Indoor air quality and its effects on lung function and respiratory symptoms among textile spinning mill workers in India

Abstract

Background

Textile spinning mill workers are exposed to airborne cotton dust and particulate matter, which are associated with respiratory symptoms and impaired lung function.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and severity of respiratory symptoms among textile spinning mill workers and to assess the impact of occupational dust exposure on pulmonary function.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 textile spinning mill workers. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess respiratory symptoms and through pulmonary function tests to evaluate lung function. Indoor air quality was monitored by OIZOM Polludrone to measure particulate matters (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ concentrations), which were compared to permissible thresholds.

Results

The study found that the levels of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ in the textile spinning mills were much higher than the recommended limits, averaging 186.02 µg/m³ for PM_2.5 and 826.66 µg/m³ for PM₁₀. The results showed a high rate of respiratory problems among workers. About 15–20% had byssinosis, 10–12% had chronic bronchitis, and 8–10% had asthma.

Conclusion

Many workers also reported frequent coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Pulmonary function tests indicated reduced lung function in workers exposed to cotton dust. Key measures like FEV₁ and FVC were lower than normal, and the FEV₁/FVC ratio suggested obstructive lung conditions. The study highlights the severe respiratory health risks associated with cotton dust exposure in textile spinning mills. The findings emphasize the need for improved occupational health and safety measures to reduce dust exposure and protect worker health.