I'm an avid watcher of YOUTUBE channels, I tell the Mrs it's research as I'm after buying and rebuilding a MK 1 or 2 Escort.

But what I have noticed that the amount of companies that put videos up and blatently do not comply with current regulations

Wearing trainers in an active workshop, welding with no LEV, working on cars supported by trolley jacks not axle stands, no PPE when sanding, no ear protection when working with power tools.

If the HSE ever caught on, there would lots of fines as the companies promote their own non compliance with video evidence.

Originally Posted by: peter gotch

Hi Mark

To be honest I can't see HSE getting very excited about following up any such video.

You wnat to DIY your own restoration. You won't be "at work" and hence out of the scope of HSE.

Many of those posting these videos will be exactly the same. 

HSE is underresourced and won't have the time to work out which videos portray "work" conditions, let alone try and work out where any video footage was filmed.

Actually Peter, my experience is that most of these YouTubers are actually running businesses creating this content with meployees or at least sub-contractors (and are earning a very good living in a lot of cases).

Some of the practices really are shocking but no worse than many on regular TV.  If the HSE dont watch episodes of Grand Designs and how many times the presenter stands at the open edge of a roof or any number of car restoration shows, I agree that they are very unlikely to take action regarding YouTube content.

Channel I was watching was based up North and are a Landrover based workshop. They have what appears to be 6-8 staff. They do a lot of engine conversions circa £40K for a build. So no cheap outfit.

So could easily afford to comply with the basics like PPE and LEV and RPE for welding.