Learn about Coal Board Medicals: vital assessments for coal mining workers to ensure they’re fit for their roles.
Read more
Coal Board Medicals are necessary health assessments for individuals employed in the coal mining industry. These medicals ensure that workers are fit to perform their job duties safely and effectively.
During a Coal Board Medical, various tests are conducted, such as physical exam, lung function, hearing, and vision tests. These tests are designed to evaluate an individual’s overall health and determine their fitness for working in a coal mining environment.
Individuals need to understand the requirements and procedures involved in Coal Board Medicals to ensure they are properly prepared for the assessment. This may include providing relevant medical history information, bringing any necessary documentation, and following any pre-assessment instructions provided by the medical examiner.
What is a Coal Board Medical?
A Coal Board Medical is a comprehensive health assessment specifically designed for individuals working within the coal mining industry. It’s not just a routine check-up; rather, it’s a thorough evaluation to ensure that workers are fit to perform their duties safely and effectively.
Queensland Coal Board Medical Requirements
The Queensland Government tightly regulates the coal mining industry to uphold safety standards. As per these regulations, anyone working in coal mines or associated environments must undergo a Coal Board Medical. Appointed medical professionals who specialise in the health risks of coal mining conduct these assessments.
What Does the Coal Board Medical Include?
A Coal Board Medical covers various aspects of health and fitness, including:
- Physical Examination: This involves a general physical assessment to ensure overall health and fitness for work.
- Lung Function Tests: Given the risk of respiratory issues due to exposure to coal dust, lung function tests, including spirometry and chest X-rays, are typically conducted.
- Hearing Tests: Mining environments often include audiometry tests to address concerns about noise-induced hearing loss.
- Cardiovascular Assessment: Aspects such as blood pressure and heart health may also be evaluated.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing: Mining companies often have strict policies on substance use, including screenings for drugs and alcohol.
Can You Fail a Coal Board Medical?
Yes, it’s possible to fail a Coal Board Medical. If an individual’s health condition doesn’t meet the required standards set by the Queensland government and industry regulations, they may be deemed unfit for work until the issue is addressed.
How Long Does a Coal Board Medical Last?
A Coal Board Medical is usually valid for two to five years, depending on individual circumstances and company policies. After this period, individuals must undergo a new assessment to confirm their continued fitness for work.
Coal Board Medical Costs and Payment
The cost of a Coal Board Medical can vary depending on the provider and the specific assessments required. In Queensland, it’s common for mining companies to cover the cost of these assessments for their employees as part of their commitment to ensuring a safe working environment.
Where to Get a Coal Board Medical?
Coal Board Medicals are conducted by appointed medical advisers (AMA) and occupational health services.
Safework Health’s clinic is located in the Brisbane suburb of Murarrie, making it convenient for workers to book an appointment. To discover more, call us on 1300 795 227 or email [email protected].
Conclusion
In the coal mining industry, prioritising the health and safety of workers is non-negotiable. The Coal Board Medical plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals are fit to work in this challenging environment. By adhering to Queensland’s stringent regulations and undergoing regular assessments, miners can contribute to a safer and healthier workplace for all.
Enquire Now
Contact our friendly team today to learn more about our drug and alcohol testing services and products.
Our Brisbane clinic is now accredited to offer Coal Board Medicals. Book now!
Read more
Safework Health is thrilled to announce our Brisbane clinic is now accredited to provide Qld Coal Board Medicals. This accreditation marks a significant milestone in our commitment to ensuring the health and safety of workers in the coal mining industry.

Comprehensive Occupational Health Services
At our clinic, we understand the importance of comprehensive medical assessments for various industries. That’s why, besides Coal Board Medicals, we offer a range of other essential services tailored to meet the needs of different sectors.
These services include Pre-employment Medicals, Mining Medicals, MMQ Medicals, OGUK Medicals, AMSA Medicals, Rail Medicals, CASA Medicals, Driver Medicals, and Drug and Alcohol Testing.

Convenient and Accessible Location
Located in the Brisbane suburb of Murarrie, our clinic offers convenient access to individuals and businesses in the surrounding areas.
Whether you are a coal mine worker needing a mandatory Coal Board Medical or an employer seeking comprehensive pre-employment screenings for your workforce, our clinic provides a central and easily accessible location for all your workplace health needs.

Helping You Hire The Right Person Quickly
When you choose Safework Health, you can trust that you are in capable hands. Our experienced occupational health professionals are well-versed in industry-specific health assessments and are committed to delivering accurate and reliable results quickly.
- Fast and accurate results – Enabling you to make informed decisions
- Flexible bookings – Same-day appointments available
- Customised service – Assessment tailored to you
- Services performed in-house – We employ a national team of qualified and friendly doctors and nurses
Book Now
For appointments or enquiries about our services, please contact us today.
Meet Maree, a dedicated Occupational Health Nurse in our Brisbane clinic.
Read moreMeet Maree, an Occupational Health Nurse at our Brisbane clinic. With 20+ years of nursing experience, Maree has found immense fulfilment in her role here since joining Safework Health in March 2023.
When not at work, Maree is all about staying active with reformer Pilates, running, paddle boarding, and kayaking. She also enjoys family time with her three beautiful grandchildren.
Meet Our Growing Team
Find out more about Safework Health’s national occupational health team.
Pre employment medicals are now available at our Port Hedland clinic.
Read more
Safework Health is thrilled to announce the introduction of pre-employment medicals at our Port Hedland clinic.
This expansion of services is a testament to our commitment to the Pilbara region and Western Australia, where Safework Health was founded.
Since 2012, Safework Health has been serving the Port Hedland community, and with the addition of pre-employment medicals, we aim to provide even greater value and support to our clients and staff in the region.

