ILP Statement on Unofficial Flags on Columns

The Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP), in conjunction with the Lighting Column Technical Forum (LCTF), has issued guidance on the unauthorised attachment of flags onto columns.

Lighting columns (lamp posts) are designed to carry specific loads, namely the lantern or luminaire at the top. Some specialist columns are designed to carry additional loads such as banners or flower baskets, but this is not the case with most columns on our roads.

The addition of a flag or banner – irrespective of its style, logo or design – puts an additional loading on the column for which it was not designed. Lighting columns have a limited life span, and the additional loading of unexpected attachment loads (e.g., flags) puts additional stresses on the lighting columns and their foundations, which could lead to early failure in some cases.A flag may seem like an insignificant item on a column, but during periods of high winds, the flag will apply wind loads and vibrations from its flapping onto the lighting column that are much more significant than the flag weight. It could also cause a distraction to road users and noise in windy conditions, potentially leading to more road accidents.

To avoid this additional stress, all non-authorised attachments should be removed by competent personnel using a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP), which is used when lighting columns are maintained and inspected – lighting columns are not designed to be strong enough for direct climbing or to support ladders.

The attachment of flags by members of the public, either by climbing the column or by resting a ladder against the column, will put significant loads onto the lighting column that can cause bending or buckling of the column shaft and/or loosening of the foundations. It can also cause cracks to form at welds which, while unnoticed at the time, could lead to early failure of the lighting column and a potential injury due to the unexpected collapse.

There is clearly a significant risk to members of the public putting up flags on lighting columns due to the column failing while climbing it, due to falling from the column or ladder or from being hit by a moving vehicle, all of which have a real chance of resulting in serious injury or death.

Local councils have a process to enable any organisations wanting to install flags or other attachments to lighting columns to apply for permission, and it is recommended that the council be approached before proceeding. Any unauthorised attachments can and should be removed from lighting columns.

The Institution of Lighting Professionals
Lighting Column Technical Forum