"The iron ore mining in Goa does not cause fatal occupational health problems," Indian Association of Occupational Health (IAOH) former chairman Dr Sunil Kakodkar told reporters here today.
There have been proper studies to conclude that iron ore mining does not create lung problems, as is feared by some people, he said.
"This has been proved after conducting proper research among those working in the mines and those living in the surrounding areas," he said, adding that even if iron ore particles are inhaled, the person may not die.
Goa has 90-odd mining leases in its seven talukas which are currently non-functional due to ban imposed by the Supreme Court owing to allegations of illegal mining.
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There are some unorganised metal mines which might cause occupational health hazards due to presence of silica content in the extracted product, Kakodkar said.
"These are largely unorganised entities so there are no studies on them resulting in occupational health hazards," he said.
"There is not a single case of lung disease reported due to iron ore mining in the state," he said.
IAOH national president Dr Chaitanya Gulvady said the conference, which would be attended by around 600 Indian and international delegates, will have presentation of 85 research papers on occupational health.
On the theme of the conference, Gulvady said that sustainability requires reconciliation of economy,environment and the society.
"Understanding its importance, an increasing number of organisations are embracing the concept of sustainability, and workplace health and well being are key drivers of sustainability," he added.