PLAYING IT SAFE

Author pulls book in paper cut fear

2007-02-26T14:14:00.000Z

THE author of a book honouring First World War soldiers has been told he needs £5m worth of insurance to sell them on council premises. The cover Mark Sutton (right) needs is to protect against people dropping books on their feet or getting a paper cut and then suing the council. He says the council’s demand goes against everything the men in the book, Tell Them Of Us, stood for. But Swindon Council spokeswoman Victoria Tagg said the insurance was necessary to protect against potential claims. “All suppliers of services and products to Swindon Council must have public liability insurance,” she said. “The cover we require is normally for £5m but we are prepared to reduce this to £2m for some smaller suppliers.” The book has now been taken off the shelves. Mark, 44, said: “It’s crazy. I refuse to get the insurance. I'm not going to bow down to it. It’s against the principles of what I wrote the book for. It’s just another one of these silly health and safety measures and it has gone potty.” Swindon Advertiser 22/2/07.

Sitting instructions

2007-02-26T14:08:00.000Z

GREATER Manchester Fire Service has drawn up a four-page safety manual to instruct crews on how to sit in a reclining chair. Firemen hoping for a rest between call-outs are banned from doing so until they have been trained to use the £400 device. The first task will be to take out their “personal-issue head protector” and place it on the back of the chair. Then, and only then, can they begin their descent, a process that must end with them sitting “fully back”. Those that get this far can “get ready to recline”. The manual advises: “To release the mechanism (ie to start reclining), simply lift the lever under the right-hand arm of the chair (when seated). This moves the chair into its semi-reclined position (ie feet up, head up).” Crews are warned that only “trained personnel” can carry out “lubrication of mechanisms” and that sleeping bags must not be used. They are also given advice on how to deal with spillages, “tissue should firstly be placed on the stain to absorb excess liquid”, and warned that horseplay involving recliners is deemed a disciplinary offence. The fire service has spent £130,000 on its new Calcot recliners, which will be used as beds during night shifts. A fire service spokesman said: “Training will be given for health and safety reasons. There are moving parts.” Daily Telegraph 28/1/06.

Eating out

2007-02-26T14:07:00.001Z

TRADITIONAL cheese and onion sandwiches, known locally in the Black Country as cobs, have been taken off a pub menu after 80 years of healthy eating. The cling film-wrapped cobs were banned from sale when inspectors raised concerns they were not refrigerated. The move ended years of tradition at the old-fashioned Beacon Hotel. Stunned by the decision, drinkers gathered 90 names on a protest petition in just four days. Landlord John Hughes said: “We’ve got these English pubs and there’s nothing like them anywhere in the world. Tourists come and they are amazed by the original features and the cheese and onion cobs are a little part of that heritage. We keep the pub like a museum and I feel we could have got away without a fridge.” Wolverhampton Express & Star 15/2/07.

Bags of no fun

2007-02-26T14:04:00.000Z

WHEN children tumble over in the sack race, they tend to suffer nothing worse than wounded pride. But after seven years without mishap, the event has been banned from a community’s annual festival over fears that there could be legal action if anyone is injured. Organisers claim the compensation culture has led to soaring insurance premiums which have put the activity off limits. Despite the event attracting more than 2,000 young contestants each year, they say they have no alternative but to cancel it. The insurance bill for the fun day has risen from £400 to £600 in a year and would double if traditional events including the sack race, three-legged dash and egg-and-spoon were still included. This is London 7/2/07.

Nurse in danger ride

2007-02-26T14:00:00.000Z

A DISTRICT nurse has been banned from cycling on her patient rounds because bosses think it is too dangerous. Kathy Archer did up to 15 miles a day which saved her employers £1,000 a year in petrol and kept her fit. But Bournemouth Primary Care Trust said the traditional transport left her at risk of attack from drug users because she carries syringes and needles. They also said she could spread infection between homes as she carries all her equipment with her. But a Royal College of Nursing adviser called the decision “nonsense.” Kathy told Nursing Standard magazine: “The patients thought it was great. They were a bit surprised, but very supportive. You can take nearly everything patients need.” The Sun on line.

Cold shoulder for river hero

2007-02-26T13:57:00.000Z

A MAN who has saved more than 1,500 people from drowning has been told that police can no longer work with him because he is in breach of health and safety regulations. George Parsonage, 61, has plied the River Clyde in Glasgow for nearly 50 years. He even received a special lifetime achievement award by Princess Alexandra. But the future of his rescue missions has been thrown into doubt by a decision by Strathclyde Police to cease all contact with him. The force said that it had taken its decision for health and safety reasons, after learning last month that Mr Parsonage’s assistant had left. But Mr Parsonage insisted that he would still rescue people from the water, but questioned the “practicalities” of Strathclyde Police’s decision. “The police won’t call me. But, if a member of the public calls and there’s someone out in the river, I’ll be out there. If I see someone, I’ll go.” The Times 6/5/05.

Toddler's hoodie ban

2007-02-26T13:54:00.000Z

A GRANDMOTHER has branded as “pathetic and laughable” a shop’s policy on hoodies - after her two-year-old grandson was asked to remove his hood. Brenda Cowper (right), 54, told how her husband took the youngster to his corner shop on a cold and windy night. “No sooner had they got inside than the shop-keeper asked my husband to remove the little boy’s hood. My husband said, ‘he’s only two-and-a-half. I don’t think he's going to rob you.’” In November, a middle-aged nurse was refused her morning paper at the same shop for wearing a lambswool hooded cardigan. Mrs Cowper added: “I can understand their point because there are a lot of kids that cause trouble down there, but when it’s a two-year-old it’s a bit pathetic and I think most people would just think it’s laughable really.” Staff at the Monkton Road Stores said no one was available to comment. York Evening Press 22/1/07.

Noisy neighbours

2007-02-26T13:52:00.000Z

RUGBY Council has ordered a man to move a tiny wind chime from his back garden following an investigation that cost more than £1,000. David Bavington was stunned to receive an official letter claiming that the 1in-diameter chime was a ‘statutory nuisance’ following a complaint. And he was warned he had to take it down - or be served with a noise abatement order and face legal action. Ironically Mr Bavington, 57, and his wife Sheila bought the chime to create a feeling of calm while they were sitting in the garden of their £300,000 detached home in Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Warwickshire, with noisy airliners flying overhead on final approach to Coventry airport just over a mile away. But, instead, it has landed them in a two-month legal row with officials at Rugby. Retired sales executive Mr Bavington said: “You can't even hear the chime if you go inside the house. But the council said there had been a complaint from someone who was annoyed by the tinkling. I told them it was ridiculous. Sending around officers to listen to a tiny wind chime is a complete waste of taxpayers’ money.” Evening Standard 6/1/07.

Pets cornered

2007-02-26T13:48:00.000Z

MORE and more primary schools are being forced to give up school pets to avoid breaching the Department for Education’s guidelines on health and safety. Rules say pupils must cover cuts before handling animals, wash their hands afterwards and not put into their mouths pens, fingers or crayons which might have come into contact with the pets or their cages. But teachers say that these rules are impossible to uphold in a class of 30 children. Daily Mirror 28/2/05.

Clean Marines

2007-02-26T13:46:00.000Z

HEALTH and safety inspectors are turning their attention to the training of Britain’s armed services and suggest that chlorine should be used to ensure that the water in an assault course tunnel used by Marines is nice and clean. They also apparently recommended that handrails should be provided to stop the trainees slipping on the muddy training slopes. Harrow Times 13/2/04.

Blow to organ pipes

2007-02-26T13:44:00.000Z

THE ORGANS at Salisbury Cathedral, St Paul’s in London and Birmingham Town Hall may be silenced under an EU directive aimed at limiting the amount of lead in electrical items. The regulations permit electrical equipment to have a maximum of 0.1 per cent of their weight as lead. Organ pipes have a lead content of 50 per cent or more. The directive, which seeks to minimise the amount of “hazardous waste” that finds its way into landfill after electrical products are scrapped, would also bring to an end the 1,000-year-old craft of organ building. In Britain there are about 70 companies employing about 800 people, and all their jobs are at risk. Lead is used in organ pipes because of its malleability and the distinctive sound it produces. Organists are baffled that they have been caught up in EU red tape because when organs are rebuilt the lead is not thrown away. It is re-used in new or different pipes. Katherine Venning, the president of the Institute of British Organ Building, said: “There is a very black cloud on the horizon. Pipe makers live to a ripe old age, with no known damage to their health. Pipe organs last indefinitely, and present no threat to the environment.” The Times 18/3/06.

Residents cross

2007-02-26T13:40:00.000Z

RESIDENTS of an Angus village say they have been cut off from vital services by Network Rail all in the name of safety. The level crossing near their homes at East Haven, near Carnoustie, has been padlocked. The closure is part of a new policy to prevent public access to what the company classes as private level crossings. And despite assurances from Network Rail, residents fear that they could be left high and dry if they need an ambulance. Fifty people live in the 20 houses between the railway and the sea at East Haven. They get to their homes by car under a low bridge, but until now larger delivery vans and vehicles like ambulances have used the level crossing. BBC News 21/8/03.

