Workers get free lung checks

NORTH Queensland mine and quarry workers will benefit from free lung checks to protect from mine dust diseases like silicosis.

From September 1, Queensland’s 15,000 mine and quarry workers will receive the mandatory free checks.

Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said every worker had the right to safe working conditions.

“As a doctor I know that hand-in-hand with disease prevention goes early detection, because it helps stop disease progressing,” he said.

“And mandatory screening is critical for early detection.”

Townsville MP Scott Stewart said many miners and families in North Queensland would benefit.

“Our mine workers make a massive contribution to Queensland’s economy, and particularly through the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.

“I know workers, and their families, will welcome these extra measures.”

Mr Stewart urged mine workers to alert friends and colleagues who may have left the industry to contact the mine dust health support service on 1300 445 715 to also access their free health checks.

Under the changes, every worker will have a chest X-ray that is read by at least two qualified radiologists as well as a lung function test.

This will happen when they start in the industry and at least once every five years during their career in the industry.

And after they leave the industry, they can continue to have free respiratory health checks for life if they want to.

The measures provide mineral mine and quarry workers with the same health checks as their 37,000 coal mining counterparts.

Dr Lynham said the free checks were part of the suite of reforms to protect mine and quarry workers.