Hypobaria is an occupational condition that affects those who work at high altitudes and requires a series of tests and requirements for those who work in these places. The Sewell Pit is located between 2,700 and 3,240 meters above sea level.

“This health promotion fair is an initiative that is part of a series of actions to promote healthy work environments,” explains Christian Medina, an analyst at Rajo. “Specifically, this is one of the initiatives of Codelco’s preventive program for Hipobaria, within the framework of a joint strategy between the Occupational Health and Safety Management, the Rajo Sewell Management and Fusat, understanding that through access to information we can reduce health risks in the context of working at height.”

At the site, the more than 140 attendees were able to have their blood pressure measured, taste healthy food, learn about and obtain information on how the rescue brigade operates, occupational diseases and work accidents, and even take a rapid HIV test.

“I thought it was a very complete fair and it is excellent that they do these things for the workers. I was struck by the HIV test because it raises awareness. Sometimes people do not plan to go and get checked and it is good that they do it,” said Javier Salinas, operator at the Rajo mine.

Paula Cabezas, an industrial cleaning assistant, stressed that “it is an incentive for personal health care, in which spaces and opportunities are opened for workers to undergo tests. It was very complete, from nutrition to the brigades, blood sugar tests, etc.”

Luciano Leyton, operator of the Mies company, said that “it is wonderful that El Teniente organizes events like this, which take you out of the routine and are so well done, with different and innovative exam options.”