Prevention of occupational risks and promotion of occupational health in security guards

Strategies to reduce physical, ergonomic, and psychosocial risks during long working hours.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyse occupational risk prevention and occupational health promotion among security guards, considering the physical, ergonomic and psychosocial risks associated with long working hours. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach, with a bibliographic-documentary design, which allowed for the collection, analysis and interpretation of information from scientific articles, books, technical reports and legal regulations related to occupational health and safety. The results show that the absence of active breaks, the limited application of ergonomic principles and the lack of psychological support programmes increase the vulnerability of security guards to occupational diseases and reduce their work performance. It was also found that the implementation of comprehensive preventive strategies, such as shift rotation, workplace adaptation, continuous training and psychosocial risk management, contributes significantly to improving the physical and mental well-being of workers. Similarly, the documentary review identified that, although there is a legal framework supporting occupational health protection, its effective application has limitations. Finally, it was concluded that occupational risk prevention must be approached from a comprehensive and preventive perspective, articulating organisational, ergonomic and psychosocial actions in order to guarantee safe working conditions, promote occupational health and strengthen the quality of the security service provided to workers.