Dangerous trades

APPENDIX

Reading edition

SPECIAL RULES

Nearly a century ago, the necessity for legislation designed to protect workers in textile factories was realised. In the year 1802 an Act was passed for the Preservation of Health and Morals of Apprentices and others employed in cotton mills. The statutes of 1833 and 1845 brought under inspection the manufacture of several materials other than cotton and wool. Subsequent Acts regulated employment in print works, bleaching and dye works, and the manufacture of lace; but the Acts passed in 1864 and 1867—afterwards embodied in the Act of 1878 (the principal Act)—practically included almost every occupation in the country.

It soon became apparent that no definite clauses in any statute, however carefully drafted and considered, could afford satisfactory protection to health, life, and limb, in manifold and varied industries, found not only in the large centres of manufacture, but in almost every village or country district where a stream could be found for driving water-wheels of corn-mills, scutch-mills, cutlery grinding-hulls, wood-turning shops, etc., etc. Philanthropists, medical men, scientists, trade-unionists, poor-law guardians, managers of sick clubs, called for further protection to workers engaged in dangerous trades, and for the remedy (as far as was possible) of the evils arising from inhalation of injurious dusts and fumes, contact with poisonous, chemical, and mineral substances, manufacture of white lead, and the smelting and handling of blue lead. They pointed to “brass-casters’ ague”; to the deadly disease known as “phossy jaw,” prevalent amongst operatives in match-works, where yellow or white phosphorus is used; to plumbism amongst pottery workers and hand file-cutters; to potters’ and metal grinders’ lung ailments; and to many other diseases of occupation too numerous to be here mentioned.

The Factory Act of 1891 provided in sections 8, 9, 10, and 11, what was universally accepted as a legal remedy based upon principles of humanity, moderation, and common sense. Power was given to the Secretary of State to frame special rules and requirements as to dangerous and unhealthy incidents of employment, the Act stating that—

“(1) Where the Secretary of State certifies that in his opinion any machinery, or process or particular description of manual labour used in a factory or workshop (other than a domestic workshop), is dangerous or injurious to health, or dangerous to life or limb, either generally, or in the case of women, children, or any other class of persons, or that the provision for the admission of fresh air is not sufficient, or that the quantity of dust generated or inhaled in any factory or workshop is dangerous or injurious to health, the Chief Inspector may serve on the occupier of the factory or workshop a notice in writing, either proposing such special rules, or requiring the adoption of such special measures as appear to the Chief Inspector to be reasonably practicable, and to meet the necessities of the case.

“(2) Unless, within twenty-one days after receipt of the notice, the occupier serves on the Chief Inspector a notice in writing that he objects to the rules or the requirement, the rules shall be established, or, as the case may be, the requirement shall be observed.

“(3) If the notice of objection suggests any modification of the rules or requirement, the Secretary of State shall consider the suggestion, and may assent thereto, with or without any further modification, which may be agreed on between the Secretary of State and the occupier, and thereupon the rules shall be established, or, as the case may be, the requirement shall be observed, subject to such modification.

“(4) If the Secretary of State does not assent to any objection or modification suggested, as aforesaid, by the occupier, the matter in difference between the Secretary of State and the occupier shall be referred to arbitration under this Act, and the date of the receipt of the notice of this objection by the Secretary of State shall be deemed to be the date of the reference, and the rules shall be established, or the requisition shall have effect, as settled by an award or arbitration.”

Penalties were provided for the contravention of special rules duly established. Schedule 1 of the Act of 1891 described in minute detail the methods of procedure when arbitration had to be resorted to.

The list of trades scheduled as “Dangerous Trades,” together with the series of special rules legally instituted, is appended. This list can hardly fail to be of interest, seeing that the rules were framed after most exhaustive and careful inquiry by experts and scientists, whose opinions commanded respect. Year by year the practical good done by this legislation is more fully realised, but the test of time has shown the necessity for reconsideration of those clauses which relate to arbitration, and proposals to meet a now recognised difficulty are found in the Factory Bill read for the first time in the House of Commons on Thursday, 28th March 1901.

Sections 79 to 86 of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1901, contain Amended Regulations as to Dangerous Trades, chiefly as to methods of procedure in making such regulations.

Hamilton P. Smith.

Form 247C.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

WHITE LEAD FACTORIES.

In these Rules “person employed in a lead process” means a person who is employed in any work or process involving exposure to white lead, or to lead or lead compounds used in its manufacture, or who is admitted to any room or part of the factory where such process is carried on.

Any approval given by the Chief Inspector of Factories in pursuance of Rules 2, 4, 6, 9, or 12 shall be given in writing, and may at any time be revoked by notice in writing signed by him.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. New Works.—On and after 1st July 1899, no part of a white lead factory shall be constructed, structurally altered, or newly used, for any process in which white lead is manufactured or prepared for sale, unless the plans have previously been submitted to and approved in writing by the Chief Inspector of Factories.

2. Stacks.—(a) Every stack shall be provided with a standpipe and movable hose, and an adequate supply of water distributed by a rose.

(b) White Beds.—Every white bed shall, on the removal of the covering boards, be effectually damped by the means mentioned above.

Where it is shown to the satisfaction of the Chief Inspector of Factories that there is no available public water service in the district, it shall be a sufficient compliance with this Rule if each white bed is, on the removal of the covering boards, effectually damped by means of a watering can.

3. Chamber Process.—Where white lead is made by the Chamber Process, the chamber shall be kept moist while the process is in operation, and the corrosions shall be effectually moistened before the chamber is emptied.

4. Corrosions.—(a) Corrosions shall not be carried except in trays of impervious material.

(b) No person shall be allowed to carry on his head or shoulder a tray of corrosions which has been allowed to rest directly upon the corrosions, or upon any surface where there is white lead.

(c) All corrosions, before being put into the rollers or washbecks, shall be effectually damped, either by dipping the tray containing them in a trough of water, or by some other method approved by the Chief Inspector of Factories.

5. Rollers.—The flooring round the rollers shall either be of smooth cement or be covered with sheet lead, and shall be kept constantly moist.

6. Drying Stoves.—On and after 1st January 1901, except as hereinafter provided—

(a) Every stove shall have a window, or windows, with a total area of not less than 8 square feet, made to open, and so placed as to admit of effectual through ventilation.

(b) In no stove shall bowls be placed on a rack which is more than 10 feet from the floor.

(d) No stove shall be entered for the purpose of drawing until the temperature at a height of 5 feet from the floor has fallen either to 70° F., or to a point not more than 10° F. above the temperature of the air outside.

(e) In drawing any stove or part of a stove there shall not be more than one stage or standing place above the level of the floor.

Provided that if the Chief Inspector approves of any other means of ventilating a stove, as allowing of effectual through ventilation, such means may be adopted, notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this Rule; and if he approves of any other method of setting and drawing the stoves, as effectually preventing white lead from falling upon any worker, such method may be followed, notwithstanding paragraphs (b) and (e) of this Rule.

7. Drawing Dutch Stoves.—No person shall be employed in drawing Dutch stoves on more than two days in any week.

8. Deposits of dry white lead.—No dry white lead shall be deposited in any place that is not provided either with a cover or with a fan effectually removing the dust from the worker.

9. Packing.—On and after 1st January 1900, the packing of dry white lead shall be done only under conditions which secure the effectual removal of dust, either by exhaust fans or by other efficient means approved in each case by the Chief Inspector of Factories.

This rule shall not apply where packing is effected by mechanical means entirely closed in.

10. The floor of any place where packing of dry white lead is carried on shall be of cement, or of stone set in cement.

11. Employment of Women.—No women shall be employed or allowed in the white beds, rollers, washbecks, or stoves, or any place where dry white lead is packed, or in other work exposing her to white lead dust.

