It follows four cases reported in November, bringing the total to nine, CFMEU Queensland Mining and Energy division President Steve Smyth said.

With more than one case per week being diagnosed in the last two months, the union’s worst fears were starting to be realised and it expects more diagnosed cases in coming months, he said.

“We can’t put a figure on it because the regulatory system that is meant to detect problems has been asleep for decades, but it could be a big number,” he said.

“They haven’t had specialists, who are known as ‘B-readers’, checking miners X-rays and according to data reported by mining companies themselves, dust levels have been 5-10 times the legal limit. That has to change.”

A new campaign was launched by the CFMEU aimed at improving health checks, dust inspections and other government regulation. “Dust to Dust; Make Black Lung History” will seek a public inquiry into the re-emergence of the disease and six clear commitments from the Queensland government.

Percy Verrall was the first miner to be diagnosed with Black Lung disease in Australia in decades.

“Percy is an incredibly brave man and has opened up in a short film to be released soon, but thousands of other mine workers continue to work in conditions with dust levels well above the legal limit and tens of thousands of X-rays remain unchecked,” Smyth said.

“Workers are concerned, families are worried, and the community wants to lend a hand, but there has been no easy way to get information or get involved.

“If people are concerned about their health or just want more information, we recommend they visit the site to sign up to the campaign and register their health issue and story.

“It’s appalling that companies and regulatory bodies have let health standards deteriorate, putting the lives of workers at serious risk.

“The Queensland government’s Sims Review is a welcome start, but we must give people a chance to have their say and make public submissions through an open and transparent process. I hope the government opens its review up and we stand ready to work with them if and when they do.”