Objective This study is focused on the assessment of the current health risks due to the occupational exposure to coffee dust. Methods We performed a cross-sectional study in a coffee haulage company (n = 24), in a coffee silo (n = 19) and in a decaffeinating company (n = 17). Cross-shift and cross-week case histories of these employees as well as lung function values were recorded. During the handling of green coffee, measurements of airborne dust were conducted. Results The employees in these workplaces were mainly affected by erythematous and rhinoconjunctival symptoms. They occurred especially in subjects exposed to a high dust load (> 10mg inhalable dust/m(3) air; n = 28) (Chi(2)-test of Pearson p = 0.020 and p = 0.023). IgE antibodies to green coffee and castor beans were detected in 3, respectively 10 workers. The majority of them (2 and 6 employees) had shown respiratory symptoms during the past 12 months. The preshift lung function values were below average, but not dependent on the level of the inhalable coffee dust exposure. Employees with a coffee dust load > 10mg inhalable dust/m(3) air showed higher unspecific bronchial responsiveness more frequently than those with lower exposures. Conclusion During the trans-shipment (especially during unloading) of green coffee, a high and clinically relevant exposure to irritative and sensitizing dust occurs. Therefore, efforts to reduce these dust exposures are generally recommended.
