The ventilatory function of 634 workers in small scale metal working industries was evaluated. Almost five percent (4.7%) of the workers were found to have FEV1.0/FVC ratio of less than 75%. Compared with the lung function of industrial workers reported by Zee, 10.9% were found to have low ventilatory function.
Comparison of the ventilatory function obtained from the metal workers with those of occupational groups previously reported shows that the metal workers have lower FVC and FEV1.0 values.
Mid and end expiratory flow rates were also measured. These measures have been shown to be very sensitive in detecting obstructions in small airways. It is recommended that future studies should be carried out to obtain ventilatory functions for the normal population. The values reported here of FEV25%-75% and FEF75%-85% would be useful for future investigations in forced expiratory flow rates.
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