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Anses Says Work Organization Is Driving Health Risks for France’s 1.2 Million Cleaning Workers

The agency cites outsourcing as a key factor that intensifies workloads, exposing a largely female workforce to harmful conditions.

Overview

  • Anses identifies three principal exposures for cleaning staff: high physical intensity, frequent contact with chemical products, and isolated work.
  • The sector represents about 5% of salaried employment in France, with women accounting for more than 73% of the workforce.
  • The report links irregular early-morning and night schedules to disrupted sleep and family life, amplifying physical and mental health strain.
  • Findings include higher rates of workplace accidents and recognized occupational diseases, alongside precarious contracts and low unionization.
  • Recommendations include promoting daytime work, strengthening risk-prevention training for musculoskeletal disorders, and increasing client-company accountability in subcontracted arrangements.