Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Petroleum Depot Workers and Petrol Filling Station Attendants

Abstract

Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) values in litres per minute were determined in petrol depot loaders, petrol station attendants and in control subjects. The PEFR values were 315 ± 94, 386 + 91 and 529 + 94 litres/min. in depot workers, petrol attendants and control subjects respectively. The value in the control subjects was significantly greater than in depot workers (P<0.001) and petrol attendants (P<0.001). The value in petrol attendants was significantly higher than in depot workers (P<0.01). The PEFR values negatively correlated significantly with the duration of employment in both depot workers (P<0.02) and petrol station attendants (P<0.01). There was no proteinuria in any of the petroleum exposed groups. This study has demonstrated the deterioration of lung function in workers exposed to petroleum vapour and that this progressed with the duration of the exposure.

Key words: Peak Flow Rate, Petroleum, Loaders, Attendants

Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol.47(3) 2005: 22-25