Working environment and respiratory health: A case study of western coal miners

Abstract

A case study of 102 surface and underground coal miners in the western United States randomly selected from a telephone survey of two mining communities was conducted, examining their perceptions of working conditions and health both before and after the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. Miners working since 1970 reported lower amounts of dust breathed in, increased dust‐mask use, and better mine ventilation. Respiratory illnesses, including coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), were most often reported by those who worked largely prior to the Act; respiratory symptoms, such as persistent cough and shortness of breath, were reported by miners who worked primarily after the act. Miners’ perceptions of the federal black‐lung compensation process and concerns about diesel equipment are presented. These data are further discussed within the environmental‐justice and risk‐perception frameworks. Recommendations are suggested regarding regulations and public policy.

Keywords:

• black lung
• coal
• coal workers’ pneumoconiosis
• illness
• mine
• public policy
• respiratory
• work