Changes in Ventilatory Function in Coal Miners After a Work Shift

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Abstract
Ninety-three coal miners and 42 nonminers underwent studies of ventilatory capacity before and after a work shift. Small, but significant, decreases in ventilatory capacity occurred among the miners; in contrast, significant increases in ventilatory capacity occurred among the nonminers. These decreases in the miners were most evident in the expiratory flow at low lung volumes, viz, forced expiratory flow at 75% of the vital capacity exhaled. Proportionately greater decreases in expiratory flow at low lung volumes occurred in men exposed to the higher dust levels. Degree and extent of exposure to coal mine dust is the most likely explanation for these findings; however, other factors peculiar to the miners’ working environment cannot be definitely excluded from consideration.