HSE Chair warns employers not to use Health and Safety Law as a scapegoat

The Chair of the Health and Safety Executive, Judith Hackitt, said health and safety legislation should not be used as a "convenient excuse" to ban harmless children's activities. Ms Hackitt  is quoted as saying, "The gloves are off" and that the HSE would be ready to challenge those using health and safety laws as a excuse for "daft decisions".
She claimed many employers use the laws as an excuse to avoid activities that might cost money or leave them open to the risk of being sued for personal injury.
"Don't use health and safety law as a convenient scapegoat or we will challenge you," she said.