12. Weekly Medical Examination.—(a) A duly qualified medical practitioner (in these Rules referred to as the “Appointed Surgeon”) shall be appointed by the occupier for each factory, such appointment to be subject to the approval of the Chief Inspector.

(b) No person shall be employed in a lead process for more than a week without a certificate of fitness granted after examination by the Appointed Surgeon.

(c) Every person employed in a lead process shall be examined once a week by the Appointed Surgeon, who shall have power to order suspension from employment in any place or process.

(d) No person after such suspension shall be employed in a lead process without the written sanction of the Appointed Surgeon.

Health Register.—(e) A register in a form approved by the Chief Inspector of Factories shall be kept, and shall contain a list of all persons employed in lead processes. The Appointed Surgeon will enter in the register the dates and results of his examinations of the persons employed, and particulars of any directions given by him. The register shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspectors of Factories, or by the Certifying Surgeon, or by the Appointed Surgeon.

13. Medical Attendance.—Upon any person employed in a lead process complaining of being unwell, the occupier shall, with the least possible delay, give an order upon a duly qualified medical practitioner.

14. Respirators, Overalls, Head Coverings.—The occupier shall provide and maintain sufficient and suitable respirators, overalls, and head coverings, and shall cause them to be worn as directed in Rule 29.

At the end of every day’s work they shall be collected and kept in proper custody in a suitable place set apart for the purpose.

They shall be thoroughly washed or renewed every week; and those which have been used in the stoves, and all respirators, shall be washed or renewed daily.

15. Dining-room, Cloak-room.—The occupier shall provide and maintain a dining-room and cloak-room in which workers can deposit clothing put off during working hours.

16. Food.—No person employed in a lead process shall be allowed to prepare or partake of any food or drink except in the dining-room or kitchen.

17. Sanitary Drink.—A supply of a suitable sanitary drink, to be approved by the Appointed Surgeon, shall be kept for the use of the workers.

18. Lavatory.—The occupier shall provide and maintain a lavatory for the use of the workers, with soap, nail brushes, and at least one lavatory basin for every five persons employed. Each such basin shall be fitted with a waste pipe. There shall be a constant supply of hot and cold water laid on, except where there is no available public water service, in which case the provision of hot and cold water shall be such as shall satisfy the Inspector in charge of the district.

The lavatory shall be thoroughly cleaned and supplied with clean towels after every meal.

There shall, in addition, be means of washing in close proximity to the workers of each department, if required by notice in writing from the Inspector in charge of the district.

There shall be facilities, to the satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the district, for the workers to wash out their mouths.

19. Allowance of time for Washing.—Before each meal, and before the end of the day’s work, at least ten minutes in addition to the regular meal times shall be allowed to each worker for washing.

A notice to this effect shall be affixed in each department.

20. Baths.—The occupier shall provide and maintain sufficient baths and dressing-rooms for all persons employed in lead processes, with hot and cold water, soap, and towels, and shall cause each such person to take a bath once a week at the factory.

Bath Register.—A bath register shall be kept, containing a list of all persons employed in lead processes, and an entry of the date when each person takes a bath.

This register shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspectors of Factories, or by the Certifying Surgeon, or by the Appointed Surgeon.

21. The dressing-rooms, baths, and w.c.’s shall be cleaned daily.

22. Cleaning Floors.—The floor of each workroom shall be cleaned daily, after being thoroughly damped.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

23. Corrosions.—No person shall strip a white bed or empty a chamber without previously effectually damping as directed in Rules 2 and 3.

24. No person shall carry corrosions, or put them into the rollers or washbecks, otherwise than as permitted by Rule 4.

25. Stoves.—No person shall set or draw a stove otherwise than as permitted by Rules 6 and 7.

26. Packing.—No person shall deposit or pack dry white lead otherwise than as permitted by Rules 8 and 9.

27. Weekly Medical Examination.—Every person employed in a lead process shall present himself at the appointed times for examination by the Appointed Surgeon, as provided in Rule 12.

28. No person after suspension by the Appointed Surgeon shall work in a lead process without his written sanction.

29. Respirators, Overalls, Head Coverings.—Every person engaged in—

White beds,

Emptying chambers,

Rollers, washbecks or grinding,

Setting or drawing stoves,

Packing,

Paint mixing,

Handling dry white lead,

or in any work involving exposure to white lead dust, shall, while so occupied, wear an overall suit and head covering.

Every person engaged in stripping white beds, or in emptying chambers, or in drawing stoves, or in packing, shall in addition wear a respirator while so occupied.

30. Washing.—Every person engaged in any place or process named in Rule 29 shall, before partaking of meals or leaving the premises, deposit the overalls, head coverings, and respirators in the place appointed by the occupier for the purpose, and shall thoroughly wash face and hands in the lavatory.

31. Baths.—Every person employed in a lead process shall take a bath at the factory at least once a week, and wash in the lavatory before bathing; having done so, he shall at once sign his name in the bath register, with the date.

32. Food.—No person employed in a lead process shall smoke or use tobacco in any form, or partake of food or drink, elsewhere than in the dining-room or kitchen.

33. Ventilation.—No person shall in any way interfere, without the knowledge and concurrence of the occupier or manager, with the means and appliances provided for the removal of dust.

34. Reporting neglect of Rules.—The foreman shall report to the manager, and the manager shall report to the occupier, any instance coming under his notice of a worker neglecting to observe these Rules.

35. False pretences.—No person shall obtain employment under an assumed name or under any false pretence.

Arthur Whitelegge

Chief Inspector of Factories.

M. W. Ridley

One of Her Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of State.

1st June 1899.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed. Any person who is bound to observe these Rules and fails to do so, or acts in contravention of them, is liable to a penalty; and in such cases the occupier also is liable to a penalty unless he proves that he has taken all reasonable means by publishing, and to the best of his power enforcing the Rules, to prevent the contravention or non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, sections 9 and 11.)

Form 249.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

AMENDED SPECIAL RULES.

PROCESSES IN THE MANUFACTURE OF PAINTS, COLOURS, AND IN THE EXTRACTION OF ARSENIC.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

They shall provide washing conveniences, with a sufficient supply of hot and cold water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels, and take measures to secure that every worker wash face and hands before meals, and before leaving the works; and, in addition to the above, sufficient bath accommodation for the use of all persons employed in the manufacture of Milan Red, Vermilionette, or Persian Red.

They shall provide suitable respirators and overall suits, kept in a cleanly state, for all workers engaged in any department where dry white lead or arsenic is used in either the manufacture or paint mixing, and overall suits for those engaged in grinding in water or oil, and for all workers in Milan Red, Vermilionette, or Persian Red, wherever dust is generated.

They shall provide a sufficient supply of approved sanitary drink, which shall be accessible to the workers at all times, and shall cause such approved sanitary drink to be taken daily by workers in any department where white lead or arsenic is used in the manufacture, and shall provide a supply of aperient medicine, which shall be given to the workers, when required, free of charge.

No food shall be eaten in any part of the works where white lead or arsenic is used in the manufacture.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

Every person to whom is supplied a respirator or overall suit shall wear the same when at the special work for which such are provided.

Every person shall carefully clean and wash hands and face before meals and before leaving the works.

No food shall be eaten in any part of the works in which white lead or arsenic is used in the manufacture.

No person shall smoke or use tobacco in any part of the works in which white lead or arsenic is used in the manufacture.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Under Section 9, Factory Act, 1891, any person who is bound to observe any special rules is liable to penalties for non-compliance with such special rules.

Form 251.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES for Works, or parts of Works in which LEAD, ARSENIC, OR ANTIMONY IS USED IN THE ENAMELLING OF IRON PLATES.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Lavatories.—They shall provide washing conveniences, with a sufficient supply of hot and cold water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels, and take measures to secure that every worker wash face and hands before meals and before leaving the works.

2. Respirators, Overalls, Head Coverings.—They shall provide suitable respirators, overall suits, and head coverings for all workers employed in the processes of grinding, dusting, and brushing.

3. Dust.—They shall adopt measures on and after the first day of October, 1894, in the dusting and brushing processes for the removal of all superfluous dust, by the use of perforated benches or tables supplied with fans to carry the dust down through the apertures of such benches or tables, the under part of which must be boxed in.

4. Sanitary Drink.—They shall provide a sufficient supply of approved sanitary drink, and shall cause the workpeople to take it.

5. Medical Examination.—They shall arrange for a medical inspection of all persons employed, at least once a month.

They shall see that no female is employed without previous examination and a certificate of fitness from the medical attendant of the works.

They shall see that no person who has been absent from work through illness shall be re-employed without a medical certificate to the effect that he or she has recovered.

6. Medical Attendance.—Upon any person employed in the works complaining of being unwell, the occupier shall, with the least possible delay, and at his own expense, give an order upon a doctor for professional attendance and medicine. It is to be understood that this rule will not apply to persons suffering from complaints which have not been contracted in the process of manufacture.

7. Cloak-room.—They shall provide a place or places free from dust and damp in which the operatives can hang up the clothes in which they do not work.

(It is recommended that they shall provide for each female before the day’s work begins some light refreshment, such as a half-pint of milk and a biscuit.)

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

8. Respirators, Overalls, Head Coverings.—Every person to whom is supplied a respirator or overall and head covering shall wear the same when at the work for which such are provided.

9. Washing.—Every person shall carefully clean and wash hands and face before meals and before leaving the works.

10. Food.—No food shall be eaten by any person in any part of the works except in the apartment specially provided for the purpose.

11. False Pretences.—No person may seek employment under an assumed name or under any false pretence.

Respirators A good respirator is a cambric bag with or without a thin flexible wire made to fit over the nose.

Sanitary drink suggested Sulphate of magnesia 2 oz.

Water 1 gallon.

Essence of lemon, sufficient to flavour.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed.

Any person who is bound to observe these Rules and fails to do so, or acts in contravention of them, is liable to a penalty; and in such case the occupier also is liable to a penalty unless he proves that he has taken all reasonable means by publishing and to the best of his power enforcing the Rules, to prevent the contravention or non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11.)

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

THE MANUFACTURE OF EARTHENWARE AND CHINA.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. They shall provide suitable overalls and head coverings for all female workers employed in the dipping house or dippers’ drying room, or in any processes of ware cleaning after the dipper, glost placing, china scouring, ground laying or majolica painting (which overalls and head coverings shall remain the property of the employers), and shall make arrangements for the safe custody of all overalls and head coverings worn by their operatives, and for the safe delivery thereof at the works every seven days to the representatives of the laundry or wash-house which shall be selected by the operatives, for the purpose of washing the same. They shall also provide a place in which the above workers can deposit clothing put off during working hours.

2. They shall not allow any persons to cook or partake of any food, or to remain during meal times in the dipping house, dippers’ drying room, china scouring room, glost placers’ shop, ground laying shop, or majolica painting room.

3. In the process of towing of earthenware, they shall use fans or other mechanical means for the removal of all dust; in the process of scouring china, they shall, as far as practicable, use mechanical or other efficient means for the removal of flint; and in all processes and descriptions of manual labour, they shall, as far as practicable, adopt measures for the removal of dust, and for the prevention of any injurious effects arising therefrom, either by the use of mechanical fans, ventilation, or other efficient means.

4. They shall provide brooms, brushes, and all other necessaries for the daily sweeping of floors of workshops and of such stoves as are entered by the workers; and for the cleansing of work-benches and of stairs leading to workshops; and shall arrange that the floors of such workshops and stoves are sprinkled and swept every working day, and the scraps and dirt removed, and that work-benches and stairs are cleansed at least once a week. The daily sweeping of floors of potters’ shops shall be done after work has ceased for the day, unless there is some sufficient reason to the contrary.

5. They shall provide washing conveniences and a sufficient supply of water, soap, and nail-brushes for all workers employed in the dipping-house or dippers’ drying-room, or in any processes of ware cleaning after the dipper, glost placing, china scouring, ground laying, or majolica painting, as close as is practicable to the workshops.

6. All stoves, as well as all workshops and all parts of the factories, shall be effectually ventilated. Regard being had to the cubic capacity of the shops, etc., there shall be, wherever practicable, natural ventilation by doors and windows; and careful supervision of hot air and hot-water pipes used for heating, and of the consumption of gas. The required ventilation shall be accomplished by mechanical or other efficient means. The temperature of any workshop during working hours shall not be allowed to exceed 90 degrees (Fahrenheit).

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

7. Every person employed in the places and processes enumerated in Rule 1 shall wear an overall suit or head covering when at their work, and no such person shall remove such overall suit or head covering from the works at which they are employed so long as they shall continue in such employ.

8. Every person employed in the places or processes enumerated in Rule 5 shall carefully clean and wash his or her hands and face before meals and before leaving the works.

9. Every person employed in dipping, carrying ware from the dipper, cleaning ware after it has been dipped, glost placing, china scouring, ground laying, or majolica painting, shall during the meal times leave the shops in which those processes are carried on, and shall not cook or eat any food therein at any time.

10. The measures taken by the employers for the ventilation of the various workrooms and stoves, and for the removal of dust, shall not be in any way interfered with by the workpeople without the knowledge and concurrence of the employer or manager of the works.

11. Every male or female worker shall be responsible for the cleansing of that portion of the room in which he or she is employed, and shall see that the floors of shops and of such stoves as are entered by the workers, are sprinkled and swept, and the dust, scraps, ashes, and dirt be removed every day, and that the work-benches and stairs are cleansed at least once a week. The sweeping of floors and of potters’ shops shall be done after the working hours, unless there is some sufficient reason to the contrary, by an adult male, employed and paid by the workers and approved by the employer.

R. E. Sprague Oram

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

H. H. Asquith

One of Her Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of State.

Home Office, Whitehall

7th September 1894.

Form 254.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

THE MANUFACTURE OF EARTHENWARE AND CHINA.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Age.—After 1st August 1898, no person under 14 years of age, and after 1st August 1899, no person under 15 years of age, shall be employed in the

Dipping house, or Dippers’ drying room

or in any processes of—

Ware cleaning after the dipper,

Glost placing,

Colour dusting,

Ground laying,

Majolica painting,

Glaze blowing,

Transfer making, or

China scouring.

2. Monthly Examination.—All women and young persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1 shall be examined once a month by the Certifying Surgeon for the District, who shall after 1st August, 1898, have power to order suspension from employment in any place or process named in Rule 1.

No person after such suspension shall be allowed to work in any of the places or processes named in Rule 1 without the written sanction of the Certifying Surgeon.

3. Health Register.—A register, in the form which has been prescribed by the Secretary of State for use in earthenware and china works, shall be kept, and in it the Certifying Surgeon will enter the dates and results of his visits, the number of persons examined, and particulars of any directions given by him. This register shall contain a list of all persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1, and shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspector of Factories or by the Certifying Surgeon.

4. Overalls and Head Coverings.—The occupier shall provide and maintain suitable overalls and head coverings for all women and young persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1.

All overalls and head coverings shall be kept (see form 254*) in proper custody, and all overalls shall be washed at least once a week, and suitable arrangements shall be made for carrying out these requirements.

A suitable place shall be provided in which the above workers can deposit clothing put off during working hours.

5. Food.—No person shall be allowed to prepare or partake of any food or drink, or to remain during meal times, in the dipping house or dippers’ drying room, or in a place in which is carried on any process named in Rule 1.

The occupier shall make suitable provision to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the district for the accommodation during meal times of persons employed in such places or processes (see form 254*).

6. Dust.—After 1st January 1899, the process of—

Towing of earthenware,

China scouring,

Ground laying,

Colour dusting,

Glaze blowing, or

Transfer making,

shall not be carried on without the use of exhaust fans for the effectual removal of dust (see form 254*).

In the process of ware cleaning after the dipper, exhaust fans shall be used, or arrangements made for the dust to fall into water.

In all processes the occupier shall, as far as practicable, adopt efficient measures for the removal of dust and for the prevention of any injurious effects arising therefrom.

7. Ventilation.—All drying stoves as well as all workshops and all parts of factories shall be effectually ventilated to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the District.

8. Lavatories.—The occupier shall provide and maintain sufficient and suitable washing conveniences for all persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1, as near as is practicable to the places in which such persons are employed.

The washing conveniences shall comprise soap, nail-brushes, and towels, and at least one lavatory (see form 254*) basin for every five persons employed as above, and each such basin shall be fitted with waste-pipe, and have a constant supply of water laid on by tap.

9. Cleansing of Work-places.—The occupier shall see that the requirements of Rule 16 are duly observed, and shall provide brushes and all other necessaries for the purpose.

10. Boards.—The boards used in the dipping house, dippers’ drying room, or glost placing shop shall be cleansed every week, and shall not be used in any other department (see form 254*).

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

11. Monthly Examination.—All women and young persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1 shall present themselves at the appointed time for examination by the Certifying Surgeon as provided in Rule 2.

No person after suspension by the Certifying Surgeon shall work in any of the places or processes named in Rule 1 without the written sanction of the Certifying Surgeon.

12. Overalls.—Every person employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1 shall, when at work, wear an overall suit and head covering, which shall not be worn outside the factory or workshop, and which shall not be removed therefrom except for the purpose of being washed.

The overalls and head coverings, when not being worn, shall be deposited in the place provided for the purpose under Rule 4.

Clothing put off during working hours shall be deposited in the place provided for the purpose under Rule 4.

13. Food.—No person shall remain during meal times in the dipping house, dippers’ drying room, or in any place in which is carried on any process named in Rule 1; or prepare or partake of any food or drink therein at any time.

14. Ventilation. Dust.—No person shall in any way interfere, without the knowledge and concurrence of the occupier or manager, with the means and appliances provided by the employers for the ventilation of the workshops and stoves and for the removal of dust.

15. Washing.—No person employed in any place or process named in Rule 1 shall leave the works or partake of meals without previously and carefully cleaning and washing his or her hands.

16. Cleansing of Work-places.—The persons employed shall be responsible for the

daily sprinkling and sweeping of the floors of workshops and of such stoves as are entered by the workpeople; and for the

daily removal of dust, scraps, ashes, and dirt; and for the

weekly cleansing of work-benches and of stairs leading to workshops.

Each person shall be responsible for the cleansing of that portion of the room in which he or she is employed.

The sweeping of the floors of potters’ shops, stoves, dipping houses, and majolica painting rooms shall be done after working hours, by an adult male, employed and paid by the workers and approved by the employer.

17. Boards.—The boards used in the dipping house, dipper’s drying room, or glost placing shop shall be cleansed every week, and shall not be used in any other department.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

May 1898.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed.

Any person who is bound to observe these Rules and fails to do so, or acts in contravention of them, is liable to a penalty; and in such case the occupier also is liable to a penalty unless he proves that he has taken all reasonable means by publishing, and to the best of his power enforcing, the Rules, to prevent the contravention or non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11).

Form 254*.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

THE MANUFACTURE OF EARTHENWARE AND CHINA.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Age.—After 1st August 1890, no person under 14 years of age, and after 1st August 1899, no person under 15 years of age, shall be employed in the

Dipping house, or

Dipper’s drying room,

or in any processes of—

Ware cleaning after the dipper,

Glost placing,

Colour dusting,

Ground laying,

Majolica painting,

Glaze blowing,

Transfer making, or

China scouring.

2. Monthly Examination.—All women and young persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1 shall be examined once a month by the Certifying Surgeon for the district, who shall, after 1st August 1898, have power to order suspension from employment in any place or process named in Rule 1.

No person after such suspension shall be allowed to work in any of the places or processes named in Rule 1 without the written sanction of the Certifying Surgeon.

4. Overalls and Head Coverings.—The occupier shall provide and maintain suitable overalls and head coverings for all women and young persons employed in the places and processes named in Rule 1.

All overalls and head coverings shall be kept by the occupier in proper custody and shall be washed at least once a week, and suitable arrangements shall be made for carrying out these requirements.

A suitable place shall be provided in which the above workers can deposit clothing put off during working hours.

The occupier shall make suitable provision to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the District for the accommodation during meal times of persons employed in such place or processes, with a right of appeal to the Chief Inspector of Factories. Such accommodation to be provided in any room or rooms on the premises other than those referred to in Rule 13.

6. Dust.—After 1st January 1899, the process of—

Towing of earthenware,

China scouring,

Ground laying,

Colour dusting,

Glaze blowing, or

Transfer making,

shall not be carried on without the use of exhaust fans for the effectual removal of dust, or other efficient means for the effectual removal of dust, to be approved in each particular case by the Secretary of State, and under such conditions as he may from time to time prescribe.

In the process of ware cleaning after the dipper, exhaust fans shall be used, or arrangements made for the dust to fall into water.

In all processes the occupiers shall, as far as practicable, adopt efficient measures for the removal of dust and for the prevention of any injurious effects arising therefrom.

7. Ventilation.—All drying stoves as well as all workshops and all parts of factories shall be effectually ventilated to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the District.

The washing conveniences shall comprise soap, nail-brushes, and towels, and at least one wash-hand basin for every five persons employed as above, with a constant supply of water laid on, with one tap at least for every two basins, and conveniences for emptying the same and running off the waste water on the spot down a waste-pipe.

9. Cleansing of Work-places.—The occupier shall see that the requirements of Rule 16 are duly observed, and shall provide brushes and all other necessaries for the purpose.

10. Boards.—The boards used in the dipping house, dippers’ drying room, or glost placing shop shall be cleansed every week, and shall not be used in any other department, except after being cleansed.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

No person after suspension by the Certifying Surgeon shall work in any of the places or processes named in Rule 1 without the written sanction of the Certifying Surgeon.

The overalls and head coverings, when not being worn, shall be deposited in the place provided for the purpose under Rule 4.

Clothing put off during working hours shall be deposited in the place provided for the purpose under Rule 4.

15. Washing.—No person employed in any place or process named in Rule 1 shall leave the works or partake of meals without previously and carefully cleaning and washing his or her hands.

16. Cleansing of Work-places.—The persons employed shall be responsible for the

daily sprinkling and sweeping of the floors of workshops and of such stoves as are entered by the workpeople; and for the

daily removal of dust, scraps, ashes, and dirt; and for the

weekly cleansing of work-benches and of stairs leading to workshops.

Each person shall be responsible for the cleansing of that portion of the room in which he or she is employed.

17. Boards.—The boards used in the dipping house, dippers’ drying room, or glost placing shop shall be cleansed every week, and shall not be used in any other department, except after being cleansed.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

October 1898.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed.

Any person who is bound to observe these Rules and fails to do so, or acts in contravention of them, is liable to a penalty; and in such case the occupier also is liable to a penalty, unless he proves that he has taken all reasonable means by publishing and to the best of his power enforcing the Rules, to prevent the contravention or non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11.)

Form 254A.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

MAKING TRANSFERS FOR EARTHENWARE AND CHINA.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Age.—No person under 15 years of age shall be employed in making Transfers for Earthenware or China.

2. Monthly Examination.—All women and young persons employed shall be examined once a month by the Certifying Surgeon for the District, who shall, after 1st May 1899, have power to order suspension from employment.

No person after such suspension shall be allowed to work without the written sanction of the Certifying Surgeon.

