Anyone who has worked in a coal mine is entitled to free black lung testing without a referral, but those who handle coal through the ports and rail network face a more arduous process.
Workers who handle coal through ports and rail say they want easier access to testing for black lung disease to align with coal miners.Ian Seeds has never worked in a coal mine but two years ago he was diagnosed with pneumoconiosis, an illness more commonly known as black lung disease.It scars the lungs and makes breathing difficult.
There is currently no cure for the disease and early detection means steps can be taken to improve quality of life."It will either take me out or I'll take it out when I pass away." "There are people who work on the railway, there are train drivers, shunters, and examiners and all that and they're not getting tested.Currently, there are different ways former workers can access free black lung testing.
"If you have a coal-related or a dust-related disease from working in coal it has massive health and financial impact," Senator Allman-Payne said.
Black Lung Testing Coal Workers Port Workers Pneumoconiosis Gladstone Port Coal Dust
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
AFLW Port Adelaide star Gemma Houghton shares mental health struggles after losing best friend to suicideTwo-time All Australian Gemma Houghton says her passion for football ran dry after her mate's death, as a study has found female athletes face more psychosocial stressors including exposure to sexual harassment and challenges around parenting.
Read more »
Port guide: Auckland, New ZealandThe cruise terminal could hardly be better located to explore New Zealand’s breezy, sea-gazing capital, so get walking.
Read more »
Port guide: Auckland, New ZealandThe cruise terminal could hardly be better located to explore New Zealand’s breezy, sea-gazing capital, so get walking.
Read more »
Port guide: Auckland, New ZealandThe cruise terminal could hardly be better located to explore New Zealand’s breezy, sea-gazing capital, so get walking.
Read more »
Port guide: Saint-Malo, FranceThis breeze-blown port is flanked by beaches and wave-booming seas; the newer town has agreeable promenades, restaurants and markets.
Read more »
Port guide: Saint-Malo, FranceThis breeze-blown port is flanked by beaches and wave-booming seas; the newer town has agreeable promenades, restaurants and markets.
Read more »