Thread by @EmporersNewC

The problem with the argument about 'nerdy Brexiteers' understanding where the deregulation needs to come from becomes apparent when you hear people like Christopher Nieper, (Managing director of @davidnieper )

thetimes.co.uk/article/how-th…

In 2016 Christopher was very quick to point out he had to employ someone every month to count the rungs on his ladder.

In 2016 this was covered by two directives.
89/391/EEC
2009/104/EC

The important one is 2009/104/EC which makes it clear that apart from regular checks and keeping a record of those checks, the details our down to the Member states.

British standard OC 200/30 was in force at the time. It suggests inspections should be done based on the manufacturer recommendations, a risk assessment, and as a rule of thumb: Once every 6 months, or 12 months if the ladders are used infrequently.

The relevant UK act is The Work at Height Regulations 2005.

It says they should be inspected regularly and at suitable intervals, or in the event of an exceptional circumstance.

Neither OC 200/30 or WAHR include guidance on counting rungs, and a business shouldn't have to count the rungs that are there, they do have to check to see that there aren't rungs missing, because that would be a safety issue.

If I heard of a company that believes the safety inspection is just to keep a record of the rungs that are going missing from their ladder, then I would not recommend working for them.

However, what this example shows that the people who complain about EU directive seem to be unaware that they are not necessarily coming from the EU.

Apparently, Brexit means we can save time and energy not doing things the UK law never asked us to do.

But I have a feeling that is going to involve a very limited number of companies run by 'nerdy Brexiteers' with a very particular mindset.

/End

See also Marcus Leroux.

https://twitter.com/marcusleroux/status/1400410525020868608