Occupational Tasks Influencing Lung Function and Respiratory Symptoms Among Charcoal-Production Workers: A Time-Series Study

BACKGROUND: Tasks involved in traditional charcoal production expose workers to various levels of charcoal dust and wood smoke. This study aimed to identify specific tasks influencing lung function and respiratory symptoms. METHODS: Interviews, direct observation, and task/symptom checklists were used to collect data from 50 charcoal-production workers on 3 nonwork days followed by 11 workdays. The peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was measured four times per day. RESULTS: The PEFR was reduced and the prevalence of respiratory symptoms increased over the first 6–7 workdays. The PEFR increased until evening on nonwork days but not on workdays. Loading the kiln and collecting charcoal from within the kiln markedly reduced the PEFR and increased the odds of respiratory symptoms. CONCLUSION: Tasks involving entry into the kiln were strongly associated with a short-term drop in the PEFR and the occurrence of respiratory symptoms, suggesting a need for the use of protective equipment and/or the operation of an effective kiln ventilation system.

Comparison of symptoms and pulmonary function in charcoal production workers and rubber planters

Background: Charcoalproduction workers work in conditions involving a high level of wood smoke. Wood smoke exposure in humans causes respiratory symptoms.Objective: To study the pulmonary function and respiratory symptoms of charcoal plant workers, andcompare their pulmonary function with rubber planters.Materials and methods: A comparative study was conducted to compare the pulmonary function andrespiratory symtoms between charcoal workers and rubber planters.Results: This study examined a total of 50 charcoal workers and 50 rubber planters. The charcoal workers were found to have signifi cantly more coughs (84%), sputum production (82%), dyspnea (42%), wheezing (32%), nasal irritation (80%), and nasal congestion (26%) than the control group. The mean + SD values of ratio between the forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC%) and Peak expiratory fl ow (PEF%) as determined by spirometer test in the charcoal workers were significantly lower than in the control group. The mean + SD value of Peak expiratory fl ow (PEF) by peak fl owmeter test in the charcoal workers.Conclusion: The present study showed an association between wood smoke exposure in charcoal workers with respiratory symptoms and decreased pulmonary function, because the charcoal production process requires lengthy periods of curing during which a large amount of wood smoke is generated, which is breathed by the workers.