Effect of occupational exposure to dust on pulmonary function in workers associated with building demolition

Much occupational lung disease is associated with workers exposed to aerosols in the form of dust, fumes, gases etc. Workers engaged in demolition of buildings are at risk of developing impaired lung function due to exposure to high level of dust generated. The objective of the study was to assess the effects of respirable dust on the pulmonary function in workers engaged in building demolition work in India. The pulmonary function was studied using computerized spirometer in 55 male workers associated with building demolition work in the age group of 20 to 50 years and compared with 40 age matched healthy male controls. All participants were non-smokers, matched for age, height, weight and socioeconomic status. The results were compared by unpaired` t'-test. Significant reduction in the overall mean values of FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC%, PEFR and FEF25-75% were observed in demolition workers compared to the matched controls. Based on the results of the present study, we conclude that the demolition workers are at an increased risk of developing occupationally related pulmonary function impairment. The results suggest that there is an urgent need to improve dust control measures and the health status of workers engaged in demolition operations.