PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Queensland state government was hoping that coal dust reforms would assist in the prevention of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, or the so-called black lung disease.
Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said this week that coal dust reforms were under way as the government prioritized the health and safety of coal workers in the region.
Speaking to Parliament about the changes in the regulation of coal dust, Lynham said the Coal Mining Safety and Health Advisory Committee of union, employer and departmental representatives was working as a priority on measures to tackle the re-emergence of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis.
“The advisory committee is already working on a number of important actions, including regulatory changes to the dust monitoring system. It will develop minimum training and experience standards for nominated medical advisers.
“Further, I am very keen to see more transparency on dust monitoring, and I want the committee to look very carefully at how this can be achieved.”
Lynham encouraged the advisory committee members to continue to examine all of the evidence, and work together to provide the state government with full, frank and considered advice.
“I commit to act swiftly, in consultation with all parties, and to take whatever action is required to protect the health and safety of our coal miners.”
Queensland currently has six confirmed cases of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis.