Things that I got the belt for in the late 70's :-
Being late
Forgetting a text book
Laughing when someone who was getting the belt pulled their hands away
Ignoring a one way system in the corridor.
All a bit excessive but to be honest never did me any harm........
.............but if there's PPI type compensation actions in a few years time expect me to claim flashbacks, PTSD and erectile disfunction !!