Respiratory Health Disorders Among Workers in Joinery Workshops

Abstract

2020, on 100 woodworkers ernorate. Similar numbers of subjects were chosen randomly from workers' relatives who were never exposed to similar hazards. All participants were interviewed using a predesigned questionnaire. Physical examination and spirometric measurements were performed for them. Environmental study of the workplace was done. Results: The mean concentration of respirable wood dust was 3.61±2.00 mg/m 3 , which is higher cantly higher prevalence of respiratory manifestations e.g. rhinitis, cough, expectoration, wheezes, shortness of breathing, chest pain and asthma (59%, 64%, 51%, 34%, 70%, 4% and 24%; respectively) as well as decreased spirometric measurements compared to the controls. The higher prevalence of respiratory manifestations as well as decreased spirometric measurements were positively correlated with time intensity factor. Conclusion and recommendations: Exposure to wood dust in a concentration more than permissible level has been adversely affecting the respiratory system and causing decrease in spirometric measurements. Regular use of good quality personal