Day 519, Safety Elf

Here we have a small example of health and safety in the working kitchen.

Clearly visible in the background is a laminated copy of the Factories Act 1961.*

This indicates an understanding of the legal requirements.

The stock photo of the Safety Elf demonstrates correct usage of protective equipment.

A hard hat, always suitable when cooking items that could cause concussion.

Safety goggles, to prevent hot-fat or shards of egg being hurled into the eyes.

The other two team members are at a safe distance, aware of the risk.

Maybe all is ok.

Not at all slightly like the opening sequence of the popular television drama, Casualty.

Even given the lack of protective gauntlets.

But what's the bacon being cooked on, there's a bit of blue metal on the left, is it a camping gas stove?

Is that allowed, after all we are on the eleventh floor and this is a tower block?

Strictly no, it isn't allowed.

Although the construction of this tower isn't susceptible to the same problem which caused the collapse of Ronan Point.

And the gas isn't delivered by a mains pipe.

In reality the likelihood of anything untoward gas-wise happening here is very slight.

There's more chance of being electrocuted by that Baby Belling someone has foolishly placed on the work surface.

Or getting a hernia from lifting that prehistoric microwave, or more likely being irradiated by it.

And the bacon?**

A potential hazard that lies dormant long after the other health and safety issues are forgotten.

A colorectal time-bomb ready to bite the unprepared backside.

That delightful cured meat product and its charming hidden properties.

A sleeping comestible danger with no corresponding act of parliament from the 1960s.

Not all risks are visible.

Being delivered from a working kitchen somewhere near you.***

* Take your pick (it's the latter) - meddling do-gooders / sensible legislation to prevent abuse and workplace hazards.
** This may not actually be bacon, it may be 'bacon substitute'.
*** If you read the Daily Mail

For official/internal use only:
7777
0-9