Moving the goal posts

2007-02-23T11:27:00.000Z

WHAT’S white, wide and waist-high, but still potentially invisible? The answer, according to a county council, is a set of goalposts used by children playing football. They ordered their removal from the small field where they were standing - in case walkers fell over them. Astonished local people were told that ramblers using a public footpath across the field might have their heads bent over a map and not see the obstacle. Then, of course, there was the danger to people out at night. But the decision by Cheshire County Council has been branded an own goal by families whose children use the field in Alderley Edge. Philip Reid, a father of three, said: “Councils are constantly bleating about the obesity problem our children are facing and then they go and mess about with facilities aimed at combating it.” The fate of the goalposts was sealed after an inspection by county council officials. They ordered Macclesfield Borough Council, which owns the field, to move them. One consolation for local people is that Macclesfield Council is planning to improve the play area and will be consulting them before deciding what to put there. In the meantime, walkers can stride fearlessly across the site - so long as they can see their way past the basketball net, swings, slide and seesaw that are still there. Daily Mail 23/2/07.

Revolver peril

2007-02-23T11:20:00.000Z

PEOPLE working for the BBC in Birmingham have been sent a memo advising them on how to get through a revolving door. An email, sent to 800 staff - complete with matchstick man diagrams for ease of understanding - comes after one worker trapped her foot in the new doors at the BBC’s Birmingham studios, cracking a toenail. “Follow these simple steps each time you use the doors,” says the memo entitled Revolving Security Door User Instructions. “To enter the secure space move directly into the revolving door compartment. The door will start automatically. One person per compartment. Keep hands, feet and bags away from the edges of the door.” A BBC spokesman said: “We are keeping in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act.” Employees at BBC Radio Sheffield had previously been instructed on how to get through the peril-laden task of boiling a kettle. normblog.typepad.com 2/07.

Fear of floating

2007-02-22T18:04:00.000Z

FOAM floats have been banned from swimming pools over fears children and adults could accidentally be whacked by them. Council bosses introduced the rule after complaints people had been struck by the swim aids. But the move was branded “mad” by parents and swimmers using the pools in Dudley, Halesowen and Stourbridge in the West Midlands. Mum Jill Andrews, of Brierley Hill, was told son Reece, eight, could not use his float. She said: “I couldn’t believe it. How am I meant to teach my son to swim?” Dudley Council spokesman Jan Jennings said: “This decision was made for health and safety reasons after complaints.” The Sun 14/6/06.

See-saw no more

2007-02-22T18:01:00.000Z

AFTER almost 40 years the folk of picturesque Cotswold village Bledington were told their see-saw would have to be pulled up. It was, claimed a Playing Fields Association official, a danger under EU directive EN1176-1;1998 Playground Equipment For Outside Use. The fact no one had ever been hurt playing on it did not matter one jot. And the madness didn’t end there. The swings also had to be moved because there was the potential risk they could damage a child’s eyes because they faced the sun. Daily Mirror 28/2/05.

Public protection basket case

2007-02-22T17:59:00.000Z

FOR THE last seven years Ian Collins has adorned the front of the Ring of Bells pub with a stunning display of hanging baskets and window boxes. The greenfingered publican has won numerous prizes, including Prettiest Village Pub on four occasions, and his efforts have attracted visitors from around the world. But now the 47-year-old has been forced to cancel his pub’s prize-winning flower display following a visit from the local council. Health and safety officials claim the hanging and wall-mounted baskets and pots were dangerous as some of the petunias and begonias spilled onto the pavement and walkers would have had to step into the road to avoid them. The officials also claimed Mr Collins’s baskets were hanging below the 8.2ft minimum height laid down by health and safety regulations and people could bang their heads on them. Disappointed Mr Collins, who has run the pub in the Somerset village of Norton Fitzwarren for 12 years, claimed it was a case of “nanny state” meddling. “I have done this for seven years and I have never heard any complaints and, in fact, it has been just the opposite.” But the county council defended its decision. Spokesman Jan Hookings said: “The safety of the public has to be our first priority.” Daily Mail 11/7/05.

Police nab conker haul

2007-02-22T17:56:00.000Z

THE LONG arm of the law has come down on a group of conker-collecting children. When Kiya Jayne and three friends set out to collect conkers they found themselves ordered to stop by police, who confiscated the haul and handed them official stop and search forms. They had collected nearly a whole carrier bag of shiny red conkers from the tree in Littlehampton, West Sussex, when a woman police officer arrived and swiftly brought the fun to an end. The boys’ mums were stunned when their children appeared bearing four slips of paper, explaining that they had been stopped and searched. Mother-of-two Diana Jayne, 41, said she could not believe what had happened to her son. “It was absolutely ridiculous. He’s only seven and I encourage him to go blackberry picking and conker picking. I used to collect conkers when I was little” A spokesman for Sussex Police said they had responded to calls from members of the public. “Officers were assigned to deal with the safety issue of the children playing in the road,” he said. A bag of about 100 conkers were confiscated. Daily Mail 3/10/06.

Toddle charge

2007-02-22T17:53:00.000Z

THIRTY children under three years of age in Poole, Dorset, managed to raise £142 for charity by staging a "toddlethon" through the park. They were then charged £36 by the council in order to check whether the event needed policing. Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Trafalgar squares

2007-02-22T17:49:00.000Z

PLASTIC signs have been put up in Trafalgar Square’s fountains, banning visitors from paddling in the water. The signs, branded “tacky” by critics, have appeared 160 years after the first fountains were built on the site. The ban spells the end for an age-old tradition of cooling down in the square’s waters on a hot summer’s day - often after a few drinks. Some of Britain’s finest hours, including VE Day and football and rugby world cup victories, have also been celebrated there. The signs - four in each of the two fountains - state “Not safe for public use” and come complete with no entry symbols. The move is thought to have been largely prompted by fears that the Great London Authority (GLA) could be sued by revellers who injure themselves slipping over in the water. This is London 2/6/05.

Beware, falling pears!

2007-02-22T17:46:00.000Z

TOWN hall chiefs have made themselves a laughing stock after cordoning off two pear trees in case their fruit falls on people. The 30ft trees have stood in a city park for 50 years without any problems. But now a team of council workmen has put up security tape and a plastic barrier to stop anyone going near them. And signs have been screwed to each tree saying: “Warning, pears falling!” Officials acted after receiving a complaint the trees are a health hazard. They fear the council could be sued if anyone is injured by a pear in Cripplegate Park, St John’s, Worcester. The trees produce large black pears which are the symbol of Worcestershire. But local people say they bear fruit every year and no one has ever been hurt. Barry Cox, 40, said: “This is a crazy waste of time and money. It seems people aren’t credited with common sense any more. Next thing they will be issuing people with hard hats before they enter the park.” The Sun 4/10/06.

Wees ruin race

2007-02-22T17:44:00.000Z

AN INTERNATIONAL cycling race has been cancelled over fears of competitors urinating on the Hampshire roadside. The annual Havant Grand Prix was called off after a “stalemate” was reached between police and organisers over plans for the 113-mile race. The conduct of cyclists and the safety of road users last year led police to ban the 2006 race. The event had been running for 16 years and attracted cyclists from across the globe as well as British Olympians. Inspector Howard Marrs said: “It is unacceptable to have masses of cyclists at the side of the road urinating and the organisers would have to address this before the race could have gone ahead.” He said the race would be stopped on safety grounds following the conduct of the riders. BBC News 9/8/06.

Pedo camera crib concern

2007-02-22T17:40:00.000Z

PARENTS have been banned from filming and taking photographs of a school Nativity play - over fears that paedophiles could get hold of the images. St James RC Primary in Hattersley, Tameside, is thought to be the first school in Greater Manchester to introduce such a ban. Only members of staff at the school will be allowed to take photographs, which will be made available to parents. Head teacher Barbara Robinson declined to comment in detail, but said she was following guidelines set down by the Catholic Diocese of Shrewsbury, which governs the school. Manchester Evening News 18/12/03.

Cancer banner banned

2007-02-22T17:37:00.000Z

A CANCER awareness banner was removed by a council afraid it might damage a lamp post. Macmillan Cancer Relief said: “We were told it was a very ornate and important post.” The council in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, once banned hanging baskets. The People 12/2/06.

Don't do the conger

2007-02-22T17:35:00.000Z

A MADCAP contest in which men slap each other with a dead eel has been banned on health and taste grounds after just one complaint. Conger Cuddling is a kind of human skittles which has raised thousands for the Royal National Lifeboat Institute. Rival teams knock each other off small boxes by battering them with a 5ft conger swinging from a rope. But locals are furious after RNLI chiefs had to axe this year’s event over the single protest. The killjoy protestor claimed it was disrespectful to dead animals. Richard Fox, 67, who invented the sport 32 years ago, fumed: “It’s the most ludicrous thing I’ve ever heard. How can you be disrespecting an animal’s rights when it is dead?” The Sun 29/7/06.

