The Analysis of Pneumoconiosis Occurrence Among Cement Factory Workers at PT. X in Medan

Abstract

Pneumoconiosis is one of the occupational diseases with an increasing risk in the current era of industrialization. Workers in cement industries, who are continuously exposed to cement dust, are at high risk of developing pneumoconiosis. Cement dust contains harmful components like silica and calcium, which can cause inflammation in the respiratory tract. This research aimed to identify the risk factors associated with the occurrence of pneumoconiosis among workers. This research used an analytic approach with a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 43 workers from PT. X cement factory in Medan, selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected through interviews, questionnaires, physical examinations, and chest radiographs to assess respiratory symptoms. A significant relationship was found between respiratory symptom with pneumoconiosis incidences. No significant relationship was found between individual factors (age, gender, education, smoking habits) and occupational factors (PPE use, work experience, work location, and respiratory symptoms) with pneumoconiosis incidences. Despite exposure to cement dust, occupational factors and smoking habits were not directly related to the disease occurrence. The study recommends further research with a larger sample size and detailed dust level measurements. In conclusion, Occupational factors and smoking habits did not show a significant relationship with the occurrence of pneumoconiosis among workers at PT. X cement factory in Medan. Despite exposure to cement dust, individual factors and occupational risk control through the use of PPE and other preventive measures need to be improved.