Free lung health assessments for ex-mine workers in north-west Queensland

The HEART5 Mobile Health Unit is set to return to Mount Isa next week, where it will offer free lung assessments to eligible individuals who previously worked in mines and quarries.

HEART5 is a B-double loaded with medical gear to test for lung diseases caused by mine dust, such as silicosis, black lung, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

This program is part of the Former Worker initiative by Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ), allowing former industry workers to obtain free testing, either on-site at the truck or at an authorised local clinic.

RSHQ's Director of the Health Surveillance Unit Evan Pengelly states that testing after exiting the industry is crucial since lung diseases from mine dust can take over a decade to manifest.

"Regular testing is a normal part of working at a mine or quarry, but once you leave the industry you can still get these important lung checks for free," said Mr Pengelly.

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