Compensating for occupational lung disease.

Workers' compensation for occupational lung disease in South Africa and in other countries is reviewed. Compensation legislation in South Africa has a long history of evolution, with important changes expected in the near future. The South African system is similar to that in other countries, but has some unique features. Problems for workers disabled by occupational lung disease include a limited range of compensable conditions, difficulty in establishing a diagnosis, delays in obtaining payment, and small amounts paid. International experience suggests that certain changes would be especially useful. Racial inequalities should be removed, the schedule of compensable occupational diseases needs to be extended, and presumptive standards should be developed for diagnosis and disability assessment.