SEAX - July 2007 - Essex Crusaders

Page 4
THE PROBLEMS OF MODERN HEALTH & SAFETY CULTURE
I was delighted to have won a bungee cord in the June 19 raffle at the Center 19 club
meeting at the Windmill Tavern in East Hanningfield. My pleasure was heightened by the
knowledge that Trevor had not won a prize. Then I read the safety label attached to the
40” x 10mm (someone getting their units a bit mixed) Heavy Duty Stretch Cord. A total of
163 words of caution and use instruction as follows:-
“Bungee cords should be stretched and released carefully. Do not stand directly
inline of tension. To avoid rebound, never exceed 50% of unstretched length. Over
stretching can cause hook failure resulting in sudden uncontrolled release that can
cause severe injury to unprotected body parts, especially eyes. Safety goggles
should be worn when stretching or releasing bungee cords. Never use bungees on
large flat items that can rise with air pressure created while traveling. Tie-down
and anchor points must be checked every 30 miles (48 km). Do not use worn or
frayed bungees. Keep cord away from sharp edges. Choose the correct length of
bungee for the job, ensuring not to stretch beyond the maximum usable length and
keeping a reserve of elasticity. Do not join several bungees together nor tie knots
to reduce the length. Locate hook securely and hold firmly before securing elastic.
Do not alter hook shape in any way. Not recommended for use by children unless
supervised by an adult.”
Winning a prize in the raffle was nice but the danger associated with its use has left me
concerned for my safety, and for the sanity of the legal departments associated with the
manufacture and distribution of the product. As a motorcyclist and user of bungee cords I
am in a privileged position compared with other bungee cord users. As long as I put on my
bike gear before using the hazardous cord I should be OK – full face helmet has to be
better than safety goggles (as long as I keep the visor down) and an armored leather
jacket will help should there be a “sudden uncontrolled release”. However, as a cyclist with
a need to secure shopping to the bicycle rear carrier; and a motorist with occasional need
to secure DIY items to the roof rack; I feel that my prize will be of limited use unless I
put on my motorcycle gear before use.
For the benefit of all club members I think that there
should always be a heath and safety review of potential
raffle prizes before purchase. Next time you feel the
need to purchase a rubber restraint device; be it in
Halfords or Ann Summers; please ask and I would be
delighted to assist you.
Bob Owen.
Eds note: Don’t worry Bob, you won’t win again!