Abstract

This article presents the results of a cross-sectional study in a randomly selected factory performing welding operation in Iran to determine the respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function and x-ray changes in the employees. Through this study, the data obtained from 160 mild steel (MS) welders and 86 healthy volunteers were statically analyzed. Two groups of workers were matched according to their age, height, smoking habit and years of service. Their health survey was evaluated by questionnaire, spirometry, chest x-ray and clinical evaluation. In addition, welding fumes were determined by Atomic absorption and X-ray fluorescence method. Concentrations of personal breathing zone and Arc welding fumes were 7.13 mg/m3and 17.49 mg/m3, respectively, that showed high concentration compared to the Threshold Limit Value-Time Weighted Average (TLV-TWA). After adjustment for tobacco habits, the welders presented a higher prevalence of bronchial irrelative symptoms such as cough, phlegm, dyspnea, and wheezing than the controls (p=0.05). These results indicate that smoking potentates the effect of welding fumes on chronic bronchitis. The ventilatory functions (VC, FVC, FEV 1, and MMEF) were significantly lower in the welders compared with controls (P=0.05). Lung functions in non-smoking welders were impaired and a significant tobacco effect was not found. Also Chest X-ray abnormalities were higher in welders (13.8) than the control group (2.5). The results of multiple regression indicated that age and height were not a confounding factor. Occupational health program to reduce the total fumes exposure, and periodical medical examination are measures to prevent lung disease. © 2009, INSInet Publication.