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Shops Act
As far as possible inspections have been made in respect of
the provision and maintenance of sanitary accommodation, washing
facilities, heating, lighting and ventilation in shops.
The provisions of the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises
Act 1963 will, of course, shortly supersede the welfare provisions
contained in the Shops Act, 1950.
By arrangement with the Engineer & Surveyor, the Department
is given an opportunity of examining all plans submitted for the
construction of new shops or alteration of existing premises, with
a view to obtaining proper compliance with the requirements of the
Act. This is generally appreciated by shop developers who are
usually very willing to co-operate.
The Council is also the Authority responsible for enforcement
of the Shops Hours of Closing and Sunday Trading provisions of
the Act and routine surveys and inspections are carried out for this
purpose.
The Home Secretary is at the present time reviewing the need,
if any, for further legislation on shop closing hours.
Noise Abatement Act 1960
Three complaints of noise nuisance were investigated and
observations carried out. Representations were made to the
persons concerned with satisfactory results.
The Fabrics (Misdescription) Act, 1913
The Fabrics (Misdescription) Regulations 1959
The above mentioned Regulations prescribe standards of noninflammability
for textile fabrics to which is attributed the quality
of non-inflammability or safety from fire or any degree of that
quality.
The increased cost of fire resistant textile fabrics has so far
restricted the demand for a product which if popularised would,
no doubt, make a significant contribution to the cause of home
safety.
Radioactivity
During the year the department was consulted in connection
with the disposal of a small stock of radioactive materials from a
local Research Establishment.
This operation was carried out under the supervision of a
Ministry of Housing and Local Government Radiochemical
Inspector.
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