Respiratory Disorders and Dust Exposure in Sectors of the Cotton Industry of the United States. Part 3: Cottonseed Oil Mills

摘要

A survey of respiratory disorders and dust exposure in cottonseed oil mill workers was conducted. The cohort consisted of 723 workers in 18 cottonseed mills. The comparisons consisted of 1218 workers in nonindustrial facilities. The subjects were administered spirometric tests and respiratory questionnaires. Sampling for respirable cotton dust concentrations was conducted. Particle size distributions were determined. No definite dose response relationship of lung function or symptomatology was observed. The authors conclude that cottonseed oil mill workers have trends toward increased respiratory symptoms and lower FEV1, which are significant in smokers. A dust standard of 1mg/m3 for the cottonseed oil mill industry is recommended.