Olympic animation triggers seizures

The controversial new logo for the 2012 London Olympics became embroiled in bigger trouble when a number of people reported having epileptic seizures after watching the animated footage used during the logo's launch.

In the past television-induced seizures were not uncommon but modern safety standards and better quality TV sets have reduced the risk substantially for those suffering from epilepsy. It was the failure of the Olympic footage to meet those standards which was heavily criticised.

Professor Graham Harding, a leading expert in the field of photosensitive epilepsy, advised leading charity Epilepsy Action that the footage failed to meet Ofcom safety guidelines. Professor Harding is the brains behind the Harding Flash and Pattern Analyser, which looks for changes in luminance likely to trigger a seizure in people with photosensitive epilepsy.

There are 23,000 people in the UK with this condition, - often set off by flickering or flashing light - most of whom develop it as children or teenagers, with girls disproportionately affected.

Epilepsy Action was also concerned about those who may be unaware they are prone to this condition and may have suffered a seizure for the first time after watching the film plus those with control over their seizures for whom a breakthrough seizure could have a devastating affect on their lives.

The charity also pointed out that the film was designed to promote both the main summer Olympics and the Paralympic Games, which is ironic as the latter is a showcase for athletes with disabilities.

Originally intended to be shown worldwide, the footage was withdrawn following the widespread criticism. Epilepsy Action is asking anyone affected by the footage to contact them and to complain to Ofcom.

The charity's website produces useful information for concerned parents, including advice on the likelihood of seizures being triggered by computers, web design, video games etc as well as reminders for those going abroad that most countries advertising guidelines are not as strict as those in the UK.

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