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Hazards at workplace in the baking sector: a case study in two cookie industries

This work aimed at identifying and analyzing the risks in the workplace of two small-sized cookie manufacturing industries. Data were qualitatively collected, with identification and assessment of occupational risks (physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic and of accidents), observing ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, AS/NZS 4360, NBR 14009, NBR 14153 standards, and the regulatory standards (NR) of Ministry of Labor and Employment. Noise and heat exposition indexes were measured according to NR 15 protocols and the illuminance level was measured following the NR 17. Both “A” and “B” industries presented different risk levels, classified as trivial, tolerable, moderate and substantial. Industry “B” showed more activities with risk exposition potentially capable of causing damages to the health and physical integrity of its employees, thus demanding immediate need for intervention. It was possible to identify that despite legal exigencies related to health and safety at work, they are still considered as of secondary demand, while attention to the quality, hygiene and safety of foods is prioritized. Expenses with preventing occupational accidents and diseases should be faced as investments, because they may contribute to the quality of life of employees, maximizing the activities they perform.

Safety at work; Environmental risks; Occupational risks; Ergonomics; Food industry; Bakery sector


Universidade Federal de São Carlos Departamento de Engenharia de Produção , Caixa Postal 676 , 13.565-905 São Carlos SP Brazil, Tel.: +55 16 3351 8471 - São Carlos - SP - Brazil
E-mail: gp@dep.ufscar.br