Investigation of Respiratory Symptoms and Spirometric Parameters in Fire Brick Workers

Fire brick workers expose to dust that may affect their respiratory system. This study conducted to evaluate respiratory complaints and Spirometric parameters in a number of Fire Brick workers. This case-control study was conducted on 51 fire brick workers as a case group and 56 workers of food industries as a control group. Respiratory Symptoms Questionnaire and spirometry, as a standard method, were applied to evaluate respiratory problems and lung functions, respectively. Respiratory complaints in case group were significantly higher than the controls. All the spirometric parameters, except FEV1/FVC, in cases were also significantly lower than that of control group (p <0.05). This study shows that exposure to dust may lead to increased respiratory symptoms and spirometry abnormalities in fire brick workers.