Mince pie madness

2007-02-22T17:32:00.000Z

ORGANISERS of a village Christmas party have been told they must carry out a risk assessment of their mince pies - or their festivities will be cancelled. Council bosses say posters will have to be displayed at the party in Embsay, in the Yorkshire Dales, warning villagers the pies contain nuts and suet pastry. The cocoa content and temperature of the hot chocolate must also be checked. Resident Steve Dobson said the rules had made the small party as difficult to arrange as the Great Yorkshire Show. Mr Dobson said he learned of the regulations after writing to Craven District Council to ask if he could use a car park outside Embsay village hall to hold the free party for the community. “It is bureaucracy gone mad,” Mr Dobson said. “The council gave me a huge list of things we had to do. I wrote back, a little bit tongue in cheek, asking if I really had to risk assess free mince pies and a brass band, and they said ‘yes’. Everything we do, from putting tinsel up to providing refreshments has to be assessed. We have to consider the dangers involved, that someone might choke on their mince pie or have a nut allergy. I also understand that Santa may need a Criminal Records Bureau check.” BBC News 4/12/06.

Getting the wind down

2007-02-22T17:30:00.000Z

BRITAIN’S biggest offshore windfarm has been shut down because it was too windy. Prime Minister Tony Blair heralded the opening of the 30-turbine North Hoyle windfarm, off the coast of Rhyl as the “foundation” of the country’s move towards renewable energy. But the operators of North Hoyle, National Wind Power, admitted they had to turn off the turbines to protect them from 70mph winds. Anti-windfarm campaigners described the move as absurd, saying surely the turbines should operate more effectively the windier the weather. National Wind Power’s development manager for Wales, Mark Legerton, said: “There are a few days of the year in which the turbines don’t operate to protect them from heavy loading, which they would otherwise receive in the high winds. Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Bunk tumble trial

2007-02-22T17:27:00.000Z

A PRISONER is suing jail bosses for negligence - after he fell off the top bunk in his cell. Gerry Cooper cut his head after rolling out of bed while asleep at Bullingdon Prison, near Bicester, Oxfordshire. He claims that cons’ beds breach health and safety regulations. In a letter to a prisoners magazine, Cooper says bunk beds are “an accident waiting to happen”. He says his governor told him inmates who felt unsafe in top bunks need not sleep in one. The Prison Service denied that was a policy. The People 3/9/06.

Bacon buttie bladder worry

2007-02-22T17:23:00.000Z

BARMY health experts are warning that eating bacon can give you cancer. A bladder tumour link was found in people tucking into the treat five times a week. The Sun’s own GP, Dr Carol Cooper, played down the scare: “If you look at anything closely enough, eating tons of it would be bad for your health. Lots of people will read this and think they must not go near bacon, which would be wrong.” The daft bacon warning follows a series of killjoy food scares. The bacon research followed the diets of 135,000 adults. It found a 59 per cent increased risk of bladder cancer in those who ate excessive amounts of bacon. The Sun 29/11/06.

Home-coming hazard

2007-02-22T17:20:00.000Z

KILLJOY council bosses are under fire for wrecking a war hero’s homecoming. Wounded Para Ricky Trueman, 20, arrived back from Iraq on crutches to find his family home festooned with yellow ribbons, balloons and banners. The bunting stretched 50 yards either side of his parents’ bungalow and was draped high across the road. Ricky almost burst into tears when he saw it. But highway chiefs in Doncaster, South Yorks, were less impressed. A jobs worth official turned up at the street three days later and ordered the bunting to be taken down because it was a “safety hazard”. Disgusted mum Michelle, 42, said: “How can anyone be so insensitive after all Ricky has been through? The bunting stretched across the road but was so high even the dustbin lorry could pass underneath.” She added: “Ricky fought for Queen and country and came home injured - he deserves better than this.” Ricky suffered shrapnel wounds in a landmine blast while serving as a private with 3 Para near Basra. He said: “After what I’ve been through it leaves a bad taste. All people wanted to do was welcome me home but all the council can think about are their rules and regulations.” The Sun 13/5/03.

Lunch time no booze

2007-02-22T17:17:00.000Z

ANGRY town hall staff claim they have been stopped from supping a lunchtime pint. Unison says the ban on work hours drinking in Hackney, London, is “draconian” and affects all 3,700 staff. But the council said it only applied where safety was an issue. The People 2/4/06.

Chop for city trees

2007-02-22T16:52:00.000Z

A LONDON council has caused a furore after threatening to cut down one in five of its trees on grounds of cost and safety. Ealing council says the 4,500 lime trees are too expensive to maintain and are the cause of large insurance payouts because of the “compensation culture”. But this has provoked fury from residents and environmentalists, who fear the borough’s reputation as the “queen of the suburbs” will be destroyed. Council leader John Cudmore claims the trees are a problem because of their “vigorous” growth and attraction to insects, whose droppings made pavements slippery. He said the limes looked like “cabbages on sticks” because they have to be severely pruned back every three years. He said the council received “many, many complaints from residents” and said a radical solution was needed. This is London 20/2/07.

Hugs off

2007-02-22T16:46:00.000Z

A SCHOOL headmaster was branded a killjoy after he ordered pupils to stop hugging each other. Steven Kenning told teens to quit embracing because it made them late for lessons. He said hugging could be deemed “inappropriate” and “victims” could be hugged against their will. The barmy “safety” rule was posted on the website of Callington Community College, Cornwall. Mr Kenning said: “Hugging was happening extensively and becoming the norm. We were worried it might become inappropriate. So we nipped it in the bud.” He added that there had been complaints from some pupils, so he told the kids: “This is very serious not only for the victim but for anyone accused of acting inappropriately.” But the ban outraged parents and pupils at the 1,250-pupil college, with some claiming they had been punished for illegal hugs. Local councillor Kath Pascoe said: “I don’t see anything wrong with hugging - it’s better than fighting.” The Sun 4/11/06.

Prick out

2007-02-22T16:43:00.000Z

COUNCILLOR Dick Barker, from Belton, Norfolk, is calling for his village’s rose bushes to be dug up in case they harm children. Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

No outings for schools

2007-02-22T16:35:00.000Z

TEACHER’S union NASUWT sparked fury when it called for a ban on school trips. General secretary Chris Keates said his members should abandon outings because society was becoming “increasingly litigious”. So great are the concerns that staff at Airyhall Primary in Aberdeen cancelled a residential break to Perthshire to mark pupils’ final year. The treat, which had become a school tradition, included physical activities such as mountain biking, kayaking and orienteering at the Dalguise Centre near Dunkeld. And in Derby education chiefs advised schools not to take children to sunny places in case they get skin cancer. Daily Mirror 28/2/05.

Don't rub the Scouts

2007-02-22T16:27:00.000Z

SCOUT leaders have been condemned after it was revealed they had banned helpers from putting suncream on youngsters - unless they are already suffering from sunburn. The Scout Association issued the diktat in the hope of preventing allegations of child abuse. But it explained the ban did not apply if Cubs and Scouts were already burned - because they are considered to be patients in need of first aid. The policy was slammed by parents and campaigners. Father-of-three Richard Stevenson said: “I asked what sort of activities they would be getting up to. When I heard it was abseiling and shooting I thought, this is great - just the sort of thing that the safety culture normally precludes.” A spokesman for The Scout Association confirmed that leaders could not apply suncream to children. “If a child is responsible enough to go away on their own to a camp, then they are responsible enough to apply suncream. We have strict child protection policies to make sure no adult is putting themselves or any young person at risk.” Daily Mail 5/8/06.

Village pond hazard

2007-02-22T16:17:00.000Z

VILLAGERS have hit out at “ridiculous” plans to fence off their pond so that no one falls in. Health and safety experts said the “water hazard” in exclusive West Itchenor, near Chichester, should have fencing around one side and a sign warning of the dangers of deep water. The pond is a home for ducks, carp and a water vole. It has a bench along one side and is popular with families who visit to feed the ducks. The bombshell was dropped on residents in a parish newsletter which declared: "As a parish council we are obliged to undertake risk assessments in the village and have been doing so for the past 20 months.” Council chairperson Louise Goldsmith said the local authority had an obligation under the Occupiers’ Liability Act. “We realised we were not covered by insurance on the pond. We as a council own 50 per cent of it and lease the other 50 per cent. We were advised by our insurers that we should have a risk assessment. We have had to do this. We have not made this up.” But village resident James Wilkinson said: “It does all seem a bit ridiculous. As far as I know the pond has a good accident record in that nobody has been hurt there. It is more of a muddy puddle than a big open pond.” Brighton Argus 28/11/06.

Prescott turns down the heat

2007-02-22T16:15:00.000Z

THE Deputy Prime Minister’s nanny state will plumb new depths by controlling the heat of water in our tubs. Mr Prescott has ordered that special taps which limit the temperature are fitted in all homes built from next year. He says the law is “essential” to stop the rising tide of scalding accidents, insisting the new home safety regulations will protect the young, elderly and infirm who fall into piping-hot baths. But the special valves would also stop people topping up with hot water when enjoying a long soak. And residents would be forced to pay for annual inspections to make sure they are working properly. Aides confirmed regulations could be extended to force owners of existing homes to fit the mixer devices. Furious plumbers and the Tories urged Mr Prescott to wash the “crazy” plan down the plughole. Richard Nissen, a London plumber, said: “This is legislation gone mad. It is going to mean a lot of angry customers because of the cost of installing these valves and carrying out the mandatory annual inspections. You won’t be able to warm up your bath with extra water as the temperature will be regulated by the valve. It’s ludicrous.” The Sun 16/5/05.

Caution over Custard

2007-02-22T16:06:00.000Z

CUSTARD the cat has been banned from a council building - because bosses say he is a health and safety risk. Stuart Dawson, manager at the housing benefit office in Dorchester, Dorset, says some staff are allergic to cats and others might trip over Custard. But one worker said: “It’s a barmy decision. He brought karma here.” The People 31/12/06.

