Occupational exposures as predictors of cigarette smoking among Operating Engineers

Background: Cigarette smoking is inversely related to occupational rank and is the health behavior that has the single largest impact on health inequalities. Blue-collar workers smoke more and experience a wide range of exposures to occupational hazards compared to white collar workers. Since limited studies have investigated the relationship between occupational exposures and smoking, the purpose of this study is to determine if occupational exposures predict smoking among Operating Engineers (heavy equipment operators). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with Operating Engineers (N=479) from a mid-western state. The survey included validated questions on occupational exposures, demographics, comorbidies, and health behaviors. Results: The mean age was 43 years, 92% were white, and about 30% were current smokers. Using principle components analyses to group nine occupational exposures into two dimensions and then conducting logistic regression analyses, those exposed to asphalt fumes, heat stress, concrete dust, and welding fumes smoked less than the other s (OR=.79, p=.012), while no significant differences in smoking rates were found among those exposed to lead, benzene, asbestos, solvents, and silica compared to other Operating Engineers. Similar to other studies, covariates that predicted smoking included age (OR=.97, p=.032), problem drinking (OR=1.07, p=.001), and Body Mass Index (OR=.95, p=.015). Marital status was also significant (p=.002). Those separated/widowed/divorced smoked more (OR=2.24. p=.012) compared to those married. Conclusion: Occupational exposure to certain types of hazards was significantly related to smoking. Further investigation is needed for better understanding about job specific exposure patterns and their impact on smoking among operating engineers.