The HSE web site runs a monthly series debunking common H&S myths this months is an amusing one debunking the banning of the traditional poles in fire stations they say:

It was widely reported that a fire station was built without the traditional pole for ‘health and safety’ reasons.

As the county’s Chief Fire Officer said: ‘Whilst every consideration regarding health and safety was taken into account, the reason a pole was not included was purely due to space restrictions.’

Poles are not banned and firefighters around the country continue to use them.

At the week end there was a rather grim reminder of what can happen if fire safety is not given the priority it deserves.

Sunday 6th July was the 20th anniversary of the Piper Alpha Disaster. 167 oil workers perished on the North Sea platform owned by the American Occidental oil company when a gas leak ignited in a massive fireball.

Alex Salmond (Scotland’s first minister) led the tributes to the Victims.

“I hope the commemoration of the 20th anniversary provides a reminder to everyone that in these hostile, dangerous waters, safety should always be paramount.”

As a result of the disaster The Cullen Enquiry was set up to establish the cause. In November 1990, it concluded that the initial condensate leak was the result of maintenance work being carried out simultaneously on a pump and related safety valve. Piper Alpha’s operator, Occidental, was found guilty of having inadequate maintenance procedures. A second phase of the enquiry made far-reaching safety recommendations, all of which were accepted by industry.