4. Health Register.—A register, in the form which has been prescribed by the Secretary of State for use in earthenware and china works, shall be kept, and in it the Certifying Surgeon will enter the dates and results of his visits, the number of persons examined, and particulars of any directions given by him. This register shall contain a list of all persons employed, and shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspector of Factories or by the Certifying Surgeon.

4. Overalls and Head Coverings.—The occupier shall provide and maintain suitable overalls and head coverings for all women and young persons employed in rooms in which colour processes are carried on.

All overalls and head coverings shall be kept by the occupier in proper custody and shall be washed at least once a week, and suitable arrangements shall be made for carrying out these requirements.

A suitable place shall be provided in which the above workers can deposit clothing put off during working hours.

It shall be a sufficient compliance with the requirements of this rule as to head coverings if they are made of suitable glazed paper and renewed once a week. The head coverings shall be made so as completely to cover the hair, and to the satisfaction of the Inspector.

5. Food.—No person shall be allowed to prepare or partake of any food or drink, or to remain during meal times, in any place in which is carried on the making of transfers.

The occupier shall make suitable provision, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the District, for the accommodation during meal times of persons employed in such places or processes, with a right of appeal to the Chief Inspector of Factories.

6. Dust.—Transfer making shall not be carried on without the use of exhaust fans for the effectual removal of dust, or other efficient means for the effectual removal of dust, to be approved in each particular case by the Secretary of State, and under such conditions as he may from time to time prescribe.

7. Lavatories.—The occupier shall provide and maintain sufficient and suitable washing conveniences for all persons employed, as near as is practicable to the places in which such persons are employed.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

8. Monthly Examination.—All women and young persons employed shall present themselves at the appointed time for examination by the Certifying Surgeon as provided in Rule 2.

No person after suspension by the Certifying Surgeon shall work without the written sanction of the Certifying Surgeon.

9. Overalls.—Every person employed in any room in which colour processes are carried on shall, when at work, wear an overall suit and head covering, which shall not be worn outside the factory or workshop, and which shall not be removed therefrom except for the purpose of being washed. All overalls and head coverings shall be washed or renewed at least once a week.

The overalls and head coverings, when not being worn, shall be deposited in the place provided for the purpose under Rule 4.

Clothing put off during working hours shall be deposited in the place provided for the purpose under Rule 4.

10. Food.—No person shall remain during meal times in any place in which is carried on the making of transfers; or prepare or partake of any food or drink therein at any time.

11. Ventilation. Dust.—No person shall in any way interfere, without the knowledge and concurrence of the occupier or manager, with the means and appliances provided by the employers for the ventilation of the workshops and for the removal of dust.

12. Washing.—No person employed shall leave the works or partake of meals without previously and carefully cleaning and washing his or her hands.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

January 1899.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed.

Form 257.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

THE MANUFACTURE OF EXPLOSIVES IN WHICH DINITROBENZOLE IS USED.

1. No person to be employed without a medical certificate, stating that he or she is physically fit for such employment.

2. An examination of the workers at their work to be made at least once a fortnight by a Certifying Surgeon, who shall have power to order temporary suspension or total change of work for any person showing symptoms of suffering from the poison, or if after a fair trial he is of opinion that any person is by constitution unfit, he shall direct that such person shall cease to be employed.

3. A supply of fresh milk, and of any drug that the medical officer may consider desirable, shall be kept where the workers in his opinion may require it.

4. No meals to be taken in the workrooms.

5. There shall be provided separate lavatories for men and women, with a good supply of hot water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels, and whenever the skin has come in contact with dinitrobenzole, the part shall be immediately washed.

6. Overall suits and head coverings shall be supplied to all workers in shops where dinitrobenzole is used, these suits to be taken off or well brushed before meals and before leaving the works, and to be washed at least once a week.

7. Suitable respirators (capable of being washed), folds of linen, or woollen material of open texture, or other suitable material, shall be supplied to those workers liable to inhale dust, and the wearing of such respirators shall be urged where the workers derive benefit from their use.

8. Where dinitrobenzole has to be handled, the hands shall always be protected from direct contact with it, either by the use of indiarubber gloves (kept perfectly clean, especially in the inner side), or by means of rags which shall be destroyed immediately after use.

9. Where dinitrobenzole is broken by hand, the instrument used shall be a wooden bar, spade, or tool with a handle long enough to prevent the worker’s face from coming into near contact with the material.

10. In all rooms or sheds in which the process, either of purifying, grinding, mixing materials of which dinitrobenzole forms a part, is carried on, efficient “cowls,” ventilating shafts, and mechanical ventilating fans shall be provided to carry off the dust or fumes generated.

11. Drying stoves shall be efficiently ventilated, and, when possible, be charged and drawn at fixed times, and a free current of air shall be admitted for some time prior to the workers entering to draw either a part or the whole of the contents.

12. In the process of filling cartridges, the material shall not be touched by hand, but suitable scoops shall be used, and where patent ventilated cartridge filling machines are not used, there shall be efficient mechanical ventilation arranged in such a manner that the suction shall draw the fumes or dust away from and not across or over the faces of the workers.

13. A register, in a prescribed form, shall be kept, and it shall be the duty of a responsible person named by the firm to enter, at least once a week, a statement that he has personally satisfied himself that each and all of the special rules have been observed, or if not, the reasons for such non-observance. The Surgeon to enter in this register the dates of his visits, the results of such visits, and any requirement made by him.

14. The “dipping” rooms to be efficiently ventilated.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed.

Form 250.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

CHEMICAL WORKS.

1. Uncovered Pots and Pans.—In future every uncovered pot, pan, or other structure containing liquid of a dangerous character, shall be so constructed as to be at least 3 feet in height above the ground or platform. Those already in existence which are less than 3 feet in height, or in cases where it is proved to the satisfaction of an inspector that a height of 3 feet is impracticable, shall be securely fenced.

2. There shall be a clear space round such pots, pans, or other structures, or where any junction exists a barrier shall be so placed as to prevent passage.

3. Caustic Pots.—Caustic pots shall be of such construction that there shall be no footing on the top or sides of the brickwork, and dome-shaped lids shall be used where possible.

4. Planks and Gangways.—No unfenced planks or gangways shall be placed across open pots, pans, or other structures containing liquid of a dangerous character. This rule shall not apply to black ash vats where the vats themselves are otherwise securely fenced.

5. Respirators.—Suitable respirators shall be provided for the use of the workers in places where poisonous gases or injurious dust may be inhaled.

6. Lighting.—The lighting of all dangerous places shall be made thoroughly efficient.

7. Syringes or Wash-bottles.—Every place where caustic soda or caustic potash is manufactured shall be supplied with syringes or wash-bottles, which shall be enclosed in covered boxes fixed in convenient places, in the proportion of one to every four caustic pots. They shall be of suitable form and size, and be kept full of clean water. Similar appliances shall be provided wherever, in the opinion of an inspector, they may be desirable.

8. Overalls, Bath.—Overalls, kept in a cleanly state, shall be provided for all workers in any room where chlorate of potash or other chlorate is ground. In every such room a bath shall be kept ready for immediate use.

In every chlorate mill, tallow or other suitable lubricant shall be used instead of oil.

9. Respirators.—Respirators charged with moist oxide of iron or other suitable substance, shall be kept in accessible places ready for use in cases of emergency arising from sulphuretted hydrogen or other poisonous gases.

10. Salt Cake Departments.—In salt cake departments suitable measures shall be adopted by maintaining a proper draught, and by other means, to obviate the escape of low-level gases.

11. Weldon Bleaching Powder Chambers.—Weldon bleaching powder chambers, after the free gas has, as far as may be practicable, been drawn off or absorbed by fresh lime, shall, before being opened, be tested by the standard recognised under the Alkali Act. Such tests shall be duly entered in a register kept for the purpose.

