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employed alike. In numerous instances staircases leading to
workrooms were found dilapidated and unsafe. These have
been repaired, and in two cases almost entirely renewed.
"Cleansing, Whitewashing, etc.—One hundred and
two rooms, with staircases and passages connected therewith,
were cleansed and whitewashed, or repapered, on service
of intimations or notices.
"Sanitary Conveniences.-One new water-closet was
ordered at a dressmaker's in the south district, both sexes
being employed on the premises by different employers. Two
water-closets with no direct light or ventilation to the outer
air, have been much improved by ventilating shafts. Thirtysix
water-closets, found to be either dirty or dilapidated, or
defective in water supply, were renovated, more or less satisfactorily.
"Warming of Workrooms.—The provisions of the
Factory and Workshop Act, 1895, with respect to warming,
are now very fairly carried out, with great addition to the
comfort of the workers, and, I believe, with advantage to the
employers. I am pleased to report that in several cases, fires
have been substituted for the injurious open gas-jets formerly
employed. In three cases complaint was received of the
overheated state of the workshops; on inspection this was
found to result from inefficient ventilation, particularly in
the evening. Additional means of ventilation have been
provided, and these workshops, the temperature of which had
averaged 70° to 75° F., are now maintained at an average
temperature of 63° or 64° only.
"Tidiness.—There is still a good deal to be desired with
regard to the sweeping and tidying of workroom floors. That
this is an improvement easy of attainment, is evidenced by
the many well-kept workshops in both districts.