Philip Marshall, Interim Chief Executive of Ashfield District council was joined by the Principal Inspector for Nottinghamshire to highlight the pledge which includes helping break health and safety myths and taking a common sense stance when it comes to preventing injury and death. Already hundreds of businesses and organisations have made their commitment by signing up to the pledge on-line.

Maureen Kingman, HSE Principal Inspector for Nottinghamshire said:

"We've all heard the stories about health and safety banning hanging baskets, making children wear goggles to play conkers or even making concert-goers wear ear plugs.

This is not what we are about - it is not what HSE wants, nor what Ashfield District council wants and not what the law requires.

We want to focus on a common sense approach and practical steps that protect people from real risks that can lead to injury and death; we do not want to stop people from living their lives."

"The people who attended the Ashfield Show at the weekend certainly had a great time and enjoyed the music, without wearing earplugs! The laws are there to control real risks to workers who are exposed to loud noise – not to take the fun out of concerts."

Ashfield District Council organised a myth-busting quiz at the Show to test local people on whether they could spot a media myth from one made up by the council team. Experts were on hand to explain and dispel the myths such as 'you can't wear flip-flops to work' or even 'Ice cream toppings have been banned for safety reasons.'

More information can be found at Health and Safety Executive website