The HSE has set out to dispel the myth regarding wearing flip flops at work. It has stated that the health and safety law does not ban any particular footwear.
A recent HSE survey revealed a startling fact that about one third of the employees believed that HSE bans wearing flip flops at work, when in reality it doesn’t and never did.
Labelling these misconceptions as “ridiculous myths”, Judith Hackitt, Chair of the HSE, went on to state that sandals or flip-flops were considered by many as ideal for the summer season, as they claimed it helped them stay cool, and the HSE understood this point of view perfectly. According to her, there is no ban on these footwear even though many people might hold a contrary belief.
However, she says that employees wearing flip-flops should be cautious if their work place floor is wet and slippery, as this may result in trips and slips. In such cases, it is advisable to wear fitting shoes that have a good grip, instead of flip flops, which will increase the risk of an accident.
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The HSE through its ‘Be Part of the Solution’ campaign urges for a practical approach to risk management at work. Judith Hackitt said that the HSE does not intend to be a Big Brother, watching every move of the employers for possible infraction of rules. She added that practical risk management rather than curtailment of freedom is the focus of the new HSE strategy, which advocates a more rational approach to health and safety.
