Metal Dust Exposure and Respiratory Health of Male Steel Work¬ers in Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract

Background: This cross sectional study was carried out to determine the relationship between metal dust exposure and respiratory health in male steel workers in Terengganu, Malaysia.

Methods: Subjects were interviewed using a structured questionnaire from British Medical Research Council (BMRC) Questionnaire regarding respiratory symptoms and were examined their lung function using spirometer.

Results: The mean trace metal dusts concentration TWA₈ for cobalt and chromium in most of work unit exceeded occupational exposure prescribed values. Prevalence of chest tightness, chronic phlegm, and shortness of breath was 28.0%, 26.8%, 24.1%, and 20.2% respectively. Age and smoking were among the factors associated with respiratory symptoms (OR: 0.92 – 1.78). Smoking and cumulative respirable metal dust were negatively associated with FEV₁.

Conclusion: The mean metal dust for cobalt and chromium were 1 to 2 times higher than permissible exposure limit (PEL). This study found that respirable cumulative metal dust exposure is one of the contributing factors to lung function values among steel workers.

Keywords: Respiratory symptoms, Lung function, Metal dust, Questionnaire