All chambers shall be ventilated, as far as possible, when packing is being carried on, by means of open doors on opposite sides and openings in the roof, so as to allow of a free current of air.

12. Co-operation of Workers: Penalty.—In cases where the co-operation of the workers is required for carrying out the foregoing rules, and where such co-operation is not given, the workers shall be held liable in accordance with the Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, section 9, which runs as follows:—“If any person who is bound to observe any special rules, established for any factory or workshop under this Act, acts in contravention of, or fails to comply with, any such special rule, he shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two pounds.”

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Form 260.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

AMENDED SPECIAL RULES for Chemical Works in which is carried on the MANUFACTURE OF BICHROMATE OR CHROMATE OF POTASSIUM OR SODIUM.

In these Rules “persons employed in a chrome process” means a person who is employed in any work involving contact with chromate or bichromate of potassium or sodium, or involving exposure to dust or fumes arising from the manufacture thereof.

Any approval given by the Chief Inspector in pursuance of Rule 10 shall be given in writing, and may at any time be revoked by notice in writing signed by him.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Open Pans, &c., containing Dangerous Liquid.—No uncovered pot, pan, or other structure containing liquid of a dangerous character shall be so constructed as to be less than 3 feet in height above the adjoining ground or platform.

This Rule shall not apply to any pot, pan, or other structure constructed before 1st January 1899, or in which a height of 3 feet is impracticable by reason of the nature of the work to be carried on: provided in either case that the structure is securely fenced.

2. There shall be a clear space round all pots, pans, or other structures containing liquid of a dangerous character, except where any junction exists, in which case a barrier shall be so placed as to prevent passage.

3. No unfenced plank or gangway shall be placed across any pot, pan, or other structure containing liquid of a dangerous character.

4. Lighting.—The lighting of all dangerous places shall be made thoroughly efficient.

5. Grinding, Separating, and Mixing of Raw Materials.—The grinding, separating, and mixing of the raw materials (including chrome ironstone, lime, and sodium and potassium carbonate) shall not be done without such appliances as will prevent, as far as possible, the entrance of dust into the workrooms.

6. Batches.—“Batches,” when withdrawn from the furnaces, shall either be placed in the keaves or vats while still warm, or be allowed to cool in barrows or other receptacles.

7. Evaporating Vessels.—Evaporating vessels shall be covered in, and shall be provided with ventilating shafts to carry the steam into the outside air.

8. Packing and Crushing of Bichromate.—Packing or crushing of bichromate of potassium or sodium shall not be done except under conditions which secure either the entire absence of dust or its effectual removal by means of a fan.

9. Age.—No child or young person shall be employed in a chrome process.

10. Monthly Medical Examination. Suspension.—(a) The occupier shall, subject to the approval of the Chief Inspector, appoint a duly qualified medical practitioner (in these Rules referred to as the Appointed Surgeon), who shall examine all persons employed in chrome processes at least once in every month, and shall undertake any necessary medical treatment of disease contracted in consequence of such employment, and shall, after the 30th day of April 1900, have power to suspend any such person from work in any place or process.

(b) No person after such suspension shall be employed in any chrome process without the written sanction of the Appointed Surgeon.

Health Register.—(c) A register shall be kept in a form approved by the Chief Inspector, and shall contain a list of all persons employed in any chrome process. The Appointed Surgeon shall enter in the register the dates and results of his examinations of the persons employed and particulars of any treatment prescribed by him. The register shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspectors of Factories or by the Appointed Surgeon.

11. Requisites for treating slight Wounds and Ulcers.—Requisites (approved by the Appointed Surgeon) for treating slight wounds and ulcers shall be kept at hand and be placed in charge of a responsible person.

12. Overalls and Respirators.—The occupier shall provide sufficient and suitable overall suits for the use of all persons engaged in the processes of grinding the raw materials; and sufficient and suitable overall suits or other adequate means of protection, approved in writing by the Appointed Surgeon, for the use of all persons engaged in the crystal department or in packing.

Respirators approved by the Appointed Surgeon shall be provided for the use of all persons employed in packing or crushing bichromate of sodium or potassium.

At the end of every day’s work they shall be collected and kept in proper custody in a suitable place set apart for the purpose.

The overalls and respirators shall be thoroughly washed or renewed every week.

13. Cloak-room.—The occupier shall provide and maintain a cloak-room in which workers can deposit clothing put off during working hours.

14. Lavatory.—The occupier shall provide and maintain a lavatory for the use of the persons employed in chrome processes, with soap, nail-brushes, and towels, and a constant supply of hot and cold water laid on to each basin. There shall be at least one lavatory basin for every five persons employed in the crystal department and in packing. Each such basin shall be fitted with a waste-pipe, or shall be placed in a trough fitted with a waste-pipe.

15. Baths.—The occupier shall provide and maintain sufficient baths and dressing-rooms for all persons employed in chrome processes, with hot and cold water laid on, and a sufficient supply of soap and towels; and shall cause each person employed in the crystal department and in packing to take a bath once a week at the factory.

Bath Register.—A bath register shall be kept containing a list of all persons employed in the crystal department and in packing, and an entry of the date when each person takes a bath.

The bath register shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspectors of Factories.

16. Cleaning of Floors, &c.—The floors, stairs, and landings shall be cleaned daily.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

17. Batches.—No person shall deposit a “batch” when withdrawn from the furnace upon the floor nor transfer it to the keaves or vats otherwise than as prescribed in Rule 6.

18. Packing and Crushing of Bichromate.—No person shall pack or crush bichromate of potassium or sodium otherwise than as prescribed in Rule 8.

19. Medical Examination.—(a) Every person employed in a chrome process shall present himself at the appointed times for examination by the Appointed Surgeon as provided in Rule 10.

(b) After the 30th day of April 1900, no person suspended by the Appointed Surgeon shall work in a chrome process without his written sanction.

20. Overalls.—Every person engaged in the processes of grinding the raw materials shall wear an overall suit, and every person engaged in the crystal department or in packing shall wear an overall suit or other adequate means of protection approved by the Appointed Surgeon.

Respirators.—Every person employed in packing or crushing bichromate of sodium or potassium shall in addition wear a respirator while so occupied.

21. Washing.—Every person employed in the processes named in Rule 20 shall before leaving the premises deposit the overalls and respirators in the place appointed by the occupier for the purpose, and shall thoroughly wash face and hands in the lavatory.

22. Bathing.—Every person employed in the crystal department and in packing shall take a bath at the factory at least once a week; and, having done so, he shall at once sign his name in the bath register, with the date.

23. Neglect to be Reported.—The foreman shall report to the manager any instance coming under his notice of a workman neglecting to observe these Rules.

Arthur Whitelegge

Chief Inspector of Factories.

M. W. Ridley

One of Her Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of State.

February 1900.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed. Any person who is bound to observe these Rules and fails to do so, or acts in contravention of them, is liable to a penalty; and in such cases the occupier also is liable to a penalty, unless he proves that he has taken all reasonable means by publishing and to the best of his power enforcing the Rules, to prevent the contravention or non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11.)

Form No. 261.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

RED AND ORANGE LEAD WORKS.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

Drawing.—In drawing charges of massicot, or of red lead, or of orange lead, from the furnace they shall not allow the charges of massicot, or of red lead, or of orange lead, to be discharged on to the floor of the factory or workshop, but shall arrange that it be shovelled, not raked, into waggons.

Packing.—They shall arrange that no red or orange lead shall be packed in the room or rooms where the manufacture is actually carried on.

They shall arrange that no red or orange lead shall be packed in casks or other receptacles except in a place provided with a hood connected with a fan, or shall provide other suitable means to create an effective draught.

Washing Conveniences.—They shall provide sufficient bath accommodation for all persons employed in the manipulation of red and orange lead, and lavatories, with a good supply of hot water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels for the use of such persons.

