Manifestations of Respiratory Dust Related Health Effects among Quarry Stone Diggers in Small Scale Quarries in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Abstract

Quarrying activities generate huge quantities of dust particles that cause a variety of respiratory illnesses among quarry workers. In Kenya, quarry industry suffers several constraints: some quarry workers get injured, others get chronic disease, while some die. Quarry dust control measures are not implemented, and quarry workers are exposed to dust that increase their risk of respiratory diseases. The study was done in 2 quarries in Kayole (Mihang’o and Matopeni ward) which are mainly involved in stone digging and crushing. The study used an analytical cross-sectional design and a sample size of 165 respondents was taken to represent the study population. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to assess quarry workers respiratory symptoms and such symptoms were diagnosed by a qualified clinician. Spirometry tests were done by a qualified technician to assess the pulmonary function. Respirable dust levels were determined through the aid of a particle counter. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Chi square tests and logistic regression were done to establish relationship between different variables. T tests were done to compare means of study variables in two groups. This study found the prevalence of the respiratory symptoms among quarry workers to be 24.2% and reported symptoms were cough, throat clearing, chest pain/tightness, cold, breathlessness and wheezing. The study concludes that; the levels of respirable dust (PM2.5 and PM10) in Kayole quarries was three times higher than the daily level of 25 ug/m3 for PM2.5 and 50 ug/m3 for PM10 recommended by WHO, chronic exposure to quarry dust increase the risk of developing respiratory symptoms and decreased pulmonary function. This study recommends that quarry owners should provide adequate water in the quarries so that wet dust suppression can be done. The study also recommended chest radiograph be done on quarry workers and the radiographic image to be compared with spirometry results to accurately determine the type of respiratory disease that quarry workers suffer from.