Occupational health: analysis of environmental risks and occupational diseases in a tannery

This study aims to analyze the organization of work, to check the probable occupational diseases and the damage caused to the environment in the performance of activities in a tannery located in southwest Minas Gerais. It was used the case study of qualitative approach. Also it was made an observation of the work and interviews with employees. It was assess the environmental risks have been raised and the likely conditions for each type of risk. In chemical risk, for example, it is emphasized that the use of chromium can cause serious damage to workers' health, such as the development of lung cancer from inhaling large amount of it. Finally, it is concluded that there are serious diseases that can be triggered at work in tannery and, therefore, recommended to the awareness of workers about the Personal Protective Equipment use (PPE) for safety and prevention of occupational health. It was recommended realize a training on the proper use of PPE and the promotion of lectures to raise awareness about the importance of use the PPE in the workplace.