Window cleaners claim they face risking their safety or losing their jobs if proposed water bans go ahead.

Southern Water is waiting to hear if its application to restrict water to essential use only is to be approved after a public hearing earlier this month.

The ban will allow necessary use such as washing car windows and maintaining hygiene.

But the Federation Of Window Cleaners is concerned members will be prevented from using water-fed poles, which were introduced as part of health and safety guidelines to prevent the need for high ladders.

Chairman Bryan Dolby said: "If there is a ban, window cleaners will be forced to risk safety by using ladders at great heights. While environmental concerns are important, these orders could drive many out of business."

The FWC recommends using water-fed poles on windows above ground floor and portable ladders on ground floor and some first-floor levels. This was in response to Health and Safety Executive regulations making it more difficult to use ladders because of the risk of working at height.

The HSE is now considering its regulations as the water ban combined with the restriction on ladders could mean many window cleaners are unable to do their jobs.

Judith West, chairwoman of the industry's voice the British Cleaning Council, said: "The BCC fully supports the drive by the federation to protect its industry. If the ban comes into play, livelihoods will be threatened."

Monday, April 24, 2006