Respiratory surveillance for coal mine dust and artificial stone exposed workers in Australia and New Zealand: A position statement from the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand*

Abstract

Coal mine lung dust disease (CMDLD) and artificial stone (AS) silicosis are preventable diseases which have occurred in serious outbreaks in Australia recently. This has prompted a TSANZ review of Australia's approach to respiratory periodic health surveillance. While regulating respirable dust exposure remains the foundation of primary and secondary prevention, identification of workers with early disease assists with control of further exposure, and with the aims of preserving lung function and decreasing respiratory morbidity in those affected. Prompt detection of an abnormality also allows for ongoing respiratory specialist clinical management. This review outlines a medical framework fo..