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Dustiness, silicosis & tuberculosis in small scale pottery workers
H N Saiyed1, N B Ghodasara, N G Sathwara
1National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad.
The Indian Journal of Medical Research
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Pottery workers face high risks of silicosis and tuberculosis due to excessive airborne dust exceeding threshold limit values. Implementing dust control and medical surveillance is crucial for worker health.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Science
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Pottery industry workers are exposed to airborne dust.
- Silicosis and tuberculosis are significant health concerns in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess airborne dust concentrations in potteries.
- To determine the prevalence of silicosis and tuberculosis among workers.
- To investigate the correlation between dust exposure and disease prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Environmental monitoring of airborne dust concentrations.
- Chest radiography for diagnosing silicosis and tuberculosis.
- Analysis of dust composition for free silica content.
Main Results:
- 44% of 292 pottery workers had silicosis; an equal number had tuberculosis.
- Airborne dust levels in most pottery departments exceeded threshold limit values (TLVs).
- Silicosis and tuberculosis prevalence correlated with dust levels and silicosis severity.
Conclusions:
- High airborne dust in potteries contributes to silicosis and tuberculosis.
- Dust control measures are essential.
- Pre-employment and periodic medical exams are recommended for early detection and prevention.