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Summary of Accidents Investigated
Falls of all kinds, including those from steps or staircases
Once again, these formed the largest proportion of the accidents
notified, being fifteen in number. Thirteen reports were investigated
during the year and the majority were falls on stairs or from stepladders
in shops. One informal warning was given regarding the blockage of stairs
by cardboard boxes, and one formal letter was sent when defective concrete
steps were found to be the main cause of a fall. In both cases our advice
was quickly taken and the necessary precautions carried out.
Exception was taken to the lighting of a main staircase in a large
modern office building after a reported accident and light meter readings
had shown that the lighting was inadequate. In this instance the owners,
on receipt of our letter, promptly installed extra light fittings and
redecorated the staircase in a lighter shade. Informal advice was given in
all the other cases investigated.
Machinery
This accident involved a machine operator who had caught her hair in
a revolving shaft whilst leaning forward to adjust the machine. Formal
warning was given to the firm concerned, who carried out our suggestions
on the improved guarding of the machine.
Fires
The apparent cause of this accident was a build-up of gas in a canteen
kitchen oven, due to a defect in the by-pass pipe. When the employee
attempted to light the oven the gas exploded, causing grit to enter her
eyes. She also had slight shock. This particular oven was immediately replaced,
and advice was given on the use of the new equipment.
Stepping on or Striking against Object or Person.
This accident Was caused by the shattering of a plate glass entrance
of a large shop. The injured person had approached the door, which then
shattered, cutting her on the face and leg. Investigation failed to ascerta
whether she actually struck the door or not and no further action could be
t aken.
(4) Prosecutions
This year, for the first time, it was found necessary to institute
legal proceedings in two instances. In one case, the required work had not
been done after a long period of time, in which several letters had been
sent to the persons concerned. The contraventions consisted of unclean
walls and ceiling in a passage, inadequate lighting in the W.C., and a
defective front entrance step. The Court imposed fines totalling £25.0.0d.
and awarded £5.5.0d. costs.
The second Court case involved contraventions consisting of an electri
water heater not connected to the electricity supply, and inadequate lighti
on a staircase. The firm concerned had ignored several warnings. The Court
adjourned the case sine die, on a firm undertaking being given that the
necessary work would be carried out immediately.
From subsequent inspections it was ascertained that both premises had
been brought into conformity with the Act.
B. 8