O-352 Risk of Occupational Injuries Due to Accidents Among Native vs Immigrant Populations in Sweden

Background Risks of occupational injuries due to accidents (OIA) are typically higher among immigrants than natives, yet no studies have explored the determinants of these differential risks in the Swedish context. This study aims to identify differences in risks of OIA and their determinants among immigrants relative to native Swedes. Methods A repeated cross-sectional prospective study was conducted for all gainfully employed individuals in Sweden between 2003–2020 (approximately 4.5 million individuals annually). Information on sociodemographic factors, migration status, reason for migration and generation, duration of residence, job sector, employment status, as well as OIA and severity estimated by the number of sickness absence days were obtained from nationwide registers. Results Preliminary results showed that first-generation immigrants have higher OIA risks and severity than second-generation immigrants and natives. Differences were partly explained by reason for migration and duration of residence. Job-related factors are now being examined. Discussion Despite safety improvements in workplaces, immigrants remain disproportionately vulnerable to OIA in the workplace, likely due to immigrants having more hazardous working conditions that lead to higher OIA rates than natives. Conclusion Identifying risk factors for OIA and how their differences by migration status, as well as job-related factors could contribute to improvements in policy and safety measures in the workplace and reduction of health inequalities among the working population.