the company, while six of them said they had contracted the disease in the beginning of activities in the work sector within the company. It is concluded that the inadequate working environment can be an aggravating factor for occupational diseases, and it is essential to seek continuous improvement in relation to protective measures. It is also important to promote activities related to labor gymnastics and other incentives to promote the quality of life and health of workers.