Clinical Respiratory Symptoms and Spirometric Parameters among Tile Manufacturing Factory Workers, Yazd, Iran

Background & Aims of the Study: Respiratory diseases are considered as the most importantoccupational diseases and the absence in the workplaces. Workers in the tile and ceramicindustries are exposed to high concentrations of dusts. The main aim of the present study was toevaluate the pulmonary reactions and pulmonary function tests associated with exposure to dustamong workers of a tile industry, Yazd, Iran.Materials & Methods: This research was designed as a cross-sectional research. All workers(n=26) working in the press and spray halls were considered as exposed (case) group. Also 17unexposed workers (control group) were selected for interview as well as respiratory symptomquestionnaires were administered to them. Demographic data and lung function tests ofparticipants were gathered and analyzed.Results: Demographic and socioeconomic variables of both groups were similar (p > 0.05). Totaldust and respirable dust were measured in the exposed group equals to 29.94±10.24 and17.69±7.57. Total dust and respirable dust in the control group were measured equals to3.94±2.62 and 1.73±4.7 respectively. The results were different significantly (p < 0.05). Theprevalence of respiratory symptoms was 11.5-38.5%. These symptoms in case group comparedto control group, had higher prevalence of cough, phlegm. The results were significantlyincreased in exposed workers than unexposed workers (p < 0.05). Decrease in pulmonary functiontest was significantly higher in exposed workers than unexposed workers (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Our finding revealed that a clear link exists between high levels of airborne dustand the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among workers. Based on this fact and in order toreduce pulmonary complications, preventive measures plan in the factory, such as technicalmeasures (suitable ventilation system) and training programs about the proper using of personalprotective equipment should be considered.