Analysis Of Pb Levels In Ambien Air And Complaints Of Motorcycle Workshop Employees In Babura Sunggal Village, Medan City

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Analysis of Lead Levels (Pb) in Ambien Air and Complaints of Motorcycle Workshop Employees in Babura Sunggal Village, Medan City

Introduction

The increasing use of motorized vehicles in urban areas, such as the city of Medan, has led to a significant rise in air pollution. One of the most hazardous pollutants produced by motor vehicles is lead (Pb), a heavy metal that can contaminate the environment through exhaust emissions. The Kelurahan Babura Sunggal, a densely populated area with heavy traffic, is the focus of this study to determine the levels of Pb in ambient air and its impact on the health of motorcycle repair employees.

Background

The use of motorized vehicles has become a norm in urban areas, leading to a significant increase in air pollution. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution is responsible for 7 million premature deaths worldwide each year. In Indonesia, the use of motorized vehicles has increased significantly, resulting in a rise in air pollution. The city of Medan, being one of the largest cities in Indonesia, is no exception. The increasing use of motorized vehicles has led to a significant rise in air pollution, posing a threat to the health of its citizens.

Methodology

This study uses a descriptive survey method to determine the levels of Pb in ambient air in the Kelurahan Babura Sunggal. Air samples were taken at five different points in the village, and the results were analyzed to determine the levels of Pb. The study also involved a survey of 15 motorcycle repair employees to determine the health complaints they experienced.

Results

The results of the study show that the levels of Pb in ambient air are below the quality standard limit according to PP No. 41 of 1999, which ranges from <0.0001 to 0.0207 μg/NM3. Although the levels of Pb are within the safe limit, the study found that 15 motorcycle repair employees experienced health complaints. The most common health complaints experienced by the employees were fatigue (27%), shortness of breath (24.3%), headaches (21.6%), back pain (10.8%), coughing, and nausea (8.1%).

Discussion

The results of this study show that despite the levels of Pb in ambient air being within the safe limit, the employees experienced health complaints. This suggests that the exposure to Pb may have a negative impact on the health of the employees. The study also highlights the importance of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for workshop employees to reduce the risk of Pb exposure. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for education and awareness about the dangers of Pb exposure for health.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that the levels of Pb in ambient air in the Kelurahan Babura Sunggal are within the safe limit. However, the study found that 15 motorcycle repair employees experienced health complaints. The study highlights the importance of using PPE for workshop employees and the need for education and awareness about the dangers of Pb exposure for health. The government, industry, and the community need to work together to reduce Pb emissions from motorized vehicles and create a healthier environment.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Further research: Further research is needed to determine the impact of Pb exposure on the health of a wider population, including the surrounding population.
  2. Use of PPE: The use of PPE for workshop employees should be encouraged to reduce the risk of Pb exposure.
  3. Education and awareness: Education and awareness about the dangers of Pb exposure for health should be encouraged.
  4. Reducing Pb emissions: The government, industry, and the community should work together to reduce Pb emissions from motorized vehicles and create a healthier environment.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

  1. Limited sample size: The study only involved 15 motorcycle repair employees, which may not be representative of the wider population.
  2. Limited scope: The study only focused on the Kelurahan Babura Sunggal and did not involve a wider population.
  3. Methodological limitations: The study used a descriptive survey method, which may not be the most effective method for determining the impact of Pb exposure on health.

Future Directions

Future studies should aim to determine the impact of Pb exposure on the health of a wider population, including the surrounding population. The use of more effective methods, such as experimental studies, may be necessary to determine the impact of Pb exposure on health. Additionally, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of PPE in reducing the risk of Pb exposure.