National papers move to clarify 'Gritgate'

14 January 2010

Two of the national newspapers who incorrectly attributed “guidance” on gritting to IOSH have moved to clarify the situation.

The Sun today amended the story on its website to include, in full, comments from IOSH policy and technical director Richard Jones instead of the text included in its original story –this was taken from a column in SHP magazine written by Croner.

They also added a clarification at the foot of the page stating: “We would like to make clear the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health did not issue a specific warning to homeowners and businesses not to clear snowy pavements as we reported in an earlier version of this story. In fact the IOSH was pointing out the risks under the current law of which they have no control. We are happy to make this clear.”

The Daily Express has also printed a letter from IOSH chief executive Rob Strange OBE putting across the true IOSH position. Under the heading ‘Being good neighbours can make all the difference’, Rob wrote:

“Contrary to your story (“Mad rules that leave our pavements icy”, January 11) and other press reports, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has not issued guidance to businesses not to grit or clear snow from public paths.

“The story incorrectly attributed advice from elsewhere as being IOSH guidance. Our view is that businesses and communities should clear snow and ice from public areas if they choose to and can do so properly.

“Doing a good job on this will help make life easier for businesses and safer for staff and visitors to their premises, as well as passers-by. Being a good neighbour can help prevent needless slips and falls.”