The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has announced that it will offer free and confidential black lung screenings for coal miners throughout July and August 2025.
This mobile screening initiative is designed to help detect coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, commonly known as black lung disease, at an early stage.
The disease is a serious but preventable occupational condition caused by prolonged exposure to coal mine dust.
To ensure easy access, NIOSH will deploy a mobile testing unit across various communities and mine sites in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Maryland.
The programme is open to all coal miners, including current and former workers from underground, surface, and contract mining operations.
Participants will receive a private lung health report at no cost. All results will remain confidential and are protected under federal law.
The screening process takes approximately 30 minutes and includes a work and respiratory history, chest x-ray, blood pressure check, and a breathing test (spirometry).
While walk-ins are welcome, miners are encouraged to schedule an appointment. Test results are generally sent to participants within 8-10 weeks.
In West Virginia, screenings will take place at the NMRA Post 5 Mine Rescue Contest at Mylan Park, Morgantown, from 29-31 July, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Another session will be held at Price Cutter in Mannington on Tuesday, 5 August, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
In Maryland, screenings are scheduled for Wednesday, 27 August, at the Grantsville Volunteer Fire Department from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
NIOSH completed its screenings in Pennsylvania at Greene County Fairgrounds in Waynesburg on 16 and 17 July.
