by ilduncans » Sat Feb 03, 2007 5:17 pm
The G2SS is quite ambiguous on this topic, and one suspects that this is for good reason.
In my read of the current print edition (2006 printing), as well as an exhaustive search of the current online copy (last updated 05-Apr-2006), there is no mention of power tools beyond the two aforementioned passages – first dealing with chainsaws and splitters, and the second in the insert to the print edition entitled “Age Appropriate Guidelines for Scouting Activities”
The first passage is very specific, but does not address the more general topic of other power tools. The second, is so vague as to be almost, but not quite useless. “Power tools” as shown in the graphic could be interpreted to include or exclude almost anything. The difference between a power screwdriver and a circular saw (of what size?) are obvious. One would be hard-pressed to argue that --every-- power tool was really age-appropriate for a 10.5-year-old.
So what’s the solution? A little ambiguity to give local authority a chance to do what makes sense for their situation.
What does the G2SS say about ambiguity in the G2SS? Two good passages from the Preface:
“Unit leaders should be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede Boy Scouts of America policies and guidelines.
In situations not specifically covered in this guide, activity planners should evaluate the risk or potential risk of harm, and respond with action plans based on common sense, community standards, the Boy Scout motto, and safety policies and practices commonly prescribed for the activity by experienced providers and practitioners.”
Age could be a critical factor, but others are likely of greater import, including training, local laws or ordinances on child safety, and of course, the experiences and decisions of your local council’s risk management committee.
It is possible that you’ve got a Scouting professional that has run amuck and started making wanton policy decisions on relatively obscure corners of the policy and procedures of the BSA … but not likely. Your local council definitely is able to make additional policies and procedures, as they deem necessary to further clarify and implement the program as defined by national. (In fact, if you really dig into this, it is quite likely that you’ll find out that your local council has far _more_ policies and procedures than national has. As it should be, imo).
Who in your district (by title or role) says no to power tools on Eagle projects? How is this communicated? (Preemptively by policy statement, or in response to an Eagle project proposal? Or …?)
