The paper deals with the working conditions of adolescents in particular apprentices and shortcomings and preventive medical care of these young people according to contemporary legislation. The work is based on results implemented by the hygiene service on request of the chief hygiene officer of the Czech Republic. Occupational medical care of adolescents having vocational training is at present very frequently inadequate as regards extent and standard. If it is provided at all, it is reduced to preventive medical examinations. These are moreover of limited value if adolescents are involved who are training for an occupation where exposure to noxious factors forms an integral part. The character of these examinations is often set and the conclusions are formulated without the doctor knowing the working conditions and working risks of these occupations in actual workplaces. A solution of the problem is adoption of appropriate legislation and aimed postgraduate training.

        Key words: preventive care, apprentices