Abstract
Background: In the paint industry, combinations of solvents are used and exposure to these chemicals poses a serious threat to the health of the workers, including the respiratory system. According to the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS, 2017), nearly fifty million people battle occupational lung diseases. In Mauritius, cases of occupational respiratory diseases are on the rise and there is lack of studies on the exposure metrics and their respiratory effects. Entry through inhalation of uptake exposure concentration is a common occupational scenario, hence this study sought to investigate exposure-related respiratory effects.
Aim: The main aim of the study was to determine the respiratory effects of exposure to solvents among workers of the paint industry in Mauritius.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in three paint factories across Mauritius. A total of 388 participants who were randomly selected responded to a pre-designed questionnaire and also underwent a lung function test using a spirometer. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v26.0. People working in the paint industry with weekly solvent exposure of >12 hours and ≤12 hours respectively were classified as two groups. Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio and 95%CI to establish the relationship between the variables while adjusting for socio-demographic factors. Independent t-test was also used to identify any difference between the means of lung function tests and the two exposure groups.
Results: Male workers were more likely to be less exposed as compared to females (AOR: 3.39, 95% CI 1.97-5.81). Workers with lower levels of education had a higher likelihood of being exposed ≤12 hours per week (AOR: 2.95, 95% CI: 1.20-7.28) for those below secondary and (AOR: 2.48, CI: 1.19-5.16) for those with lower secondary compared to degree holders. Participants who were aware of occupational hazards and used personal protective equipment (PPE (AOR 0.15, CI (0.05-0.46)) and (AOR 0.14, CI (0.08-0.25)) respectively were less likely to be exposed compared to their counterpart. The FEV1/FVC ratio were significantly different for participants with duration of exposure ≤12 h and >12 h for all three readings taken.
Conclusion: This investigation highlights the adverse effects of workplace exposure on respiratory health among paint factory workers. Appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the risk of occupational lung disease. Such measures may include regular medical inspection and ensuring well-ventilated work environment to mitigate the ill-effects of solvent exposure.
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Keywords: solvents, paint industry, occupational lung disease, PPE, occupational hazard, spirometer, lung function test, Mauritius, socio-demographic factors.