CAREX Nicaragua and Panama: Worker Exposures to Carcinogenic Substances and Pesticides

Abstract

This study provides data on numbers of workers exposed at work to selected carcinogens and pesticides in Nicaragua (35 substances) and Panama (31), based on a modification of the CAREX data system. Population censuses provided industry- and sex-specific workforce numbers. The activity- and sex-specific proportions of exposed workers were estimated by experts from governmental agencies, workers' organizations, and employers' representatives. Finally, the numbers of those occupied in each activity/sex category were multiplied by the proportions of those exposed in the same categories, yielding numbers of those exposed in these categories for each agent. The study revealed high proportions (> 9%) of occupationally exposed workers in both countries for solar radiation and diesel engine emissions; environmental tobacco smoke in Panama; and some pesticides in Nicaragua. A high proportion of exposed was found for men for lead (12%), silica dust (10%), and hexavalent chromium (10%) in Panama.