Gormless art ban

2007-02-22T13:24:00.000Z

ART LOVERS reacted with dismay and fury at a decision to remove Antony Gormley’s celebrated installation, Another Place, from a Merseyside beach on the grounds that it was a health and safety risk. Planners at Sefton council demanded the installation’s removal. Sailors might founder if they struck one of the so-called “tin men”, they said, while children, trying to swim out to the most far-flung statues, were in danger of being cut off by incoming tides. Supporters of Another Place acknowledge that the installation, which has attracted 600,000 visitors since it was secured to the sea bed in July 2005, was always intended to be a temporary piece of art. Laurie Peake, the project’s manager, said: “We were dumbstruck. The coastguard and the RNLI said they had no objections.” But conservative councillor Debi Jones, said: “In today’s litigious world I find it strange no one looked into the health and safety aspect. I asked the committee if they would have a clear conscience in court if a lawsuit were taken up.” Daily Telegraph 21/10/06.

Car crushed in window drama

2007-02-22T13:22:00.000Z

ROGER Bugg had his motorcar towed away and crushed because he had left the windows open half an inch. The £500 Escort was destroyed by cops after a traffic warden reported it as a fire hazard. The warden said kids could have dropped a match through the windows, threatening an electricity sub-station. Mr Bugg said: “If a car is dumped by all means crush it, but mine was taxed and legally parked.” Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Legion in stab fear

2007-02-22T13:19:00.000Z

POPPY pins are being ditched by Royal British Legion branches amid fears wearers will sue if they are injured by them. Chiefs are blaming Britain’s growing compensation greed for the crazy situation leading up to Remembrance Day. Peter Westwell, secretary of the Legion’s Shropshire branch, said: “It’s claims culture gone mad.” Around Britain, sellers have been ordered not to pin poppies on children and anxious branches are extending the ban to adults. Most are now supplying stickers, plastic clasps or poppies with stems for button holes. Fund-raiser Malcolm Gainard of the Keynsham branch in Somerset said: “People can easily stab themselves with a pin and there is the worry of litigation.” The Sun 3/11/03.

Pub lunch panned

2007-02-22T13:14:00.000Z

A WOMAN in a wheelchair has been refused entry to a Devon pub’s beer garden because she is “a fire risk.” Disabled Annette Boucher, 51, of Crediton wanted to have lunch in the garden behind the town’s General Sir Redvers Buller pub with her student-nurse daughter Charlotte and friend. But after the two women had pushed multiple sclerosis sufferer along a rough and overgrown path leading to the garden, they were told that they could not go in. Staff insisted that Mrs Boucher would be a fire risk because she would block the path in the event of an emergency. Pub chain J D Wetherspoon, which owns the pub, has since apologised and has offered mum and daughter a free meal which they have accepted. But it is still refusing to allow Mrs Boucher into the garden. mult-sclerosis.org 6/8/03.

Army pipers plugged

2007-02-22T13:10:00.000Z

SOLDIERS learning to play the bagpipes have been told to limit their practice sessions to only 24 minutes a day, or 15 minutes when indoors. Pipers will also have to wear ear plugs under the new guidelines brought in by health and safety officials. The advice, aimed at preventing soldiers from suffering hearing problems, was issued after a study by the Army Medical Directorate environmental health team. Tests showed that outdoors the sound of bagpipes could reach 111 decibels, slightly louder than a pneumatic drill. Indoors, the instrument could reach 116 decibels, or as loud as a chainsaw. Bagpipes have played a crucial role in Scottish regiments, which have traditionally been led into battle by kilted pipers. Davy Garrett, who played the pipes in the Army for 12 years and now runs a piping school, said: “This is just another example of the nanny state and one that I am very concerned could ruin the future of piping in Scotland.” Bill Lark, 85, a Black Watch piper who led his comrades into action against the Japanese in 1944, said the rules were “ridiculous”. He said: “The pipes should be played loudly. That’s how they inspire soldiers and scare the enemy.” A spokesman for the Army in Scotland said the rules were a “prudent precaution”. Daily Telegraph 25/7/06.

Sunscreen blocked

2007-02-22T13:09:00.001Z

A YOUNGSTER has been banned from taking sunscreen to school to protect herself in scorching weather. The decision - condemned by cancer campaigners - has even been backed by Manchester town hall bosses. The row flared after 10-year-old Georgia Holt was told she could not apply sun cream as temperatures topped 26C at Seymour Road Primary School, in Clayton. She was told health and safety guidelines issued by Manchester city council warned the creams could pose a risk to other pupils if they had allergies. Georgia’s mum, Wendy, of Stokes Street, Clayton, said she was furious about the ban. “I’m really annoyed about this,” she said. “It was absolutely scorching and Georgia got all worked up about it and seemed quite upset.” But a Manchester city council spokesman said: “We believe the school acted responsibly and in accordance with the health and safety guidelines. We advise that children do not bring sunscreen into school or share it with other children, as some children can suffer allergic reactions to it.” Manchester Evening News 18/7/03.

Meatball in choke terror

2007-02-22T13:06:00.000Z

A PRIMARY school in Stow-on-the-Wold has taken meatballs off its lunch menu in case pupils choke on them. Rebecca Scutt, the head teacher, told parents: “It is better to be safe than sorry and have asked for meatballs to be removed.” Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Reprieve in swing loophole

2007-02-22T13:02:00.000Z

THE children’s swings in Great Somerford, removed last December over safety concerns, could be granted a reprieve because of a legal loophole. Only the swings’ frame remains on the Watkins Lane play area after a report said that the chains were too long and there was a possibility that a child would swing off. Residents were up in arms when the popular children’s attraction was removed. The swings have an impeccable safety record. There has not been a reported injury since they were installed in 1977. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has contacted the parish council and said that there was a possibility the village equipment could get a reprieve. Parish clerk Mark Edwards said: “The society contacted us and said that their interpretation of the laws could be different and said that they would do their own inspection. I will be very interested to see what they come back with; I hope it will mean that we will be able to get the swings back.” Swindon Advertiser 23/1/03.

Sponge cake in health scare

2007-02-22T13:00:00.000Z

ALL LITTLE Emma Matthews wanted to do was celebrate her sixth birthday at school with a nice chocolate sponge. But before she could divide up the tasty treat among her hungry classmates, teachers stepped in and declared the tempting confection a health risk. Emma’s parents had bought the cake in a local shop and then went to some trouble to decorate it with extra icing and chocolate buttons for the pupils at St Bride’s Primary School in Bothwell, Lanarkshire. However, teachers told the astonished youngster that because the original packaging had been opened it breached health and safety rules and they couldn’t let anyone else eat it. A note Emma brought home from school said: “I am sorry to inform you that we are unable to use Emma’s birthday cake due to the fact that it was not sealed in the box.” Emma's mother, Lorraine Matthews, 36, said she was flabbergasted by the school’s actions. “Emma came out of school carrying the cake and she was really upset,” said mother-of-two Mrs Matthews, adding: “How could it have been safe for Emma to eat but not any of the other kids? The school never have a problem with parents preparing cakes when we are asked to make them for bring and buy sales and things like that so why now?” Daily Mail 18/10/06.

Crack down on kites

2007-02-22T12:58:00.000Z

THE flying of stunt kites has been banned at Blackpool after a woman walking her dog became entangled in a string and was dragged to the ground. Fylde Borough Council has imposed the ban on its shoreline and open spaces, but the move has angered kite enthusiasts, who were developing the windy beaches around Blackpool as a centre for power kiting and kite surfing. The council said that people would still be allowed to fly traditional single-string kites. Phil Rawcliffe, of the British Kite Surfing Association says enthusiasts have complied with stringent safety measures but the council has pressed ahead with its ban without consultation. “There is uproar about it. Since we set up a club at Blackpool we have had risk assessments and paid insurance. We have done everything by the book. Lots of cafés and bed-and-breakfast hotels are going to suffer. One man from the Midlands has cancelled a trip up with his family of four. That sort of money is going to be lost to the economy for as long as this ban is in place.” The Times 21/4/06.

No dirty visits

2007-02-22T12:55:00.000Z

HOSPITAL chiefs have been branded barmy after banning flowers and children visitors - to help them fight the MRSA superbug. The measures were introduced after outbreaks at St Richards in Chichester, Sussex, increased from 22 to 25 last year. A spokeswoman said restricting visitors would help reduce infections and no kids could call unless it was to see a close relative. She said: “It’s about clear access to patients’ tables and being able to wipe them down.” But Jim Morrison, whose mum is being treated for a broken foot, said: “It’s health and safety gone mad.” The People 22/1/06.

Balloon stunt banned

2007-02-22T12:52:00.000Z

THE BBC has played down reports that a promotional stunt featuring Belfast DJ Colin Murray is too dangerous. The video, to plug Murray’s new evening show on Radio One, showed the presenter being released skywards attached to around 500 helium balloons. But, according to reports, the BBC decided not to show the video in the aftermath of Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond’s 300mph crash in a jet-powered car. Belfast Telegraph 6/12/06.

