By Lisa Emery
For New River Health
Oak Hill — New River Health will host the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Mobile Occupational Safety and Health Unit in Oak Hill on March 18-19, 2026, offering free federal black lung screenings for coal miners and assistance with filing federal black lung benefits.
“Coal miners across our region are highly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to check their lung health and learn more about available benefits,” said Lisa Emery, breathing center director at New River Health.
The NIOSH Mobile Unit will be located at New River Health, 497 Mall Road in Oak Hill, where miners can receive a free health exam designed to help detect early signs of black lung disease. Screenings will take place:
• Wednesday, March 18 | 9 am – 5 pm
• Thursday, March 19 | 8 am – 4 pm
The free screening takes about 30 minutes and includes a health questionnaire, chest radiograph (if eligible), a blood pressure check and a spirometry breathing test.
In addition to screenings, New River Health benefits counselors will be onsite to help miners file for Federal Black Lung benefits, providing guidance and support throughout the process.
“No appointment is necessary, and participation is free and confidential,” Emery added.
For more information, call New River Health at 304-469-2905 or visit www.newriverhealthwv.com/NIOSH2026
