New cases of deadly black lung emerge

A total of nine cases of the deadly black lung disease are either confirmed or feared in Queensland, with one new case confirmed and another four cases awaiting official diagnosis. It follows four cases reported in November last year, the first cases to be diagnosed in decades.

CFMEU Queensland Mining and Energy division President Steve Smyth said with more than one case per week being diagnosed in the last two months, the union’s worst fears were starting to be realised and they expect many more diagnosed cases in coming months.

“We can’t put a figure on it because the regulatory system that is meant to detect problems has been asleep for decades, but it could be a big number,” said Smyth.

“They haven’t had specialists, who are known as ‘B-readers’, checking miners’ X-rays, and according to data reported by mining companies themselves, dust levels have been 5–10 times the legal limit.

“That has to change.”

A new campaign has also been launched aimed at improving health checks, dust inspections and other government regulation. Dust to Dust; Make Black Lung History will seek a public inquiry into the re-emergence of the disease and clear commitments from the Queensland Government.

According to the CFMEU, Percy Verrall was the first miner to recently be diagnosed with black lung disease in Australia, uncovering a major health crisis; and he has encouraged other miners to come forward and share their own stories and dust-related health issues via an information hub at www.blacklung.com.au.

“Workers are concerned, families are worried and the community wants to lend a hand, but there has been no easy way to get information or get involved,” said Smyth.

“If people are concerned about their health or just want more information, we recommend they visit the site to sign up to the campaign and register their health issue and story.

“It’s appalling that companies and regulatory bodies have let health standards deteriorate, putting the lives of workers at serious risk.”