Proteção do patrimônio genético dos trabalhadores expostos ao urânio em município do sudoeste da Bahia, Brasill

Abstract

The existence of a uranium mine in the southwestern part of Bahia since the early 2000s has raised the need for discussion about the risks caused by this activity to the genetic patrimony of workers exposed to this agent in the workplace. The objective is to deepen the knowledge about the consequences to the genetic patrimony of the workers involved in the extraction of uranium in the southwest of Bahia and to contribute to the definition of public health, labor and environmental policies that protect the exposed workers and population. We chose a research design in the case study model, with the adoption of a research strategy of a qualitative nature with exploratory-explanatory nature, using techniques of bibliographic research, documentary, direct observation and semi-structured interviews during the visit institution. Through the research techniques, results have been obtained in the sense that the exposure to uranium is capable of provoking genetic mutations, that can cause the appearance of neoplasias, as well as being transmitted to the descendants of the irradiated workers. The non-existence of personal protective equipment, which can actually preserve the health of workers exposed to this type of agent, exacerbates the reality experienced in uranium mines. In the absence of effective mechanisms to protect workers, the idea of mechanization of the activity, preservation of the activities of inspection agencies, as well as the need to deepen the subject through research, which seeks to recognize the causal link between exposure to uranium and the health damage.