General News
22 July, 2025
Miners targeted for lung checks in Mount Isa
The HEART5 Mobile Health unit will be based at Buchanan Park.
The HEART5 Mobile Health Unit is returning to Mount Isa, offering free lung checks to eligible former mine and quarry workers.
Since it began operating in 2022, HEART5 has stopped at 31 different towns during 64 visits in total, and tested 1275 people.
This will be the truck’s fourth visit to Mount Isa.
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 (COPD).
It’s part of Resources Safety and Health Queensland’s Former Worker Program, which allows for those who have left the industry to get tested for free, either on board the truck or at an approved local clinic.
RSHQ Health Surveillance Unit director Evan Pengelly said testing after leaving the industry was important because mine dust lung diseases could take 10 years or more to develop.
“Regular testing is a normal part of working at a mine or quarry, but once you leave the industry, you can still get these important lung checks for free. We know there are former workers out there who have not been tested and may have a mine dust lung disease without any symptoms,” he said.
“These lung checks are free and cost you nothing but time, so no matter your age, please give our team a call and see if you’re eligible because you could be receiving early treatment or be eligible for compensation.”
The free checks are available to former and retired mine and quarry workers in Queensland who have at least three years’ experience, including six months in a Queensland operation.
The screenings will be conducted at Buchanan Park and bookings are essential by calling 1300 445 715.