Abstract

BINDER, Maria Cecília Pereira; WERNICK, Renate; PENALOZA, Eduardo Rommel  and  ALMEIDA, Ildeberto Muniz de. Working conditions in the automobile repair shops in Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil: preliminary report. Inf. Epidemiol. Sus [online]. 2001, vol.10, n.2, pp.67-79. ISSN 0104-1673.  http://dx.doi.org/10.5123/S0104-16732001000200002.

This study qualitatively evaluates occupational exposure to noise and chemicals, heavy load handling conditions, and observance of work regulations. Sixty-eight shops were identified from the telephone directory and other sources. Information was collected by observation and by questionnaire. Thirteen shops were not registered. Of a total of 418 workers, 13 had ages between 15 and 17 years. Noise: moderate in 41% and marked in 16% of the locations. Heavy load handling conditions were moderate in 35% and marked in 15% of the shops evaluated. Work regulations: The Accident Prevention Committee (CIPA) was established in one of the four shops requiring them; Medical Control and Occupational Health Programs was organized in only one location. Conditions of sanitation and comfort were unsuitable in 78% of the shops; 96% of the locations had at least one type of personal protection. Use of chemical products: 26 products were used in automotive bodywork and painting; routine cleaning of parts with gasoline, thinners and kerosene in all shops; workers’ hygiene was unsuitable in 75% of the locations (hands, arms and clothes were oily and greasy). These results indicate the need for the development of intervention/prevention strategies for these small businesses

Keywords : Occupational Health; Work Accidents; Motor Vehicles.

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