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Thorax 2000;55:277-282 doi:10.1136/thorax.55.4.277
  • Original article

Increased risk of obstructive pulmonary disease in tunnel workers

  1. Bente Ulvestada,
  2. Berit Bakkea,
  3. Erik Melbostad*,a,
  4. Per Fuglerudb,
  5. Johny Kongerudc,
  6. May Brit Lundc
  1. aNational Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway, bParexel Medstat, Lillestrøm, Norway, cDepartment of Thoracic Medicine, The National Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway
  1. Dr B Ulvestad, Selmer ASA, P B1175 Sentrum, N-0107 Oslo, Norway email:bente.ulvestad{at}selmer.no
  • Received 3 September 1999
  • Revision requested 16 November 1999
  • Revised 21 December 1999
  • Accepted 7 January 2000

Abstract

BACKGROUND Tunnel workers are exposed to gases and particles from blasting and diesel exhausts. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation in tunnel workers and to relate these findings to years of exposure.

METHODS Two hundred and twelve tunnel workers and a reference group of 205 other heavy construction workers participated in a cross sectional investigation. Exposure measurements were carried out to demonstrate the difference in exposure between the two occupational groups. Spirometric tests and a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms and smoking habits were applied. Atopy was determined by a multiple radioallergosorbent test (RAST). Radiological signs of silicosis were evaluated. Respiratory symptoms and lung function were studied in relation to years of exposure and adjusted for smoking habits and atopy.

RESULTS Compared with the reference subjects the tunnel workers had a significant decrease in forced vital capacity (FVC) % predicted and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % predicted when related to years of exposure. Adjusted FEV1 decreased by 17 ml for each year of tunnel work exposure compared with 0.5 ml in outdoor heavy construction workers. The tunnel workers also reported significantly higher occurrence of respiratory symptoms. The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was 14% in the tunnel workers compared with 8% in the reference subjects.

CONCLUSION Exposure to dust and gases from diesel exhaust, blasting, drilling and rock transport in tunnel work enhances the risk for accelerated decline in FEV1, respiratory symptoms, and COPD in tunnel workers compared with other heavy construction workers.

Footnotes

  • ↵* Deceased

  • Funding: The project received financial support from the Working Environment Fund of the Confederation of Norwegian Business and Industry.

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