Ventilatory Function In Rubber Processing Workers: Acute Changes Over The Workshift - (1987)

Acute Lung Function Changes in Rubber Processing Workers: Legal Implications for Asbestos-Related Claims

Abstract
The study "Ventilatory Function in Rubber Processing Workers: Acute Changes Over The Workshift" by Governa et al., published in the British Journal of Industrial Medicine in 1987, examines the acute effects of airborne contaminants on lung function in rubber tyre manufacturing workers. Researchers measured ventilatory function at the start and end of work shifts using a calibrated spirometer. The study involved 79 workers across three shifts and found acute reductions in lung function over the workday, particularly among those exposed for longer periods. While no chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was detected, the findings highlight the potential for acute respiratory effects due to occupational exposure to airborne contaminants.

Legal Relevance
This study provides critical evidence for legal claims involving occupational exposure to hazardous airborne contaminants, including asbestos. Although the study does not directly address asbestos, it underscores the respiratory risks faced by industrial workers exposed to airborne pollutants. For individuals filing asbestos-related claims, the study supports the argument that workplace exposure to harmful substances can cause measurable lung function impairments.

Key legal applications include:

• Evidence Pathways: The study demonstrates a clear link between workplace exposure and acute respiratory effects, which can be extrapolated to chronic conditions caused by asbestos.
• Occupational History Relevance: It highlights the importance of documenting exposure duration and job roles, which are critical in establishing causation in asbestos-related cases.
• Counterarguments to Defense Claims: The findings counter common defense arguments that smoking or other non-occupational factors are solely responsible for lung impairments, as the study observed effects in both smokers and non-smokers.

Occupation Groups at Risk
The study focuses on rubber processing workers, but its findings are relevant to other high-risk occupations involving exposure to airborne contaminants, including asbestos. These include:

• Rubber Industry Workers: Exposed to a mix of airborne pollutants, including potential asbestos contamination in older facilities.
• Construction Workers: Frequently exposed to asbestos in insulation, roofing, and cement products.
• Shipyard Workers: Historically exposed to asbestos in shipbuilding materials.
• Miners and Millers: Particularly those handling crocidolite or other asbestos types.
• Industrial Plant Workers: Exposed to airborne fibers and dust in manufacturing settings.

Current Medical Understanding
The study aligns with current medical knowledge that occupational exposure to airborne contaminants can cause acute and chronic respiratory effects. While the study does not identify specific agents, it reinforces the understanding that prolonged exposure to industrial pollutants, including asbestos, can lead to significant lung function impairments. Modern research further supports the link between asbestos exposure and diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Citation
Governa, M., Comai, M., Valentino, M., Antonicelli, L., Rinaldi, F., & Pisani, E. (1987). Ventilatory function in rubber processing workers: acute changes over the workshift. British Journal of Industrial Medicine, 44(2), 83-89. https://doi.org/10.1136/oem.44.2.83

National Library of Medicine Link
For additional context and credibility, the full study can be accessed via the National Library of Medicine: PubMed Link.

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