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Nightdresses (Safety) Regulations, 1967, and the Toys (Safety)
Regulations, 1967, (which prohibits use of celluloid in toys other
than ping-pong balls and imposes restrictions in relation to the
paint that may be used on toys).
The Stands for Carry Cots (Safety) Regulations, 1966, came
into force on the 1st January, 1967. Also there are Regulations
for the provision of guards to portable heating appliances and
concerning oil heaters.
OIL HEATERS
The old design of oil heater has been shown to be dangerous
when knocked over or placed in a draught. The Home Secretary
states that during the winter of 1967/1968 forty-nine persons
died in fires caused by oil heaters. To deal with this problem
a campaign was launched with the help of the Public Relations
Officer, the Press and the Cleansing Section of the Borough
Engineer & Surveyor's Department to appeal to householders
to notify the Health & Welfare Department of any unwanted oil
heater which could be collected and destroyed. Thus, preventing
this type of oil heater falling into hands of dealers or being
passed on to other householders.
The response to this appeal was worthwhile. At the end of
the winter 41 oil heaters had been surrendered and destroyed. The
campaign will be continued.
PURCHASES. TESTING & PROSECUTION
One child's nightdress was purchased from a market stall
and submitted to an approved "testing station". The test report
showed it did not conform with the Regulations. Similarly, a
second-hand oil heater was officially tested and failed the
prescribed tests.
Proceedings in both instances have been instituted for 1968.
PROSECUTIONS
Twenty-six summonses concerning infringements of the
Oil-Heaters Regulations, 1962 — 1966 were dealt with by the
Magistrates Courts. Fines imposed amounted to £100. Costs
allowed to the Council were £50. 10s. Od. One case involving
the issue of six summonses was dismissed, the Bench refusing
an application by the defendant for costs.
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