Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthop... more Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthopaedic casting materials exposed to personnel and working area. The determination of knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding occupational safety and health (OSH) aspects also conducted. Increase dust concentration above the permissible limit (PEL) would decrease the health status among the staffs. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the orthopaedic clinic public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Determination of total dust concentration was using a NIOSH Manual of Analytical Method (NMAM 0501) for 8 hours and a direct reading for 10 minutes. A set of questionnaires assessing the level of KAP related to OSH at the orthopaedic clinic was distributed. Results: The results of total dust concentration in the casting room are 3.402 ± 0.003 mg/m3 from area sampling and for the personal air sampling is 5.573 ± 0.040 mg/m3 which are below than 15 mg/m3 PEL. Percentage of KAP level of OSH in the orthopaedic clinic indicates knowledge (96.75%), attitude (83.7%) and practices (82.85%) respectively. However, this study found that the level of knowledge related to OSH at the orthopaedic clinic had significant relationships (p <0.05) with age, job titles and area of workplaces, while OSH attitudes in orthopaedic clinics had significant relationships (p <0.05) with job titles, use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Level of practice of OSH at orthopaedic clinics, there was significant relationship (p <0.05) with age, job titles and use of PPE. Conclusion: The risk to total dust concentration exposure in this study are relatively low, however, some literature suggested duration of exposure-response even though in the low concentration can be a predisposing factor toward to health occupational illnesses. Medical health surveillance should be implemented in every 6 months to monitor staff’s health status.
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nov 11, 2022
Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks... more Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks of IAQ pollution are proportionate with the occupant number in the clinic. This research aims to determine the level of IAQ in Medical Clinic 1 and 2 of University Hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Methods: The indoor exposure to physical (temperature, relative humidity and air movement), chemical (formaldehyde, CO 2 , CO, TVOC and PM 10) and biological (bacterial and fungal count) parameters following Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) IAQ (2010) were assessed in the morning and afternoon using relevant equipment. Data was analysed with One-Sample T Test and Independent T Test using SPSS Version 25. Results: No statistically significant mean difference (p>0.05) of IAQ parameters between both Medical Clinics (morning & afternoon) except for Rh and CO by Independent T Test analysis. In contrast, the One-Sample T Test showed there was statistically significant mean difference (p<0.01) of all parameters as compared to the ICOP (2010) standard in both Medical Clinics (morning and afternoon). There was a positive correlation of CO 2 , CO and formaldehyde with bacterial counts (TBC) for both Medical Clinics. Meanwhile, CH 2 O concentration was slightly higher in the morning due to the usage of cleaning products which may have released CH 2 O gas killing the bacteria, thus lower the rate of bacterial growth in the afternoon. Fungal counts showed no significant impact. Conclusion: All measured parameters were complied with the ICOP (2010) standard except air movement and CO 2 in both Medical Clinics.
International journal of public health research, Jul 1, 2012
Introduction Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a hand disorder which indicates the presence of symp... more Introduction Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a hand disorder which indicates the presence of symptoms such as pain, numbness, and muscle weakness among the patient. CTS is an occupational related disorder which can occur in any profession. However, it can be prevented and managed. The aims of the research were to determine the prevalence of acquiring CTS among nurses who worked in the wards and occupational risk factors involving the upper limbs during nursing tasks performance. The specific aims were to determine the relationship between the prevalence of acquiring CTS and individual factors (age, gender, race, educational level, duration of work and medical history), relationship between the prevalence of acquiring CTS and occupational risk factors in nursing tasks. Nurses profession was chosen as they are performing multitask involving upper limbs especially the wrist joints. Methods Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to determine the level of severity in CTS. Occupational risk factors were assessed by using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). This research was a cross sectional mode which was carried out at a government university medical centre from November through December 2010. Results Eighty nurses were involved in the research. The respondents were required to fill in the socio-demographic information sheet. Those having CTS were required to fill in the BCTQ. Assessments were performed by observing of the job activity through RULA. The results showed that the prevalence for nurses acquiring CTS is 7.5%. The RULA assessment also indicated that the risk factor was in the highest level with a score of 7. No relationship was shown between the prevalence of CTS and race, gender, educational level and medical history. Significant relationship was indicated by the prevalence of CTS and occupational risk factors. Conclusions In conclusion, a significant prevalence of CTS related to age of more than 30 years old, Malay races compared to Indian, working experience of more than 10 years and respondents with right hand dominant. Occupational risk factors also indicated among the active nurses. Therefore, it is important for us to modify the work environment, work flow, work methodology and ergonomic factors in order to prevent the nurses from acquiring CTS. Furthermore, PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH Risk Factors for Caparpal Tunnel Syndrome 138 education about the condition of CTS should be implemented and reinforced especially among the higher risk nurses.
Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, Dec 31, 2020
Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials su... more Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials such as varnish which can cause adverse health effects to human. Exposure to a high level of VOCs could disrupt the normal functions of a human lung.Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the status of lung functions of the workers exposed to VOCs at a transformer manufacturing plant in Selangor. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) concentration in the office and production area was measured using direct-reading method and 60 subjects were selected to undergo the lung function test. The FVC and FEV1 values showed significant difference (p<0.05) between the exposed group and the non-exposed group. The mean readings of FVC (69.07±12.58) and FEV₁ (72.90±10.46) of the exposed groups were lower than the non-exposed group, which were 81.47±9.78 and 84.23±9.07, respectively. In contrast to the FEV1/FVC parameters, the non-exposed group (102.93 ± 7.17) showed lower mean values than the exposed group (105.90±8.98). Besides that, the nasal symptoms showed significant differences (p<0.05) between the exposed and non-exposed group. The demographic data of the exposed group showed no association with the lung function status of the exposed group workers. However, the lung functions of the exposed group were influenced by the concentration of VOCs in the production area. High concentration of VOCs may cause detrimental effects on the lung functions. Therefore, management or employers in the industry should always be aware of the effects of VOCs, and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the employees.
A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure ... more A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure was performed. Our objective is to assess the effects of exposure to synthetic fiberglass cast dust with the lung function test. Selected 40 medical staff (17: exposed individuals; 23: control) from the orthopedic clinic was investigated and assessed the effect of fibrous glass dust exposure using the lung function test. They have performed spirometry with the standard technique. Measured parameter included: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume first second (FEV1), and FEV1 to FVC ratio. The observation shows that the exposed individuals recorded a lower value than the control group based on the parameter study. They tend to have abnormal lung function rather than the control set of individuals. However, there are no significant differences in spirometry reading between the exposed and control individuals. The sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, and smoking habit did not show any significant effects on lung function status. Therefore, the exposed fiberglass dust from the synthetic fiberglass casting materials unlikely affect the respiratory system, however medical health surveillance should be carried out every 6 months according to the occupational exposure guideline.
Journal of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Jun 30, 2011
Ammonia and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were the most two problematic parameters in the landfill... more Ammonia and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were the most two problematic parameters in the landfill leachate. In this study, a new composite adsorbent derived from rice husk ash waste is evaluated with respect to its ability to remove these contaminants from synthetic leachate. Results indicate that the new composite adsorbent is able to adsorb both ammonia and COD. It has a higher adsorption capacity for ammonia (Q = 2.2578 mg/g) and an almost equal adsorption capacity for COD (Q = 2.8893) when compared with commercially activated carbon. The adsorption kinetics of this new product for ammonia and COD were primarily represented by the pseudo second-order mechanism. The overall adsorption rate of the ammonia and COD adsorption processes appears to be determined by chemisorption process. The regenerated composite adsorbent indicated higher adsorption capacities of ammonia and COD, i.e. 12.9366 mg/g and 3.1162 mg/g, respectively.
There are various cause of river pollution in Malaysia, one of them are sourced from dumping site... more There are various cause of river pollution in Malaysia, one of them are sourced from dumping site. A study on water quality at Sungai Batu that located adjacent to the dumping site was being conducted where it was capped for more than 10 years ago and has been developed as housing estate namely Taman Wahyu II, that located in Selayang, Selangor. This study aims to assess the effect of leachate result from disposal site which practiced open dumping during the operation once upon a time on water quality. The purpose was to see whether there is a significant difference between station before and in study area through several parameters that was prescribed. Sampling process and analysis involving in-situ and ex-situ measurement which divide into two areas that is before study area and study area with a few physical parameters such as temperature, turbidity, conductivity and total suspended solid (TSS) and chemical parameter namely pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Ammonianitrogen and also phosphate. Sampling sediment and soil were carried out to analyze heavy metal that present in study area such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, zinc, copper and also manganese where these components usually present as pollutant in leachate. Statistical results from independent T-test showed significant differences (p<0.05) between station when water flow enter study area for turbidity parameter, conductivity, total suspended solid, DO, BOD, COD, Ammonia-nitrogen and phosphate. Statistical results from independent T-test for sediment analysis showed significant difference (p<0.05) for zinc between station before and in the study area. One-way ANOVA analysis on the other hand find out that arsenic heavy metal, zinc and manganese showed significant differences (p<0.05) between study area and the rest for soil sampling. BOD ratio to COD for station 4 which is nearby study area giving value 0.02 mg/l namely less than 0.1 mg/l where this value meet criteria to leachate which matured and this value shows leachate can be classified in category old leachate as this disposal site certainly was capped for more than 10 years and leachate that attended in body of water caused by this open dumping site. Water Quality Index (WQI) was upheld to every station and river near to the dumping site area categorized as Class IV where it is not suitable to be used as supply of drink water resources but only suitable for irrigation purpose.
Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks... more Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks of IAQ pollution are proportionate with the occupant number in the clinic. This research aims to determine the level of IAQ in Medical Clinic 1 and 2 of University Hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Methods: The indoor exposure to physical (temperature, relative humidity and air movement), chemical (formaldehyde, CO2, CO, TVOC and PM10) and biological (bacterial and fungal count) parameters following Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) IAQ (2010) were assessed in the morning and afternoon using relevant equipment. Data was analysed with One-Sample T Test and Independent T Test using SPSS Version 25. Results: No statistically significant mean difference (p>0.05) of IAQ parameters between both Medical Clinics (morning & afternoon) except for Rh and CO by Independent T Test analysis. In contrast, the One-Sample T Test showed there was statistically significant mean difference (p<0.01) ...
IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 2020
Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthop... more Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthopaedic casting materials exposed to personnel and working area. The determination of knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding occupational safety and health (OSH) aspects also conducted. Increase dust concentration above the permissible limit (PEL) would decrease the health status among the staffs. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the orthopaedic clinic public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Determination of total dust concentration was using a NIOSH Manual of Analytical Method (NMAM 0501) for 8 hours and a direct reading for 10 minutes. A set of questionnaires assessing the level of KAP related to OSH at the orthopaedic clinic was distributed. Results: The results of total dust concentration in the casting room are 3.402 ± 0.003 mg/m3 from area sampling and for the personal air sampling is 5.573 ± 0.040 mg/m3 which are below than 15 mg/m3 PEL. Percentage...
Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials su... more Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials such as varnish which can cause adverse health effects to human. Exposure to a high level of VOCs could disrupt the normal functions of a human lung.Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the status of lung functions of the workers exposed to VOCs at a transformer manufacturing plant in Selangor. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) concentration in the office and production area was measured using direct-reading method and 60 subjects were selected to undergo the lung function test. The FVC and FEV1 values showed significant difference (p<0.05) between the exposed group and the non-exposed group. The mean readings of FVC (69.07±12.58) and FEV₁ (72.90±10.46) of the exposed groups were lower than the non-exposed group, which were 81.47±9.78 and 84.23±9.07, respectively. In contrast to the FEV1/FVC parameters, the non-exposed group (102.93 ± 7.17) showed lower mean values than t...
Abstract: Tamarindus indica (tamarind), Garcinia atroviridis, and Curcuma longa (turmeric) are wi... more Abstract: Tamarindus indica (tamarind), Garcinia atroviridis, and Curcuma longa (turmeric) are widely used in food preparation. This study was conducted to determine the aluminium leachability in acidic food flavors Tamarindus indica and Garcinia atroviridis and tumeric powder. The results showed that aluminium contents were increased accordingly to the dosage of these acidic food flavors. The results showed that aluminium leaching was higher in solutions without Curcuma longa compare to the present of Curcuma longa. The effect of the presence of Curcuma longa powder in Tamarindus indica and Garcinia atroviridis solutions were indicated by the decreasing of aluminium solubility at 67.5% and 64.7% respectively.
A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure ... more A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure was performed. Our objective is to assess the effects of exposure to synthetic fiberglass cast dust with the lung function test. Selected 40 medical staff (17: exposed individuals; 23: control) from the orthopedic clinic was investigated and assessed the effect of fibrous glass dust exposure using the lung function test. They have performed spirometry with the standard technique. Measured parameter included: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume first second (FEV1), and FEV1 to FVC ratio. The observation shows that the exposed individuals recorded a lower value than the control group based on the parameter study. They tend to have abnormal lung function rather than the control set of individuals. However, there are no significant differences in spirometry reading between the exposed and control individuals. The sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, and smoking hab...