Monthly Examination.—They shall arrange for a monthly visit by a medical man, who shall examine every worker individually, and who shall enter the result of each examination in a register book to be provided by the said occupiers.

Sanitary Drink.—They shall provide a sufficient supply of approved sanitary drink for the workers.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

“If any person who is bound to observe any special rules established for any factory or workshop under this Act, acts in contravention of, or fails to comply with, any such special rule, he shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two pounds.”

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Form 263.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

YELLOW LEAD.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

They shall provide washing conveniences, with a sufficient supply of hot and cold water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels.

They shall provide respirators and overall suits for the persons employed in all dry processes.

They shall provide fans or other suitable means of ventilation wherever dust is generated in the process of manufacture.

They shall provide a sufficient supply of Epsom salts and of an approved sanitary drink.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

In cases where the co-operation of the workers is required for carrying out the foregoing rules, and where such co-operation is not given, the workers shall be held liable, in accordance with the Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Section 9, which runs as follows:—

Respirators A good respirator is a cambric bag with or without a thin flexible wire made to fit over the nose.

Sanitary drink suggested Sulphate of magnesia 2 oz.

Water 1 gallon.

Essence of lemon, sufficient to flavour.

B. A. Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Form 264.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

LEAD SMELTING WORKS.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

They shall provide respirators and overall suits for the use of all persons employed in cleaning the flues, and take means to see that the same are used.

They shall arrange that no person be allowed to remain at work more than two hours at a time in a flue. (A rest of half-an-hour before re-entering will be deemed sufficient.)

They shall provide sufficient bath accommodation for all persons employed in cleaning the flues, and every one so employed shall take a bath before leaving the works.

They shall provide washing conveniences, with a sufficient supply of hot and cold water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

B. A. Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Form 268.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES, only applicable to works in which LEAD OR ARSENIC IS USED IN THE TINNING AND ENAMELLING OF IRON HOLLOW WARE.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

They shall provide washing conveniences with a sufficient supply of hot and cold water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels; and take measures to secure that every worker wash face and hands before meals and before leaving the works.

They shall see that no food is eaten in any room where the process of tinning or enamelling is carried on.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

In cases where the co-operation of the workers is required for carrying out the foregoing rules, and where such co-operation is not given, the workers shall be held liable in accordance with the Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Section 9, which runs as follows:—“If any person who is bound to observe any special rules established for any factory or workshop under this Act, acts in contravention of, or fails to comply with, any such special rule, he shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two pounds.”

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Form 266.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

AMENDED SPECIAL RULES.

SPINNING AND WEAVING OF FLAX.

WEAVING SHEDS

(in which artificial humidity is produced).

Ventilation.—An efficient 14-inch extracting fan shall be provided for every 2500 square feet of floor surface, such ventilation to be arranged to the satisfaction of the Inspector of Factories, and to be kept in operation during working hours.

Humidity.—In every weaving factory where artificial humidity is produced, there shall be provided, maintained, and kept in correct working order two sets of standardised wet and dry bulb thermometers. A difference of at least two degrees shall be kept during working hours between the wet and dry bulbs (e.g., Dry Bulb 75, Wet Bulb 73).

(1.) One set of thermometers is to be fixed in the centre and one at the side of the factory, or in such other position as may be directed or sanctioned by an Inspector of Factories, so as to be plainly visible to the operatives.

(2.) The occupier or manager, or person for the time being in charge of each factory, shall read the thermometers twice in the day, viz., between ten o’clock and eleven o’clock in the forenoon, and between three o’clock and four o’clock in the afternoon, on every day that any operatives are employed in the factory, and shall record the readings of each thermometer at each of such times on a form provided for the purpose for each set of thermometers, in the form and in accordance with the regulations contained in Schedule B. of the Cotton Cloth Factories Act, 1889, and the readings indicated at any time by the said thermometers shall be taken to represent the actual humidity of the room at such time.

(3.) The form in which the readings of each thermometer provided for in sub-section (ii.) of this section are to be recorded shall be kept hung up near the thermometers; and after being duly filled up, shall be forwarded at the end of each month to the Inspector of the District, and a copy shall be kept at the factory for reference.

WET SPINNING ROOMS.

Overalls.—Where splashboards are not provided, waterproof overalls or aprons shall be provided by the occupier for all the workers, such overalls or aprons to be sufficient to protect the lower part of the chest to the satisfaction of the Inspector.

Troughs.—The lids of the troughs shall be kept in perfect repair to check escape of steam.

Floors.—Floors shall be kept in sound condition so as to prevent retention or accumulation of water.

The same rules shall be adopted with respect to humidity as are required in the weaving sheds.

WET SPINNING ROOMS AND WEAVING FACTORIES.

Steam-Pipes.—Whenever steam is injected into any room, the pipes conveying the same shall be jacketed with non-conducting composition to the satisfaction of the Inspector of Factories.

ROUGHING AND SORTING AND HAND HACKLING ROOMS.

Fans.—Exhaust fans shall be provided so as to draw the dust forward and down from the face of the worker, unless some other arrangement shall be found equally effective, to the satisfaction of the Factory Inspector.

Respirators.—Respirators shall be provided for the use of the workers, if children or young persons, and be worn by them at work.

MACHINE HACKLING ROOMS.

Preparation and Card Rooms.

Fans.—Exhaust fans shall be provided on the side of the room where the machines are, and inlets provided from 6 to 7 feet from the ground on the opposite side, unless some other arrangement of such fens shall be found equally effective.

Respirators.—Respirators shall be provided for the use of the workers, if children or young persons, and be worn by them at work.

DRESSING ROOMS.

Ventilation.—Dressing rooms must be ventilated so as to render harmless any gas, vapour, or other impurities.

B. A. Whitelegge

Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Factories.

M. W. Ridley

One of Her Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of State.

Home Office,

18th April 1896.

Form 270.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

FACTORIES OR WORKSHOPS IN WHICH YELLOW CHROMATE OF LEAD IS USED, OR IN WHICH GOODS DYED WITH IT UNDERGO THE PROCESSES OF BUNDLING OR NODDLING, WINDING, REELING, WEAVING, OR ANY OTHER TREATMENT.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

They shall provide washing conveniences, with a sufficient supply of hot and cold water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels.

They shall provide respirators and overall suits for the persons employed in all dry processes.

They shall provide fans or other suitable means of ventilation wherever dust is generated in the process of manufacture.

They shall provide a sufficient supply of Epsom salts and of the sanitary drink mentioned below, or some other approved by H.M. Inspector of Factories.

Respirators A good respirator is a cambric bag with or without a thin flexible wire made to fit over the nose.

Sanitary drink Sulphate of magnesia 2 oz.

Water 1 gallon.

Essence of lemon, sufficient to flavour.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

Every person to whom is supplied a respirator or overall suit shall wear the same when at the special work for which such are provided.

Every person shall carefully clean and wash hands and face before meals and before leaving the works.

No food shall be eaten in any part of the works in which yellow chromate of lead is used in the manufacture.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

Under Section 9, Factory Act, 1891, any person who is bound to observe any special rules is liable to penalties for non-compliance with such special rules.

Form 271.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

MIXING AND CASTING OF BRASS AND OF CERTAIN OTHER ALLOYS.

SPECIAL RULES.

Under Section 8 of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, and Section 28 of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1895, for the processes in the mixing and casting of Brass, Gun Metal, Bell Metal, White Metal, Delta Metal, Phosphor Bronze, and Manilla Mixture.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. They shall provide adequate means for facilitating, as far as possible, the emission or escape from the shop of any noxious fumes or dust arising from the above-named processes. Such means shall include the provision of traps or of louvre gratings in the roof or ceiling of any shop in which such processes, or either of them, is or are carried on; or in case of a mixing or casting shop which is situated under any other shop, there shall be provided an adequate flue or shaft (other than any flue or shaft in connection with a furnace or fireplace) to carry any fumes from the mixing or casting shop, by or through any such shop that may be situated above it.

