Determinación de carboxihemoglobina al inicio y final de jornada laboral en trabajadores de estaciones de servicio-gasolineras de la zona sur-oeste de la ciudad de Cuenca

Abstract

In this study the exposure of labor workers to CO was measured through a carboxihemoglobin exposure biomarker (%COHb). The levels of COHb in Gasoline dispenser service stations on the south-west of the city of Cuenca were studied , were the COHb percentage at the beginning of the working day was compared to the COHb percentage at the end of the working day, in relation to the referential values as stated by (OMS, 2007) and (Romero, 2011). The analysis of additional data, COHb-delta (obtained during the working hours), led to the comparison of the COHb levels between hours and shifts as well as between Gas Service stations. By means of survey, we determined personal characteristics as well as working conditions in the Gas Dispensers, allowing the establishment of safety measures. To determine the percentage of COHb, the Micro-diffusion Feldstein-Klendeshoj method was used on blood samples both at the start and end of each working day during all three shifts. The results presented significant differences between the initial COHb percentage and the final COHb percentage (P<0.05); The COHb-delta values between the gas stations analyzed also presented a significant difference (P=0.005), where it was observed that the Don Bosco Gas station has a COHb-delta value 3.66 greater than other gas stations. Additionally, an analysis to find the carboxihemoglobin variance took place in accordance to the personal characteristics and working conditions, where it was determined that the safety equipment (mask), as well as exerciseact as a risk/protection factor against CO inhalation during the working hours. The use of protection masks is strictly and heavily recommended to gas dispensers to help avoid inhalation of fumes emitted automobiles.