WORKERS EXPOSURE IN THE POULTRY PROCESSING INDUSTRY TO RISK FACTORS AND ITS HEALTH EFFECTS: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA DA LITERATURA

Abstract

The poultry processing industry generates many jobs worldwide. However, the activities carried out in this industry are related to the development of musculoskeletal, respiratory, dermatological, and mental diseases. This article aims to identify the risk factors that workers are exposed to in the poultry processing industry and the health consequences. Furthermore, we seek to identify prevention measures to be implemented to reduce damage to workers' health. To accomplish its objective, a systematic literature review was carried out based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) review protocol. In total, 39 articles published between 2003 and 2022 were selected. As a result, it was possible to conclude that poultry processing workers are exposed to physical-environmental, chemical, biological, ergonomic and psychosocial risk factors. Among the health problems encountered, it is possible to hypothermia, onychomycosis, psittacosis, campylobacteriosis, respiratory symptoms, depression, and musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, to mitigate these health problems for workers, several prevention measures were listed that companies can implement, especially those related to the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders.