FLOUR MILL WORKERS OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN CHANDRAPUR CITY, CENTRAL INDIA

Background: Flour mill workers are at increased risk of developing respiratory symptoms and reduce lung capacity due to exposure to dust in their working environment. Objective: The objective of this study was to access occupational health status of flour mill workers in Chandrapur city. Method: For the study 65 flour mill workers from wheat flour and mix flour mills were selected as a subject group and 10 individual were as control group. Structured interview was carried out by questionnaire and lung capacity was measured by breath-o meter and inspection of work site was carried out for ambient temperature, humidity, light intensity and noise level. Respiratory symptoms were significantly higher in flour mill workers than control group and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) values were lower in exposed workers as in proportion with the exposure period. Result: The results showed a decrease in PEFR values as the duration of exposure increased and allergic problems were also increased in flour mill workers. Conclusion: The study recommends periodic medical examination and compulsory use of personal protective equipment’s at the work site