Work is currently recognised as a fundamental determinant of individual, family and community health, making it essential to protect the safety and health of workers throughout their professional careers. This article, by Susana Joaquim, addresses six main categories of occupational risks and presents recommendations for each one.
Risks vary according to professional activity. Those who work standing for long periods may suffer from impaired venous return and muscle strain. Those who work sitting at a computer face neck tension and risks of injuries to the shoulders, forearms and wrists. Workers in outdoor spaces are exposed to extreme temperatures, solar radiation and dehydration. Noise, present in industrial and construction environments, can cause temporary or permanent hearing changes. Manual handling of loads also constitutes an important source of physical strain.
The article also alerts readers to invisible risks, such as work organisation, pressure, schedules and conflicts, which can affect workers' mental health. Symptoms such as stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances and feelings of exhaustion should not be ignored.
Effective prevention depends on the identification and assessment of risks, work organisation, the conditions provided by the employer, worker participation and the action of Occupational Safety and Health services. The article concludes that knowing the risks is the first step, but preventing them is a shared responsibility.
