Analisis Kadar PM10 dan CO serta Keluhan Pernapasan pada Petugas Operasional Terminal Peti Kemas PT Pelindo Belawan Tahun 2023

Abstract

The presence of container trucks in the operational process at the container terminal of PT. PELINDO Belawan leads to the emission of PM10 and CO, which pollute the environment and cause respiratory symptoms among the operational staff. This research aims to assess the air quality in terms of PM10 and CO levels, as well as investigate respiratory symptoms among container terminal operational staff at PT. PELINDO Belawan. This research is an observational with cross-sectional design study. From a population of 699 individuals, 88 samples were obtained using purposive sampling technique. Air quality data was collected through direct measurements at three different locations, while respiratory symptoms data was gathered through staff interviews. PM10 level at the container terminal had exceeded the standard limit, with the highest concentration recorded at the entrance gate, reaching 193 μg/Nm³. Whereas, CO level remained within the acceptable range. Observations conducted over a week at the container terminal revealed that the peak traffic flow of container trucks occurred on Tuesday, with 3.037 trucks, while the lowest flow was on Sunday, with a total of 223 trucks. Among the 88 respondents, 40 individuals (45.5%) experienced respiratory symptoms, with the most common complaint, reported by 25 individuals (65%), being runny or congested nose. Most respiratory symptoms occurred at unpredictable times, as reported by 35 individuals (39.8%), suggesting that symptoms did not solely occur during or after working hours. It is recommended that PT. PELINDO Belawan enforces mandatory mask usage for the operational staff at the container terminal to reduce the risk of dust and CO exposure, as well as respiratory symptoms. Additionally, planting trees can help mitigate pollutant levels in the air. Regular respiratory health check-ups should be conducted to monitor the well-being and respiratory health of the operational staff.