Cell Phone use and its impact on occupational risks

Abstract

There is growing concern about the use of electronic devices in the workplace, especially cell phones, as their widespread use could have harmful effects on workers' health and safety. The objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between cell phone use in the workplace and the risks to workers' health and safety. A monographic study was conducted based on a review of fifty-four bibliographic sources to identify patterns and the prevalence of the problem. Two instruments designed by the research team were administered to workers from participating companies who volunteered to participate. The results showed a correlation between prolonged cell phone use and the presence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the back and upper limbs, as well as visual, behavioral, and mental symptoms, and associated safety risks such as traffic accidents. Cell phone use was also identified as a source of biological contamination (fomites). The study concludes that cell phone use, in addition to being a potential source of biological contamination, is a relevant factor in visual symptoms and impaired concentration during work activities such as driving.