Free lung checks offered to Rockhampton mine workers to combat industrial disease

Disturbing statistics show that 20 per cent of all miners diagnosed with mine dust lung disease are under 55, and nearly half of these younger workers have spent less than 20 years in the industry.

The free lung check program is available to former and retired mine and quarry workers in Queensland, who have at least 3 years' experience working in coal and mineral mines or at quarries that includes 6 months in a Queensland operation. Supplied: Mark Grimwade

Resources Safety and Health Queensland are warning that some former mine workers in Rockhampton may be unknowingly living with lung diseases.
Statistics show that 20 per cent of all miners diagnosed with mine dust lung disease are under 55, and nearly half of these younger workers have spent less than 20 years in the industry.

A mobile health unit will be visiting Rockhampton Showgrounds from February 26 to February 28 in order to provide free lung health checks to former and current miners.

The free lung check program is available to former and retired mine and quarry workers in Queensland, who have at least 3 years' experience working in coal and mineral mines or at quarries that includes 6 months in a Queensland operation. Supplied: Mark Grimwade

This high-tech B-double truck is equipped with state-of-the-art medical screening tools to offer lung disease assessments.

The screening includes:

✔ Examination by an RSHQ-approved doctor

✔ Chest X-ray

✔ Lung function test (spirometry)

✔ CT scan (if required)

RSHQ’s Director of the Health Surveillance Unit, Evan Pengelly, is encouraging younger ex-miners to get tested.

“Mine dust lung diseases aren’t just a concern for retirees,” Mr Pengelly said.

“We know younger workers can develop these diseases too, so it’s crucial that all former mine and quarry workers — regardless of age — get checked, even if they’ve moved on to a different industry.”

In addition to the HEART5 mobile service, RSHQ also partners with a statewide network of approved clinics that provide free lung health checks year-round.

The program is available to former and retired mine and quarry workers in Queensland who have at least three years of experience in coal or mineral mining or quarry work, including at least six months in a Queensland operation.

Eligible former workers can call 1300 445 715 to book a screening at a local clinic or the HEART5 mobile unit when it visits their area.

Originally published as Free lung checks offered to Rockhampton mine workers to combat industrial disease