The former landfill site produces various combinations of gases that can cause health problems. T... more The former landfill site produces various combinations of gases that can cause health problems. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of air quality on the residents’ respiratory health that occupy buildings at the former landfill site at Taman Sri Manja, Petaling Jaya, Selangor compared with the control which in PPR Air Panas located at Setapak, Kuala Lumpur. Methods that are used for this study are gas sampling using aeroqual and multi-log gas detector. High-volume sampler (HVS) was used for PM10 determination. The open plate method was used to determine total count formed by microorganisms. Questionnaire forms and peak flow meter were used to determine the value of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) of 196 respondents in the case study and 190 respondents in control. Results showed that all the parameters including gases, PM10, heavy metals and total count of microbes under the estimated standard value have no significant difference between the case study and c...
PROCEEDINGS OF GREEN DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE 2020, 2021
The emergence of dust generated from the process of removal orthopedic cast materials pose a sign... more The emergence of dust generated from the process of removal orthopedic cast materials pose a significant potential hazardous to respiratory health among the healthcare workers (HCWs) in the orthopedic casting room. The study was carried out to determine the total dust concentrations in the casting room were exposed to environmental and personnel. The personnel and environmental air sampling were conducted for 6 hours followed the standard method from NIOSH Manual of Analytical Method 0501. Determination of personnel dust exposure were established for selected six HCWs, who are highly risk of dust exposed based on their jobs scope in the casting room. The determination of environmental air sampling was conducted in the casting room for six hours continuously. A set of questionnaires was administered to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude and practice related to the awareness of occupational safety and health among the 43 HCWs from public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The result on total dust from the environmental air sampling (casting room) showed mean concentration are 3.402±0.003 mg/m³ and personal air sampling showed the mean concentration are 5.573± 0.040 mg/m³. The mean total concentration obtained were below the standard permissible exposure limit of 15 mg/m³ set by OSHA USA 2005. The result shows the level of knowledge were 96.75%, attitude 83.7% and practical 82.85% among the HCWs. There are significant relationship (p <0.05) level of knowledge with age, job titles and area of workplace. There are significant relationships (p <0.05) level of attitudes with job titles. There are also showed a significant relationship (p <0.05) level of practices with age, job titles and working hour per week. The potential risk of dust exposure to the HCWs in the casting room were manageable because the dust concentration are still low and there are adequate usage of PPE with good functioning exhaust systems in the casting room. Most HCWs have a high level of knowledge, attitude and practical of occupational safety and health. The study showed HCWs in this study are aware of the potential hazard associated with their workplace activities. It is the responsibility of the organization and the HCWs for providing a healthy and safe workplace in accordance with the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (Act 514) and relevant regulations.
Nature, Environment and Pollution Technology, Jun 1, 2012
Curcuma longa or turmeric was used as adsorbent for aluminium removal. The effects of operational... more Curcuma longa or turmeric was used as adsorbent for aluminium removal. The effects of operational factors, including pH, contact time and dose were studied, and their optimal controls were proven. Overall uptake of Curcuma longa was at the maximum when pH ranged between 5 and 9 and the optimal removal was 91. 2%. Optimal removal of 95. 8% was achieved at the 90 super (th) minute for the batch experiment. A dose of 6 g/L was enough for optimal removal of 93. 6%. Aluminium adsorption onto Curcuma longa was ...
Plants have several defence mechanisms to survive in a stressful environment. Formaldehyde is one... more Plants have several defence mechanisms to survive in a stressful environment. Formaldehyde is one of the indoor air pollutants that can cause cancer. Ornamental plant Dieffenbachia compacta can be used as biological control for pollutants in the indoor air environment. This study was conducted to isolate the genes that response for detoxifying formaldehyde in Dieffenbachia compacta. Methods used to isolate the gene is by using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). A total of 735 base pairs was isolated using a primer from Epipremnum aureum FALDH genes. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed that the sequence similarities of 85% and 84% to the FALDH mRNA for Epipremnum aureum and Populus trichocarpa respectively. While for amino acid 92% similarities were found against Epipremnum aureum and Populus trichocarpa. A total of 87 amino acids that were encoded from 261 base pairs using the Open Reading Frame Finder. Our finding showed that the isolated Dieffenbachia compacta gene is the gene fo...
Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthop... more Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthopaedic casting materials exposed to personnel and working area. The determination of knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding occupational safety and health (OSH) aspects also conducted. Increase dust concentration above the permissible limit (PEL) would decrease the health status among the staffs. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the orthopaedic clinic public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Determination of total dust concentration was using a NIOSH Manual of Analytical Method (NMAM 0501) for 8 hours and a direct reading for 10 minutes. A set of questionnaires assessing the level of KAP related to OSH at the orthopaedic clinic was distributed. Results: The results of total dust concentration in the casting room are 3.402 ± 0.003 mg/m3 from area sampling and for the personal air sampling is 5.573 ± 0.040 mg/m3 which are below than 15 mg/m3 PEL. Percentage of KAP level of OSH in the orthopaedic clinic indicates knowledge (96.75%), attitude (83.7%) and practices (82.85%) respectively. However, this study found that the level of knowledge related to OSH at the orthopaedic clinic had significant relationships (p &lt;0.05) with age, job titles and area of workplaces, while OSH attitudes in orthopaedic clinics had significant relationships (p &lt;0.05) with job titles, use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Level of practice of OSH at orthopaedic clinics, there was significant relationship (p &lt;0.05) with age, job titles and use of PPE. Conclusion: The risk to total dust concentration exposure in this study are relatively low, however, some literature suggested duration of exposure-response even though in the low concentration can be a predisposing factor toward to health occupational illnesses. Medical health surveillance should be implemented in every 6 months to monitor staff’s health status.
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nov 11, 2022
Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks... more Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks of IAQ pollution are proportionate with the occupant number in the clinic. This research aims to determine the level of IAQ in Medical Clinic 1 and 2 of University Hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Methods: The indoor exposure to physical (temperature, relative humidity and air movement), chemical (formaldehyde, CO 2 , CO, TVOC and PM 10) and biological (bacterial and fungal count) parameters following Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) IAQ (2010) were assessed in the morning and afternoon using relevant equipment. Data was analysed with One-Sample T Test and Independent T Test using SPSS Version 25. Results: No statistically significant mean difference (p>0.05) of IAQ parameters between both Medical Clinics (morning & afternoon) except for Rh and CO by Independent T Test analysis. In contrast, the One-Sample T Test showed there was statistically significant mean difference (p<0.01) of all parameters as compared to the ICOP (2010) standard in both Medical Clinics (morning and afternoon). There was a positive correlation of CO 2 , CO and formaldehyde with bacterial counts (TBC) for both Medical Clinics. Meanwhile, CH 2 O concentration was slightly higher in the morning due to the usage of cleaning products which may have released CH 2 O gas killing the bacteria, thus lower the rate of bacterial growth in the afternoon. Fungal counts showed no significant impact. Conclusion: All measured parameters were complied with the ICOP (2010) standard except air movement and CO 2 in both Medical Clinics.
International journal of public health research, Jul 1, 2012
Introduction Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a hand disorder which indicates the presence of symp... more Introduction Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a hand disorder which indicates the presence of symptoms such as pain, numbness, and muscle weakness among the patient. CTS is an occupational related disorder which can occur in any profession. However, it can be prevented and managed. The aims of the research were to determine the prevalence of acquiring CTS among nurses who worked in the wards and occupational risk factors involving the upper limbs during nursing tasks performance. The specific aims were to determine the relationship between the prevalence of acquiring CTS and individual factors (age, gender, race, educational level, duration of work and medical history), relationship between the prevalence of acquiring CTS and occupational risk factors in nursing tasks. Nurses profession was chosen as they are performing multitask involving upper limbs especially the wrist joints. Methods Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to determine the level of severity in CTS. Occupational risk factors were assessed by using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). This research was a cross sectional mode which was carried out at a government university medical centre from November through December 2010. Results Eighty nurses were involved in the research. The respondents were required to fill in the socio-demographic information sheet. Those having CTS were required to fill in the BCTQ. Assessments were performed by observing of the job activity through RULA. The results showed that the prevalence for nurses acquiring CTS is 7.5%. The RULA assessment also indicated that the risk factor was in the highest level with a score of 7. No relationship was shown between the prevalence of CTS and race, gender, educational level and medical history. Significant relationship was indicated by the prevalence of CTS and occupational risk factors. Conclusions In conclusion, a significant prevalence of CTS related to age of more than 30 years old, Malay races compared to Indian, working experience of more than 10 years and respondents with right hand dominant. Occupational risk factors also indicated among the active nurses. Therefore, it is important for us to modify the work environment, work flow, work methodology and ergonomic factors in order to prevent the nurses from acquiring CTS. Furthermore, PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH Risk Factors for Caparpal Tunnel Syndrome 138 education about the condition of CTS should be implemented and reinforced especially among the higher risk nurses.
Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, Dec 31, 2020
Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials su... more Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials such as varnish which can cause adverse health effects to human. Exposure to a high level of VOCs could disrupt the normal functions of a human lung.Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the status of lung functions of the workers exposed to VOCs at a transformer manufacturing plant in Selangor. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) concentration in the office and production area was measured using direct-reading method and 60 subjects were selected to undergo the lung function test. The FVC and FEV1 values showed significant difference (p<0.05) between the exposed group and the non-exposed group. The mean readings of FVC (69.07±12.58) and FEV₁ (72.90±10.46) of the exposed groups were lower than the non-exposed group, which were 81.47±9.78 and 84.23±9.07, respectively. In contrast to the FEV1/FVC parameters, the non-exposed group (102.93 ± 7.17) showed lower mean values than the exposed group (105.90±8.98). Besides that, the nasal symptoms showed significant differences (p<0.05) between the exposed and non-exposed group. The demographic data of the exposed group showed no association with the lung function status of the exposed group workers. However, the lung functions of the exposed group were influenced by the concentration of VOCs in the production area. High concentration of VOCs may cause detrimental effects on the lung functions. Therefore, management or employers in the industry should always be aware of the effects of VOCs, and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the employees.
A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure ... more A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure was performed. Our objective is to assess the effects of exposure to synthetic fiberglass cast dust with the lung function test. Selected 40 medical staff (17: exposed individuals; 23: control) from the orthopedic clinic was investigated and assessed the effect of fibrous glass dust exposure using the lung function test. They have performed spirometry with the standard technique. Measured parameter included: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume first second (FEV1), and FEV1 to FVC ratio. The observation shows that the exposed individuals recorded a lower value than the control group based on the parameter study. They tend to have abnormal lung function rather than the control set of individuals. However, there are no significant differences in spirometry reading between the exposed and control individuals. The sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, and smoking habit did not show any significant effects on lung function status. Therefore, the exposed fiberglass dust from the synthetic fiberglass casting materials unlikely affect the respiratory system, however medical health surveillance should be carried out every 6 months according to the occupational exposure guideline.
Journal of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Jun 30, 2011
Ammonia and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were the most two problematic parameters in the landfill... more Ammonia and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were the most two problematic parameters in the landfill leachate. In this study, a new composite adsorbent derived from rice husk ash waste is evaluated with respect to its ability to remove these contaminants from synthetic leachate. Results indicate that the new composite adsorbent is able to adsorb both ammonia and COD. It has a higher adsorption capacity for ammonia (Q = 2.2578 mg/g) and an almost equal adsorption capacity for COD (Q = 2.8893) when compared with commercially activated carbon. The adsorption kinetics of this new product for ammonia and COD were primarily represented by the pseudo second-order mechanism. The overall adsorption rate of the ammonia and COD adsorption processes appears to be determined by chemisorption process. The regenerated composite adsorbent indicated higher adsorption capacities of ammonia and COD, i.e. 12.9366 mg/g and 3.1162 mg/g, respectively.
There are various cause of river pollution in Malaysia, one of them are sourced from dumping site... more There are various cause of river pollution in Malaysia, one of them are sourced from dumping site. A study on water quality at Sungai Batu that located adjacent to the dumping site was being conducted where it was capped for more than 10 years ago and has been developed as housing estate namely Taman Wahyu II, that located in Selayang, Selangor. This study aims to assess the effect of leachate result from disposal site which practiced open dumping during the operation once upon a time on water quality. The purpose was to see whether there is a significant difference between station before and in study area through several parameters that was prescribed. Sampling process and analysis involving in-situ and ex-situ measurement which divide into two areas that is before study area and study area with a few physical parameters such as temperature, turbidity, conductivity and total suspended solid (TSS) and chemical parameter namely pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Ammonianitrogen and also phosphate. Sampling sediment and soil were carried out to analyze heavy metal that present in study area such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, zinc, copper and also manganese where these components usually present as pollutant in leachate. Statistical results from independent T-test showed significant differences (p<0.05) between station when water flow enter study area for turbidity parameter, conductivity, total suspended solid, DO, BOD, COD, Ammonia-nitrogen and phosphate. Statistical results from independent T-test for sediment analysis showed significant difference (p<0.05) for zinc between station before and in the study area. One-way ANOVA analysis on the other hand find out that arsenic heavy metal, zinc and manganese showed significant differences (p<0.05) between study area and the rest for soil sampling. BOD ratio to COD for station 4 which is nearby study area giving value 0.02 mg/l namely less than 0.1 mg/l where this value meet criteria to leachate which matured and this value shows leachate can be classified in category old leachate as this disposal site certainly was capped for more than 10 years and leachate that attended in body of water caused by this open dumping site. Water Quality Index (WQI) was upheld to every station and river near to the dumping site area categorized as Class IV where it is not suitable to be used as supply of drink water resources but only suitable for irrigation purpose.
Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks... more Introduction: Patient health can be influenced by indoor air quality (IAQ) level, where the risks of IAQ pollution are proportionate with the occupant number in the clinic. This research aims to determine the level of IAQ in Medical Clinic 1 and 2 of University Hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Methods: The indoor exposure to physical (temperature, relative humidity and air movement), chemical (formaldehyde, CO2, CO, TVOC and PM10) and biological (bacterial and fungal count) parameters following Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) IAQ (2010) were assessed in the morning and afternoon using relevant equipment. Data was analysed with One-Sample T Test and Independent T Test using SPSS Version 25. Results: No statistically significant mean difference (p>0.05) of IAQ parameters between both Medical Clinics (morning & afternoon) except for Rh and CO by Independent T Test analysis. In contrast, the One-Sample T Test showed there was statistically significant mean difference (p<0.01) ...
IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 2020
Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthop... more Objective: The study was carried out to determine the concentration of total dust from the orthopaedic casting materials exposed to personnel and working area. The determination of knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding occupational safety and health (OSH) aspects also conducted. Increase dust concentration above the permissible limit (PEL) would decrease the health status among the staffs. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the orthopaedic clinic public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Determination of total dust concentration was using a NIOSH Manual of Analytical Method (NMAM 0501) for 8 hours and a direct reading for 10 minutes. A set of questionnaires assessing the level of KAP related to OSH at the orthopaedic clinic was distributed. Results: The results of total dust concentration in the casting room are 3.402 ± 0.003 mg/m3 from area sampling and for the personal air sampling is 5.573 ± 0.040 mg/m3 which are below than 15 mg/m3 PEL. Percentage...
Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials su... more Transformer manufacturing industry uses volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing materials such as varnish which can cause adverse health effects to human. Exposure to a high level of VOCs could disrupt the normal functions of a human lung.Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the status of lung functions of the workers exposed to VOCs at a transformer manufacturing plant in Selangor. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) concentration in the office and production area was measured using direct-reading method and 60 subjects were selected to undergo the lung function test. The FVC and FEV1 values showed significant difference (p<0.05) between the exposed group and the non-exposed group. The mean readings of FVC (69.07±12.58) and FEV₁ (72.90±10.46) of the exposed groups were lower than the non-exposed group, which were 81.47±9.78 and 84.23±9.07, respectively. In contrast to the FEV1/FVC parameters, the non-exposed group (102.93 ± 7.17) showed lower mean values than t...
Abstract: Tamarindus indica (tamarind), Garcinia atroviridis, and Curcuma longa (turmeric) are wi... more Abstract: Tamarindus indica (tamarind), Garcinia atroviridis, and Curcuma longa (turmeric) are widely used in food preparation. This study was conducted to determine the aluminium leachability in acidic food flavors Tamarindus indica and Garcinia atroviridis and tumeric powder. The results showed that aluminium contents were increased accordingly to the dosage of these acidic food flavors. The results showed that aluminium leaching was higher in solutions without Curcuma longa compare to the present of Curcuma longa. The effect of the presence of Curcuma longa powder in Tamarindus indica and Garcinia atroviridis solutions were indicated by the decreasing of aluminium solubility at 67.5% and 64.7% respectively.
A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure ... more A limited investigation of respiratory health effects of synthetic fiberglass cast dust exposure was performed. Our objective is to assess the effects of exposure to synthetic fiberglass cast dust with the lung function test. Selected 40 medical staff (17: exposed individuals; 23: control) from the orthopedic clinic was investigated and assessed the effect of fibrous glass dust exposure using the lung function test. They have performed spirometry with the standard technique. Measured parameter included: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume first second (FEV1), and FEV1 to FVC ratio. The observation shows that the exposed individuals recorded a lower value than the control group based on the parameter study. They tend to have abnormal lung function rather than the control set of individuals. However, there are no significant differences in spirometry reading between the exposed and control individuals. The sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, and smoking hab...