Drinks police go soft

2007-02-22T12:49:00.000Z

A SCHOOL has sparked a row with parents by banning pupils from bringing in soft drinks. Governors at the south London primary school introduced the ban - which covers everything from fruit juice to fizzy drinks - because they fear high levels of sugar in some drinks could harm children’s health. But some parents say it leaves their children with only one drink - water - which many do not like, and in hot weather pupils have been returning home tired, listless and dehydrated. More than 100 parents at 390-pupil De Lucy primary school in Abbey Wood have signed a petition demanding the policy - believed to be the first of its kind in London - be reversed. This is London 30/6/03.

Bus paint passenger sees red

2007-02-22T12:46:00.000Z

AN elderly heart patient was kicked off a bus in the rain for carrying a tin of paint. Grandad Brian Heale, 73, who bought the antique cream emulsion for a DIY project, was told it broke new health and safety rules. The RAF veteran, who suffers from shortness of breath, found himself stranded because he could not carry the tin home. He took shelter in a cafe where the owner gave him a lift. Brian who had caught the No9 bus in Cardiff, told how the driver ordered him: “Sorry, you’ve got to get off.” He said: “I thought he was joking. But he parked the bus and called head office. Then he told me carrying the paint was against new health and safety regulations. It’s crazy.” Under the new rules paint is classed as a “hazardous article” and can only be carried on buses if it is in a bag. A spokesman for Cardiff Bus said: “We apologise to Mr Heale for the obvious inconvenience caused. Safety of passengers is our number one priority which is why the company takes regulations very seriously.” The Sun 18/4/06.

Paddle guard puzzle

2007-02-22T12:43:00.000Z

TOWN hall chiefs threatened to remove a kiddies paddling pool - because it had no lifeguard. Katie Joyce and other mums chipped in for the 10ft plastic pool to give their children a holiday treat. But when they set up the £50 inflatable on a council-owned communal green without permission, they were warned it would be removed on safety grounds. Bosses at Warwick district council feared a child could get hurt although the water was only 12 inches deep. They told families on the Fallow Hill estate in Leamington Spa not to let children use it. The letter added: “Permission has not been granted for its use. The council cannot be held liable and persons using the pool are not insured. The council are considering removing it.” Residents say the council was unhappy because there was no lifeguard or first aider. But angry parents claim they watch the children and there are never more than six in the pool. Katie, 36, said: “It’s ridiculous, those kids could not be safer. The government always bangs on about getting children out of doors and here they are, in the open and entertained in a safe environment, yet we are told to stop.” Daily Mirror 19/8/05.

Conker allergy nutty

2007-02-22T12:38:00.000Z

PUPILS at two schools have been banned from playing conkers in case they suffer from a nut allergy. The headteachers feared children would suffer a nasty reaction just by touching them. But experts said the latest in a string of scares about kids playing conkers was simply bonkers. Headteacher Gary Postlethwaite acted after a number of parents of kids at Bookwell Primary School in Egremont, Cumbria, said they were worried about the danger. “We have some children in school with severe nut allergies and children have been told not to bring conkers in.” But Sue Higgs, spokeswoman for the Anaphylaxis Campaign which helps people with allergies, said: “This seems an over-reaction. In all of our years of experience we have never come across anyone who has had a severe reaction to a conker.” The Sun 7/10/04.

Condom push blown

2007-02-22T11:38:00.000Z

VOLUNTEER workers in the Lothians have been banned from issuing condoms to under-16s despite a rise in the number of teenage pregnancies. NHS Lothian ruled that only staff on the official payroll could hand out contraceptives and advice to under-16s. It said restricting contact to “suitably trained people” would ensure the safety and protection of children. Critics claimed hundreds of teenagers would be at risk of falling pregnant or catching sexually transmitted diseases. Dr Dean Marshall, deputy chairman of the BMA’s Scottish GP committee, said the NHS was becoming “risk averse”. He said: “My concern is that child protection is used frequently as a reason for doing things.” The Family Planning Association in Scotland also condemned the decision. Director Tim Street said it was a “great shame” that child protection issues were making it more difficult to put the message across to young people. BBC News 22/5/06.

Guard sacked for stopping suicide

2007-02-22T11:34:00.000Z

A COURAGEOUS hospital security guard has been sacked - for dramatically saving a patient from a suicide leap. Dad-of-three Baid Tamoor, 34, climbed 15ft up scaffolding as the man prepared to jump off after tying a noose around his neck. Without thought for his own safety, hero Baid grappled with the mentally-ill patient and restrained him with the help of a paramedic. But instead of praising the guard, bosses fired him for breaking health and safety rules. Shocked Baid, who worked at Lewisham Hospital, South London, said: “I can't believe it. Why should I leave my job for saving someone’s life?” After the scaffolding rescue, Baid, of Kidbrooke, South London, was given a dressing down and suspended from work. He was then sacked by his employers, First Management Group. In a statement with Lewisham Hospital (right), the security firm said Baid’s actions were “a serious breach of health and safety regulations”. A spokesman for First Management added: “It may seem harsh and unfair. But our guards are employed to monitor security and report incidents to the police or fire service and not to risk their own safety.” Suicide Reference Library 2/07.

Crazy paving

2007-02-21T16:59:00.000Z

A POLICE community support officer has been banned from walking large swathes of her beat because of the lack of pavements in the rural area. Mrs Pooley complained she felt unsafe because of the risk of being hit by vehicles as she pounded the streets. Senior officers at Gloucestershire Police agreed she should not walk the beat for “health and safety” reasons. Instead, she now makes her rounds by car through the narrow streets. The decision has been branded “crazy” by incredulous villagers in the communities of South Cerney and Cerney Wick, near Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Parish council clerk Maurice McKee asked: “Do criminals need footpaths to carry out crimes? And if they don’t, why do police need a footpath to patrol?” Pub landlord Martin Smith, who runs the Royal Oak in South Cerney, said: “It's crazy. We’re all up in arms about it. She should still be walking the streets. Why not - they have fluorescent jackets don’t they?” Daily Mail 21/10/06.

Topple test turnround

2007-02-21T16:56:00.000Z

A CASH-strapped council has agreed to stump up the money to fix headstones flattened during ‘topple tests’ after furious protests from campaigners. Gosport councillors have confirmed they will find up to £100,000 to repair the graves after carrying out the controversial safety tests on memorials at the town’s Ann’s Hill Cemetery. It is welcome news for angry relatives who objected after seeing cherished gravestones toppled and then were told they had to pay for repairs. The bills sparked a political row. Council bosses had hoped the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) would foot the bill, claiming the tests – designed to prevent anyone being injured from collapsing gravestones – were carried out on HSE advice. The News, Portsmouth, 14.2.07.

Hat ban 'mad'

2007-02-21T16:53:00.000Z

POLICE have banned Wimbledon’s “mad hatters” from bringing their props to the side of the famous tennis courts as part of a major security overhaul. Condemned by Tim Henman’s fans as “miserable” and “killjoy”, the move comes as new anti-terrorist measures are introduced at this year’s tournament - including metal detectors, body searches of all spectators, and a bigger police presence. Even picnic hampers are banned. Superintendent Simon Ovens, in charge of security, said oversized hats that obscure peoples’ views will be confiscated. “We do not wish to spoil anyone’s enjoyment but want to ensure a safe championship for all.” Pippa Robinson, 35, said: “If Henman makes the semi-finals my husband would definitely want to be there with his Union flag hat on. He’ll be really upset about this.” But Jean Tyson, who runs the Topspin Henman fan club, said: “I’ll be glad to see klaxons banned because they drive me absolutely nuts, and large hats and flags can be very annoying if you are sitting behind them. I think the authorities are just trying to calm things down a bit. The tournament has a unique atmosphere and we don't want it to become like the Barmy Army.” Evening Standard 21/6/04.

Pat ride purged

2007-02-21T16:51:00.000Z

A POSTMAN Pat kids’ ride has been removed by officials who say it is a hazard. For six years youngsters have enjoyed the red van outside a shoe shop but owner Sherryl Granger has been warned for not having a licence and posing a health and safety risk. She received a letter from precinct manager Shelley Filipi telling her to get rid of the ride at St Mary’s Place, Market Harborough. Mrs Granger said: “I have never known anything so petty. It’s just a van that rocks up and down to the Postman Pat tune. Thousands of children have ridden on it. Even more people have walked by and we have never a complaint.” Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Quite as the grave

2007-02-21T16:49:00.000Z

WIND chimes have been banned from a cemetery because of complaints about the noise. Hundreds of the chimes have been hung from trees by visiting mourners. Jeanette Monkley, who tends her grandparents’ graves, said: “It’s lovely when the wind is blowing.” But council health and safety officials in Newport, Gwent, have ruled they must all be removed. John Davies, who visits his brother’s grave, said: “I thought it was a hoax.” Daily Mirror 21/2/06.

Dive ban bombs

2007-02-21T16:46:00.000Z

A CAMBRIDGE teenager has launched a petition to force a rethink over a weekend diving ban at the city’s Parkside Pools. Fifteen-year-old Colin Boys, who has been diving during weekend public swimming sessions at the pool since he was seven, is devastated at the new rules. James Etherington, head diving coach, said: “The diving board is a pretty dangerous piece of equipment and following various risk assessments we have decided to stop diving at times when the pool will be busy.” But Colin’s father Laurence, said: “I’d say it’s loony-leftiness taken to crazy extremes.” Cambridge Evening News 15/11/03.

