Photo: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Washington — NIOSH has scheduled a series of free, confidential health screenings as it aims to identify cases of black lung disease in current and former miners.
Black lung is another name for coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, a deadly condition caused by exposure to respirable coal mine dust. Multiple studies show that cases are on the rise.
Offered through the agency’s Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program, the screenings are conducted in the NIOSH mobile testing unit. Upcoming screenings are scheduled for:
- 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 29-31: NMRA Post 5 Mine Rescue Contest, Mylan Park, 500 Mylan Park Lane, Morgantown, WV
- 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 5: Price Cutter, 1 Rainbow Plaza, Mannington, WV
- 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 27: Grantsville Volunteer Fire Department, 178 Springs Road, Grantsville, MD
Screenings last about 30 minutes and include:
- A work history and respiratory questionnaire
- A chest X-ray
- Blood pressure screening
- Lung function testing (spirometry)
“Appointments are recommended but walk-ins are welcome,” NIOSH says. “Each miner will be provided their results within eight to 10 weeks from their screening appointment.”
McCraren Compliance offers a full range of safety and health training and consulting services. Plus we can help you incorporate well-being into your traditional systems in order to support the Total Worker Health of your workforce.
Call 888-758-4757, email info@mccrarencompliance.com or visit our website www.mccrarencompliance.com
Original article published by Safety+Health an NSC publication