scholarly journals Relationship of Respirable Dust Exposure to Pulmonary Function among Informal-sector Weavers using Indigo-dyed Cotton

Author(s):  
Ratanee Kammoolkon ◽  
◽  
Nutta Taneepanichskul ◽  
Surasuk Taneepanichskul ◽  
◽  
...  

Abstract Informal-sector weavers using indigo-dyed cotton are occupationally exposed to respirable dust which may contain contaminants from chemicals used for pH adjustment in the natural indigo fermentation process. The major health problems associated with respirable dust induce pulmonary function impairment and respiratory disease. However, there have been few studies into the respiratory problems of informal-sector weavers in Thailand. This study investigated the link between occupational respirable dust exposure and pulmonary function among weavers using indigo-dyed cotton in Thailand. A cross-sectional study was conducted of 147 weavers located in Sakon Nakhon province. Respiratory dust (RD) samples were collected from the immediate breathing zone of all weavers. Lung function was measured using a portable spirometer operated by a trained physician and the spirometric results were examined by a pulmonologist before reporting. Most participants were female (98.6%) and the median reported interquartile age (IQR) was 58 (50–62.75) years. Average predicted values for FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC were 92.9% (±20.7), 96.7% (±17.9) and 88.3% (±10.8). Of the respiratory function patterns of the 147 weavers, 20 (13.6%) were restrictive, 11 (7.5%) were obstructive and 1 (0.7%) was combined. The average RD concentration (mean ± SD) was 47.9 ± 28.3 μg/m3. Multivariate linear regression models showed an increase of 1 μg/m3 in RD exposure was associated with a 0.179% lower level of FEV1 (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.278 to -0.080) and a 0.068 % lower level of FEV1/FVC (95% CI -0.128 to -0.008). Our findings suggested that exposure to respirable dust might impair pulmonary function in informal-sector cotton weavers. Keywords: Indigo-dyed Cotton, Informal-sector Weavers, Occupational Exposure, Pulmonary function, Respirable Dust

BMJ Open ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (10) ◽  
pp. e017811 ◽  
Author(s):  
Javiera Parro ◽  
Paulina Aceituno ◽  
Andrea Droppelmann ◽  
Sthepanie Mesías ◽  
Claudio Muñoz ◽  
...  

IntroductionThe workplace remains a significant source of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure. This pollutant is known to be associated with respiratory and cardiovascular problems, but its effects on specific pulmonary function parameters remain largely unexplored. The objectives of this study were to measure SHS exposure among non-smoking employees of bar and restaurants in Santiago, Chile and to evaluate the effects of such exposure on pulmonary function.MethodsCross-sectional design. The study sample included non-smoking workers from 57 restaurants and bars in Santiago, Chile. The outcome variable was pulmonary function and the exposure variables were urine cotinine concentration, a biomarker for current SHS exposure, and years of SHS exposure in the workplace as proxy of chronic exposure. Personal and occupational variables were also recorded. Data analysis was performed using linear regression models adjusted by confounders.ResultsThe median age of the workers was 35 years and the median employment duration at the analysed venues was 1 year. Workers in smoking facilities reported greater SHS exposure (36 hours per week) than workers in smoke-free locations (4 hours per week). Urine cotinine levels were inversely correlated with forced vital capacity, but the finding was not statistically significant (β=−0.0002; 95% CI −0.007 to 0.006). Years of exposure to SHS showed to be significantly associated with forced expiratory flow25/75(β=−0.006; 95% CI −0.010 to −0.0004).ConclusionThese findings suggest that cumulative exposure to SHS at work may contribute to deterioration of pulmonary function in non-smoking employees.


2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Farideh Golbabaei ◽  
Abdollah Gholami ◽  
Gholamheidar Teimori-Boghsani ◽  
Mehdi Yaseri ◽  
Mojtaba Kianmehr

Background and Objective: Silica dust is present in almost all mining operations and can cause various health problems such as silicosis in workers. The present study aimed to determine the total and respirable dust levels and the crystalline silica content of the soil in the breathing zone of workers in Iranian mines. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in 2016-2017 on six Iranian silica mines. Dust sampling was performed according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) method No. 0600. The samples were collected from the respiratory zone of workers at 114 stations in different units of the mines. The silica content was measured using the standard NIOSH method No. 7601. The crystalline silica content in bulk samples collected from the soil was determined by using the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy method. Results: The highest concentration of crystalline silica dust was 2.81±0.49 mg/m3 and was observed in the air of crushing unit of mine no. 6, and the lowest was 0.08±0.208 mg/m3 and was measured in the management/administration unit of mine no.1. The mean silica content in the solid surface of the mines was 91%. The total and respirable dust levels in all units of the mines except management/administration were higher than the permissible limit. The free silica content of all collected samples was substantially higher than the permissible limits, and in some cases, it was as much as 100 times above the standard level, which reflects the extremely high risk of working in these mines. Conclusion: Exposure of workers with crystalline silica dust in all units was higher than the standard recommended limits. It is imperative to adopt immediate measures based on technical, managerial, and personal protection solutions to reduce the exposure of workers to silica.


