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already cover oil heaters, electric fires, nightdresses, stands
for carrycots and toys (cellulose and lead paint content).
Routine visits were made during the year to both shops
and market stalls where such goods are likely to be sold.
Imported toy pianos and piano/xylophones gave cause for
concern when it was found they had both celluloid keys (highly
inflammable) and an excessive lead paint content likely to
cause brain damage or even death if consumed in sufficient
quantity by young children. Co-operation by the local press
highlighted the problem and for a while the Borough was completely
free of this menace. However, they began to reappear
as Christmas shopping began.
One case came before the local magistrates with three
others due for hearing in the new year. The one case heard was
dismissed, the magistrates accepting the defendants plea that
he had taken all reasonable steps to ensure the toy was safe.
This meant that someone else along the line from manufacturer
to retailer was at fault and at that time there was no 'passing
over' clause in the Act allowing the real culprit to be brought
to trial. This omission has now been remedied.
In view of the high cost of Analyst fees in the case of
piano/xylophones as much as £25 per toy, Inspectors have to
be reasonably certain toys are suspect as the only way to
recover expenses is by a successful prosecution. Liaison with
neighbouring authorities to save duplication of sampling has
kept such expenditure to a minimum.
The Electrical (Colour Code) Regulations came into operation
during the year which means British made appliances
have the same colour wiring in the flex as thirteen other European
countries. The new colours are Brown—live; Blue—negative;
and Green/Yellow—earth. Shopkeepers and the trade are
allowed a suitable time to dispose of old stocks.
To educate the public each appliance will for the next
seven years have an explanatory notice attached to the flex
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