Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) has released a practical guide for improving image quality when X-raying coal miners’ chests for signs of silicosis.
Silicosis is a lung disease associated with occupations that involve the fracturing of rocks which contain silica minerals, which is common in the coal mining industry.
Early detection is key, but the RSHQ said an ongoing review of coal miners’ chest X-rays showed common quality issues with imaging.
The RSHQ released its guide containing information for both radiologists and radiographers on addressing issues such as noise, contrast and resolution when performing X-rays on coal miners.
“Improving chest X-ray image quality contributes to better patient outcomes through more accurate and timely reporting of abnormalities,” the report said.
A following summit to put the RSHQ’s findings into practice covered reporting guidelines, technical considerations to improve quality, as well as clinical pathway requirements for reporting high-resolution computed tomography.
Attendees also took part in an interactive workshop, where participants examined a selection of real-world chest X-ray images, for practical application of their knowledge and skills.
As of July 1 2024, the world-first engineered stone ban is now in effect to protect workers from the threat of silicosis.
Under the ban, the manufacture, supply, processing and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs is prohibited in every state and territory in Australia.
Mining is not affected by the new silica legislation as the work health and safety laws for mine sites already address the issue but further efforts to reduce exposure through greater awareness on the need for PPE and boosting early detection initiatives like the RSHQ guide are essential to protecting workers.
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