Traffic police should consistently use personal protective equipment when in charge of regulating traffic

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 140 views

Analysis of Lead Levels (Pb) in Urine and Health Complaints and Behavior of Use of Personal Protective Equipment (APD) at the Traffic Police in Medan Patumbak Police Station and Medan Area Police

Introduction

The Dangers of Lead Exposure

Lead (Pb) is a gray heavy metal that is one of the main pollutants in the air. This pollution is mostly caused by the use of lead as a mixture in motor vehicle fuel, which aims to improve engine performance. Traffic police are one of the high-risk groups being negatively affected by lead exposure, because they are exposed to vehicle smoke every day. The consequences of lead exposure can be severe, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive organs. In this study, we aim to measure lead levels in urine, identify health complaints, and evaluate knowledge and attitudes related to lead and use of personal protective equipment (APD) among traffic police officers in charge of Medan Patumbak Police Station and Medan Area Sector Police.

Methodology

This type of research is a descriptive survey with 22 samples of urine sampling which is carried out in total sampling. The data collection method involves the use of a questionnaire which is then followed by a laboratory examination to test lead levels in urine. The questionnaire was designed to gather information on demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitudes related to lead, and use of personal protective equipment. The results of the analysis show that of the 22 urine samples examined, there are 13 samples that have lead levels above 0.15 mg/l, while 9 samples indicate lead levels below the threshold.

Demographic Characteristics

From the demographic side, the majority of respondents aged between 15 to 49 years, with 81.8% of them in that age range. This age range is considered to be at high risk for lead exposure due to the increased likelihood of being exposed to lead through work and daily activities. In addition, most of the respondents were male (95.5%), and as many as 27.3% had a period of work within a span of 23-28 years. On average, respondents are exposed to lead for about 6 hours every day. The prolonged exposure to lead can lead to severe health consequences, including damage to the nervous system and kidneys.

Health Complaints

The striking, all respondents reported experienced health complaints, showing that lead exposure had a significant impact on their welfare. The health complaints reported by the respondents include headaches, fatigue, and joint pain. These symptoms are commonly associated with lead exposure and can have a significant impact on the quality of life of the respondents.

Knowledge and Attitudes

In terms of knowledge and attitudes, the results of the study indicate that respondents have a level of knowledge and attitudes regarding the dangers of lead and the use of moderate self-protective equipment, with a score ranging between 45-75%. This shows that even though they are aware of the risks associated with lead, there is space to increase their awareness and understanding of the importance of self-protection.

Conclusion

The conclusion of this study emphasizes that lead levels (PB) detected in traffic police urine in Medan Patumbak Police Station and Medan Area Sector Police reached 13 samples that did not meet the safe limit. This is a cause for concern, as lead exposure can have severe health consequences. All respondents experience health complaints, and the use of PPE is at a moderate level. Therefore, it is essential for traffic police to consistently use personal protective equipment when in charge of regulating traffic and undergoing regular medical examinations to monitor lead levels in their bodies.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Traffic police should consistently use personal protective equipment when in charge of regulating traffic.
Regular medical examinations should be conducted to monitor lead levels in the bodies of traffic police.
Awareness and education programs should be implemented to increase the knowledge and understanding of the importance of self-protection among traffic police.
The use of lead-free fuel should be promoted to reduce the exposure to lead.

Closing

The importance of maintaining health and safety for traffic police cannot be ignored, given the potential dangers of lead exposure. The use of adequate personal protective equipment and deeper understanding of health risks can help reduce the negative impacts of lead exposure, and improve their quality of life. With appropriate prevention steps, it is hoped that the welfare of traffic police members can be maintained and health risks can be minimized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lead Exposure and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Traffic Police

Q: What is lead exposure and how does it affect traffic police?

A: Lead exposure occurs when individuals are exposed to lead through their work or daily activities. Traffic police are at high risk of lead exposure due to their prolonged exposure to vehicle smoke, which contains lead. Prolonged exposure to lead can lead to severe health consequences, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive organs.

Q: What are the symptoms of lead exposure?

A: The symptoms of lead exposure include headaches, fatigue, joint pain, and decreased cognitive function. In severe cases, lead exposure can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.

Q: How can traffic police reduce their exposure to lead?

A: Traffic police can reduce their exposure to lead by consistently using personal protective equipment (PPE) when in charge of regulating traffic. PPE includes masks, gloves, and eye protection. Regular medical examinations should also be conducted to monitor lead levels in the bodies of traffic police.

Q: What is the importance of using PPE for traffic police?

A: The use of PPE is essential for traffic police to reduce their exposure to lead. PPE can help prevent lead from entering the body through the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Consistent use of PPE can help reduce the negative impacts of lead exposure and improve the quality of life of traffic police.

Q: How can traffic police increase their awareness and understanding of the importance of self-protection?

A: Traffic police can increase their awareness and understanding of the importance of self-protection by attending awareness and education programs. These programs can provide information on the dangers of lead exposure and the importance of using PPE. Regular training and education can help traffic police develop the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves from lead exposure.

Q: What are the benefits of using lead-free fuel?

A: The use of lead-free fuel can help reduce the exposure to lead among traffic police. Lead-free fuel is a safer alternative to traditional fuel, which contains lead. The use of lead-free fuel can help reduce the negative impacts of lead exposure and improve the quality of life of traffic police.

Q: How can traffic police monitor their lead levels?

A: Traffic police can monitor their lead levels by undergoing regular medical examinations. These examinations can provide information on the levels of lead in the body and help identify any potential health risks. Regular monitoring can help traffic police take proactive steps to reduce their exposure to lead and improve their overall health.

Q: What are the consequences of not using PPE among traffic police?

A: The consequences of not using PPE among traffic police can be severe. Prolonged exposure to lead can lead to severe health consequences, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive organs. In severe cases, lead exposure can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.

Q: How can traffic police prevent lead exposure in their daily activities?

A: Traffic police can prevent lead exposure in their daily activities by consistently using PPE, attending awareness and education programs, and undergoing regular medical examinations. They can also promote the use of lead-free fuel and reduce their exposure to vehicle smoke.

Q: What is the role of awareness and education in reducing lead exposure among traffic police?

A: Awareness and education play a crucial role in reducing lead exposure among traffic police. Awareness and education programs can provide information on the dangers of lead exposure and the importance of using PPE. Regular training and education can help traffic police develop the skills and knowledge needed to protect themselves from lead exposure.

Q: How can traffic police maintain their health and safety?

A: Traffic police can maintain their health and safety by consistently using PPE, attending awareness and education programs, and undergoing regular medical examinations. They can also promote the use of lead-free fuel and reduce their exposure to vehicle smoke. Regular monitoring and proactive steps can help traffic police reduce their exposure to lead and improve their overall health.