I personally think it is way better to have a launcher although it is not the best solution in terms of safety.
Therefore, my team initiated a 'Safe Shooter' campaign to make sure all the teams which compete in Tel Aviv regional, as well as all the other regionals worldwide, comply with FIRST safety rules.
We have copied the rules and organized them into a small and simple presentation.
You can access and download it at:
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/2082?
'Safe Shooter' courtesy of team 2669 KY Bots, Kiryat Yam, Israel.