[Epidemiological profile of occupational risks associated with artisanal burning of plastic materials in Parakou].

Introduction: Burning plastic releases toxic fumes and gases. More and more people engage in the professional activity of welding plastic parts by fusion in Benin. Hence the need for this study.

Purpose Of Research: To assess the frequency of the various occupational risks associated with the welding of plastic materials by burning in Parakou. A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study focused on plastic welders in Parakou. The data was collected using a questionnaire. The variables studied were accidents at work, occupational diseases, and socio-professional characteristics. The data was analyzed by Epi info version 7.2.1.0. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results: A total of 137 subjects were surveyed. They were all male. Almost all of them were victims of accidents at work. The lesions were mainly on the fingers (99%) and feet (99%). The most expressed morbid manifestations were musculoskeletal disorders (98%), rhinitis (87%), cough (79%), tearing (98%) and conjunctival hyperemia (93%).

Conclusions: Plastic welding in Parakou is a high health risk activity for craftsmen. It is urgent to take protective measures for these craftsmen.