Confined 

Spaces 

10.2.2 

All persons likely to come into contact with sewage, contaminated water, 

soil or infected animals must be aware of the symptoms of Weil s disease 

(Leptospirosis) and be issued with an information card. 

10.2.3 

A number of substances have been proved to cause dermatitis including: 

mineral oils (e.g. Diesel and other fuels), certain industrial chemicals (e.g. 

alkalies, nickel salts, mercury compounds), insecticides, formaldehydes, 

synthetic resins, glass fibre, solvents and de greasers (e.g. paraffin or 

turpentine), tar pitch or other coal tar products. 

10.2.4 

All persons working in confined spaces must be aware that personal 

hygiene measures, skin care and cleanliness greatly reduce the risk of 

bacterial and viral infections and industrial dermatitis.

10.3  

MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS

10.3.1 

The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations, regulation 5 

requires that all employers carry out health surveillance of their employees 

where appropriate. 

10.3.2 

Persons required to work in breathing apparatus must be medically 

examined on an annual basis and carry evidence of their medical clearance 

for checking prior to working. 

10.3.3 

Workers who may have to wear escape breathing apparatus or are likely to 

come into contact with sewage, contaminated water, soil or infected 

animals should have an Annual Health Review which would include a 

medical examination if indicated. 

10.3.4 

The advice to doctors carrying out examinations on those who are required 

to use breathing apparatus and wear personal protective clothing to 

eliminate exposure to toxic substances should include: 

n 

examination of the respiratory system( to exclude chronic respiratory 

disorders) 

n 

examination of the cardiovascular system 

n 

examination of the skin (to eliminate any chronic skin condition 

which may be aggravated by the wearing of Personal Protective 

Equipment).

April 2005 

63