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (12) ◽  
pp. 452-464 ◽  
Author(s):  
Venance Buliga ◽  
Larama MB Rongo ◽  
Simon HD Mamuya

Background: Small scale sunflower oil industries are industries which extract oil from sunflower seed. Apart from its contribution to the economic development of the nation, during extraction process much dust concentration produced and respiratory symptoms are unknown. The aim of study was to assess dust exposure and associated respiratory health symptoms among small scale sunflower oil industries workers in Singida Tanzania. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted and 233 participants were interviewed using a modified American Thoracic Society questionnaire to assess the respiratory health symptoms. A Side Kick Casella Pump was used to collect respirable dust from a sub sample of 66 workers from the sieving section. Results: Respirable dust exposure levels for mean, and Geometrical mean was 10.45 mg/m3 (SD 13.90) and GM=5.25 mg/m3 (GSD 0.51) respectively, and 46% of the dust samples (n=66) were above the TLV of 5 mg/m3. Logistic regression analysis between measured dust and respiratory symptoms found to be statistically significant.  Higher prevalence of respiratory health symptoms were seen in those with cough (33%), cough with phlegm (46.8%) and wheezy (41.6%). Conclusion: The study concludes that, respiratory symptoms were high and dust exposure was above recommended levels of 5 mg/m3. We recommend use of appropriate RPE.


Author(s):  
Glori Abdiningsih Rachmani

Exposure to dust in the work environment is a potential factor that can cause impaired pulmonary function. Concentration of dust in the air is one factor that affects the severity caused. Higher exposure to dust in the air, increase the risk of impaired pulmonary function. The objective of the research was to analyze the exposure to respirable cement dust and pulmonary function impairment of Finish Mill operators in PT. Semen Indonesia, Tuban Regency. This study used a cross-sectional study design, with the number of sample using purposive sampling method as many as 10 people. The level of inhaled semen dust is measured using a Personal Dust Sampler (PDS). The characteristics of workers are also seen include age, length of employment, smoking habits, use of personal protective equipment and respiratory complaints felt. The results of this study were 90% of operators with respirable dust levels > 3 mg/m3. The highest respirable dust content was 26,7151 mg/m3. The lowest respirable dust content was 1.4665 mg/m3. In addition, 22.2% of operators who have inhaled dust levels > 3 mg/m3 have impaired pulmonary function. Conclusions can be drawn pulmonary function impairment more experienced by operators aged 36 - 45 years, with a working period of more than 15 years. Smoking habits and respiratory history may be seen from operator respiratory complaints.Keywords: finish mill operators, pulmonary function test, respirable cement dust. 


2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-24
Author(s):  
Mahnoor Taheer Butt ◽  
Iram Manzoor ◽  
Muhammad Ahmad ◽  
Muhammad Abbas Shah

Background: Traffic constables are exposed to various occupational health hazards worldwide. This study is planned to assess occupational health hazards in traffic constables in Punjab, Pakistan. Subjects and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in different cities of Punjab including Lahore, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Sialkot and Islamabad from March till August 2018. A sample of 384 traffic personals were selected by using non-probability convenient sampling technique. Retired traffic constables and those with work experience less than a year were excluded. A pretested questionnaire was used to conduct the interviews after taking informed consent. Data was collected and analyzed using SPSS version 22 and presented in frequency tables and charts. Results: Maximum number of constables belonged to 31-40 years of age group. Among them 98.7% were male, 25% were having education level above graduation. Results of physical health hazards showed that 53% of warden were smoker, 16.14% were known diabetics and 19.53% were found to be hypertensive. Other physical ailments included respiratory problems (23.4%), hearing impairment or loss (15.88%) and various eye ailments (13.28%). Additionally, 9.1% of participants had evidence of lead poisoning, 33.84% complaints of tightness in muscles and 13.72% of headache, whereas 35.7% had met an accident in the last year. Prevalence of stress and anxiety were 30% and 33.33%. Regarding social health issues 36.7% reported that they were unable to give family time and 42.48% felt lack of independence due to their occupation. Job satisfaction was reported by 50%. Conclusion: The traffic constables in Punjab suffer from a large number of physical, mental and social health issues. Their perception about their occupational health hazards is low and needs improvement through imparting health education.


