The Broadcasting Complaints Commission dismissed an appeal against its decision that a word in a song played on the 5FM radio station amounted to grossly offensive language.

The Commission said on Friday it had ruled that the use of the word "k****r" was unacceptable on the airwaves during times when children might be exposed to it, unless there were special circumstances.

Exceptional circumstances would, for example, be provided by drama for adults or essential information in a news insert about the use of the word.

"The Appeal Tribunal is of the opinion that when tested objectively according to normative standards, certain words remain taboo despite the context in which they were used and that the k-word has a history and connotation of offensiveness and oppression.

"Children should as far as possible be prevented from exposure to words such as k****r, as they often emulate words without understanding their full meaning.

"No explanation was given (for the use of the word), nor could a newsworthy meaning be inferred from the context.

"Exceptionally high standards must be adhered to by broadcasters," the Appeal Tribunal said in dismissing the appeal.

The Tribunal dismissed the appeal of 5FM versus Raubach, Plumb and Coetzee. The R10 000 fine imposed was upheld, the Commission said.

5FM could not immediately comment.