135 Miners Need Retesting
A serious error has been discovered in black lung testing in Queensland, with 135 coal miners now needing to undergo repeat testing for the potentially fatal condition. An audit by Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) revealed a concerning 30% error rate in lung function tests conducted by a spirometry company in Mackay last year.
The medical company, which remains unnamed by RSHQ, has been suspended for six months due to its substandard testing practices. Spirometry testing is crucial for identifying breathing impairments associated with black lung disease, a condition caused by prolonged exposure to coal mine dust.
RSHQ has taken swift action to inform all affected miners. They have been contacted directly via phone and follow-up letters, while their employers and doctors have also been notified.
"While we always work with medical providers to improve screening quality, we don't hesitate to take appropriate regulatory action when necessary to protect workers' health and safety," stated Patrick Jensen, RSHQ's health strategy and compliance director.
The audit revealed numerous issues with the spirometry practice, including ineffective test administration, failure to identify problems in test results, and inaccurate comments leading to incorrect interpretations.
The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) has expressed serious concerns about the situation. Jason Hill, the union's industry safety and health representative, called the 30% error rate "disgusting" and voiced worries about the health of central Queensland workers.
The MEU has long advocated for independent doctors, not those employed by mining companies, to conduct these tests. Early detection of black lung disease is crucial for effective management and maintaining the health and quality of life for affected individuals.
"People can remain employed and hopefully live a full, healthy life," Hill said, emphasizing the importance of accurate and timely screening. He also highlighted the need for better dust monitoring, citing practices in other jurisdictions.
RSHQ's suspension of the medical provider sends a clear message about the importance of prioritizing the health of coal mine workers. The re-emergence of black lung disease in Queensland underscores the critical need for high-quality medical screening to protect workers from this potentially devastating condition.