IJSR - International Journal of Scientific Research

Hailemariam H. Mamo

Volume : VI, Issue : I, January - 2017

Assessment on Acute Effect of Stone Dust on Pulmonary Function Indices among Stone Workers in Ethiopia

Hailemariam H. Mamo

Abstract :

Manual stone nworkers are exposed to dust inhalation during cobblestone work activities. Dust exposure induces acute respiratory problems due to proliferation and fiotic alteration.The study was planed to assess acute effect of dust on lung function indices. Comparative cross–sectional study was applied among manual stone workers. Acute exposure standard was established on eight hours exposure time frame during work of normal intensity and lung function indices were measured using pocket sized digital Spiro meter before and after exposure at early morning and after exposure for about 8–10 hours. The study showed change in Spiro metric lung function indices. Acute exposure changes pulmonary functions indices very significantly (p<0.010). The mean values and percent predicted mean values of lung functions (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEFR, PIFR and FEF25–75) were reduced (p< 0.05). Reduction in spirometric values was more marked in chiseling (shaping stone) workers. Thus, dust emission during cobblestone preparation and acute exposure to dust for some hours leads significant changes in pulmonary functions. Further researches need to be done on stone workers how exactly this dusts affect the lungs.