P-583 Study of the Working Conditions of Fishmongers in Conakry, Guinea in 2022

Introduction Artisanal fish smoking exposes workers to occupational accidents, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and carbon monoxide (CO) inhalation. The aim of this study was to describe the working conditions of women fish smokers in Conakry, Guinea. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from April 1 to June 30, 2022. Women from the Téminetaye and Bonfi sites who had been smoking fish for at least 3 months and who had agreed to participate voluntarily in the study were included. Measurements of CO in ambient air were carried out using portable CO detectors of the Testo 317-3 type. Results The average age of respondents was 47.12 ± 15.98 years, with extremes of 18 and 82 years. More than half of fish smokers (58.2%) did not attend school. They worked more than 8 hours a day and 7 days a week (79.6%). Wood (99.5%) was the main fuel used for smoking. Ovens were made of bricks, cut drums and sheet metal topped with metal grates. Fish smoking took place in the open air, close to dwellings. None of the smokers wore respirators. There was no organized medical follow-up for these women. Wounds (99%) and burns (17%) were the main injuries caused by occupational accidents. Low back pain (89%), sciatica (67.6%) and neck pain (57.7%) were described by the workers. Discussion – Conclusion These results highlight the precarious working conditions and health risks faced by women engaged in artisanal fish smoking in Conakry. Greater attention needs to be paid to occupational safety and health protection for these workers.