PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Queensland government has announced the formation of a core group of coal mining medicos as part of its review into health issues faced by the state’s miners.
State Development and Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said on Friday that the re-emergence of coal workers pneumoconiosis was an issue that was taken seriously, and had resulted in an independent review into the state’s health screening system.
“One of the interim findings of the independent review is a closer focus on developing and maintaining a manageable core cohort of nominated medical advisers. I have instructed my Department of Natural Resources and Mines to take immediate action on this recommendation,” Lynham said.
“Effective health assessments are critical to the screening system and early identification and prevention of coal miners’ pneumoconiosis.
“It’s critical that we have a core group of experienced nominated medical advisers who are skilled, experienced, can share information and be kept up-to-date on the specific occupational health requirements for Queensland’s coal mineworkers.”
The review, which was looking at ways to improve the existing coal worker’s health screening system, was part of the government’s five-point action plan to tackle coal worker’s pneumoconiosis.
The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) said on Friday that it was keen to work with all stakeholders in progressing the interim findings
“The health and safety of workers is a top priority and the resources sector is committed to maintaining compliance with the Coal Mine Workers’ Health Scheme,” said QRC acting CEO Greg Lane.
Queensland has six confirmed cases of pneumoconiosis.