Prevalence of hidden carbon monoxide poisoning in auto service workers; a prospective cohort study

Abstract

BackgroundCarbon monoxide (CO) is formed as a result of the incomplete burning of hydrocarbon-containing fuels such as natural gas, coal, liquid petroleum gas, and wood. CO is a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas that produces various acute and chronic effects in CO-exposed people. In this study, we aimed to measure CO levels in auto care repairmen with chronic CO-related illnesses using a serial, non-invasive method.A prospective cohort study.MethodsA total of 99 people from six different auto-repair services were included in the study. Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels were measured at four different times with 2-hour intervals starting at 08:00 AM. Data concerning employees’ ages, working hours, smoking statuses, and types of home heating fuel were collected. A control group of 100 cases was created based on this data. The measurements were done on the control group in the morning with a Masimo Rad-57 CO-oximeter.ResultsThe highest mean (± SD) COHb value was 7.04% ± 3.32% after the third measurement. The mean value for the control group was 1.61% ± 1.43%. A statistically significant difference between the groups was found for each value.DiscussionWe determined that the risk of being affected by CO is high in buildings in which the auto services were located. The effects of chronic or prolonged exposure to low amounts of CO were found to be ambiguous. However, in some studies, it was found that low-grade CO exposure could lead to coronary artery disease and some neurological complications. Therefore, it is necessary to be careful about the health of employees who have been exposed to CO.ConclusionsWe concluded that there is a need for more detailed studies concerning chronic CO poisoning. Also, in workplaces in which there is high exposure to CO, proper workplace safety measures should be taken to reduce this gas’s harmful effects to employees.

Serum Netrin-1 and Asymmetric Dimethylarginine as Biomarkers of Acute and Chronic Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

“…World Health Organization stated that, in chronic CO exposure, an acceptable blood level of COHb should not below the level of 2.5% depending on the CO levels in the environment and duration of exposure (Bol et al, 2018).…”

“…Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, nonirritant gas, it is lighter than air, and produced by partial combustion of carbon containing compounds. It is often called the "silent killer" as victims of CO poisoning lose associated with increased morbidity and mortality than previously reported (Bol et al, 2018).…”

Pulmonary Misfortune Ensuing to Petroleum Related Employments

“…Previously studies have been performed in petrol pump workers and petrol filling workers [6] [7] [8] [21]. In these studies, lung function impairment was seen.…”

Risk Factors of Workers’ COHb Levels in Automotive Workshops

“…Aerobic metabolism in mitochondria to produce energy depends on oxygen demand. In a state of oxygen deprivation, carbon dioxide and H+ are released and the body will activate anaerobic processes and produce lactic acid which can cause fatigue (Bol, Koyuncu, & Günay, 2018;Drilna, 2016). Fatigue from work occurs due to lack of oxygen and a build-up of muscle metabolites that enter the bloodstream.…”