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Weil’s Disease / Leptospirosis Last modified: November 25, 2025

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Definition: What is Weil’s Disease / Leptospirosis?

Weil’s Disease, the severe form of Leptospirosis, is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria. It is most commonly spread by rats, livestock or other animals through their urine, contaminating water, soil, mud, drains or flooded areas.
Humans can become infected through:

  • Cuts or broken skin
  • Contact with contaminated water or soil
  • Splashing into the eyes, nose or mouth

The disease can affect the liver, kidneys and other organs, and can be life-threatening if untreated.

  • Why Weil’s Disease Matters in the Workplace

    Weil’s Disease is a significant occupational health risk in roles involving:

    • Drainage and sewage work
    • Construction and groundworks
    • Agriculture and livestock handling
    • Pest control
    • Waste management
    • Outdoor cleaning, jet-washing and maintenance
    • Flood recovery or environmental clean-up

    In these environments, workers may come into contact with contaminated water or rodent-affected areas.

    If contracted through work, Weil’s Disease is reportable under RIDDOR.

  • Employer Responsibilities

    Employers have several legal duties to protect employees from exposure to Leptospirosis, including:

    Employers must:

    • Carry out a risk assessment for exposure
    • Put in place control measures (e.g., PPE, rodent control, hygiene facilities)
    • Provide employee training and information
    • Ensure safe systems of work
    • Record and report cases where required

  • Signs and Symptoms Employees Should Know

    Early symptoms (flu-like):

    • Fever, chills, headaches
    • Muscle pain (particularly calves and lower back)
    • Fatigue
    • Red eyes

    Severe symptoms (Weil’s Disease):

    • Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)
    • Vomiting or diarrhoea
    • Chest pain or shortness of breath
    • Liver or kidney complications

    Early medical treatment is essential.

  • Best Practice for Managing Weil’s Disease Risks

    Employers should:

    • Identify risk through a suitable and sufficient risk assessment
    • Provide PPE such as waterproof gloves and boots
    • Ensure good hygiene facilities, including wash-down areas
    • Implement rodent control measures
    • Train staff on symptoms and safe working practices
    • Avoid unnecessary contact with contaminated water
    • Cover any cuts with waterproof dressings
    • Keep records of any RIDDOR notifications
    • Review controls during periods of heavy rainfall or flooding

Your Questions Answered

Everything you need to know about Weil's Disease

  • Is Weil’s Disease the same as Leptospirosis?Reveal

    Yes. Weil’s Disease is the severe form of Leptospirosis that can cause organ damage.

  • Is Weil’s Disease reportable under RIDDOR?Reveal

    Yes — if contracted due to occupational exposure, it must be reported as a biological agent–related disease.

  • How do employees catch Weil’s Disease at work?Reveal

    Most commonly through contact with contaminated water, soil or surfaces, especially where rodents are present.

  • What industries are most at risk?Reveal

    Agriculture, drainage and sewer work, waste management, construction, grounds maintenance and pest control.

  • What control measures prevent Weil’s Disease?Reveal

    PPE, hygiene facilities, rodent control, staff training, risk assessments and safe systems of work.

  • Can Weil’s Disease be fatal?Reveal

    Yes — severe cases can be life-threatening, making early diagnosis essential.

Put this guidance into action

Use our Toolbox Talk to brief your managers and supervisors, and share the Checklist with your wider team to help embed safe working practices across your organisation.

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Where to find out more A collection of hand-picked useful resources for Weil's Disease from Impact HR and beyond

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