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News release

11 June 2010 - NR 26/10

IOSH applauds government’s ‘common sense’ approach to World Cup flags

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health has praised the ‘common sense’ advice the government has given to local councils over the flying of the Cross of St George during the World Cup finals.

Local Government Minister Grant Shapps has written to all council bosses across England telling them to take a "common sense approach" over any potential health and safety fears caused by people flying the flag in support of England at this year’s World Cup in South Africa.

In the letter, Mr Shapps wrote: "I understand that a risk-based approach to health and safety is important and that councils are rightly placed to take local decisions.

"But I am hoping that during this time, local authorities will take a common sense approach in order to avoid accusations of being over-zealous or spoilsports, so that communities can unite around flying the flag in support of their national team."

A source from Communities and Local Government said the advice follows a number of cases where councils have displayed a "seemingly inflexible interpretation of health and safety or advertising guidelines".

Richard Jones, IOSH’s Policy and Technical Director, warmly welcomed the government’s advice to councils.

He said: “At last – endorsement of the sensible approach to public safety that we’ve been campaigning on for years! Health and safety shouldn’t be used by decision-makers simply as an excuse for unpopular, risk-averse decisions.

“We fully support Mr Shapps’ advice to local councils and hope this type of government action helps bring common sense to all public safety issues. We look forward to working with the new government to help the process along.”

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Notes for editors:

IOSH is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals. With more than 40,000 members in 85 countries, we’re the world’s biggest professional health and safety organisation.

We set standards, and support, develop and connect our members with resources, guidance, events and training. We’re the voice of the profession, and campaign on issues that affect millions of working people.

IOSH was founded in 1945 and is a registered charity with international NGO status.