Exposure Analysis of Pulmonary Function Disorders in Workers At PT. X

Abstract

Introduction: A preliminary survey at PT X, the largest cement producer in Eastern Indonesia, revealed that pulmonary function impairment is among the top 10 worker diseases due to exposure to high dust levels of PM2.5 and PM10 that exceed the threshold, especially in production areas, with an increased risk in workers who do not use personal protective equipment or smoke.
Methods: This cross-sectional observational quantitative study measured respirable and cigarette dust exposure and PPE use in PT X workers, with Pulmonary Capacity checked using a digital spirometer, and data analyzed through SPSS using univariate, bivariate, and path analysis to assess the relationship between variables.
Results: The analysis showed that dust exposure significantly decreased Pulmonary Capacity (estimate -0.029, p=0.00), while physical activity and PPE use increased Pulmonary Capacity with significant positive effects (p=0.021 and p=0.00). In addition, Pulmonary Capacity and physical activity had a significant positive effect on lung function impairment, while age, nutritional status, and smoking exposure had no significant effect either directly or indirectly through Pulmonary Capacity (p>0.05). 
Conclusions: The implication is that increased physical activity and use of PPE are important to maintain Pulmonary Capacity and prevent impaired lung function in workers exposed to dust in the work environment.