Introduction:

The “informal sector” refers to a very heterogenous population of workers in different working conditions seen as unique group; making difficult to recognize it properly.

Objective:

Describe the working conditions of the workers in a marketplace.

Methodology:

descriptive transverse study with 194 workers selected by census in Ciudad Bolivar city. Data from primary source of information with a questionnaire.

Results:

56.7% women; mean age 43,2±16,8 years; 57,2% household heads; 72,7% earn less than 1 minimum salary. 77,7% works 8 or more hours/day. 27,8% have deteriorated areas in their working place; 48,5% expose to heavy noise and 80,4% to any ergonomic risk. 14,4% without work tools in proper conditions and 32,0% without personal protection items.

Conclusion:

aged population with high work and family load, low income and assurance, and expose to physical risks, including auditory and ergonomic risks. Low regulation in personal protection items use.

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