Westlife's X Factor performance broke epilepsy rules

Ofcom has ruled that Westlife's performance on The X Factor broke broadcasting regulations for using rapidly flashing lights that could have triggered epileptic seizures in some viewers. The media regulator found that the bursts of laser lighting used in the performance, which aired on ITV1 in October last year, caused a flashing effect five times faster than the level recommended as safe for viewers susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy. Three viewers complained to Ofcom about the flashing images and the "distress these images caused to themselves and potentially to other photosensitive viewers". Channel TV, the ITV company responsible for making sure the ITV1 show complies with the Ofcom broadcasting code, said that it had accepted "industry standard technology" checks in The X Factor studio during the performance rehearsal. The checks did not "trigger any warning signs". However, having tested the show after transmission, using different digital technology, Channel TV agreed that the performance did not comply with photosensitive epilepsy standards "for a very short portion". Ofcom's own tests found that two sequences during the Westlife performance, lasting just over three seconds in total, contained flashing where the brightness and frequency exceeded the "intensity" limits of the broadcasting code. The sequences contained flashing at an average rate of 15 flashes a second, while the Ofcom limit is three a second. "Ofcom guidance also states that a prolonged sequence of flashing images below these intensity limits lasting more than five seconds may pose a risk to viewers with PSE," the media regulator said. "Ofcom noted that other sequences in the performance contained flashing that was below the intensity limits, and this was present for relatively extended periods of time. Ofcom therefore considered that this presented a further risk to viewers with PSE." • To contact the MediaGuardian news desk email [email protected] or phone 020 3353 3857. For all other inquiries please call the main Guardian switchboard on 020 3353 2000. • If you are writing a comment for publication, please mark clearly "for publication".