Here are the main occupational health risks associated with working as a Miner / Quarry Worker, with prevention advice.
Rock dust containing silica causes silicosis — an incurable and progressive lung disease. Coal dust causes black lung disease. Both are serious, preventable and irreversible.
Underground mining carries extreme risks of methane explosions, roof falls and flooding. Risk controls and emergency procedures are critical lifesaving requirements.
Drilling, blasting and heavy machinery in mining produce some of the highest noise levels of any industry, causing rapid and irreversible hearing loss.
Operating heavy drilling and mining machinery transmits damaging vibration throughout the body, causing spinal damage and increasing risk of back injury and cardiovascular disease.
Remote worksites, FIFO rosters, dangerous conditions and poor work-life balance contribute to high rates of depression, anxiety and substance misuse in mining workers.