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Means of escape in case of fire. (Public Health Act 1936, Section 59)
During the year 27 surprise visits were made to premises falling
within the provisions of this section when it was found there were
three obstructions of exitways. Much improvement had been noted
over the previous year and it is pleasing to report that occupiers
of such buildings are appreciating the importance of strict observance
of the rules.
Comment was made in my last report that this Act did not
apply to certain clubs and in particular to Bingo halls. The Government
has recently agreed that the present law is inadequate and
that legislation will be introduced to include the aforementioned.
Consumer Protection Act, 1961
This Act gives the Secretary of State power to make Regulations
on safety requirements and instructions on certain Goods likely to
cause death or personal injury. There are now two sets of Regulations
in force. The Heating Appliances (Fireguards) Regulations,
1953 and The Oil Heaters Regulations, 1962. The Government is
now proposing to make a further Regulation to standardise the
colour of cables used in electrical appliances.
32 visits were made to shops where these goods are sold and
two contraventions were satisfactorily dealt with.
HOME SAFETY
With the coming into force of The Home Safety Act, 1961.
this Committee has been reformed as a Sub-Committee of the Public
Buildings and Health Committee. Bi-monthly meetings are held
under the Chairmanship of Alderman Mrs. Irons, J.P., C.C., and the
local press is invited to give coverage on the proceedings. The
appointed Home Safety Officer is Mr. C. Hackett (Town Clerk's
Department), who reports as follows:—
During the past year the activities of the Home Safety Committee
have been considerably stepped up. Bringing to the notice
of all householders in the Romford district the need to take more
care not only in their homes, but also when they are on holiday and
in parks and other places, is considered of utmost importance.
Every household in the near future, will have a leaflet called the
"Household Code," not only telling the people to take more care,
but also listing first-aid notes of what to do if an accident occurs.
During the year many associations have been visited, film shows
and talks given.
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