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107
The figures indicate the relative causes for action and
the following comments may be of interest.
Cleanliness. These related mainly to stock rooms, stairways,
passages and stores and as one would expect, not to the
part of the shop to which the customers have access.
Ventilation. It was most noticeable when inspections
were made during hot weather that where in the smaller premises
satisfactory natural ventilation was provided, this was much more
effective than that provided by mechanical means. There are
many occasions when it is essential to provide electric fans but
it is regretted that so often the natural forces which are available
for the purpose are entirely ignored. This is particularly
apparent where means of through ventilation have been ignored or
there has been failure to take advantage of air movement which
can be provided by staircases.
Lighting. No difficulty has been experienced in implementing
the standards recommended by the Illuminating Engineering
Society.
Sanitary Accommodation. It is interesting to note that
in only 13 instances was the accommodation found to be insufficient.
Washing Facilities. 106 of these notices related to the
absence of a satisfactory hot water supply to existing wash
basins.
Floors. Passages and Stairs. The contribution to safety
in attention to these matters cannot be over-emphasized. Fiftynine
notices were served in respect of defective floors, floor
coverings and stairs and 37 in respect of hand-rails.
First Aid. These notices were concerned entirely with the
insufficiency or absence of first aid boxes.
Other Matters. There were 88 contraventions concerning
the absence of the Abstract and 52 relating to failure to register.
In addition there were 35 notices drawing attention to
general safety precautions.
Accidents. Seventy-two accidents were reported during the
year compared with 90 during 1966. Of the total figure 25
related to falls and 17 to the handling of goods.
As in previous years, very few accidents were notified
other than from the premises of the large multiple retailers.