2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 87
Author(s):  
Putu Wulan Putri Amerta ◽  
I Made Ady Wirawan

ABSTRAK Kapasitas fungsi paru merupakan kesanggupan paru-paru dalam menampung udara didalamnya. Perajin batu paras yang bekerja di lingkungan yang terpapar debu dalam jangka panjangnya akan menimbulkan penyakit akibat kerja salah satunya berupa gangguan kapasitas fungsi paru. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menganalisis hubungan antara faktor individu dan konsentrasi paparan debu dengan kapasitas fungsi paru pada perajin batu paras di Desa Ketewel, Sukawati, Gianyar. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian cross-sectional analitik. Responden penelitian ini adalah seluruh perajin batu paras yang ada di Desa Ketewel yang berjumlah 60 orang. Data dianalisis secara univariat, bivaraiat dengan uji Chi-square, dan multivariate dengan multiple logistic regression. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan sebanyak 56,67% perajin batu paras mengalami gangguan kapasitas fungsi paru. Faktor yang berhubungan secara signifikan dengan kapasitas fungsi paru adalah paparan debu (p=0, 04; OR=4,70; 95% CI 1,09-20,24). Disimpulkan bahwa paparan debu berhubungan signifikan dengan kapasitas fungsi paru perajin batu paras di Desa Ketewel. Disarankan kepada pemilik usaha batu paras bekerjasama dengan pihak kesehatan keselamatan kerja setempat dalam hal sosialisasi bahaya penyakit akibat kerja khususnya bahaya paparan debu. Kata Kunci: Paparan Debu, Perajin Batu Paras, Faktor Individu, Kapasitas Fungsi Paru   ABSTRACT The pulmonary function capacity is the ability of the lungs to hold air in it. Paras stone Artisan who work in the environment which exposed to dust in the long run will cause work-related diseases, one of them is a disruption of lung function capacity.The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between individual factors and the concentration of dust exposure with lung function capacity in sandstone artisans in Ketewel Village. This study is an analytical cross-sectional study. The respondents of this study were all paras stone artisans in Ketewel Village, which numbered 60 people. Data were analyzed by univariate, bivariate with Chi-square test, and multivariate with multiple logistic regression. The results showed that 56.67% of paras stone artisans had pulmonary function capacity. Factors significantly associated with pulmonary function capacity were exposure to dust (p = 0, 04; OR = 4.70; 95% CI 1.09-20.24). It was concluded that dust exposure was significantly associated with pulmonary function capacity of paras stone artisans in Ketewel Village. It is recommended to the business owner of the sandstone to work with the local occupational health authorities in terms of socializing the dangers of occupational diseases, especially the danger of dust exposure. Key words: Paras Stone Artisan, Dust Exposure, Individual Factor, Pulmonary Function Capacity


2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (E) ◽  
pp. 265-272
Author(s):  
Suyud Warno Utomo ◽  
Zulfahtun Ni’mah ◽  
Al Asyary

BACKGROUND: Limestone dust is produced by limestone mining activities, one of them is PM2.5. Exposure of PM2.5 can cause lung function impairment. AIM: The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation exposure of PM2.5 with lung function impairment in workers. METHODS: This study used a cross-sectional study with total sampling technique of 30 workers. The instruments in this study used questionnaires for interviews, Dusttrak II TSI to measure PM2.5 concentration and spirometry to measure lung function. RESULTS: Based on the results of the study, the highest PM2.5 concentration values were 987 μg/m3 and the lowest were 14 μg/m3. The results of the analysis using Chi-square obtained a correlation between the use of personal protective equipment with lung function impairment (p = 0.000). Furthermore, the results using the Fisher’s exact test, there was a correlation between PM2.5 concentration and pulmonary function impairment (p = 0.002) and years of work with pulmonary function impairment (p = 0.000). CONCLUSION: Further research is needed using environmental health risk analysis to estimates based on intake.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thet Wai Oo ◽  
Mya Thandar ◽  
Ye Minn Htun ◽  
Pa Pa Soe ◽  
Thant Zaw Lwin ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Airborne dusts are being potentially harmful for workers in occupational environment. Exposure to respirable dust is the most important concern in textile workers for the widespread of occupational lung diseases, especially more serious in developing countries. The aim of the study was to assess the respirable dust exposure and associated factors of lung functions among textile workers. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out at a textile mill (Thamine), Yangon Region, from April to December, 2018 and a total of 207 textile workers were randomly selected by using a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected by using a structured questionnaire for respiratory symptoms, an air sampling pump for assessment of respirable dust exposure, and a spirometer for testing the lung functions. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the associated factors of lung functions. Odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were computed for strength of associations at the significance level of α ≤ 0.05. Results The mean (± standard deviation, SD) respirable dust exposure was 3.3 mg/m3 (± 0.69) and the prevalence of increased respirable dust exposure (> 3 mg/m3) was 50.7%. The level of respirable dust exposure was highest in the textile workers involving at twisting department. The means (± SD) spirometry values were FVC 82.8% (± 17.8), FEV1 83.6% (± 18.5), and FEV1/FVC 0.9 (± 0.1). Overall magnitude of reduced lung functions was 40.1%, and the prevalence of reduced FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC were 36.7, 34.3 and 3.9% respectively. The current working at twisting department, > 5 years of service duration, respiratory symptoms and increased respirable dust exposure were associated with reduction in FVC and FEV1. Conclusions The current working department, service duration, respiratory symptoms and exposure to respirable dust were predictors of lung functions in textile workers. An adequate ventilation, good work practices, hygienic workplace, safety and health training regarding potential health effects, and periodically assessment of lung functions are the critical elements for control of respirable dust exposure and reduction of occupational lung diseases.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thet Wai Oo ◽  
Mya Thandar ◽  
Ye Minn Htun ◽  
Pa Pa Soe ◽  
Thant Zaw Lwin ◽  
...  

