The creation of the Brazilian Network of Comprehensive Occupational Health Care (Renast) in 2002 led to the appearance and increase of Reference Centers for Occupational Health (Cerest) in Brazil. In the North Fluminense Region, Cerest was inaugurated in 2006 and resulted from the transformation of the former Occupational Health Program of the city of Campos dos Goytacazes. In the broader context of the history of Occupational Health Programs in Brazil and the creation of Renast, this research analyzes the setting up of this Cerest in Campos in the State of Rio de Janeiro. In line with Foucault, it examines the specificity of its relations of provenance and emergence, conducting a review of the trajectory of the Occupational Health Program in the city in question. Documentary analysis, participant observation and interviews with Cerest team members were used as research tools. The survey revealed some political and social trouble spots. The results show that Cerest has a history of isolation and marginalization in the region's political and institutional structure. It acts continuously with a predominant logic of care since its inception, but it has faced serious political obstacles over the course of time in the implementation of actions to promote occupational health.