Daily danger faced by our postmen and women

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SHOCKING figures obtained by the Herald & News show just how dangerous a day at work can be for Royal Mail postmen and women.

In the last three years there have been more than 700 animal attacks on staff in Surrey on their rounds according to statistics obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request.

There were 206 attacks in 2010, 277 in 2009 and 240 in 2008 with 14 incidents recorded this year to date.

The Communication Workers Union believes the numbers show the importance of seeking a reform to the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act.

As it stands the law means there is no redress for dog attacks which take place on private property, clearly a problem for postal workers who visit garden paths, driveways and private roads everyday.

The CWU is concerned that workers are left vulnerable by the current law and they are campaigning for the law to change so that it applies on both private and public land.

CWU national health, safety officer, Dave Joyce, said: “The figures for dog attacks on postwomen and postmen in the Surrey area are quite shocking and clearly indicate the urgent need for a tightening up of the law.

"In Scotland, new laws are set to come into force on Saturday, February 26, in Northern Ireland, an amendment Bill is currently making its way through the legislative process. But Westminster is lagging behind, despite Prime Minister David Cameron's pre-election pledge to act."

A Royal Mail spokesperson said the majority of dog owners are very responsible when it comes to keeping delivery staff safe.

They said: “But dog bites are still a major cause of injury to our postmen and women and the effects can cause considerable distress to those concerned. We therefore appreciate it when dog owners take extra care to keep their pets under control when we arrive with their post.”