Underground workers who received aluminum dust prophylaxis and its personal impact

Background From 1943 to 1980, some underground gold and uranium workers in Ontario, Canada were required to inhale aluminum dust daily for silicosis prevention. This study explored the perceived personal impact of aluminum dust exposure for some Northeastern Ontario workers. Methods This qualitative descriptive study included 16 respondents who participated in individual semi-structured interviews. All respondents were Northeastern Ontario workers who were exposed to aluminum dust prophylaxis for at least one year. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Results Themes that emerged included: 1) compulsory exposure, 2) hesitancy to complain, 3) feelings of betrayal, and 4) concerns about health impact and dying. Conclusion Exposed workers perceived that their long-term health was impacted on a personal level. The results will contribute to the literature about workplace aluminum dust exposures and to better inform workers and companies about exposure impact and management of aluminum dust.