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Section 8 - Lighting
Since the detailed survey conducted by the Department in 1965/66 during which some
2,513 light meter readings were taken in shops and offices in the Borough and occupiers
advised as to the suitability of their lighting arrangements, a general improvement has been
achieved. Less satisfactory conditions often prevailed in rear rooms where the sales promotion
factor of good lighting could be disregarded. The danger of accidents to employees as a result
of poor lighting on staircases and in passages and stockrooms has been stressed to good
effect. An inspection of the local office and warehouse of one of the largest chemical firms
in the country disclosed a deplorable standard of lighting in almost every room. A demonstration
to the management with a light meter and a general appraisal of the situation resulted in
a complete re-arrangements of the lighting system and the installation of modern equipment.
Successful prosecutions have been taken for lack of lighting in toilets and washrooms,
evidence being given of readings from a light meter. Here lighting standards often relate
directly to cleanliness and the issue cannot be too strongly emphasised, particularly in food
premi ses.
Section 9 - Sanitary Conveniences
It has been found that repeated visits for enforcement by inspectors with verbal or
written notices are necessary to maintain the improved standards achieved since the Act came
into operation. Cases have arisen where the use of compartments as additional stockrooms
have rendered the actual toilet facilities completely inaccessible and where, in consequence,
the water seal in sanitary fittings evaporated through lack of usage resulting in offensive
effluvia penetrating into the building.
Prosecutions have been taken for unclean conditions, lack of maintenance, no lighting
and failure to provide an enclosed and properly ventilated intervening space between toilet
compartments and workrooms.
Section 10 - Washing Facilities
The requirements are similar to those of the previous Section, in fact regularly one
compartment has been found to serve the dual purpose. This is quite acceptable unless the
water supply above the wash hand basin is used for drinking purposes.
Almost every business has provided running hot water facilities and prosecutions have
been taken where previous warnings have been ignored. Tactful advice has been tendered,
particularly to staff in food shops, on using the hot water, soap and clean towels provided.
Section II - Drinking Water
Few problems arose. Chemical and bacteriological tests have been made of drinking
water from storage cisterns. While this practice is clearly undesirable, analysis generally
has proved the water to be of excellent quality. The danger of contamination of drinking
water from taps situated over wash hand basin in toilet compartments from aerosols (fine
airborne droplets which result from the flushing of W.C's) has been discussed with occupiers
and alternative sites have been provided for drinking water taps.
Section 12- Accommodation for Clothing
No standards are set by the Act and usually it has been found that employees satisfactorily
make their own arrangements.
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