London Ambulance
Health and safety.
Bulletin No.12
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NOSEY
BYSTANDERS New Euro Ruling
A
recent European Court ruling strengthens the existing legislation
within the UK framework of Health and Safety Law.
A
judgement against the Belgian Police found that the football rioters they
were trying to contain did in fact form a part of their workplace.
As
such, the firing of tear gas and rubber bullets into a crowd, completely
unprotected against such weapons was found to be negligent, as the Politie
Belgique had not taken every reasonable measure to protect those in or
around their workplace from hazards, direct or consequential
resulting from their employed activities.
The
implications for London Ambulance Service are clear.
Nosey
bystanders form an integral part of our working environment. If
we have personal protective equipment for our crews as they work in
the public
domain, then so should those immediately around us, as they are subject to
the same
risks, but will be further at risk due to less training.
