Section 85A.13. Provisions relating to pneumoconiosis.

  1.  Pneumoconiosis defined.  Whenever used in this chapter, “pneumoconiosis” shall mean the characteristic fibrotic condition of the lungs caused by the inhalation of dust particles.

  2.  Presumptions.  In the absence of conclusive evidence in favor of the claim, disability or death from pneumoconiosis shall be presumed not to be due to the nature of any occupation within the provisions of this chapter unless during the ten years immediately preceding the disablement of the employee who has been exposed to the inhalation of dust particles over a period of not less than five years, two years of which shall have been in employment in this state.

  3.  Pneumoconiosis complicated with other diseases.  In case of disability or death from pneumoconiosis complicated with tuberculosis of the lungs, compensation shall be payable as for uncomplicated pneumoconiosis, provided, however, that the pneumoconiosis was an essential factor in causing such disability or death. In case of disability or death from pneumoconiosis complicated with any other disease, or from any other disease complicated with pneumoconiosis, the compensation shall be reduced as herein provided.

[C50, 54, 58, 62, 66, 71, 73, 75, 77, 79, 81, §85A.13]

84 Acts, ch 1053, §1