Find out the truth about common health and safety myths. Ridiculous media stories detract from the real business of managing risks sensibly.
Saving Lives, Not Stopping Them
Sensible risk management is about practical steps to protect people from real harm and suffering.
Despite what you might read in the media, it is not about bureaucratic back covering and stopping any activity that might possibly lead to harm.
Health and safety does not have to be expensive, time consuming or complicated. This website gives clear advice and practical solutions to deal with real risks to your workers and your business - try our Small Business Help pages. Our inspections focus on priority safety topics.
Myth of the Month
Myth of the Month on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website explains some of the misunderstandings often publicised in the media:
June 2008 Myth - Adults cannot put plasters on children's cuts
May 2008 Myth - All park benches must be replaced because they are three inches too low
April 2008 Myth - Health and safety laws banned hanging baskets
March 2008 Myth - Toy 'weapons' in a play had to be locked up and registered with the police
February 2008 Myth - If a pupil is hurt, the teacher is likely to be sued
January 2008 Myth - Safety Experts’ New Year resolution is to make the life of business people as miserable as possible
December 2007 Myth - Every possible risk needs a safety sign
November 2007 Myth - Workers are banned from putting up Christmas decorations in the office
October 2007 Myth - Children were banned from riding at a donkey derby
September 2007 Myth - Kids must wear goggles to play conkers
August 2007 Myth - Egg boxes are banned in school craft lessons as they might cause salmonella
July 2007 Myth - All office equipment must be tested by a qualified electrician every year
June 2007 Myth - New regulations would require trapeze artists to wear hard hats
May 2007 Myth - Risk assessments must always be long and complex
April 2007 Myth - HSE has banned stepladders
You can download colour posters in PDF format about the myths.
Putting the Record Straight
The HSE website also has a section Putting the Record Straight, with replies to stories in the media, including replies from other organisations including the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).
