Case 19 - College refused to lend bikes in case they could be prosecuted in the event of an accident

Issue

A health and safety officer at a college refused to lend bikes as part of a Travel Plan in case they could be prosecuted in the event of an accident happening.

Panel decision

There are no health and safety reasons to prevent a college lending bikes to staff or students. This is an example of a risk averse decision that is probably more to do with concerns about insurance.