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News release

4 October 2010 - NR 40/10

Crazy stories down to lack of advice or fear of legal action

IOSH has called on organisations to seek professional advice so events can go ahead – or be more honest about the real reasons why they are cancelling them.

Speaking in response to media reports about the Lord Young Review, IOSH Policy and Technical Director Richard Jones told the Press Association: “Most of the crazy stories Lord Young referred to in today’s media reports are the result of lack of advice, fear of being sued, or people not wanting the cost and trouble of running an event properly.

“We would like to see organisations seeking professional advice so events go ahead – or else, more honesty about the real reasons why they haven’t, including insurance requirements.

“Sadly, in recent years, health and safety has been used as a convenient excuse for avoiding doing things – when the actual risks involved are perfectly manageable. So, we have called for, and would support, improved guidance and access to good advice.

“The recent ‘conkers bonkers’ image is a travesty and a dangerous one. Real health and safety isn’t over the top – it enables things to happen, playing a key and positive role in successful and confident societies. We certainly need more clarity on why decisions about public activities are taken and for people to remember that the law only requires what’s reasonable.”

A raft of stories emerged in the media on October 2 and 3 about Lord Young’s findings, which have been released to news organisations ahead of their official publication.

“An end to ‘excessive’ health and safety rules that enable councils to cancel popular activities is to be urged by an adviser to the Prime Minister,” reported BBC Online.

The Daily Express went with: “Good Samaritans and have-a-go-heroes will be legally protected against being sued under Government proposals unveiled today.”

And the Guardian reported: “Councils that wrongly ban events and activities on health and safety grounds could be forced to pay compensation under plans being considered by the government.”

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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.