Posties seeing red over ban on flag ‘hazards’
POSTMEN and women have been banned from using flags or stickers to show support during the World Cup – over health and safety fears.
Royal Mail bosses have forbidden workers from attaching items to vans or bikes in case they blow off and become “hazards”.
All 125,000 delivery staff have been told they must adhere to the rule.
One Royal Mail van driver based in London, who did not want to be named, said: “It’s bonkers, quite frankly.
“Other vehicles use car flags without causing accidents, so why are we any different? Many posties are football fans and want to show their support for England – but we’re not allowed to do so.”
Royal Mail pointed out that besides the safety aspect, the ban extended to any “flag or insignia” being displayed next to its brand.
And it stressed the rule did not apply to officebound staff who are never seen by the public.
A spokesman said: “Flags should not be flown as Royal Mail has a duty of care both to all employees and the public.
“It’s a company-wide policy which covers flags and stickers and covers trollies, bikes, vans and lorries.
“Flags placed on vehicles can obscure the driver’s view. They can also pose a hazard to other road users if they are lost when the vehicle is moving.
However the Royal Mail spokesman added: “There will be flags on display in Royal Mail offices and there will be live radio commentary on PA systems during matches.”