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106
from the fact that no fire is burning in the grate, or that the chimney
is "made up" to prevent draughts, for which reason the windows
also are hermetically sealed. The chilling effect of a cold current of
air from an open window upon the thinly-clad and ill-nourished
bodies of many of the workers can be readily understood—hence the
difficulty of securing adequat eventilation in workshops during the
winter months. One can only point out the advantages of fresh air,
insist upon the "stuffing" being taken from the chimney, advise the
continual use of a fire and the adoption of some simple and inexpensive
way of admitting the fresh air without draught. In a good
many workrooms during the last two winters Hinckes-Bird's method
has been adopted, and works well as long has the block of wood is
allowed to remain in position; but when it is removed, it is mislaid
and seldom replaced until the Inspector's next visit.
We have now on the register 857 workshops, including 157
laundries, and containing 1,254 workrooms in which women and
female young persons are employed.
Workroom cards showing the number of persons permitted in each
room have been distributed to 182 workrooms.
Outworkers.—During the year I have inspected 139 Outworkers
Premises. I found 11 of these premises dirty, 4 delapidated, 5 with
defective roofs, 3 with damp walls, 7 with defective w.c's., 3 with
defective dust bins, and 3 improperly paved yards.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
ALICE TEEBAY.