Uranium is a mildly radioactive heavy metal. Global military and nuclear contractors use the material as an energy source and for weapons construction. Mining is the only method of obtaining the metal. Though many consider uranium mining beneficial to the communities within the often-remote areas it occurs, the work is not without risk.
Uranium mining is not only associated with the traditional mining risks of falls, cave-ins, and other concerns but with exposure to radioactive materials. A high percentage of uranium miners experiencing lung ailments led U.S. leaders to create programs to address their medical needs and compensate their families.
Illnesses from Mining
Uranium workers' illness benefits began because of the excessive amount of workers exposed to radioactive materials. Many miners lacked adequate protective gear when the earliest mining operations began. Mining caused workers to have exposure to radiation by breathing in uranium dust or handling the material. Many workers experienced pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer, and other lung ailments.
Benefits for Miners
In 2000, the United States Congress enacted the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation ACT (EEOICPA). The act compensates current and former employees working at specific facilities operated by the U.S. government. The uranium workers' benefits also provided payments to the beneficiaries of miners who experienced health complications related to their employment.
Frequency of Mining
The United States has an active uranium mining industry, but its production has declined. Kazakhstan, Canada, and Namibia currently have the most productive mining efforts. Increased safety regulations and better personal equipment make the mining work less dangerous, but not without risks. The need for monitoring and humanitarian services must continue to ensure worker and community safety.
Studies in Canada
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) continues to monitor Canadian miners. The study states that Canadian workers experience radiation exposures lower than those occurring naturally in surrounding communities. Miners working for these organizations have a higher death rate from lung cancer but do not statistically have any other increased health risks. Canada does not offer a compensation program for uranium miners.
Mining for uranium will continue until the metal no longer serves a purpose. The miners engaged in these activities work in a dangerous environment. Modern safety measures and advanced protective gear make the career safer but will never remove all risks. Compensation programs and a continued focus globally on the dangers help ensure that all miners have access to vital health resources.
For more info about uranium workers' benefits, contact a local company.
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