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Decrements in spirometry values associated with chlorine gassing events and pulp mill work
P K Henneberger1, M B Lax, B G Ferris
1Department of Preventive Medicine, State University of New York Health Science Center, Syracuse, USA.
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Accidental high-level chlorine gas exposures in pulp mills significantly worsen lung obstruction, especially when combined with smoking. Further controls are needed to protect current workers from these hazardous gassing events.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Previous studies linked pulp mill exposures and smoking to lung function decrements in older workers.
- Current pulp mill workers may face similar or different risks from accidental high-level gas exposures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and impact of accidental high-level chlorine gas exposures among current pulp and paper workers.
- To assess the combined effects of gassing events and cigarette smoking on lung function.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 300 male pulp and paper workers in New Hampshire (mean age 40.4 years, mean tenure 18.5 years).
- Spirometry testing and questionnaires administered to assess lung function and exposure history.
- Analysis of lung obstruction (low FEV1 and FEV1/FVC) in relation to gassing history and smoking pack-years.
Main Results:
- 35% of workers reported a history of high chlorine gas exposure ('gassing').
- Gassing was more prevalent in pulp mill workers (51%) than other employees (13%).
- Lung obstruction was observed only in non-smokers with a history of gassing; heavy smoking (>26 pack-years) combined with gassing showed a synergistic negative effect on lung function.
Conclusions:
- Accidental high-level chlorine gas exposures are a significant issue for current pulp mill workers.
- The combination of gassing events and cigarette smoking poses a substantial risk for developing lung obstruction.
- Enhanced safety controls are necessary in chemical pulp mills to reduce the frequency of hazardous gassing incidents.