Occupation Health and Safety Among Brazilian Immigrant Women: A Cross-Sectional Survey

The Brazilian population in the United States is growing, and many Brazilian workers are employed in settings that lack oversight or regulatory controls related to occupational health and safety (OHS). In this study, we documented two domains of OHS (measured by the Occupational Health and Safety Vulnerability Survey), including Workplace Hazards (potential dangers that may result in injury or illness) and Workplace Vulnerability (inadequate occupational health and safety resources), and examined associated health and demographic characteristics. Eligible participants were women ages 18 and over, born in Brazil, currently residing in the U.S., and employed. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between July and August 2020. Recruitment occurred through community partnerships and social media. Among N=271 women in the sample, multilinear regression models showed that those who had more significant exposure to Workplace Hazards and greater Workplace Vulnerability when working in private household services (childcare, housecleaning). Increased hazard and vulnerability risk was associated with low income, low educational attainment, and having public insurance. Our findings highlight the need to examine workplace structures and OHS protections for immigrant women.