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.