Working in confined spaces presents serious risks from toxic gases and low oxygen levels to restricted movement and difficult escape routes.
A Confined Spaces Medical from Pathways Occupational Health assesses whether employees are physically and medically fit to work safely in these challenging conditions.
We help businesses meet their legal obligations under the Confined Spaces Regulations, and we support employees by ensuring their health is not compromised in enclosed or hazardous environments.
What is a Confined Space?
A confined space is any fully or partially enclosed area where serious injury or harm could result from environmental hazards. This includes:
- Manholes, sewers, and trenches
- Storage tanks, silos, and vats
- Excavations, pits, and tunnels
- Lift shafts, crawl spaces, and access chambers
Risks may include oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, fire or explosion, entrapment, flooding, poor visibility, and limited communication or access.
Who Needs a Confined Space Medical?
Confined Space Medicals are essential for anyone working in high-risk, enclosed environments. This includes:
- Construction operatives and site inspectors
- Electricians and plumbers
- Utility workers and cable installers
- Firefighters and emergency response teams
- Engineers and maintenance technicians
- Exterminators and hazardous waste operatives
Whether you’re ensuring initial fitness or renewing annual certification, our team is here to help.
What Does the Medical Involve?
Each assessment takes around 45 minutes and is carried out by a qualified occupational health technician or nurse. Results are reviewed and interpreted by an HSE-approved Occupational Health Physician.
The assessment includes:
- Health Questionnaire – Covers medical history, illnesses, and lifestyle
- Height, Weight, and BMI – Basic physical measurements
- Blood Pressure and Pulse Check – Cardiovascular screening
- Vision Test – Near and distance vision evaluation
- Lung Function Test (Spirometry) – Respiratory performance analysis
- Hearing Test (Audiometry) – Hearing ability check
- Musculoskeletal Check – Mobility and joint function assessment
- Urinalysis – Screens for glucose, protein, and blood
- Dermatology Check – Identifies skin-related issues
- Drug & Alcohol Testing – If required by company policy
- Consultation – Results discussed with our nurse or technician
You’ll receive a clear health report and your employer will be issued a Fitness for Work Certificate. Certificates are typically valid for 12 months, subject to employer requirements.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
To ensure a smooth and complete medical, please bring:
- Photo ID -Passport or driving licence
- Eyewear, contact lens solution, or hearing aids, if you use them
- List of medications – Include prescribed or over-the-counter medications
- Relevant medical documents, including details of any pre-existing conditions
- Let us know in advance if you require a chaperone
Committed to Safety & Compliance
Our team can help you understand the risks associated with confined space work and implement appropriate medical checks and control measures to protect your workforce.
Pathways Occupational Health works closely with employers to ensure full compliance with the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997.
Why Choose Pathways?
Established in 2011, Pathways Occupational Health is led by a founder with almost 50 years’ experience in occupational health across high-risk industries such as British Steel.
Our team includes:
- HSE-approved occupational health physicians
- Registered nurses and qualified technicians
- Expert partners: Psychotherapist, Physiotherapist, Cardiologist, Radiologist
We offer a full range of regulatory medicals, including:
- Asbestos, COSHH, Lead, Ionising Radiation, HGV & Forklift Medicals
- Working at Height and Confined Spaces Assessments
- Bespoke medicals tailored to your environment and workforce
Book Your Confined Space Medical
Stay compliant, protect your employees, and reduce risk with a professional confined space medical from Pathways.
Contact Pathways today to book your Confined Space Medical or to discuss your specific requirements. Our team is here to support both individuals and employers with expert advice and flexible appointment options.
Protect your people. Meet your legal duties. Trust Pathways Occupational Health.