Occupational Diseases among Workers at Hacienda La Veguita, San Juan del Cesar, La Guajira.

Abstract

Occupational diseases represent an important challenge for occupational safety and health, particularly in the agricultural sector, where workers are exposed to various physical, chemical, and environmental risk factors. The objective of this study was to analyze the presence of occupational diseases and associated risk factors among workers at Hacienda La Veguita, located in the municipality of San Juan del Cesar, La Guajira, Colombia. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and a checklist applied to five operational workers at the farm. The results showed that 80% of the workers presented medium or high levels of exposure to occupational risk factors. In addition, 60% reported having knowledge of occupational diseases related to their work activities, while 100% indicated that they use personal protective equipment and have received training in occupational safety and health. However, 60% reported having experienced symptoms or physical discomfort associated with their work activities. It is concluded that although preventive measures exist within the evaluated workplace, it is necessary to strengthen prevention strategies and occupational health surveillance in order to reduce exposure to risks and prevent occupational diseases among agricultural workers.