OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES IN PROFESSIONALS FROM A PLASTER PRODUCTION COMPLEX: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: to know the prevalent occupational diseases and symptoms in workers from a plaster production complex. Method: this is a cross-sectional study conducted with 67 workers of a plaster factory from the city of Grajaú, Maranhão, Brazil. A semi-structured questionnaire with open and closed questions was used for data collection. The data were analyzed by means of the descriptive statistics usual procedures. Results: the sample consisted of 67 workers, of which 63 were male (94%). Six (9%) workers from the sample presented work-related diseases. The predominant symptoms were the following: irritation in the eyes; irritation on the skin; pain in the joints; irritation in the nasal mucosa; and respiratory problems. Conclusion: these results point to indicators that can be used as a parameter to support decision-making regarding public policies aimed at workers’ health in the context of gypsum mining.