Page 23 - HIL Operatives Training Manual V4 16022024_Neat

O P E R A T I V E S T R A I N I N G M A N U A L V E R S I O N 4

2.1 Weil’s Disease (Leptospirosis)

This is a serious and sometimes fatal infection that is transmitted to humans by contact
with urine from infected rats.

Who is at risk?

Anyone who is exposed to rats, rat or cattle urine. This could be you, when working on site
sorting waste or on building sites.

How may I catch it?

The bacteria can get into your body through cuts and scratches and through the lining of the
mouth, throat and eyes after contact with infected urine or contaminated water, such as in
sewers, ditches, ponds, puddles and slow flowing rivers.

Prevention

Wash Cuts and Scratches immediately with soap and running water and cover all cuts
and broken skin with waterproof plasters before and during work.

• Wear correct PPE including gloves
• Wash your hands before eating, drinking or smoking
• Wash contaminated clothing

What else should I do? Report any illness to your doctor, tell the doctor about your
work and show the card on Leptospirosis you will have been given. Leptospirosis is
much less severe if it is treated promptly

2.2 Hand Arm Vibration (HAVs)
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 requires employers to assess the vibration
risk to the employees. If you are likely to be exposed above the daily exposure action level
(EAV), the employer has to implement a program of controls to eliminate the risk or reduce
exposure to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (referred to as HAVS) is caused by the over exposure
to vibration in the hands, fingers, wrists and arms. HAVS is a disabling condition which
could affect your ability to work and enjoy a normal home and social life.

The good news is that HAVS is preventable. Early detection and reporting of symptoms
is crucial. If these symptoms are ignored the disease can become much more serious
and may become permanent.

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