Effect of Isocyanate Exposure on Spirometry Results and Respiratory Symptoms in Toluene Di-isocyanate Foam Workers

Isocyacnate Exposure and Pulmonary Function Indices

Abstract

Toluene di-isocyanate (TDI) is extensively used in the manufacture of flexible polyurethane foams. The present study aimed to examine pulmonary function indices and respiratory symptoms in individuals exposed to isocyanates. Spirometric indices of 136 employees, 91 (66.91%) of whom were directly exposed to isocyanates and 45 (33.08%) were not exposed. These informations regarding demogra- phic characteristics and respiratory symptoms, including coughs and dyspnea, were collected using a questionnaire from 2013 to 2016. The mean values of all respiratory indices decreased significantly in both groups over the 4 year period. There was a significant relationship between the decline in all indices and age, work experience and smoking. In the exposed group, a decrease in FEV1 and FEV1/FVC was significantly higher in smokers than in the non-exposed group. The exposed group, although younger and with a lower smoking rate, which has lower respiratory indices than the non-exposed group at the beginning and end of the measurement.