St. Sidwells Primary school in Exeter, Devon has taken the unusual step of banning students from wearing goggles in swimming classes for all students but those that have an “adverse reaction to chemicals in water”.
The move, according to school authorities is in line with the advice of the British Association of Advisors and Lecturers in Physical Education (BAALPE), who are concerned of the dangers that swimming might pose.
The BAALPE are concerned that the slippery plastic could pose a danger to students’ eyes:
Head teachers should inform parents and carers that goggles can be a hazard and cause permanent eye injury.
Wet plastic is very slippery and frequent, incorrect or unnecessary adjustment or removal of them, by pulling them away from the eyes instead of sliding them over the forehead, can lead to them slipping from the pupil’s grasp with the hard plastic causing severe injury.
This author is curious as to just how many goggle-related severe eye injuries have been reported and whether there are any published studies regarding the hazards of swimming with goggles. [Telegraph]
