It seems that almost every week we hear of another event cancelled, and the organisers invariably cite some health and safety issue as the cause. Pancake races banned; Guy Fawkes bonfire replaced with a projected image; newly graduated prevented from throwing mortar boards in the air following their ceremony.

In response to these stories, the HSE has devoted its calendar to this subject for 2009 with the intention of resolving these concerns.

Will it work? i doubt it. its not over zealous enforcement by Health & Safety Officers thats preventing these activities. In most cases the problem begins and ends with event insurers, or should i say the failure of insurers to take on the risk without applying unrealistic premiums, excesses or restrictions. Hopefully the HSE sent copies of their calendar to the insurance companies, although i doubt it will result in any improvements in the situation.