Occupational exposure to emissions of photocopying machines in Iloilo City: An exploratory study

Abstract

Photocopying is a profitable business in Iloilo City. The photocopying machines are known to emit ozone and volatile organic compounds. This study aims to determine whether long-term exposure to photocopying machines will have adverse health effects on the operators.

The group extracted blood samples from the respondents; had them undergo chest x-ray examination; answer questionnaires and checklists. From the blood samples, the group determined the WBC count, differential count and serum albumin, total protein and uric acid of the respondents. From the chest x-ray examination, the group aimed to see particles from photocopier emissions deposited in the lungs. From questionnaires, the group aimed to determine the operators’ common health complaints. From the checklists, the group aimed to know if the photocopying establishments have a suitable working space area and ventilation.

The group aimed to determine the effect of years and hours of exposure to photocopiers; number of machines; ventilation; working space area; kind and number of toner on WBC count and differential count; health complaints; serum albumin, total protein and uric acid levels; and chest x-ray results of the respondents.

Results showed that years and hours of exposure had no significant effect on the photocopier operators. However, other factors such as the number of machines, working space area and ventilation, number and kind of toner had significant effects on selected cell and serum levels in the blood of the operators and on their common health complaints.

The group concludes that exposure to photocopying machines have significant effects on the health status of the photocopier operators based on the common health complaints they frequently experience, white blood cell count and differential count and blood serum levels.