THE ANALYSIS OF FORMALIN VAPOR EXPOSURE EFFECT ON THE DECREASING OF LUNG FUNCTION

Abstract

Formalin is the most dangerous chemical in the form of steam and has irritant and carcinogenic effects. Malignancy is often referred to as a result of exposure to this substance is nasopharyngeal carcinoma and respiratory disorders. Exposure to formalin vapors in working environments is related to work environment conditions and individual characteristics. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of formalin vapor exposure on the decreasing of lung function before and after work (cross shift). This research was an observational analytic research. The subjects were 16 people with morning shift. The independent variable of this research is the formalin content in the air, while the dependent variable is the decrease of lung function with the parameter of FVC, FEV1 done before and after work (Cross shift) as well as the annoying variable that is individual characteristic consisting of age, work period, smoking habit and sport habit Result based on lung function measurements resulted in 56.28% decreased lung function both FVC and FEV1 after work compared with before work, but only significant FEV1 (p <0.05 paired t-test) whereas FVC was not significant. Influence of worker characteristic on significant decrease of lung function that is age and work period (p <0,05 multiple linear regression). The conclusion of research needs to optimize air ventilation by adding local exhaust ventilation (LEV), adhere to and use appropriate personal protective equipment (respirator) during work, and perform regular health checks.