Respiratory distress and lung function among stone crushing unit workers

Stone-crushing although an important industrial sector in India has continuously been associated with health and safety related issues. The exposures from the dust emanated by various mechanical process such as drilling, dressing and loading, can trigger health issues ranging from minor symptoms to severe diseases and even cancers if worsened. In this view, the present study aimed at assessment of respiratory distress and lung function profile of the workers (n=46; aged 44.47±1.18y). The interview method was used to collect the information from the workers regarding their demographic, lifestyle and health related concerns. The lung function was assessed using spirometer using standard methodology. The results of the study revealed that the majority of workers had complaints of cough, breathlessness, dust particles in sputum and wheezing. Blocked and stuffed nose, loss -of- appetite and tiredness and joint pains were the other health complaints reported by the workers. The lung function stratified according to activities revealed a significant decline in lung function in those employed in drilling followed by the dressers and loaders. The workers were also categorized as having moderate (n=24), severe (n=14) and very severe COPD according to the lung function parameters as per the GOLD guidelines. Body Mass Index, years of smoking, Brinkmann index, duration of work and work schedule emerged as significant predictors of decline in lung function the present study is a risk assessment in regard to safeguarding the health of workers employed in such units. The results of this study can help in implementation of surveillance and establishing precautionary approaches for making such workplaces to be better and safer in terms of health of those employed.