Young mine workers in Rockhampton encouraged to participate in free lung health assessments

Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ), the state's mining regulatory body, has cautioned that a number of former workers in Rockhampton could be neglecting a crucial medical diagnosis.

According to RSHQ, twenty percent of miners suffering from mine dust lung disease are below 55 years old, and almost fifty percent of these younger workers have been employed in mining for fewer than 20 years. In spite of this, only six percent of the ex-workers taking advantage of RSHQ's no-cost lung assessments are below the age of 55.

Director of the Health Surveillance Unit at RSHQ Evan Pengelly is encouraging younger individuals to participate in the free lung health assessments.

"Mine dust lung diseases are not just for the retired," said Mr Pengelly.

"We know young people can contract them too and so it's important all former workers, no matter their age, get tested after they've left mining and even if they've joined another industry."

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