OAP wire barb

2007-02-21T16:42:00.000Z

A WOMAN of 93 who put up barbed wire around her home after repeated burglaries has been ordered to take it down because it could injure intruders. Ruby Barber’s family put up £450 worth of wire following three break-ins at her home in the Ryehill area of Northampton. But council officials have ordered them to take it down - because it could injure someone who “foolishly” tries to climb it. Mrs Barber’s son Burt told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “It’s around the perimeter of the garden and along the back of the bungalow. That stops them totally. I can’t see what else can be done unless they have a man standing guard there.” Without the barbed wire, he said, “you are giving a health and safety charter to burglars to allow them to get in without a problem.” BBC News 8/8/01.

Hard hat Santa

2007-02-21T14:03:00.000Z

A SHOPPING centre Santa has been issued with a hard hat after local kids pelted him with mince pies. Mall boss Andrew MacKinnon says he is so worried about Santa’s safety that he has now decided to make him wear specially designed protective headgear, complete with funky reindeer antlers. He said: “We take the safety of our staff very seriously and have taken this somewhat drastic action to protect Santa from possible injury. Santa said: “I don’t want to let the children down so, even if it looks a bit odd, I will just have to wear my festive hard hat.” Mr MacKinnon added: “I think this was a bit of Christmas high jinks by the local neds. I look on it as a health and safety matter more than anything else.” This is not the first time Santa has been targeted by bah-humbug neds at The Paisley Centre. Last year Mr MacKinnon said Father Christmas was set upon by a group of yobs, only to retaliate by picking up a Christmas tree from his grotto and setting about his attackers. Paisley Daily Express 21/12/06.

Finger-licking bad

2007-02-21T12:46:00.000Z

HEALTH officials have warned Britain’s TV chiefs to clean up their act. They claim the television cooks are flouting basic hygiene rules as they demonstrate their recipes. According to the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, Jamie Oliver tends to spray saliva over ingredients as he speaks. He is also accused of licking his fingers and then dipping them into dishes. Nigella Lawson is criticised for keeping her rings on whilst cooking, which health experts say encourages bacteria to lurk. Other chefs, particularly on BBC2’s Ready Steady Cook programme, have been singled out for failing to wash their hands. Another ‘dangerous’ practice is using the same chopping boards for raw meat and vegetables. Channel Four, which shows Nigella Bites, said Miss Lawson’s passion for food was more important than perfect adherence to hygiene rules. A spokesman said: “If we did exactly what should be done all viewers would see would be 30 minutes of Nigella washing her hands.” This is London 27/12/02.

Ladder awareness week

2007-02-21T12:43:00.000Z

GLOUCESTER council is holding a meeting to warn people that ladders can be dangerous. The talk is part of National Ladders Week during which officials will also make spot checks on businesses to raise “ladder awareness”. The council said: “The most common causes of accidents include over-reaching, slipping from rungs or the ladder falling. But health and safety officers are not considering a ban on ladders in the workplace.” Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Santa hats binned

2007-02-21T12:41:00.000Z

BINMEN have been banned from wearing Santa hats - on health grounds. The refuse collectors in Kingston upon Hull have worn the traditional red hats for years. Now city council scrooges say “it does not create a professional impression of the council”. A spokesman for the East Yorkshire city said: “Employees can wear Christmas hats in their own time. Wearing them during work time does not create a professional impression. Further, there can be health and safety implications should hats get in the way of dangerous machinery operation.” The Sun 9/12/06.

Barmey bird ban

2007-02-21T12:37:00.000Z

BIRDLOVERS Deborah and Graham Shearer can carry on feeding the birds in their garden after a council apology. The couple were warned by health and safety bosses not to give food to the feathered friends at their home in Simmondley, Glossop, after complaints. But High Peak council now says it will review its procedures. Mrs Shearer, who has been feeding birds since she was a teenager, said: “I’m just glad its finally been sorted out.” Council chiefs said there had been complaints that the birds were noisy and that birdseed might attract rats. Manchester Evening News 31/7/04.

Flags spell danger

2007-02-21T12:35:00.000Z

A SHOPKEEPER has been ordered to remove his flags celebrating St George by council officials who say they breach health and safety rules. Phil Moffatt has been told the 20 flags hoisted from lampposts near his shop in Tuebrook, Liverpool, are dangerous. But Mr Moffatt, who named his shop after Winston Churchill, vowed to defy the ban with the bulldog spirit. Mr Moffatt, who has flown the flags from the same lampposts for the last five years, was ordered to remove them or face a £1,000 bill from Liverpool City Council. “It has really come to something when a proud Englishman can’t raise a few flags to celebrate St George’s Day,” he said. “They have never caused any safety problems, and it seems to me that someone in the council is flexing their powers of political correctness.” But a council spokesman said: “We are not trying to be spoilsports. There is a clear danger to Mr Moffatt himself and an obvious road safety hazard. The flags could distract drivers, fall off and hit cars or pedestrians and it could encourage others to follow suit.” BBC News 19/4/05.

Nut ban nuts

2007-02-21T12:34:00.000Z

MILLIONS of families are to miss out on a longstanding Christmas tradition following a decision by supermarkets not to stock Brazil nuts. The nuts, popular with afternoon tea around the Christmas tree, have been judged a potential safety risk by the European Commission. Traces of a toxin that can cause liver cancer have been found in their shells. So the EC has decreed every batch imported from Brazil must be tested for the substance aflatoxin. Supermarkets claim the cost of destroying any shipments would be too high and are not willing to import them. Brazil nut kernels, used in nut mixtures and chocolate Brazil nuts, can still be imported from Bolivia and Peru. But Peter Morgan of the Combined Edible Nut Trade Association said: “Commercially it is now too risky to import them. The EU have put overly stringent limits on this without really good evidence.” Evening Standard 3/12/04.

Parties up in smoke

2007-02-21T12:32:00.000Z

A COUNCIL has been labelled “killjoys” and “sad” after urging residents not to have family Guy Fawkes Night bonfires. It wants residents to put material they would have burned into garden composters instead. The Conservative-led Test Valley council in Hampshire, which covers a mainly rural area around Andover and Romsey, advised its rate-payers to consider the environmental impact of having bonfires on November 5. It suggests attending an organised bonfire party as an alternative. “Bonfires can cause annoyance to neighbours, and every year the council receives many complaints about bonfire nuisances,” it said. But Daniel Busk, a farmer and a member of the council’s executive, said he would be ignoring the advice and hoped to have it rescinded. “This is typical of the nanny state taking all the fun out of life,” he said. “This is an absolute joke: bloody stupid, ridiculous. It is much better to burn your leaves in the garden than drive your car somewhere using petrol.” Daily Telegraph 22/10/05.

Too cool for cats

2007-02-21T12:29:00.000Z

SCENES that appear to glamorise smoking are to be edited out of Tom and Jerry cartoons following complaints to Ofcom, the broadcasting watchdog, because they are not appropriate to be shown to children. The complaint was about two cartoons - Texas Tom and Tennis Chumps - transmitted on Turner Broadcasting’s children's channel, Boomerang. More than half (56%) of the channel’s audience are aged four to 14. In Texas Tom, Tom tries to impress a female cat by making a rollup cigarette while Tennis Chumps sees Tom’s opponent in a match smoking a large cigar. Turner said it would edit out any references in Tom and Jerry and all its 1,700 Hanna Barbera cartoons in which smoking appeared to be condoned. But the broadcaster said editing out all smoking references might adversely affect the “value of the animation”. Ofcom welcomed Turner's approach but said in future it would look at all such cases individually. The Guardian 22/8/06.

Egg box mix-up

2007-02-21T12:28:00.000Z

EGG BOXES are to return to craft lessons at an East Sussex school after they were banned over health fears. The head of Wallands Primary School, in Lewes, said he had been enforcing the ban, believing the reason was a risk of spreading salmonella. After meeting county council chiefs, he said he would soon be able to let pupils use the egg boxes again. But East Sussex County Council said it had never banned the materials at any school and there had been a mix-up. Brian Davies, head teacher at the school, said he had been stopping pupils bringing in egg boxes or used toilet rolls for several years. He said he was told they were unsafe by the council and thought it was due to fears that salmonella could be spread to the schoolchildren. Mr Davies said: “It’s the sort of thing we get the whole time these days.” BBC News 21/6/05.

Council grabs conkers

2007-02-21T12:25:00.000Z

CHILDREN are now being denied the autumnal pleasure of collecting conkers as council workers will be there ahead of them in the supposed interests of health and safety. Rather than risk children damaging themselves or property by collecting the horse chestnuts, Newcastle Upon Tyne City Council is responding to residents’ requests to get to them first. Taxpayers are funding the operation by the council’s environmental services team to use a cherry picker crane to strip trees bare of conkers before children can get their hands on them. But members of the public have been stunned by the sight of the conker-picking team at work. Martin Callanan, the north-east’s Tory MEP, said: “Words fail me. It’s the nanny state gone mad. I used to collect conkers as a lad and I never injured myself and nor did any of my friends. There must be better things they could do with their time. They could clean the streets for a start.” Evening Standard 10/10/06.

