June 29, 2020
Current and former mine and quarry workers in Queensland will now have access to free lung checks to test for mine dust diseases such as silicosis.
Mandatory free checks for current workers will apply from September 1.
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.
After they leave the industry, they can continue to have free respiratory health checks for life, if they want to.
The measure will provide mineral mine and quarry workers with the same health checks as coal miners who already have free mandatory respiratory screening.
“Every Queensland worker has the right to safe working conditions and peace of mind,” Mines Minister Anthony Lynham said.
