Workplace Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 among Key Workers and Related Social Inequalities: Evidence from France during the First Lockdown

Introduction: This study aims to assess potential occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2 among key workers in France during the first lockdown and describe their socio-demographic profile to identify social inequalities in the occupation of these jobs. Material and Methods: Based on the 2019 edition of the population-based Working Conditions survey, we quantified potential work-related exposure to SARS-CoV-2 as: "exposure to infectious agents,” "face-to-face contact with the public,” and "working with colleagues". We then used the French list of essential jobs to identify the main groups of key worker occupations. Log-binomial regression models were performed to identify associated occupational and socio-demographic factors. Results: Compared to other workers, key workers in all groups had greater exposure to infectious agents and more physical contact with others, however, working with colleagues differed among key worker groups. In general, women, employees and manual workers, people working on temporary contracts, those with low levels of education and income, and non-European immigrants were more likely to be key workers. Being female, born outside of metropolitan France, and working as a non-executives professional interacted in increasing the probability of occupying a key job. Conclusions: Key workers are more likely to have low social status and precarious employment and to be exposed to SARS-CoV-2 through their work. This study contributes to a growing body of research providing evidence of accumulated disadvantages among key workers with regard to social background, geographical origin and exposure to SARS-CoV-2.