ISSN : 2663-2187

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DUST EXPOSURE AND LUNG HEALTH DISORDERS AMONG PRODUCTION WORKERS IN THE HIGH-PRESSURE ACID LEACH (HPAL) PROCESS AT PT. X

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Andi Muhammad Machrum,M. Furqan Naiem, Lalu Muhammad Saleh,Syamsiar S. Russeng,Atjo Wahyu, Apik Indarty M
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.16.2024.2633-2648

Abstract

Background. Industrial dust exposure is a major risk factor that can affect workers' lung health. In industrial environments such as High-Pressure Acid Leach (HPAL) processes, production generates various types of particulate dust that may cause respiratory disturbances. Chronic exposure to these particles can lead to a range of pulmonary diseases such as pneumoconiosis, chronic bronchitis, and even lung cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), occupational lung diseases are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among industrial workers (WHO, 2021). Objective. This study aims to examine the relationship between industrial dust exposure and respiratory health disorders among workers in the HPAL production area, as well as to identify risk factors that contribute to increased dust exposure in the workplace. Furthermore, the study will formulate strategic recommendations, including technical interventions, administrative approaches, and worker education efforts to reduce health risks associated with dust exposure. Methodology. Quantitative research enables the measurement of numerical relationships between variables, such as age, gender, job position, work duration, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) on the risk of diseases caused by dust exposure. Univariable analysis describes the characteristics of the variables, while bivariate analysis, such as Pearson correlation tests and logistic regression, evaluates the influence of independent variables on the dependent variable. Results. The characteristics of the respondents show that the dominant age group is 51–60 years (61.8%), while the youngest group, 22–30 years, accounts for only 16.4%. The majority of respondents have a Master's degree (25.5%), while the least common educational level is high school graduation (0.9%). In terms of gender, males make up a larger proportion (50.9%) compared to females (49.1%). The department with the highest number of respondents is the Acid Plant (18.2%), while the Workshop Soligi has the least (0.9%). The most common job position is Foreman (30%), while Supervisor is the least represented (1.8%). The majority of respondents have 3 years of service (39.1%), with the lowest being 6 months (0.9%). Pulmonary capacity indicates the highest proportion in the obstructive category (48.2%), while the normal category accounts for only 5.5%. Areas with dust exposure exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAB) include the Lime Warehouse, Filter Press, and Autoclave Plant, with concentrations reaching up to 5.11 µg/m³, while areas such as the Office Area show safe exposure levels. The average working duration is 8–11 hours, with certain areas indicating higher exposure risks. Pearson correlation analysis (-0.211, p = 0.027) shows a significant negative relationship between dust exposure and pulmonary capacity. Linear regression results, with an intercept value (Bo) of 4.191 and a slope coefficient (B1) of -0.626, confirm that each unit increase in dust exposure decreases pulmonary capacity by 0.626 units (p = 0.000). Dust exposure significantly contributes to a decline in lung function, necessitating immediate mitigation measures. Conclusion. Exposure to industrial dust among HPAL workers is significantly associated with a decrease in lung capacity, although the correlation is weak. These findings emphasize that dust is a major risk factor that requires immediate intervention. The habit of smoking did not show a significant relationship with lung capacity.

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