Abstract Background: Airborne dusts are being potentially harmful for workers in occupational environment. Exposure to respirable dust is the most important concern in textile workers for the widespread of occupational lung diseases, especially more serious in developing countries. The aim of the study was to assess the respirable dust exposure and associated factors of lung functions among textile workers.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at a Textile mill (Thamine), Yangon Region, from April to December, 2018 and a total of 207 textile workers were randomly selected by using a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected by using a structured questionnaire for respiratory symptoms, an air sampling pump for assessment of respirable dust exposure, and a spirometer for testing the lung functions. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the associated factors of lung functions. Odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were computed for strength of associations at the significance level of α ≤ 0.05.Results: The mean (± standard deviation, SD) respirable dust exposure was 3.3 mg/m3 (± 0.69) and the prevalence of increased respirable dust exposure (> 3 mg/m3) was 50.7%. The level of respirable dust exposure was highest in the textile workers involving at twisting department. The means (± SD) spirometry values were FVC 82.8% (± 17.8), FEV1 83.6% (± 18.5), and FEV1/FVC 0.9 (± 0.1). Overall magnitude of reduced lung functions was 40.1%, and the prevalence of reduced FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC were 36.7%, 34.3% and 3.9% respectively. The current working at twisting department, > 5 years of service duration, respiratory symptoms and increased respirable dust exposure were associated with reduction in FVC and FEV1. Conclusions: The current working department, service duration, respiratory symptoms and exposure to respirable dust were predictors of lung functions in textile workers. An adequate ventilation, good work practices, hygienic workplace, safety and health training regarding potential health effects, and periodically assessment of lung functions are the critical elements for control of respirable dust exposure and reduction of occupational lung diseases.


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephen Banda

BACKGROUND Occupational conditions are deadly health hazards especially where dust exposure is inevitable causing chronic disabilities, impaired respiratory function and ultimately leading to death if no intensive measures are put in place. Unhealthy practices and negative attitudes rise in the number of cases of pneumoconiosis due to poor health education and awareness strategies. Pneumoconiosis is not only a health problem but also a social and economic burden on the livelihood of people living in mining areas around the globe. OBJECTIVE to assess knowledge, attitude and practices of miners and post-occupational miners towards pneumoconiosis in Wusakile Township, Kitwe, Zambia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was employed to conduct a research in Wusakile Township and a questionnaire was customized in order to syphon data relevant to the study as well to be brief. The study was conducted among 73 participants who were randomly selected among miners and post-occupational miners and all satisfied the inclusion criteria. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to collect data. The data was entered and analysed using IBM SPSS software version 23. RESULTS Among 73 participants interviewed, 33.99% of participants had poor knowledge on the complications of pneumoconiosis. However, despite this poor knowledge, all participants had an idea about pneumoconiosis particularly silicosis. 13.70% of the respondents had bad practices towards pneumoconiosis while 86.30% had some good practices towards pneumoconiosis. Of the total participants, 19.18% of the participants had a negative attitude towards pneumoconiosis. Correlation between the level of education and practices of participants using Pearson Chi-Square, a p value of 0.021 (significant) was found ruling out the null hypothesis. CONCLUSIONS Information about pneumoconiosis and awareness programs towards pneumoconiosis are not widely disseminated among miners and post-occupational miners. There is still a significant number of participants who need to be educated more about pneumoconiosis and its complications so that attitude and practices are improved and also promote full community participation by involving competent health professionals to help in implementing preventive measures.


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