First National Survey on Environmental Working Conditions, Employment and Health - Argentina 2009

Introduction
Considering the need of specific data source from workers’ viewpoint about occupational safety and health as well as evaluating preventive activities in companies, our aim was to conduct the First National Survey on Environmental Working Conditions, Employment and Health in Argentina in 2009.

Methods
7196 sample cases representative of 3 millions workers from private companies in different economic sectors across the country was interviewed about socio-demographic data, labor and employment conditions, training, psychosocial factors and health outcomes.

Results
A third of the workers acknowledged at least some physical risk situation ranging from fair to bad. 19.6% and 13.3% respectively perceived permanent or intermittent noise and vibrations. 39.4% of the workers in companies where accidents took place attributed them to bad working or environmental conditions. As for different dimensions in psychosocial factors, the issues measured and their outcomes were: non-control, 33.6%; demands, 34%; lack of social support 2.3%; existence of harassment/violence, 3%. About preventive strategies, 5% of workers lack provision of safety equipment. Referring to workers’ health surveillance, only 31.3% had health check-ups. Health outcomes: 12.9% suffered workplace injuries; 4.9% had some occupational disease; 24.5% consulted the doctor due to occupational health problems. Men suffer more injuries than women (p<0.05), but the latter stated more complaints. Injuries and diseases were more prevalent among non-qualified workers (p <0.01), but health symptoms and appointments with the doctor were more frequent among qualified workers. Immigrant workers had the worst health signs.

Discussion
As this survey provides data source completing official registers, it must be used as a tool for public policies and preventive monitoring.