Contact Details
Book An Appointment
T: 1300 795 227
E: [email protected]
Location
Nestled within Port Hedland Boulevard, our clinic offers a prime location, ensuring convenience for our patients. Ample free parking is available just outside the clinic.
150 Anderson Street, Shop 5
Port Hedland WA 6721
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday
8.00 am – 4.00 pm

Clinic Facilities and Team
Large Clinic
At our contemporary clinic, we take pride in offering six spacious consulting rooms alongside a generously sized reception area.
With our large clinic, we can deliver a high volume of pre-employment medicals, particularly for contractors aiming to swiftly mobilise resources.
Expanding Team
Our dynamic and expanding team consists of an Occupational Health Assessor, an Occupational Health Nurse, and a Supervisor.
Our Services
We offer a comprehensive range of occupational medicals, including:
- Pre-Employment Medicals
- Rail Medicals
- Driver Medicals
- OGUK Medicals
- AMSA Medicals
- Health Surveillance
- Confined Space Medicals
- Aviation Medicals
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Health and Wellness Checks
- Independent Medicals
- Fitness for Duty
Additionally, we provide various individual services to cater to specific needs, including:
- Audiometry
- Spirometry
- Instant Drug and Alcohol Testing
- Saliva Drug Test
- Urine Drug Test
- Breath Alcohol Test
- Laboratory Urine Drug Test
- Cholesterol / Glucose Fingerprick Test
- Functional Capacity Assessment
- ECG
- Chest X-rays
Book Now
Contact us today to make a booking.
Explore what a pre-employment medical is, what it involves, and why it’s important.
Read more
Pre-employment medicals are becoming increasingly common in Australia. These tests are used to assess the health and fitness of candidates before they are offered a job.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what a pre-employment medical test is, what it involves, and why it’s important for employers and employees.
What Are Pre-Employment Medical Tests?
A pre-employment medical (PEM) is a health assessment conducted on a job applicant before they are hired by a company.
The purpose of the examination is to determine if the applicant is physically and mentally fit to perform the duties of the job and to ensure their safety and the safety of others in the workplace.
What Does A Pre-Employment Medical Involve?
Medical assessments vary depending on the job and the industry. Common components include:
- Medical History: The applicant is required to provide detailed information about their medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, chronic conditions, allergies, and medications they are taking.
- Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical examination is often conducted by an occupational health professional. This may include measuring height, weight, blood pressure, checking vital signs, evaluating vision and hearing, and assessing general physical fitness.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing: Some employers may require drug and alcohol screening to ensure a safe and drug-free workplace. This can be done through a urine or saliva drug test, or a breath alcohol test.
- Vision and Hearing Tests: Jobs that require good vision and hearing may involve specific tests to evaluate visual acuity, colour vision, depth perception, and hearing capabilities.
How Long Do Pre-Employment Medical Results Take?
The duration for receiving pre-employment medical results can vary depending on several factors, including the type of tests conducted, the specific requirements of the employer, the efficiency of the medical facility conducting the tests, and the volume of tests being processed. Generally, results will be available within 24 hours.
Why Are Pre-Employment Medicals Important?
Occupational health checks are important for both employers and employees. For employers, they ensure that the candidate is fit for the job and does not pose a risk to themselves or others. This can help to reduce the risk of workplace accidents and injuries.
For employees, they help to identify any underlying health conditions that may require treatment or accommodation. This can help ensure that the employee can work safely and comfortably in their new role.
In addition, health assessments can promote a culture of health and safety in the workplace.
Book An Appointment
Safework Health is a trusted provider of pre-employment medicals. We have a network of occupational health clinics across Australia and are dedicated to delivering efficient timely medical assessments for a range of industries.
We provide fast results, flexible booking options and same-day appointments.
Contact us today for more information or to book an appointment.
Meet Dr Hui Ting Ooi, one of our occupational physicians.
Read more
Meet Dr Hui Ting Ooi, a well-regarded and qualified Occupational Physician with extensive experience in fitness for duty and return to work assessments, workplace injury management and worksite visits.
After graduating from medicine at Monash University, Dr Ooi undertook Advanced Studies in Clinical Anatomy and Graduate Diploma in Occupational and Environmental Medicine before completing specialist occupational and environmental training to become a Fellow of the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, RACP.
Before joining Safework Health in early 2023, Dr Ooi worked for Corporate Health Management determining employees’ fitness for duty regarding their deployments to emergency response and performing hazardous chemicals health surveillance programs.
Dr Ooi has also worked at Modern Medical providing clinical occupational medicine services to Fire Rescue Victoria as the Brigade Medical Officer. This included performing fitness for duty assessments, reviewing complex pre-employment medical assessments, and working with the Chief Medical Officer of Fire Rescue Victoria to promote the health and safety of firefighters.
Plus, Dr Ooi has worked with the Department of Health Victoria performing worksite visits and case management of workplace COVID-19 outbreaks, as well as being the Company Medical Officer at Toyota Motor Corporation.
Meet Our Growing Team
Find out more about Safework Health’s national team.
Pre employment medicals are now available at our Brisbane clinic.
Read more
Safework Health is excited to announce that we are now providing Pre-Employment Medical and Queensland Coal Mine Workers’ Health Scheme (formerly Coal Board Medical) services at our Brisbane clinic.
The expansion of our occupational health services means we can service our clients across multiple Australian locations. In addition to Brisbane, we have clinics in Perth, Port Hedland, Darwin and Adelaide.

Our Services
We perform most types of medical assessments including:
- Coal Board Medical
- Rail Medical
- Cat 1 Medical
- Cat 2 Medical
- Cat 3 Medical
- OGUK Medical
- Drivers Medical
- Spirometry
- Audiometry (WorkCover)
- ECG
- Health Surveillance (Silica, Lead, Asbestos)

Address And Opening Hours
Our clinic is located at 4/57 Miller Street, Murarrie QLD 4172.
We are open Monday – Friday, 8.00am – 4.00pm.

Helping You Hire The Right Person Quickly
Safework Health’s pre-employment medicals will help you hire employees quickly so can fill vacant roles and maintain a safe working environment for all employees.
- Fast and accurate results – Enabling you to make informed decisions
- Flexible booking options – Phone, email and online booking (coming soon)
- Customised service – Assessment tailored to your business needs and budget
- Services performed in-house – We employ a national team of qualified and friendly doctors and nurses

Testimonials
Safework Health’s pre-employment medical services are incredible and the client/patient experience is like nothing else. Whenever we have an urgent need/request for our pre-employment requirements, Safework Health is always ready to accommodate and adjust accordingly.
Mobilisation Coordinator
Mining and resources labour-hire company
The whole team at Safework Health always go above and beyond to ensure our medical needs are always met. Their friendly staff have made the process of booking a pre-employment medical very easy, always offering flexible booking times and fast turnaround times for results.
Business Manager
Engineering consultancy/software company
Enquire Now
Contact us today for more information or to make a booking.
Discover the ins and outs of pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, including methods and employer obligations.
Read more
When hiring new employees, employers are responsible for ensuring their workplace is drug and alcohol-free. For this reason, many companies make pre-employment drug and alcohol testing in Australia a requirement for employment or contracted service.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pre-employment drug and alcohol testing — from what they are for and the different types of methods available to the potential steps an employer must take if they suspect a job applicant is misusing substances. Read on to learn more.
What is a pre-employment drug test and why do employers use them?
Employers use pre-employment medical drug tests to identify potential employees who may be someone with substance use disorder or have been recently.
They involve analysing a sample of a person’s urine, saliva, or hair for the presence of illicit substances or drugs that could impact an employee’s job performance or safety.
Pre-screening has several benefits, as it helps employers select reliable workers who value their health and safety and the well-being of their co-workers and customers.
How common are pre-employment drug tests and what drugs are they looking for?
Pre-employment drug testing is becoming increasingly common across Australia, with employers wanting to establish a safe and productive work environment.
Drug screening typically analyse substances like alcohol, cannabis, amphetamines, methamphetamines, cocaine, and opiates.
Employers need to ensure the health and safety of their employees, which is why pre-employment drug testing has become such a focus for many businesses. This helps ensure the workplace remains compliant and productive.
What methods are available for a pre-employment drug test in Australia?
There are four primary methods for conducting pre-screening tests:
- Urine drug test — Used to identify any potential drug use or intoxication in candidates that could hinder their job performance and/or the safety of workplace personnel.
- Oral fluid drug test (Saliva test) — Another feasible alternative because it is less intrusive than other techniques while still providing reliable drug analysis.
- Hair follicle drug test — They provide a longer timeline of drug use on the part of an individual, which can be important when considering jobs that require frequent monitoring of such behaviours.
- Alcohol breath test — Breathalyser testing provides quick and accurate results for assessing alcohol presence without the need for invasive procedures.
These drug testing methods offer employers insight into the character and tendencies of prospective employees and an added layer of security. Failing a pre-employment test may result in the withdrawal of a job offer, as it indicates potential safety risks or non-compliance with workplace policies.
Protect your workplace with pre-employment drug testing from Safework Health
At Safework Health, we offer experienced and accredited solutions for all your workplace drug and alcohol testing needs. We are accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) with locations in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Port Hedland, Darwin, and Adelaide.
Our innovative holistic approach provides comprehensive solutions, including testing and results analysis, policy development, educational workshops, certified training programs and on-site and/or in-house drug screening. We help our clients gain a more efficient and safer workplace for everyone.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your pre-screening needs.