Work practices associated with silica and asbestos exposure in the Colombian construction sector, 2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17533/udea.rfnsp.e359662Keywords:
asbestos, risk management, construction industry, occupational health and safety, silicaAbstract
Objective: To identify work practices associated with silica and asbestos exposure in the Colombian construction sector.
Methodology: A qualitative study of exploratory scope was carried out in 9 companies that met the criteria for safety, occupational health and environmental protection, classified as high performance, with scores equal to or above the median (88/100 points). The study population were workers and leaders of the occupational safety and health management system. Twenty-nine semi-structured interviews were conducted between January and November 2024. The data analysis had a categorical thematic approach, with three categories defined based on Resolution 0312 of 2019 of the Colombian Ministry of Labor: 1) guidelines, 2) process and risk management, and 3) capacity building and culture.
Results: The practices identified were Category 1: lack of knowledge and limited implementation of regulations, absence of specific policies for silica and asbestos. Category 2: general hazard matrices that do not include these substances, basic control measures and epidemiological surveillance systems without integration of silica- and asbestos-related diseases. Category 3: empirical learning, general training,s and self-care culture.
Conclusions: Gaps in compliance with legal requirements and management practices for silica and asbestos exposure were evidenced, despite being companies classified as high performance. This indicates a need to strengthen risk management, regulatory compliance and practices regarding exposure to these substances in the construction sector in Colombia.
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