BACKGROUND Through its vaccination schedules, the National Immunization Program ensures immunization against hepatitis B gratis to health care professionals at high risk for infection at the workplace. OBJECTIVE To analyze the association between variables related to occupational exposure and complete hepatitis B vaccination schedule. METHODS Cross-sectional study with 3,084 primary care and medium complexity health care workers from five municipalities in the state of Bahia, Brazil. RESULTS The factors associated with complete hepatitis B vaccination schedule on bivariate analysis were: contact with biological materials, preparation of medications, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), search for orientation after a work accident and skill demands. CONCLUSIONS Workers in the health sector resist adhering to some preventive measures. Strategies to encourage vaccination might be enhanced by creating room for discussion at work on the burden to which employees are exposed. Plans and policies for workers' health should be formulated in the light of governmental policies set for the overall population.