Former mine and quarry workers in Central Queensland are being urged to undergo free health screenings for potential mine dust lung diseases.
Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) warns that these conditions can develop over a decade or more, often without noticeable symptoms.
Evan Pengelly, Director of RSHQ’s Health Surveillance Unit, emphasises the importance of testing, even for those who have long since left the industry.
“We know that in many cases, former workers don’t have symptoms or aren’t aware they have a disease,” Pengelly stated.
“We really encourage our former workers to come forward and get tested because there could be treatment available, and you may be entitled to compensation.”
The HEART5 mobile health clinic, a B-double truck equipped with advanced medical screening technology, is offering free lung disease-detecting tests in regional Queensland.
This service, operated by Heart of Australia in partnership with RSHQ, provides comprehensive screenings including:
- Examination by an RSHQ-approved doctor
- Chest X-ray
- Lung function test by spirometry
- CT scan (if required)
Eligibility for free checks extends to former Queensland mine and quarry workers with at least three years of experience, including a minimum of 6 months in Queensland.
While the HEART5 truck’s scheduled visits to Emerald and Biloela have passed, former workers are encouraged to seek testing through other approved clinicians across the state.
To book, call the Mine Dust Health Support Service on 1300 445 715 or visit this link.
This initiative underscores the ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of former mine and quarry workers in Queensland, providing crucial early detection and support for those at risk of mine dust lung diseases.
