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heating arrangements in premises to which the Act applies. These complaints
were duly investigated and in the majority of cases additional heating or
improved means of heating were provided. In a few instances some resistance
has been met with from employers, and negotiations are still in progress
regarding suggested improvements. There is no doubt that a particularly
cold winter caused this increase.
Ventilation
Satisfactory conditions were found in most premises visited, but
specific instances of inadequate ventilation were noted in various types
of premises, such as shops,with no means of ventilation except the
entrance door; and in some cases the W.C. was without proper ventilation.
In ten such instances the persons responsible were notified in
writing of the contraventions on their premises.
Lighting
This was generally found to be adequate, but certain defects were
noted and 26 contraventions were found to exist, mainly due to defective
fittings. In two cases it was necessary to institute court proceedings
before satisfactory completion of the required work was carried out. These
cases are described in more detail below.
The lighting of a main staircase in one large modern office block
was found to be inadequate and the owners, after receiving our letter,
carried out the suggested improvements.
Sanitary Conveniences
These were usually found to be adequate in number and in satisfactory
condition. Systematic inspection revealed that where a sanitary convenience
was shared by employees of different firms the standard of cleanliness was
likely to be less high than when only one firm was involved.
It was necessary to notify 45 owners or occupiers regarding contravention
of this Section of the Act. One prosecution resulted from the
unsatisfactory condition of a sanitary convenience provided in a drycleaning
shop. This is also referred to below.
Washing Facilities
Considerable improvement was made during the year in the washing
facilities provided in premises to which the Act applies, even though
there was still a fairly large number of contraventions found on reinspection.
These were made the subjects of letters to the responsible
persons. It was frequently found that water heaters, installed after our
previous visit, had become defective or had been removed. In one instance
court proceedings were required which concerned a water heater not connected
properly to the electricity supply.
Clothing Accommodation
17 contraventions were found during the year when unsuitable and insufficient
accommodation for employees' clothing was found.
It is felt that this part of the Act is often dismissed as trivial
by employers, when in fact it may have quite a considerable effect on
the welfare of staff.
B. 6