Ifam Seguridad: Cáncer de empleada reconocido como enfermedad profesional

A court has recognised the cancer of a worker at a lock manufacturer in Eibar, Spain, as an occupational disease. The employee’s work involved varnishing and assembly tasks, as well as the use of a laser machine, according to a statement released Monday by the CCOO union.

Workplace Conditions and Cancer Risk

The court’s ruling details that the already-nickel-plated locks were varnished and then engraved using a laser machine. This process involved burning the metal, releasing flakes and smoke, as reported by CCOO. The laser machine was acquired in 2012 without a ventilation system.

Did You Know? The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has stated there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of mixtures including nickel compounds and nickel metal.

This protective measure was not installed until 2018, following a request from another employee at the company. Osalan previously certified that the process generated nickel dust.

Exposure to Hazardous Substances

The court’s decision, as reported by CCOO, also acknowledges the worker’s exposure to nickel dust and aromatic hydrocarbons. These hydrocarbons, also a known carcinogen, were present in one of the lubricants used during the manufacturing process.

Expert Insight: This case underscores the critical importance of proactive workplace safety measures, particularly when dealing with potentially carcinogenic substances. The delay in implementing ventilation highlights a potential failure to prioritize worker health, and safety.

CCOO has reminded companies utilizing chemical products in their production processes of their obligation to replace carcinogenic substances with safer alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the worker’s primary job duties?

The worker’s tasks included varnishing, assembly, and operating a laser machine, according to CCOO.

When was the ventilation system finally installed?

The ventilation system was installed in 2018, following a request from another worker, after the laser machine was purchased in 2012 without one.

What substances was the worker exposed to?

The worker was exposed to nickel dust and aromatic hydrocarbons, both identified as potentially carcinogenic, according to the court’s decision and reports from Osalan and CCOO.

How might this ruling influence future workplace safety regulations and practices in similar industries?