The Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy says mandatory lung health checks are to be introduced for Queensland mineral mine and quarry workers.
Under the Mining Safety and Health Legislation (Health Surveillance) Amendment Regulation 2020, from 1 September this year, screening for the early detection and prevention of mine dust lung diseases, including silicosis, must be undertaken by the 15,000 workers at the beginning of, and during their careers.
In a statement, the Department said that with the change, mineral mine and quarry workers would be afforded the same reassurance as their coal mining counterparts who already received free mandatory respiratory health screening.
“Each worker will have a chest X-ray that is read by at least two qualified radiologists and a lung function test on entry into the industry, and further tests at least once every five years while in the industry,” the Department said.
“After leaving the industry, workers will continue to have quality respiratory health checks for life — if they desire it — at no cost to them.”
The Department said it had been notified of 43 cases of confirmed mine dust lung disease among current and former Queensland mineral mine and quarry workers.
“Mandatory screening is vital in helping prevent the progression of lung diseases including silicosis,” it said.
“Under Queensland law, mineral mines and quarries must ensure their workers are educated on the potential risk of dust and silica exposure, as well as the relevant control measures that prevent or minimise exposure.”
Minister for Mines, Anthony Lynham said every Queensland worker had the right to safe working conditions and peace of mind.
“As a doctor I know that hand-in-hand with disease prevention goes early detection, because it helps stop disease progressing — and mandatory screening is critical for early detection,” Dr Lynham said.
