Exposure to dust in the work environment is often responsible for respiratory disability. To what extent does this exposure contribute to respiratory dysfunction? This question has led to controversies and research in occupational settings for a long time. Subsequent studies have given controversial results on the level of exposure to dust and its effects on respiratory symptoms and respiratory function. Coal mining is one of the earliest industries known to affect respiratory function in the world. Many studies have assessed the effect of coal dust on the function of the respiratory system on coal miners but the effects of coal dust on workers handling coal are scarce. Many workers are currently involved in the coal power generation industry in Sri Lanka. It is the first coal power operated plant in the country and therefore the workers are not aware of the respiratory and other hazards they may encounter in this industry. The objectives were to study the respiratory function amongst the workers engaged in the coal power generation industry in Sri Lanka and to determine the association between coal exposure and respiratory function amongst coal handlers and non coal handlers. A descriptive cross sectional study was done on workers exposed to coal dust in the Norochcholai coal power plant. The workers ( n=80 ) consisted of Coal handlers (CH) (n=51)and non-coal handlers (NCH) (n=29). The respiratory symptoms were determined using an interviewer administered questionnaire and all subjects were clinically examined. Respiratoy function was assessed using a Vitallograph spirometer (Vitallograph Inc. UK). Spirometry data were analysed at uni-variate level using t test and at multi-variate level using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Measured FEF25 – 75 % was significantly lower amongst Non coal handlers (p =0.031) and (p = 0.047) respectively. Measured FEF25 – 75 % was a significant correlate with duration of work (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.242, and p = 0.031). Percentage FEF25 – 75 % was a significant correlate with duration of work (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.239, p = 0.033).This study highlights the use of FEF25 – 75 % as an important index in detecting early impairment of lung function. Previously undetected early impairment of lung functions was noted among non-coal handlers. Protective appropriate face masks should be worn by all workers to prevent respiratory disability. The study highlights the need for further longitudinal studies to assess the impact of coal exposure on lung function of the workers and the people living in the vicinity of the coal power plant.