OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO AIRBORNE PARTICULATES AND PULMONARY IMPACT AMONG INDUSTRIAL WORKERS

Abstract

This paper will analyze the occupational health risk of airborne particle exposure of workers in industries and its lung outcome.  A team of employees working in various sectors, like construction, manufacturing, and mining, was put through a test to determine the extent to which they were inhaling particulate matter (PM) and its impact on their respiratory wellbeing.  The findings indicated that a high correlation existed between the increased intake of suspended substances into the lungs and the deterioration of the lung functions, particularly the long-term exposure.  Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) indicated that restrictive and obstructive lung disorders were prevalent, particularly among employees at the mining and construction sectors.  These researchers also discovered that the duration of exposure that an individual is exposed to, the nature of the particles and the presence or absence of personal protective equipment (PPE) were also significant risk factors that may or may not facilitate lung damage.  What the findings reveal is that, there is a need to improve the quality of air quality standards in the work place and improved means of safeguarding respiratory health of the workers.  It is also proposed to reduce long-term health impact of exposure to airborne particles with regular health checkups and increased level of exposure limits.