Australia’s mining industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to export revenue, employment, and infrastructure development. From coal and iron ore to rare minerals, mining operations span vast and often remote areas, requiring a robust and healthy workforce to maintain productivity and safety. However, the nature of the work brings inherent risks, including exposure to hazardous substances and the physical demands of the environment. At Workforce Health Assessors (WHA), we are dedicated to supporting the health and wellbeing of workers in the mining sector. Through specialised services such as hazardous substance health monitoring, coal medicals, pre-employment medicals, and annual health checks, WHA helps ensure that mining employees remain fit and safe, meeting regulatory requirements and promoting long-term health. November 22 marks National Mining and Related Industries Day, an occasion first celebrated in 2013 to honour the vast contributions of Australia’s mining sector. It serves as a reminder for those in the industry to take pride in their work and stand firm in support of this vital sector. On this day, WHA reaffirms its commitment to the mining industry by providing the necessary health services to protect and enhance the workforce that drives Australia’s mining success. About National Mining & Related Industries Day: National Mining & Related Industries Day, held on November 22, was founded by Co-Patrons Mrs. Gina Rinehart AO and Mr. Tad Watroba. This day is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the immense contributions of Australia’s mining and related industries. Mining plays a critical role in our daily lives, from the materials that build our infrastructure and technology to the resources that fuel medical advancements, agriculture, and transportation. Beyond that, the industry generates jobs, wages, and export revenue that supports Australia’s high standard of living. Each year, people across the country come together to acknowledge the remarkable Australians who have built this essential industry. It’s a day to reflect on mining’s vital role in sustaining the prosperity and wellbeing of all Australians. Partnering with Australia’s Mining Industry: WHA’s Services and Solutions At WHA we are committed to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of employees in mining and related industries across Australia. We understand that a healthy workforce is the cornerstone of a successful and sustainable business. To support this, WHA provides a wide range of tailored workforce medical services designed to meet the specific needs of the mining industry. WHA’s comprehensive services help employers in the mining sector proactively manage the health of their employees. From routine health checks to industry-specific medical assessments, we offer customised solutions to ensure a fit, healthy, and productive workforce. Hazardous substance health monitoring: Legislative and regulatory guidelines require certain health checks, like blood tests and chest X-rays, based on the materials and chemicals your employees work with. These checks are designed to catch any health issues linked to exposure to workplace hazards, such as lung problems. Occupational health monitoring involves regularly checking your employees to spot any health changes that might be caused by working with hazardous substances, materials or chemicals. WHA health monitoring programs take the stress out of legislative, industry specific and Safe Work Australia required medicals for your new recruits and existing workforce, including: Crystalline Silica, Asbestos, Lead, Chromium, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Benzene and Isocyanates. Crystalline Silica Health Monitoring: Crystalline Silica health monitoring follows Safe Work Australia requirements for workers who carry out ongoing work using, handling, generating or storing materials that contain crystalline silica, and include: Medical Questionnaire: Collects demographic, medical, occupational history, and exposure records. Respiratory Questionnaire: Standardised questionnaire to assess respiratory health. Spirometry: Lung function test to measure breathing capacity. ILO Chest X-Ray: Baseline and for high-risk workers, conducted as per current legislative and regulatory guidelines. All assessment components are delivered in accordance with current legislative and regulatory guidelines per state/territory. Coal Medicals: The QLD Coal Mine Workers’ Health Scheme (formerly Coal Board Medical) and NSW Coal Services Health Monitoring requirements aim to provide early diagnosis and intervention for respiratory diseases like pneumoconiosis and silicosis. They are an essential requirement for new and existing workers in the QLD and NSW coal mining industry. Why do we need Coal medicals for miners? The health and safety of miners is important. Mine dust lung diseases can have long term, severe and even fatal consequences for miners. Pneumoconioses, also known as black lung, was re-identified in 2016 affecting coal miners in NSW and QLD. To help keep coal miners safe, provide early diagnosis and intervene early, regular medical assessments for coal miners are essential. Who can perform a coal medical for miners? Coal medicals for miners may include pre-employment testing and ongoing, regular health monitoring at least every 5 years. These medical assessments are regulated and must be performed by an approved medical provider. WHA has a network of approved medical providers around Australia. What’s included in a coal medical for miners? At minimum, the medicals must include: Chest examination Chest x-ray dual-read by qualified radiologist in line with international standards set by the International Labour Organisation Spirometry tests and comparisons with previous tests, where available Any other examination deemed necessary by an appropriate doctor to support early detection WHA’s network of approved medical providers around Australia are experienced in performing coal medicals for miners. Pre-employment Medical Assessments: Ensuring that new hires are physically and mentally fit for the demands of their roles is crucial in maintaining a safe and productive work environment, especially in physically demanding trades. Our pre-employment medical assessments are tailored to evaluate a candidate’s fitness for specific job roles, helping to reduce the risk of workplace injuries and absenteeism. These assessments include a comprehensive review of an individual’s medical history, physical examinations, and relevant tests such as hearing and vision assessments, drug and alcohol screening, and functional capacity evaluations. By identifying potential health risks before employment begins, we help businesses make informed hiring decisions, safeguarding the well-being of their workforce. Annual Health Checks: Regular health monitoring is essential in detecting early signs of health issues, especially for many employees who may work in challenging conditions. Our annual health checks offer a proactive approach to workplace health, providing thorough assessments that can identify potential problems before they escalate. These checks include evaluations of cardiovascular health, respiratory function, musculoskeletal condition, and more. By catching issues early, we help prevent serious health problems that could lead to long-term absence or decreased productivity, ensuring that workers remain fit and healthy year-round. Safeguarding the Future of Australia’s Mining Workforce: As Australia’s mining industry continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s prosperity, prioritising the health and safety of its workforce is essential. At WHA we are proud to partner with the mining sector, offering tailored medical services that ensure employees remain healthy, safe, and capable of performing in their demanding roles. By investing in proactive health assessments and workforce medicals, employers can contribute to a stronger, more resilient mining workforce. As we celebrate National Mining & Related Industries Day this November, let’s remember that the wellbeing of our workers is key to the continued success and sustainability of this vital industry. For more information on how WHA can support your workforce’s health needs, contact us today.