Pulmonary function tests in Petrol pump workers in Karad town

Abstract

Objectives: Polluted environment at petrol pumps is likely to have adverse effects on health of workers. Petrol filling workers as well as office workers at petrol pumps are likely to have adverse effects on lung function. We wanted to study the actual fact. Methods: Pulmonary function tests were studied in petrol pump workers in Karad city and around. Petrol filling workers (direct exposure group, 48) and petrol pump office workers (indirect exposure group, 12) were included in study. Control group (50) of age matched healthy paramedical workers from KIMS, University was included. Approval from Institutional Ethical Committee was obtained. Informed written consent was taken from each participant. Spirometric lung function test were carried out in department of Physiology. Pulmonary function parameters included were FVC (Forced Vital Capacity), FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in First second of FVC), FEV1% (FEV1 as % of FVC), PEFR (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in liters/sec), FEF25-75% (Forced Expiratory Flow Rate during 25 to 75 % of expiration), FEF 0.2-1.2 (Forced Expiratory Flow between 0.2 -1.2 liters of expiration) and MVV (Maximum Voluntary Ventilation). After computing mean and SD of each parameter group comparison was done by using paired t test and ANOVA. Results: Impairment of lung function (Predominantly restrictive type) was found in both the study groups compared to controls. Conclusions: Exposure to polluted air and fumes of petrol/diesel causes lung function derangement in petrol pump workers.