Republic of the Philippines

City of Taguig
Taguig City University
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan, Taguig City

T h e literature on the occupational health and safety o f toll booth workers has
focused primarily on the health effects of exposure to motor vehicle exhaust.
Respirable pollutants of most concern have included carbon monoxide, nitrogen
dioxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrocarbons, asbestos, and particulates. In 1941
Sievers et al. Studied 156 men who had worked continuously f o r 13 years in the
(New York-New Jersey) Holland Tunnel [Sievers e t al., 19421.
Carboxyhemoglobin levels varied directly with both motor vehicle exhaust
exposure and cigarette smoking. No excess cardiovascular or central nervous
system disease attributable t o exhaust exposure was found, and respiratory
symptoms were reportedly not significant. Massachusetts Tunnel and Turnpike
workers were t h e subject of two studies. Speizer and Ferris reported that toll
workers with o ve r 1 0 years exposure in t h e Sumner Tunnel under the
Boston Harbor had more nonspecific respiratory disease and chest colds than
newer employees. Tollerud e t al. 19831 reported that Massachusetts
Turnpike and Tunnel workers respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function
were strongly affected by smoking but exhibited no additional effects from
exposure to motor vehicle exhaust at heavily travelled tunnel and turnpike toll
booths.
 Republic of the Philippines
City of Taguig ii
Taguig City University
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan, Taguig City

The prevalence of respiratory and other health problems in a cohort of highway toll
booth workers was surveyed by mailed questionnaire. In a low proportion of
respondents (43.2%), a high prevalence of central nervous system complaints
(headaches, irritability, o r anxiety, and unusual tiredness), mucous membrane
irritation (eye irritation, nasal congestion, and dry throat), and musculoskeletal
problems (joint and back pains) was found. We believe these symptoms are
reflective of the acute irritant and central nervous system effects of exposure t o
motor vehicle exhaust. The musculoskeletal complaints are
likely the result of bending, reaching, and leaning out of the toll booth. The need
for in-depth evaluation of the ventilation systems and the ergonomic and job
stressors of work at toll booths is suggested by these results.

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