Epidemiological-environmental study of diesel bus garage workers: chronic effects of diesel exhaust on the respiratory system
Two hundred and eighty-three (283) male diesel bus garage workers from four garages in two cities were examined to determine if there was excess chronic respiratory morbidity related to diesel exposure. The dependent variables were respiratory symptoms, radiographic interpretation for pneumoconiosis, and pulmonary function (FVC, FEV1, and flow rates). Independent variables included race, age, smoking, drinking, height, and tenure (as surrogate measure of exposure). Exposure-effect relationships within the study population showed no detectable associations of symptoms with tenure. There was an apparent association of pulmonary function and tenure. Seven workers (2.5%) had category 1 pneumoconiosis (three rounded opacities, two irregular opacities, and one with both rounded and irregular). The study population was also compared to a nonexposed blue-collar population. After indirect adjustment for age, race, and smoking, the study population had elevated prevalences of cough, phlegm, and wheezing, but there was no association with tenure. Dyspnea showed a dose-response trend but no apparent increase in prevalence. Mean percent predicted pulmonary function of the study population was greater than 100%, i.e., elevated above the comparison population. These data show there is an apparent effect of diesel exhaust on pulmonary function but not chest radiographs. Respiratory symptoms are high compared to blue-collar workers, but there is no relationship with tenure.
- Research Organization:
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV
- OSTI ID:
- 5844877
- Journal Information:
- Environ. Res.; (United States), Vol. 44:1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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DIESEL ENGINES
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DYNAMIC FUNCTION STUDIES
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM DISEASES
EPIDEMIOLOGY
CHRONIC EXPOSURE
OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE
PERSONNEL
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ENGINES
FLUIDS
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560300* - Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology