Spirometry (lung function) practice registration
This page explains the requirements for approved practices that provide spirometry (lung function) tests under the Coal Mine Workers' Health Scheme.
Please read the information below before you apply using the online form.
Approval criteria
Spirometry practices must be appropriately qualified and fit and proper to carry out the scheme function.
Before applying for approval with RSHQ, you must ensure the practice meets the following minimum eligibility requirements.
Standards
Providers must comply with requirements of the latest version of the TSANZ Standards for the delivery of spirometry for resource sector workers.
Completed spirometry training courses
Personnel who are undertaking spirometry tests on coal mine workers must be recorded in a training register and have completed:
- an initial spirometry training course with an RSHQ approved spirometry training provider
- a 1-day refresher course within 12 months of the initial spirometry training course through an approved training provider
- an additional 1-day refresher course within 3 years of undertaking the refresher course through an approved training provider.
Spirometry requirements
- Spirometry tests within the last 12 months
- To ensure currency and competency as per the standards, personnel who are undertaking spirometry tests on coal mine workers must show evidence that they have undertaken spirometry tests within the last 12 months.
- To maintain approval, practices must show evidence staff have conducted 100 spirometry tests within the last 12 months.
- The spirometer must:
- meet the ATS/ERS requirements
- be able to input worker demographics such as: height (to the nearest 0.1cm), weight (to the nearest 0.5kg), age (to the nearest 1 decimal place), gender and ethnicity
- be able to input information regarding the use of bronchodilators (nil or type, dose and time of last use)
- be able to compare the key parameters to the GLI reference equations
- be able to produce a report displaying 3 acceptable 'pre' and, where bronchodilator testing is performed, 3 acceptable 'post' values.
In deciding whether an applicant (i.e. a person for the purposes of a supervising doctor, examining doctor or B-reader application; or a practice/organisation for the purposes of a spirometry practice, x-ray imaging practice or spirometry training provider application) is fit and proper to carry out a scheme function, the Chief Executive Officer (or delegate) may have regard to the following:
- whether the person has any conditions, undertakings or reprimands on their registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
- whether the person is subject to any current disciplinary or other legal proceedings relating to their role
- whether the person, the practice/organisation or any relevant employees (being radiographers or persons provider spirometry or spirometry training) have been convicted of an offence against the Coal Mining Safety and Health Act 1999 (Qld) or the Coal Mining Safety and Health Regulation 2017 (Qld)
- any other issue relevant to whether the person or practice/organisation will likely carry out, or be perceived to carry out, examinations or assessments to the standards expected of their profession.
An applicant must disclose all relevant information in the application or renewal form.
Duration of approval and renewal
Approvals will be provided for a term of up to 3 years. An approved provider may apply for a renewal of the provider's approval, at least 3 months before the term of the approval ends.
Conditions of approval
Approved doctors and medical service providers are required to comply with conditions of approval to remain as approved providers. These conditions detail a number of matters including:
- your obligations as an approved provider
- the roles and responsibilities required under the Coal Mine Workers' Health Scheme
- confidentiality and record-keeping obligations
- a mechanism for audit.
If we amend an approval to impose a condition or vary a condition of the approval you will be advised before the amendment takes effect.
Lodging your application
To lodge your application you must:
- complete the online application form
- attach supporting documentation, as indicated
- make the declaration before submitting the application.
You will receive an email confirming your application has been successfully lodged.
How your application is assessed
We will review your application to ensure it has been completed correctly and that all necessary documentation has been provided.
If your application is approved, we will notify you and your contact details will be published on the register.
If your application does not indicate that you meet the requirements for approval, or further information is required, you will be notified and given the opportunity to provide further information in support of your application before a decision is made.
We will decide your application within 3 months after the application is made or a longer period by agreement.
Review of decisions
If your application isn't approved, you can apply for an internal review within 28 days of being notified of the decision.
A further review by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal is provided under the legislation. Further details will be provided if your application is unsuccessful.
Further information
For help with your application, phone (07) 3199 7967 or email minehealthregister@rshq.qld.gov.au.
Also consider...
- Find out more about the Coal Mine Workers' Health Scheme.
- Read about dust hazards in mines.
- Find out about the program of work to address mine dust lung diseases.