Workers with pneumoconiosis were compensated nearly 1.4 billion VND

On January 26, Nghe An Provincial Labor Federation said the compensation was completed two days ago, witnessed by representatives of a number of State agencies and related individuals and organizations. 21 workers who previously worked at a stone powder industry company in Nghi Loc district were determined to have pneumoconiosis since 2023, reducing their working ability by 30-80%.

In addition, more than 40 workers who used to work at this enterprise, who have now retired, also contracted pneumoconiosis, but according to current regulations, they are not eligible for compensation.

In addition, the stone powder company must support and pay medical expenses and treatment of occupational diseases for 28 other cases with a total amount of 365 million VND. Patients who provide complete invoices and documents will receive 100% support, those who lack documents will receive 50%.

From September 2022 until now, 6 workers who worked at the above mentioned enterprise have died. Among them, 5 people were determined to have silicosis, the remaining person was suspected to have lupus erythematosus.

On March 27, 2024, the business paid more than 561 million VND in compensation to 5 families of the deceased. Of these, 4 families received 110 million VND, the remaining households received more than 121 million VND.

Currently, the People’s Committee of Nghe An province has fined the enterprise 116 million VND for violations in complying with laws on occupational diseases, working environment, and implementing social insurance and health insurance policies for the unemployed.

Lung dust (Pneumoconiosis) is a condition in which dirt accumulates in the lungs due to inhalation over many years and progresses to disease. The main cause is exposure to materials that are capable of dispersing very small particles that enter the lungs. The most common types of dust are asbestos, coal dust and most commonly silica. The disease causes symptoms of dry cough, spitting up black phlegm, feeling of sharp pain in the chest, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath. In the early stages, the disease may have no signs.

Dust in the lungs that is not detected early and promptly intervened can lead to dangerous, life-threatening complications. Currently, there is no definitive treatment for pneumoconiosis. However, the disease can be treated to control symptoms and prevent progression by using drugs to reduce inflammation, alveolar lavage of both lungs, drugs to reduce pulmonary fibrosis, and oxygen.