Mobile lung checks come to Roma, Dalby, Warwick and Chinchilla

HEART5 will be available to former workers from the mining, quarrying, and petroleum and gas (exploration or extraction) sectors when the truck rolls into town next month, stopping at Roma, Dalby, Warwick and Chinchilla for the first time, over four days.

HEART5 is a B-double filled with medical equipment to screen for mine dust lung diseases like silicosis, black lung, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

It's part of Resources Safety and Health Queensland's (RSHQ) Former Worker Program which allows for those who have left the mining industry to get tested for free either on board HEART5 or at an approved local clinic.

HEART5 has been travelling across Queensland, operated by Heart of Australia, in partnership with RSHQ, to deliver medical screenings that aren't always available in regional and rural areas.

"We're really proud to offer the services available on board HEART5," said RSHQ's Health Surveillance Unit Director Evan Pengelly.

"People don't realise that many of these diseases start to develop without any symptoms and that's why we are constantly encouraging those who have left the industry - no matter their age - to sign up for a free lung check."

Screening includes:

• Examination with an RSHQ-approved doctor
• Chest X-ray
• Lung function test by spirometry
• CT scan (if required)

The free lung check program is available to former and retired mine, quarry, petroleum and gas workers in Queensland, who have at least 3 years' experience that includes 6 months in a Queensland operation.

Eligible former workers should call 1300 445 715 to find out more about getting a free lung health check on board the truck.

South West Queensland visits:

• Roma: Monday 16 June @ Basset Park Showgrounds
• Chinchilla: Tuesday 17 June @ Chinchilla Showgrounds
• Dalby: Wednesday 18 June @ Dalby Showgrounds
• Warwick: Thursday 19 June @ Warwick Showgrounds

N.B. Bookings are essential for this service. RSHQ kindly asks that media promote the following line when writing stories: "To book, call the Mine Dust Health Support Service on 1300 445 715" or link to this website: Contact | Miners' health matters (rshq.qld.gov.au)

ENDS

Media contact

Amy McCann

0457 094 250

media@rshq.qld.gov.au