Decompression sickness the bends

The health hazards of work in compressed air and diving are decompression sickness ( the bends ) and aseptic bone necrosis ( bone rot ). Both these illnesses can have long-term effects varying from slight impairment of mobility to severe disablement. The protective measures, including decompression procedures, are laid down in the Work in Compressed Air Special Regulations and these should be observed in conjunction with the medical code of practice for work in compressed air. 

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