The former landfill site produces various combinations of gases that can cause health problems. T... more The former landfill site produces various combinations of gases that can cause health problems. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of air quality on the residents’ respiratory health that occupy buildings at the former landfill site at Taman Sri Manja, Petaling Jaya, Selangor compared with the control which in PPR Air Panas located at Setapak, Kuala Lumpur. Methods that are used for this study are gas sampling using aeroqual and multi-log gas detector. High-volume sampler (HVS) was used for PM10 determination. The open plate method was used to determine total count formed by microorganisms. Questionnaire forms and peak flow meter were used to determine the value of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) of 196 respondents in the case study and 190 respondents in control. Results showed that all the parameters including gases, PM10, heavy metals and total count of microbes under the estimated standard value have no significant difference between the case study and c...
PROCEEDINGS OF GREEN DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE 2020, 2021
The emergence of dust generated from the process of removal orthopedic cast materials pose a sign... more The emergence of dust generated from the process of removal orthopedic cast materials pose a significant potential hazardous to respiratory health among the healthcare workers (HCWs) in the orthopedic casting room. The study was carried out to determine the total dust concentrations in the casting room were exposed to environmental and personnel. The personnel and environmental air sampling were conducted for 6 hours followed the standard method from NIOSH Manual of Analytical Method 0501. Determination of personnel dust exposure were established for selected six HCWs, who are highly risk of dust exposed based on their jobs scope in the casting room. The determination of environmental air sampling was conducted in the casting room for six hours continuously. A set of questionnaires was administered to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude and practice related to the awareness of occupational safety and health among the 43 HCWs from public hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The result on total dust from the environmental air sampling (casting room) showed mean concentration are 3.402±0.003 mg/m³ and personal air sampling showed the mean concentration are 5.573± 0.040 mg/m³. The mean total concentration obtained were below the standard permissible exposure limit of 15 mg/m³ set by OSHA USA 2005. The result shows the level of knowledge were 96.75%, attitude 83.7% and practical 82.85% among the HCWs. There are significant relationship (p <0.05) level of knowledge with age, job titles and area of workplace. There are significant relationships (p <0.05) level of attitudes with job titles. There are also showed a significant relationship (p <0.05) level of practices with age, job titles and working hour per week. The potential risk of dust exposure to the HCWs in the casting room were manageable because the dust concentration are still low and there are adequate usage of PPE with good functioning exhaust systems in the casting room. Most HCWs have a high level of knowledge, attitude and practical of occupational safety and health. The study showed HCWs in this study are aware of the potential hazard associated with their workplace activities. It is the responsibility of the organization and the HCWs for providing a healthy and safe workplace in accordance with the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (Act 514) and relevant regulations.
Nature, Environment and Pollution Technology, Jun 1, 2012
Curcuma longa or turmeric was used as adsorbent for aluminium removal. The effects of operational... more Curcuma longa or turmeric was used as adsorbent for aluminium removal. The effects of operational factors, including pH, contact time and dose were studied, and their optimal controls were proven. Overall uptake of Curcuma longa was at the maximum when pH ranged between 5 and 9 and the optimal removal was 91. 2%. Optimal removal of 95. 8% was achieved at the 90 super (th) minute for the batch experiment. A dose of 6 g/L was enough for optimal removal of 93. 6%. Aluminium adsorption onto Curcuma longa was ...
Plants have several defence mechanisms to survive in a stressful environment. Formaldehyde is one... more Plants have several defence mechanisms to survive in a stressful environment. Formaldehyde is one of the indoor air pollutants that can cause cancer. Ornamental plant Dieffenbachia compacta can be used as biological control for pollutants in the indoor air environment. This study was conducted to isolate the genes that response for detoxifying formaldehyde in Dieffenbachia compacta. Methods used to isolate the gene is by using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). A total of 735 base pairs was isolated using a primer from Epipremnum aureum FALDH genes. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed that the sequence similarities of 85% and 84% to the FALDH mRNA for Epipremnum aureum and Populus trichocarpa respectively. While for amino acid 92% similarities were found against Epipremnum aureum and Populus trichocarpa. A total of 87 amino acids that were encoded from 261 base pairs using the Open Reading Frame Finder. Our finding showed that the isolated Dieffenbachia compacta gene is the gene fo...
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