OBJECTIVE To investigate if blood Cu++/Zn++ superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and total plasma antioxidant activities could be markers of biological activity resulting from exposure to respirable coal mine dust in active miners, and of pneumoconiosis in retired miners. METHODS Blood samples were randomly obtained from active surface workers (n = 30) and underground miner...

BACKGROUND Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs in many industries despite interventions such as hearing conservation programmes. AIMS To determine the actual and reported use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) in noise-exposed gold mine workers and their reported knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to NIHL and HPDs. METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study was...

This paper outlines the status of Australian coal mining industry with respect to safety and welfare of the mine employee. The impact of tie longer shift hours and compressed working week are discussed in relation to workers safety and employment levels. Longer shift hours and compressed works have shown to be a benefit to miners, both in safety and socially. The paper also examines the role of...