Characterization of the working conditions in paneleras of the Pastaza canton, Ecuador

The objective of this research was to carry out a diagnosis of the working conditions in the panela industry in the Pastaza canton, Ecuador to propose a solution on the priority dangers of occupational accident. The population was made up of 208 workers from 7 panela producers in the Pastaza canton of the Tarqui and Puyo parishes, different field visits were carried out for data collection and instruments were applied such as: checklist, identification guide of Hazards and risk assessment in occupational health and safety Colombian Technical Guide ¨GTC¨ 45. In the analysis of the results, it was evidenced that the workers in this sector have a low level of education, most of them are men, with many years in activity routine and with a lack of knowledge of Occupational Safety and Occupational Health regulations and legislation, with long working hours. 40% of workers carry out heavy lifting, 100% repetitive movements, 80% of workers are exposed to psychosocial risk factors, 60% of establishments have adequate lighting, and 100% present greater risks (fire). The working conditions in the paneleras of the Pastaza canton, Ecuador, do not comply with the legislation on Occupational Safety and Health, and highly and gradually affect productivity in the microenterprise sector.