Occupational accidents among workers within a microarea covered by the Family Health Strategy

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Occupational Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Occupational accidents are significantly underreported in Brazil's official systems.
• Primary data collection through surveys is crucial for accurate assessment.
• Understanding the characteristics of affected workers is vital for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize workers experiencing non-fatal occupational accidents.
• Focus on a Family Health Unit microarea in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
• Inform public health strategies and occupational health surveillance.

Main Methods:

• Observational, analytical, individual, cross-sectional study.
• Data collected via home visits using questionnaires (January-February 2020).
• Sample of 134 workers aged 18-65 years.

Main Results:

• Overall incidence of occupational accidents was 6.7%.
• Accidents were more frequent among females, Black/Brown individuals, those with lower education, informal employment, and lower income.
• Higher cumulative incidence observed in vulnerable groups, including those working >44 hours/week.

Conclusions:

• Occupational accidents are more frequent in socially vulnerable populations.
• Findings underscore the need for focused public policies.
• Recommendations for enhanced Occupational Health Surveillance within primary care settings.