Smoke out Granny

2007-02-21T12:21:00.000Z

NURSING home staff have told patient Gladys Gornall to go outside if she wants a cigarette - even though she’s 93. But wheelchair-bound Gladys, who only began smoking ten years ago when she was widowed, fumed: “I’ll catch my death out there. I should at least be allowed to have a fag in my own room - I am an adult, after all.” Bosses said the indoor smoking ban at Norwood Lodge in Portishead, Somerset, was a health and safety issue. The People 22/6/06.

Party parts pooper

2007-02-21T12:16:00.000Z

THE PERILS of holding a Christmas party have been spelt out by safety campaigners, urging firms to make sure their staff do not injure themselves by dancing on desks or photocopying parts of their body. Similarly, managers have been advised not to put up any mistletoe, in case it leads to complaints of sexual harassment. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the TUC have published a special checklist, saying that while they weren’t being “party poopers” they wanted to lessen the chances of workers ending up in hospital after a festive bash. They warn that candles, flaming puddings and smoking should all be banned at Christmas parties. Stepladders should be used to put up decorations, as using a swivel chair could cause an accident. And workers should resist the temptation to photocopy parts of their body, because of the risk of glass in painful places if the machine breaks. Mail on Sunday 10/12/04.

Big Ted ban

2007-02-21T12:14:00.000Z

ENORMOUS teddies given as prizes in gambling arcades are facing extinction after being labelled too much of a temptation. Ministers fear the huge cuddly toys are so appealing they could lure youngsters into a lifetime of gambling. They say the furry animals must be downsized to reduce the risk. But the plans have been ridiculed by opposition politicians, who are accusing the government of running a nanny state. The Department of Culture, Media and Sport argues that young people should still be allowed to play at the arcades but believes the prizes should not be too big. A spokesman said: “The Government believes that children should be able to play these machines but the stakes and prizes should discourage them playing too much.” This is London 26/1/05.

Desperate safety measure

2007-02-21T12:10:00.000Z

ONE OF the UK’s most popular comics has been taken off the shelves at a leading airport as part of a security crack-down. Security staff have ordered copies of The Dandy - made famous by cowboy Desperate Dan - to be withdrawn from Birmingham International Airport because a free toy gun is being given away. The bright blue-and-yellow plastic “punch-gun” toy was attached to hundreds of copies of the comic, and the airport fear it could be used as a weapon to hijack a plane. But the Dandy’s publishers branded the decision “a hysterical over-reaction” after security officers said the cheap plastic toy was not suitable for sale within the airport terminal. A spokesman for DC Thomson said: “It’s obviously a toy and nothing more. It might be mildly irritating if a kid fired it at your head over and over, but it’s hardly a weapon of mass destruction. I don’t think a terrorist would get very far if he tried to hijack a plane with a free toy from The Dandy. I know they have to be strict about security at airports but this ruling is just ridiculous. It's a hysterical over-reaction.” The Birmingham Post 28/2/03.

Primary pencils chopped

2007-02-21T12:08:00.000Z

A SCHOOL has banned children from taking pencil cases into class in case they are used to hide sharp weapons. St Anne’s Primary School in Denton, Greater Manchester, acted after a boy was cut with a letter opener. Nick Seaton, chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, said: “Most parents will think it is ridiculous to ban pencil cases just because one child carries a letter opener in his. It seems a bit extreme. Serious action should be taken against the particular individual, but to ban pencil cases universally is silly.” Derbygripe.co.uk 2/07.

Xmas switch off

2007-02-21T12:05:00.000Z

THE seaside town of Scarborough has cancelled plans to switch on its Christmas lights after fears of a compensation claim if anyone was injured. The problems began when North Yorkshire Fire Service claimed the town centre could cope with only 2,000 visitors. The decision has outraged residents, who condemned it as yet another intrusion of the ‘nanny state’. Penny Marsden, an independent councilor and shopkeeper, said the whole thing was ‘a joke’. She said: ‘It is another result of the ill-thought-out regulations imposed by the government. This is a joyous occasion when children come out to enjoy the start of Christmas - and we are going to rob them of it.’ Town centre manager Malcolm Hall said he had tried to obtain anti-surge barriers and stewards, but had failed. ‘We’re all bitterly disappointed, but the health and safety of people is paramount,’ he added. Evening Standard 13/11/06.

School missile alert

2007-02-21T12:01:00.000Z

PUPILS have been banned from throwing paper planes to one another - in case they get injured. Staff at a Kent primary school have instead set up special targets in the playground for the children to aim at. The edict follows claims by teachers that a few of the school’s pupils, aged between three and 11, had been “over-zealous” in launching the missiles. The headteacher argued the ban was “a sensible” measure - but parents of some of the 230 pupils reacted with disbelief. One father of a seven-year-old boy said: “I’ve heard it all now. We made paper planes and our parents did the same and I never heard of anyone getting hurt. It’s taking the health-and-safety measures to absurd lengths. Heaven knows what they will think to ban next.” Staff at Bishops Down Primary School in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, introduced the ban after two pupils were seen aiming their paper planes at other children. Headteacher Emma Savage said staff were particularly concerned about eye injuries. “These planes can have sharp edges and have the potential to damage a young person’s eyes,” she said. Daily Mail 18/6/06.

OAP explosion fear

2007-02-21T11:49:00.000Z

A SICK pensioner who relies on an oxygen cylinder to breathe has been banned from her local club - because she’s a fire hazard. Smoker Gillian Western, 66, has been barred from the Royal British Legion in case her life-saving cylinder explodes. Wheelchair-user Gillian, who suffers from chronic bronchial asthma, said: “I have been a member for more than 25 years and have been going in there with the cylinder for two years. I think they are just being petty." Jeff Harrison of the Royal British Legion in Cheshire said it was the committee's decision on how they run the club. “There is a health and safety difficulty because of smoking. Therefore they have asked her to keep out. It’s as simple as that.” The Sun 16/12/04.

Jellies stamped out

2007-02-21T11:46:00.000Z

JELLY mini-cup sweets have been banned by a European directive because of a risk of children choking. The sweets are packaged in plastic cups and designed to be swallowed in one. The EU commission said they were a risk because of their “consistency, shape and form” and that warnings alone were not enough to protect children. But opponents said the ban was disproportionate and there was no evidence of a danger to children’s health. The jelly sweets contain additives derived from seaweed or certain gums. They are individual, mouth-sized servings and may contain a small piece of preserved fruit, including apple and mango. They are designed to be projected into the mouth by exerting pressure on the semi-rigid container and then eaten in one single bite. However, Tory MEP John Bowis, Conservative health spokesman in the European Parliament, said: “This decision by the commission is completely over the top and disproportionate.” BBC News 3/4/04.

Plane crazy

2007-02-21T11:44:00.000Z

A FAMILY was dumped off a plane because “jobsworth” cabin crew wouldn’t let a three-month-old baby sit on a kind-hearted passenger’s knee in case he was abused. When Ann Jordan was told she couldn’t fly because she had the wrong safety seat for daughter Azrael, another passenger offered to look after baby Kaleb so the family could stay onboard. But the captain refused and ordered the family off, citing “child protection laws”. Angry mum-of-two Ann, 35, of Rutherglen Road, Red House, Sunderland, said: “It was insulting, not just to me but to the passenger who wanted to help.” Low budget airline Easy Jet defended its pilot, saying he was complying with policy. It also says the crew was right not to compromise passengers’ safety. Housewife Ann was flying from Bristol to Newcastle, after visiting family in Cardiff. She was marched off the plane in tears as concerned passengers tried to negotiate with staff. Ann said: “He could easily have allowed the baby to sit next to me on the kind lady’s knee where I could keep a close eye, but he was too much of a jobsworth.” Sunderland Echo 13/2/07.

Put out no flags

2007-02-21T11:41:00.000Z

FLYING flags from the MPs’ office building near the House of Commons has been banned - because it’s too dangerous. Health and safety experts say it is unsafe for workers to put up flags on the flagpole at Portcullis House. Flag raisers have to climb over ventilation ducts in poor light, all without a safety harness. It means a flag has been flown only once since the problem-plagued building for MPs and their staffs opened in 2000. Labour MP John Spellar said: “This is a case of bungling bureaucrats and architects not thinking things through.” Sunday Mirror 28/1/07.

One snack too many

2007-02-21T11:38:00.000Z

A BOY aged 10 has been banned from his school dining hall because his packed lunch broke the government’s healthy eating guidelines. The father of Ryan Stupples is protesting after his son was forced to eat in the headmaster’s office at Lunsford primary school, Larkfield, Kent, because his lunch contained two snacks, instead of one. Ryan’s lunch consisted of a sandwich, fruit, fromage frais, cake, mini cheese biscuits and a bottle of water. The cake and the biscuits broke the snack limit. They were discovered when a teacher checked his lunch box. The boy’s father, Michael Stupples, 41, said: “What 10-year-old boy won’t get upset when he’s thrown out of a dining hall in front of everyone and made to eat his lunch in the head teacher’s office?” Malcolm Goddard, the headmaster, said: “We take healthy eating very seriously and everyone is aware of our new policies.” Daily Telegraph 14/10/06.

Pub bans glasses

2007-02-21T11:35:00.000Z

A GIRL of six was left in tears after being barred from a pub playground - for wearing glasses. Lauren Brown was told it was a safety issue. But her mum Sarah said Lauren couldn’t see without her specs. Angry Sarah added: “She was so upset.” The Cherry Orchard pub in Woodchurch, Wirral, has apologised. The People 5/3/06.

