Pulmonary Function test of Mine workers exposed to Respirable Dust in Jharia Coalfield India

Respiratory chronic airway disorders and early damage of pulmonary system predict by Spirometry. Occupational exposures to coal dust affect the different systems of the body. The present study has focused on the coal workers who are continuously exposed to air pollutants such as coal dust. Study group of 170 male workers working in coal mines for more than ten years, consists of 66 non-alcoholic and non-smokers, 52 tobacco chewers, 29 smokers and 23 alcoholic. The pulmonary function test was assessed using computerized spirometer. Spirometry test revealed 27.64% of workers having Mild, 29.41% moderate, and 5.88% severe obstruction pattern on PFT. For both the age groups of workers (25-40 and 41-55) having smoking and alcoholic habits, FEV1/FVC values were found more significantly declining (65-71% and 46-53%).Cumulative exposures to respirable dust are the most important risk factors for exposed coal workers. The results suggest that there in a need to improve control measures and the health status of workers engaged in coal mine dust.