Objective:

To analyze the prevalence and the factors associated with the spirometric patterns of workers exposed to chemical substances.

Materials and methods:

Descriptive correlational study, non-experimental design, with a quantitative approach, carried out in a census sample of 515 workers exposed to occupational chemicals. The collection of the sample was carried out using spirometric tests with Spirolab III equipment, previously calibrated and following the conventional protocol. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS.25 using measures of central tendency, dispersion and Pearson's correlation index, for parametric samples. The ethical principles for research in humans were respected.

Results:

The prevalence of chronic alterations compatible with an obstructive pattern was 7.60 % and restrictive 1.00 %. Factors with a positive association were age, sex, exposure to chemicals, and smoking.

Conclusions:

A lower prevalence was found than that described in other studies, and an association with sociodemographic, habit and work factors was also identified.

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