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Be safe at work

Cancer-causing substances at work are responsible for a small percentage of cancers. Know your risk and protect yourself.
  1. Home
  2. Cancer information
  3. Reduce your risk
  4. Be safe at work

Your work environment may expose you to radiation or harmful chemicals that are linked to cancer. These cancer-causing substances are called carcinogens. Scientific evidence tells us that being exposed to carcinogens on the job is responsible for a small percentage of cancers.

Since higher exposure means greater cancer risk, the most important thing you can do to reduce your risk of cancer is to avoid being around these harmful substances – or reduce the time you’re around them.

Find out what you can do to protect yourself at work, and learn more about substances that are harmful to your health.

Firefighter holding an oxygen mask

Protect yourself

Governments, employers and employees must all do their part to reduce exposure to carcinogens in workplaces.
Find out more
Worker in protective clothing removing asbestos from an old pipe

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral used in construction and other industries because it is durable and resists high heat. Exposure to asbestos is highest for people who work with it.
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Manufacturing worker wearing a protective suit, mask and gloves

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a chemical widely used in various industries and as a preservative and disinfectant. People who are exposed to formaldehyde at work have higher levels of exposure than people who may be exposed in their homes.
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A dosimeter measuring radiation exposure

Radiation

Radiation is energy that travels through space in the form of waves or particles. There are 2 types of radiation: ionizing and non-ionizing. Exposure varies by type of radiation.
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Gardener working outside with plants wearing a large sun hat

Sun and UV

UV rays are a source of non-ionizing radiation. Outdoor workers are at greater risk of developing skin cancer than indoor workers.
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Night shift workers on a railroad

Shift work and the circadian rhythm

The circadian rhythm is the body’s internal clock. If you have a job or schedule that disrupts your sleep and wake hours, it’s hard on your body and may increase your risk of health concerns.
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Crops being sprayed with pesticides

Pesticides

Pesticides are chemicals used to kill or control insects, plants, rodents or other pests. Occupations like farmers and golf course workers use pesticides in their work.
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Other

Along with solar radiation and asbestos, diesel engine exhaust and crystalline silica have the largest estimated impact on cancer burden related to workplace risk exposure.
Learn more about diesel engine exhaust Learn more about crystalline silica

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