Abstract

The number of substances and working conditions classified as occupational carcinogens is increasing. In 2004, a task force of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) estimated that 55 substances found in the workplace were known or probable carcinogens.

In a previous study, the researchers profiled the population of Québec workers exposed to 38 known or probable carcinogens. These data prompted questions from occupational health and safety practitioners, particularly regarding the identification of applicable economic sectors and subsectors and occupational groups.

The purpose of the research is to provide a detailed description of the breakdown by economic sector and occupational group of workers exposed to carcinogenic substances or conditions in order to help guide prevention interventions.