Respiratory health problems among pump attendants of selected petroleum filling stations in Dar es Salaam

Abstract

Occurrence of occupational respiratory diseases is important indicator of the quality of working conditions and working environment. However, while petroleum business is rapidly emerging as the more source of employment in urban and suburban areas in Dar es Salaam little is known to the health hazards encountered by petroleum filling station pump attendants and how to prevent them. This study aimed to explore occurrence of respiratory health problems and contributing factors among petroleum filling station pump attendants, importance and use of preventive measures. A cross - sectional comparative study was conducted in Dar es Salaam Municipality. Questionnaire was used to obtain information on demographic characteristics, work history, previous dust exposure and respiratory symptoms experienced and use of protective gears. Lung function was assessed using Easy One Portable Spirometer and peak expiratory flow rate meter. Statistical analysis was done using SPHSS software version 15. Proportions were computed from categorical variables while mean and correlations and multiple regression analysis was computed from continuous variable. The criterion of significance association was assumed for p-values less than 0.05. The major finding of this study was the decreasing peak expiratory flow rate of 1.35showed by petroleum filling attendants as compared to office workers. However the petroleum filling pump attendants reported no respiratory health symptoms when elicited. Protective gears (PPE) were not available however, some few petroleum filling pump attendants were aware of the risks concerning petroleum station working conditions. The study recommended dual approach to merge knowledge of respiratory health problems and practice health and safety measures (preventive practices) among petroleum filling pump attendants in order to improve their health and working conditions. Petrol stations owners should prepare information guidelines concerning prevention and ensure that the information is accessible to all petroleum filling station pump attendants.