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Health impairments among refuse derived fuel workers
S Mahar1, S J Reynolds, N L Sprince
1School of Health Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, USA.
Arhiv Za Higijenu Rada I Toksikologiju
|March 21, 1998
Summary
Workers at Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) plants reported symptoms like rashes and colds. Long-term lung function (FEV1, FVC) remained stable, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Medicine
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding potential long-term health effects in workers at Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) processing plants.
- Specific health issues raised include bronchitis, skin rashes, and diarrhea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess symptom occurrence and identify spirometry and laboratory abnormalities in RDF plant workers.
- To evaluate potential long-term health effects associated with occupational exposure in RDF facilities.
Main Methods:
- Medical records were abstracted to gather data on worker health symptoms.
- Pulmonary function tests (spirometry) and laboratory results were reviewed.
- Analysis focused on workers with over five years of exposure.
Main Results:
- No overall decrease in Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1) or Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) was observed over time.
- The most frequently self-reported symptoms included low back pain, headaches, skin rashes, colds, and flu-like illnesses.
- Other reported issues encompassed hay fever and ear problems.
Conclusions:
- While long-term lung function appears stable, the study's conclusions are limited by the absence of standardized protocols and a control group.
- Findings suggest potential occupational health issues among RDF workers warranting further investigation.
- The study highlights the need for future epidemiological and environmental studies in this sector.