Relationship between vibrotactile perception and chemical exposure among vehicle service technicians in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Introduction: Hazardous chemicals with detrimental effect on the central nervous system are widely used in the vehicle services industry. The use of Vibrotactile Perception Threshold (VPT) as a screening tool for chemical exposure is new in a developing country like Malaysia. Therefore, this inaugural study was conducted in Malaysia to determine the relationship between Vibrotactile Perception Threshold (VPT) and chemical exposure among vehicle service technicians within Klang Valley. Methods: Chemical Health Risk Assessment (CHRA) was conducted among vehicle service technicians using standard method from the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) Malaysia. HavLab Tactile Vibrometer, UK was utilised to determine the VPT at fingertip for the assessment of peripheral nerve impairment. Questionnaires were used to obtain the respondents’ background. Results: Results displayed that the Log VPT 31.5 Hz & 125 Hz for workers exposed to chemicals was significantly higher compared to the non-exposed workers (31.5 Hz: T=4.776 (p<0.001), 125 Hz: T=4.775(p<0.001)). There are significant relationships observed between VPT at Log 31.5 Hz, Log 125 Hz and overall VPT with diesel, mixture of gasoline and benzene, gasoline only, and the use of personal protective equipment. Conclusion: The overall VPT model demonstrated that the exposure to organic solvent and the use of PPE have contributed to vibrotactile threshold among vehicle service technicians in Klang Valley.

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