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natural ventilation (normally obtained by opening windows) being restricted. In
such cases other permanent means of ventilation or mechanical ventilation were
advised.
Lighting (Section 8)
Gradual improvement in lighting standards is taking place and may in some
measure be attributed to implementation of the Act. Dislike of fluorescent tube
installations is not so often mentioned as hitherto. This is probably due to improved
installation techniques and the increasing appreciation of glare as a factor to be
considered seriously in design of new schemes and modification of existing installations.
Poor lighting was frequently due to the failure to renew defective bulbs and
lubes, and in some cases, had employees reported the deficiencies, they could have
been rectified at once.
Inadequacy of lighting is often much more apparent to the visitor. Frequently,
employees are unaware of low levels of lighting, their eyes having become adapted
to the conditions. Bad lighting, particularly where marked variations of light intensity
occur in different parts of premises might well be a causative factor in some of the
accidents involving falls and collisions with stationary objects where no other contributory
factors are apparent.
Sanitary Accommodation and Washing Facilities (Section 9 and 10)
Progress continued towards ensuring the provision of sufficient sanitary accommodation;
additional accommodation and washing facilities were provided in 25 and
33 premises respectively. Deficiencies found included lack of cleanliness, disrepair,
inadequate lighting and ventilation and in the case of washing facilities, such items
as soap and towels.
In 122 premises, a supply of hot and cold or warm running water was provided
or reinstated, usually from small gas or electric appliances.
Clothing Accommodation (Section 12)
Provision made varied considerably according to the type and extent of the
premises, ranging from nails in doors to well-lighted, ventilated and heated cloakrooms
with individual lockers for valuables. In some premises, although acceptable
accommodation was available, employees declined to make use of the facilities
provided.
Floors and Staircases (Section 16)
As in previous years, infringements commonly found during inspections included
failure to provide substantial handrails to staircases, worn surfaces of floors and floor
coverings, stairs not kept in a proper state of repair, poorly-lit stairs and obstruction
by goods. There appeared to be a general lack of awareness of the serious injuries
which could arise from falls and collisions where badly stored goods were involved.
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