Risk factors associated with motorcycle repair in three workshops in the city of Ibagué

This paper analyzes the risk factors to which motorcycle repair workshop workers in Ibagué, Tolima, are exposed. Most of these activities are performed informally and lack minimum occupational health and safety (OHS) standards. The diagnosis conducted in three selected workshops identified the main risks: mechanical, electrical, biomechanical, chemical, psychosocial, biological, and public safety. These factors may lead to occupational accidents, musculoskeletal injuries, respiratory or skin diseases, work-related stress, and even urban violence situations. The methodology was based on direct observation of activities, data collection through worker interviews, and the application of the Colombian Technical Guide GTC 45 (ICONTEC, 2012), which provides guidelines for hazard identification and risk assessment. The results show that the absence of preventive measures, lack of OHS training, and labor informality increase workers’ exposure to risks that could be mitigated with prevention strategies and a culture of self-care. This study contributes to the discussion on the need to formalize economic activities such as motorcycle repair, which significantly impact urban employment but operate under precarious conditions. It also highlights the importance of articulating actions between academia, local government, and workers to foster safe work environments, in accordance with Colombian regulations (Decree 1072 of 2015; Resolution 0312 of 2019) and the guidelines of the International Labour Organization (ILO, 2015).