Ambulance weighting

2007-02-20T20:49:00.000Z

HEAVY patients could be banned from riding in emergency ambulances in the Bristol area. The public service workers’ union Unison has warned ambulance crews they risk breaking the law by exceeding vehicle weight limits. Union leaders are raising the prospect of a ban on anyone over 18st 8lbs (260lbs) travelling in an emergency vehicle in the Avon Ambulance Trust area. The bid to enforce the strict limits could also mean patients are forced to travel without accompanying relatives while midwives may be banned from travelling with pregnant women. BBC News 14/8/02.

OAP abuse worry

2007-02-20T20:45:00.000Z

ROTARIANS, the pillars of local respectability, have been told they can no longer carry out charitable work with the old or the young while alone. The club, whose motto is Service Above Self, has decreed members must be accompanied when helping children or pensioners in case they are accused of abusing them. In a decision which has outraged many of the 58,000 British and Irish Rotarians, the Club Board has issued the instructions to local groups after being told insurance premiums against legal action would be “sky high” if they did not follow the pairing system. A Rotary Club spokesman said the organisation had reluctantly introduced the measures after receiving legal advice. “It is a case of having a witness present at all times, as a response to the nanny state we live in,” he said. This is London 4/11/06.

End of the line for spotters

2007-02-20T20:44:00.001Z

HORDES of angry train spotters are letting off steam over news that their number could soon be up. Security and safety issues have led to fears that rail companies will ban the UK’s 100,000 spotters from stations. A report in Railway Magazine highlighted a number of worrying platform problems. One man was told to leave Britain’s biggest interchange, Clapham Junction in South London, because he was “breaching security”. Railway Magazine editor Nick Pigott said: “The authorities are picking on a harmless hobby that has never caused a problem. It is a total breach of civil liberties.” Colin Smith, 52, from Bermondsey, South East London, said: “Sod ’em all. I’ve been doing this since I was six and nobody’s going to stop me.” The Sun 30/5/03.

Wimbledon flap

2007-02-20T20:41:00.000Z

PATRIOTIC tennis fans have been banned from waving national flags at Wimbledon - because of fears over health and safety. Wimbledon authorities confiscated scores of England flags from fans watching Tim Henman’s opening match at the tennis championship. They said they were removing all flags larger than 2ft by 2ft for “health and safety” reasons - claiming the flags’ poles could be dangerous. Matt Pateman, 23, from Bedfordshire, was using his 3ft by 2ft St George’s Cross flag as a mat to sit on, but was told to put it in his bag or risk confiscation. He said: “I couldn’t believe it. I wasn’t even waving it around - I was only sitting on it.” Paul Lewis, 28, a business manager from Chiswick, West London, said: “There is no way that I was a danger to anybody. I wasn’t even waving my flag: I was just holding it in my hands. I think it is ridiculous that they can that having a flag is dangerous.” A spokesman for the All England Lawn Tennis Club said: “The poles could cause injury to those sitting around.” Daily Mail 27/6/06.

No to yo-ball

2007-02-20T20:38:00.000Z

THE government has banned a controversial new toy, the yo-ball - the first ban on a toy for more than a decade. Trading standards officers across the country have been warning of the dangers of the toys, fluid-filled brightly coloured plastic balls on rubber strings. The officers said there was a risk that children could be strangled if the string became wrapped around their necks, because it constricts. A spokesman for the Department of Trade and Industry said: “The supply of yo-balls is banned with immediate effect after tests have shown that the toy could pose a risk of strangulation.” Evening Standard 24/4/03.

No flowers

2007-02-20T20:36:00.000Z

GRIEVING families have been banned from planting flowers at death crash scenes - because they’re a safety hazard. Mini-gardens built as tributes to victims will be dug up and wreaths allowed at a site for only 30 days, warns Thurrock Council, Essex. It said: “We respect the need for people to grieve. But others are putting their lives at risk to place flowers or visit permanent tributes.” But one angry dad said: “It’s nonsense and disrespectful.” The People 20/8/06.

Doubt over dung catcher

2007-02-20T20:34:00.000Z

BLACKPOOL’S landau horses will not be wearing nappies in time for the start of this holiday season. The future of the dung-catching devices has been thrown into doubt after councillors were told they could pose a serious health and safety threat. David Muir, equine consultant to the RSPCA told a council meeting: “What if the horse panics, puts its leg back, gets caught in the device and three people end up dead? We have to do a lot more research into the pros and cons of these devices before we put them on horses.” The delay in making horses wear nappies has come as a blow to Town Hall bosses, who hoped their introduction would put an end to the smelly problem of horse muck on the Promenade. Horse vet Barry Johnson said: “Any piece of equipment added to a horse carries extra risks and the nappy is no exception.” If the nappies are deemed too dangerous to wear, the future of the traditional Blackpool landau will be thrown into doubt. Blackpool Gazette 10/2/07.

Safety curtain call

2007-02-20T20:32:00.000Z

IS THIS a dagger I see before me? Or is it “an object which is designed for the purpose of inflicting bodily harm” and therefore unfit for the British stage? According to new guidelines published by the Health and Safety Executive, Macbeth would do well to consult a qualified armourer and slip into some protective clothing before conjuring up a potentially dangerous sharpened object in the corridors of Dunsinane. The guidance sets out to enlighten thespians on the “management” of props in theatre, film and television. In a section entitled “Noise”, the executive stumbles upon the truth that “firearms can produce very high levels” of it. On page five, the document states that “it is worth noting that wood, plastic or rubber weapons may be hazardous if used in a stabbing or lunging mode”. It also adds that standing in front of a loaded crossbow may carry serious health implications. Members of the entertainment industry are bewildered. Malcolm Ranson, a fight choreographer who specialises in period sword play, said that the recommendations - including the revelation that performers’ shoes “should fit correctly”- were obvious. “Most people would look at this and say it’s all common sense,” he said. “You sometimes wonder who it’s actually aimed at.” The Management of Firearms and Other Weapons In Productions is one of 20 information pamphlets released in connection with the entertainment industry. The Times 27/10/03.

Church kites grounded

2007-02-20T20:29:00.000Z

ROSSENDALE council has grounded a fundraising kite contest organised by a local curch. The event was to be held to mark the fall of the Taliban in Afghanistan where kite flying had also been banned. The council said accident and damage insurance documents had not been completed. As the church was planning to charge an entry fee and the event was to be staged on council land, they could not grant permission. The Rev. Ron Phillips of Sion Baptist Church, who organized the event, said: “We could not help but make the comparison to what the Taliban did and this. It seems surprising that you need permission for something as simple and harmless as kite-flying. It was disappointing, but I understand the concerns of Rossendale Council.” Owen Williams, the council’s chief executive, said: “Any event which charges people to participate has to be covered by public liability insurance. It does not matter what activity is taking place. Public liability is even needed for bouncy castles.” Manchester Evening News 14/10/04.

High risk Xmas

2007-02-20T20:26:00.000Z

OFFICE workers at Tower Hamlets council have been banned from hanging up Christmas decorations at work in case they get hurt. Staff who have just moved into a newly-opened office building next to the town hall were barred via email from climbing to the ceiling to put up paper decorations in case they injure themselves and then sue the council. Fairy lights have also been banned in a bid to cut power bills and ensure safety standards. Mini-Christmas trees, tinsel and baubles are still allowed - provided there are no lights. The council insisted it had not cancelled Christmas, however, saying it intended only to staff not to climb on to desks to put up decorations for fear they would fall. Staff could still celebrate Christmas with tinsel, baubles, and other decorations, the council said. Daily Mail 23/11/06.

Building cover-up

2007-02-20T20:24:00.000Z

THE government will decide whether or not UK builders will be banned from working bare-chested after MEPs voted to pass the buck. The European Commission’s controversial Optical Radiation Directive was designed to protect workers exposed to X-rays or welding equipment. But an attempt to extend the EU legislation to cover “natural” radiation - sunlight - was watered down after claims that Britain’s construction workerswould be forced to cover up at work. Conservative MEP Philip Bushill-Matthews said the tan-ban idea was “barmy”, adding: “This raised the prospect of fully clothed lifeguards in open-air swimming pools.” The Sun 7/9/05.

Weighty problem

2007-02-20T20:21:00.000Z

A GROUP of flower enthusiasts has been hit with a ban on hanging baskets after fears they posed a public risk. For almost two decades hanging baskets have been a part of Bury St Edmunds’ summer floral displays. But this year they will be absent from the Suffolk town after the council ruled there was a risk they could fall from lampposts and injure the public. The council felt the town’s lampposts could not cope with the added weight of the pots of soil and could break. Michael Ames, chairman of the Bury in Bloom committee, said the ban by Suffolk County Council was pointless. “They are guarding their own backs over health and safety,” he said. “But no-one has been hurt - certainly not in Bury St Edmunds, certainly not in Suffolk.” Guy Smith, assistant highways manager for the council, said they just wanted to ensure the safety of the public as some baskets were quite heavy. The council felt they could present a safety hazard on some of the older lampposts. “We have to be satisfied that the columns are strong and stable enough to take the weight,” he said. BBC News 10/2/04.