Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis talks about the government’s commitment to workers’ lung health. Picture: Supplied.
The Minns Labor Government has invested $2.5 million in a Lung Health Mobile Clinic that will provide free lung screenings to thousands of people across NSW.
The Lung Bus will visit Wagga and Griffith in August.
Australia has seen an increase in occupational lung conditions over the past 15 years, and South Coast MP Liza Butler encouraged everyone to take advantage of this “lifesaving” service.
“I know firsthand how costly lung tests can be — my husband requires them for his job, and they can cost hundreds of dollars each time,” she said.
“That’s why I’m so pleased to see the Minns Labor Government delivering this essential service free of charge to our community.”
When materials are processed through mining, drilling and sanding, fine solid particles are dispersed into the air. These particles are known as occupational dust and commonly include silica, asbestos, coal, wood and metals.
Even short-term exposure can cause serious damage to the lungs and respiratory system, including silicosis, asbestosis, pneumoconiosis (or black lung disease, common in coal miners) and lung cancer.
You can also experience coughing, shortness of breath, chest pains and mucus in your airways.
Region has warned of asbestos risks before.
Last February, Sydney’s Mardi Gras was cancelled after asbestos was discovered at the scheduled venue, a park close to the University of Sydney.
Following revelations of lung disease cases such as silicosis being on the rise and the national ban on engineered stone, the Minns Labor Government has established an expert taskforce to help address silica related health risks.
A team of dedicated silica safety inspectors will be funded to ensure businesses are complying with strengthened work safety laws.
The $2.5 million Lung Bus will be coming to Wagga and Griffith in August. Lung screenings and tests will be free. Photo: Supplied.
The Lung Bus comes equipped with several innovations, including digital chest x-ray technology, enhanced equipment to test lung functions, backup power supply and greater accessibility and comfort.
Icare Group Executive of General Insurance and Care Britt Coombe urged the community to keep on top of their lung health.
“A lung health check could save your life,” she said.
“Early detection is critical to effective treatment, and we’re here to make sure every worker, no matter where they live, has access to world-class care.”
The new Lung Bus will be in Wagga from 4 to 5 August, and in Griffith from 25 to 26 August.
Lung Bus bookings are at capacity; please visit the icare website for more information or to arrange lung health checks.
Workers can also arrange a free lung screening at icare’s Sydney CBD clinic, or with local providers regionally when the Lung Bus is not around. To book a free lung health check, contact icare on 1800 550 027.
