ABSTRACT
This is a follow-up study of environmental and health problems in the construction of the High Dam of Egypt, presenting simple methodology in planning and implementation which was intended to help in the development of health services in a well known heavy construction project. Its publication would demonstrate ways and means that may guide similar projects in developing countries. The High Dam project lasted from 1962 to 1967. Environmental and health evaluations were undertaken in 1962, 1965 and 1966. These comprised measurement of heat, noise, dust and exhaust gases, as well as medical examination of a sample of 230 workers in different operations. The findings revealed that workers were exposed to extremely unfavourable air and globe temperature [up to 40 - 50°C and 40 -62°C respectively]; noise up to 98 - 103 dBA, carbon monoxide, aldehyde [s] and nitrogen oxides up to 50 - 500 ppm, 1.6 -6.3 ppm and 0.7 - 15.0 ppm; and air-borne dust ranging from 3 to 370 times the recognized exposure limit at the time. Occupationally related diseases such as pneumoconiosis, chronic bronchitis and emphysema prevailed in 4.5 - 5.8%, 33 - 35% and 5 - 10% respectively of workers exposed in various operations. Endemic diseases, mainly schistosomiasis, gastrointestinal disease and eye infections prevailed at high rates among examined workers. The study was concluded by presentation of a plan of work for occupational and non-occupational health care of workers in similar projects in developing countries