I have just read a post by Dave Brookes under the Yandles Spring show topic and wanted to respond but felt it justified starting a new topic.
I hope Dave doesn't mind my quoting his post below, but it sets the situation for my reply.
I was in two minds as whether to post this or not but having stewed/simmered for a few days here goes........
Despite the various threads on the forum with regards to Health & Safety, I was dismayed by some of the demonstrators at the show who were proudly displaying their AWGB badges yet had no means of protection between their lathes and the general public. It seems evident that the show host does not require the basic Risk Assessments to be submitted and complied with, and if they do, then no one looks to see if all is in control.
As an organisation, we need our members to set the example to others.
Dave
Now I agree with Dave that we should be setting good examples to all and sundry but to what level does this apply?
A bit of background here. I am secretary for one, and involved with several other clubs. I also demonstrate to woodturning clubs, and at craft fairs, village shows and WI meetings.
The situation I find myself in is, when doing demonstrations for woodturning clubs, it would NOT be acceptable if I put a screen between myself and the audience. And I have never seen another demonstrator at a club event, put up a screen. However, when I do demonstrations at craft fairs, and other 'public' events, I am expected to, and DO use a polycarbonate screen between myself and the audience.
My own Risk Assessment is that it does not matter who is in front of you, there IS a risk of a piece coming off the lathe and hitting them but that goes against 'club attitudes'.
So, my questions are:- Were the 'general public' at Yandles Spring show deemed to be 'woodturners', as at a club meeting, so screens would have been rejected? Or was it an oversight not using them?
And more importantly, this situation implies that woodturners are not 'general public'.
I appreciate this could be a bit of a minefield but would be interested to hear other's opinions.