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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109

Volume 8, Issue 2, August 2013 pp 149-152

Research Article

Evaluation of Respiratory Functions in Petrol Pump Workers at Nanded

 

Sushil Dube1, Mungal S. U. 2, Mukund Kulkarni3

1, 2, 3Assistant Professor, Dept. of Physiology, Dr. Shankarrao Chavan Government Medical College, Nanded, Maharashtra, INDIA.

Academic Editor : Dr. Aher K.R.

Abstract


Introduction: In India petrol pump workers are continuously exposed to petrol and diesel fumes as well as hazardous vehicle exhausts and other environmental pollutants at their working places. They do not use any protective equipments and their personal hygiene is also variable. Aims and Objective: The aim of present study is to assess the extent of derangement in pulmonary functions of petrol-pump workers in India and also the relation between duration of exposure and degree of derangement in pulmonary functions. Material and Methods: Study group consisted of eighty non smoker petrol pump workers who were further divided into three groups according to their duration of exposure. Control group consisted of eighty healthy nonsmoker age matched males. The pulmonary function tests of cases and controls were performed at their workplace by using a Med-Spiror. Result: The results showed that the pulmonary functions (FVC, FEV1, MVV and PEFR) were decreased in petrol pump workers as compared to controls.  The pulmonary functions were found to be progressively deranged with duration of exposure of petrol and diesel fumes and vehicle exhaust which is statistically significant. Conclusion: Our findings are suggestive of occupational hazards in petrol pump workers. So we suggest periodic monitoring of pulmonary functions in petrol pump workers for early detection and subsequent treatment of pulmonary diseases. Use of protective mask at work place can also decrease morbidity in them. Also control strategies can be adapted to reduce benzene concentration in air emission including air evaporation. Improvement in engine design, soot filters and fuel modification such as use of biodiesel can be helpful.