HSE clarifies its position on icy pavements
January 25th 16:10 Health and Safety
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has moved to clarify its position on the clearing of icy pavements, assuring businesses and the public that they are safe to do so.
HSE wrote to two news publications in the Midlands following claims from concerned members of the local community that volunteers offering to clear pathways during the recent heavy snowfall could face prosecution under HSE rules.
In letters to the Birmingham Mail and ThisisNottingham, HSE regional director Rosi Edwards said that this is not the case.
"The HSE agrees it is ridiculous that people should feel prevented from helping others, through a fear of being held responsible for an accident," she said.
"HSE has certainly not stipulated any rules on icy pavements … we encourage a common sense approach to health and safety, and are focused on the real safety risks at work."
Ms Edwards explained that exercising common sense could help to reduce the number of serious injuries suffered through "slips and trips at work".
According to the HSE almost 11,000 serious injuries were recorded as the result of falls last year.
