Sometimes people ask what the CBC’s policy is on profanity.
     As a rule, profane language is not used in our programming. However, in certain circumstances, because of the theme or dramatic tone of the program, coarse language is sometimes used. If this is the case, we exercise our strongest tools as a broadcaster to protect sensitive viewers. Adult programs are generally aired in appropriate time slots. In a earlier time slot, an advisory warning usually precedes the broadcast. In addition to this, our stand on the issue of profanity is defined in our manual, Journalistic Standards and Practices. Here is an excerpt from it:

4.1– As a general rule, profanity or expressions which would give offense to a considerable number of the audience must not be used. It is not practicable to prescribe a list of words and phrases which could not be broadcast in any circumstances, as public acceptance in this area is always changing…There are occasions when the broadcast of an expression normally considered offensive may be justified. The validity of such language within the context of the program must be evaluated. Furthermore, it must be apparent that editing out the expression would impair the integrity and significance of the information which is in itself important enough to justify broadcast.

What I fear the most as a broadcaster is swearing on air accidentally. I’ve got something of a “potty mouth” off-air; it’s something I’m trying to work out of my natural vernacular so that a swear word won’t pop out by accident. After I made this screw-up live on air, my co-host said during a break “You’re lucky you didn’t swear.”
     Damn straight.

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