Researchers at the University of Newcastle are examining the effects on miners of working underground and in open cut coal mines.

Professor Brian Kelly and his team will partner with the NSW Minerals Council and the Hunter Institute of Mental Health to devise a program to ensure the industry manages mental health problems at the workplace.

“One in five Australians experience a mental health problem in a 12-month period. We know there is a link between mental health problems and injury, with contributing factors related to fatigue, and drug and alcohol use,” Kelly said.

“We will identify the patterns of mental health problems among coal industry employees, the factors associated with these problems and the impact on employees’ health, workplace safety and productivity,” Professor Kelly said.

“Then we will develop a mental health promotion, prevention and intervention model that examines the range of assistance currently available and develops strategies to promote wellbeing and prevent problems.”

The Australian Coal Association Research Program (ACARP) has thrown its weight behind the study with a $350,000 grant.

Chief executive officer Stephen Galilee said the research would build on the collaboration established with the University and the Hunter Institute.

“The mining sector is deeply committed to the health and wellbeing of its employees and their families,” he said.

“This vital research project will translate into effective solutions and demonstrates the Australian industry’s leadership in this important area,” he said.

The Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) – a multi-disciplinary research hub at the University of Newcastle – is supporting the project.

“Research at NIER is driven by demand within the energy and resources sector, and the challenges faced by governments, community and industry,” NIER director Dr Alan Broadfoot, said.

“Workplace health and safety, and employee wellbeing is a challenge that impacts not only the mine site, but the communities and economies that rely on mining.”

Kelly’s project will begin in January 2013 and run for 18 months. It is one of eight research projects to share in $1.5 million of ACARP funding awarded to the University of Newcastle.