Implementation of the health surveillance program for workers exposed to asbestos in the state of São Paulo: a report of experience

Abstract Introduction Asbestos is a serious threat to global public health. In the State of São Paulo, Law No. 12,684/2007 established banning on the use of asbestos in production processes. Objective To describe the experience of surveillance for workers exposed to asbestos by the DVST/CEREST Division of the State of São Paulo from 2008 to 2020, and to present the advances and challenges of interventions related to the asbestos ban. Methods Documentary research related to occupational health surveillance activities, in addition to institutional documents, systematized database reports, and activity records. Results By 2018, there were no longer any companies using asbestos in their production processes in the state of São Paulo; commercial establishments dealing with construction materials, cargo transport, and public administration renovations were inspected throughout the state. In the same year, active searches for exposed workers began, aiming for comprehensive care. Conclusion The Visat Amianto Program created a positive agenda focused on protecting workers’ health and defending life. It effectively contributed to the creation of technical references and the early identification of damage to workers and the environment. However, the challenges remain considerable.