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50
Washing Facilities
In all cases some provision is made for washing. This ranges
from a single basin with a cold tap to elaborate arrangements
including provision of shower-baths. For drying the hands the
majority of firms have roller towels and in some, individual
towels are provided. One firm has installed electric hand driers
and another, individual paper towels.
In some of the engineering firms we were told that the men
preferred to have a bucket of really hot water in the workshop for
washing their hands rather than use the normal facilities.
Lighting
Natural or artificial lighting is generally good in the
factories under review, and mostly above statutory requirements.
Managements seem fully conscious of the need for efficient illumination.
In some cases the colour schemes of decoration materially
affect the brightness ratios and the environment is appreciably
improved.
Cleanliness of Premises
Having in mind the processes and trades being carried on the
standard of cleanliness is generally high.
GENERAL
Special Clothing
In most instances the employee has to find his own overalls
although in a few very dirty jobs overalls are provided by the
employers. One firm allows an annual sum to employees for the
purchase of overalls. Protective clothing of other types is
provided where necessary.
Seating
Where seating is practicable it is provided and used. Only
one firm appears to have considered the relation of the seat to
production and the comfort of the worker.
Smoking
Generally speaking smoking on factory premises is not allowed
where it constitutes a risk of fire as in paint works, furniture
and paper factories. One furniture factory however does allow
smoking, their argument being that employees would smoke anyway
either in the lavatory or surreptitiously at the job. The