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64
APPENDIX
OFFICES, SHOPS AND RAILWAY PREMISES ACT, 1963
This is the eighth report in the series since the Act came into operation,
and, in retrospect, it is fair to say that in that time a lot of good
work has been done, many problems met and solved, and in so doing conditions
improved for many workers in shops and offices coming within the
scope of the Act.
The practice of inspecting plans relating to offices and shops etc.
continues. Detailed examination is required to ensure, inter alia, that so
far as is reasonably practicable, premises when occupied will conform to
the requirements of the Act, and thus avoid the necessity for alterations
after construction. Ventilation of premises and partitioned office areas
present problems. Plans of proposed hoists and lifts can be inspected to
ensure satisfactory and safe approach. Duri ng the year no fewer than 1,315
plans were received in the Department and reported upon. This is the
highest figure since the Act came into force.
The number of accidents in offices, shops and warehouses reported to
the Department during the year was 143 and all were investigated. This
compares with 148 accidents in 1971. Of the accidents investigated the
following action was taken. Prosecutions nil. Formal warnings 15. Informal
advice 49.
No action was found necessary in 79 cases but the information supplied
by the employer in each case was checked and in a large number of cases
found inaccurate or insufficient.
Too many accidents are arising from use of hand tools particularly in
the food trade. There seems to be far too little supervision of young persons
who are not trained in the elementary method of handling knives used in
cutting foods. Accidents by untrained personnel in boning out and jointing
meat have been reported.
Week-end students are often employed as shop assistants. They are
rarely trained, and totally unaware of the dangers and hazards which can
arise in an unaccustomed environment and through lack of experience.
Young persons in the 18 - 20 age group are often employed as Assistant
or Trainee Managers in large food premises. This early age of responsibility
has its drawbacks in achieving a high standard of supervision and discipline
particularly with older staff.
Numbers of accidents are due to falling on wet, slippery or greasy
floors, causing fractures to limbs. Canteen and shop kitchens come under
criticism in this respect where spil led fluids are not always cleansed immediately.
The peak period for accidents occurs during the time the meals are
being served, when the staff is under pressure of work.