2. They shall cause all such mixing or casting shops, whether defined as Factories or as Workshops under the Factory and Workshop Act, 1878, to be cleaned down and limewashed once at least within every twelve months, or once within every six months if so required by notice in writing from H.M. Inspector of Factories and Workshops, dating from the time when these were last thus cleaned down and limewashed; and they shall record the dates of such cleaning down and lime-washing in a prescribed form of register.

3. They shall provide a sufficient supply of metal basins, water, and soap, for the use of all persons employed in such mixing or casting shops.

4. They shall not employ, or allow within their Factory or Workshop the employment of, any Woman or Female Young Person, in any process whatever, in any such mixing or casting shop, or in any portion thereof which is not entirely separated by a partition extending from the floor to the ceiling.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

5. They shall not partake of, or cook any food in any such mixing or casting shop, within a period of at least Ten Minutes after the completion of the last pouring of metal in that shop.

B. A. Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

July 10, 1896.

Note.—Women and Persons under 18 Years of Age are by the 39th section of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1878, expressly Forbidden either to Take a Meal or to Remain in any casting shop during the time stated on the Notice affixed in the factory or workshop as being allowed for meals; and the obligation of enforcing this section rests with the occupier.

These Rules are required to be posted up in conspicuous places in the Factory or Workshop to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed. Any person who wilfully injures or defaces them is liable to a penalty not exceeding five pounds (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, section 11). Occupiers of factories and workshops, and persons employed therein, who are bound to observe any special rules, are liable to penalties for non-compliance with the same. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11.)

Form 272.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

WOOL SORTING.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Bales of wool or hair shall, whenever opened for the purpose of being sorted, be so opened by men skilled in judging of the quality and condition of the material.

2. All Alpaca, Pelitan, Cashmere, Persian, and Camel Hair shall be opened over a fan with a downward draught, in a room specially set apart for the purpose, separate and distinct from any sorting-room and from any room in which work (other than opening) is carried on.

3. Van Mohair shall be washed and sorted while damp, if sorted at all.

Persian shall be washed or disinfected as far as possible before being sorted.

Damaged wool or hair, fallen fleeces and foreign skin-wool or hair of the descriptions named in Rules 2 and 4 shall be washed before being sorted.

4. No Alpaca, Pelitan, Cashmere, Persian, Camel Hair, or Mohair shall be sorted except in rooms provided with extracting fans, so arranged that each sorting-board shall be independently connected with the extracting shaft by means of a funnel-shaped opening not less than ten inches across at the top, in such manner that the dust may be drawn downwards. The draught shall be maintained in constant efficiency while the sorters are at work, and shall be such that not less than 75 cubic feet of air per minute are drawn by the fan from beneath each sorting-board.

The extracting shaft shall be cleaned out at least once in each week.

5. The dust collected by the fan shall be discharged into properly constructed receptacles, and not into the open air. This dust, together with the sweepings from the floors and walls of the sorting-room, and from under the sorting-boards, shall be removed at least twice a week, and burnt. All pieces of skin, scab, and clippings or “shearlings” shall be removed daily from the sorting-rooms, and be disinfected or destroyed. All bags in which dangerous wool or hair has been imported shall be picked clean and not brushed.

6. No person having any open cut or sore upon any part of his body shall be allowed to sort.

7. Proper provision shall be made for the keeping of the sorter’s clothing and food outside of the sorting-room. No meals shall be allowed to be taken in the sorting-room.

During meal hours the windows shall be kept open.

8. No bale wool or hair shall be stored in a sorting-room, nor wool of any description, unless the same be effectually screened off from the sorting-room. An air space of at least 1000 cubic feet shall be allowed for each sorter, exclusive of any portion screened off.

9. The floor of the sorting-room shall be thoroughly sprinkled daily with a disinfectant solution, and swept daily (immediately after sprinkling) after the work is done.

10. The walls and ceilings of the sorting-room shall be limewashed at least once a year.

11. Requisites for treating scratches and slight wounds shall be kept at hand.

12. Proper and sufficient appliances for washing, including basins, water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels, shall be provided in or near the sorting rooms, for the use of the sorters.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

13. If, on opening a bale of wool or hair, any fallen fleece or damaged material is discovered, the person opening the bale shall report the discovery immediately to the foreman.

14. Every sorter having an open cut or sore on any part of his body shall immediately report the fact to the foreman.

15. No sorter shall keep in the sorting-room coats or other articles of clothing besides those he is wearing. No meals shall be taken in the sorting-room.

16. If the draught at any sorting-board, or the fan or any other appliance necessary to the production of such draught, is found to be out of order, the sorter, or any other person becoming aware of the defect, shall report it to the foreman at once.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

October 1897.

Note.—These Rules are required to be posted up in conspicuous places in the Factory or Workshop to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed. Any person who wilfully injures or defaces them is liable to a penalty not exceeding five pounds. Occupiers of factories and workshops, and persons employed therein, who are bound to observe these Rules, are liable to penalties in case of non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11.)

Form 272A.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

WOOL SORTING.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Bales of wool or hair shall, whenever opened for the purpose of being sorted, be so opened by men skilled in judging of the quality and condition of the material.

2. All Alpaca, Pelitan, Cashmere, and Camel Hair shall be opened over a fan with a downward draught, in a room specially set apart for the purpose, separate and distinct from any sorting-room, and from any room in which work (other than opening) is carried on. All Persian shall be opened and sorted in a room specially set apart for this purpose.

3. Van Mohair shall be washed and sorted while damp, if sorted at all.

Damaged wool or hair, fallen fleeces and foreign skin-wool or hair of the descriptions named in Rules 2 and 4 shall be washed before being sorted.

The extracting shaft shall be cleaned out at least once in each week.

5. The dust collected by the fan from the sorting-boards shall be discharged into properly constructed receptacles, and not into the open air. This dust, together with the sweepings from the floors and walls of the sorting-room, and from under the sorting-boards, shall be removed at least twice a week, and burnt. All pieces of skin, scab, and clippings or “shearlings” shall be removed daily from the sorting-rooms, and be disinfected or destroyed. All bags in which dangerous wool or hair has been imported shall be picked clean and not brushed.

6. No person having any open cut or sore upon any part of his body shall be allowed to sort.

7. Proper provision shall be made for the keeping of the sorter’s clothing and food outside of the sorting-room. No meals shall be allowed to be taken in the sorting-room.

During meal hours the windows shall be kept open.

8. No bale wool or hair shall be stored in a sorting-room, nor wool of any description unless the same be effectually screened off from the sorting-room. An air space of at least 1000 cubic feet shall be allowed for each sorter, exclusive of any portion screened off.

9. The floor of the sorting-room shall be thoroughly sprinkled daily with a disinfectant solution, and swept daily (immediately after sprinkling) after the work is done.

10. The walls and ceilings of the sorting-room shall be limewashed at least once a year.

11. Requisites for treating scratches and slight wounds shall be kept at hand.

12. Proper and sufficient appliances for washing, including basins, water, soap, nail-brushes, and towels, shall be provided in or near the sorting-rooms, for the use of the sorters.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

13. If, on opening a bale of wool or hair, any fallen fleece or damaged material is discovered, the person opening the bale shall report the discovery immediately to the foreman.

14. Every sorter having an open cut or sore on any part of his body shall immediately report the fact to the foreman.

15. No sorter shall keep in the sorting-room coats or other articles of clothing besides those he is wearing. No meals shall be taken in the sorting-room.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

April 1898.

Form 273.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

BOTTLING OF AERATED WATER.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIERS.

1. Face-guards.—They shall provide all bottlers with faceguards, masks, or veils of wire gauze.

They shall provide all wirers, sighters, and labellers with faceguards, masks, or veils of wire gauze, or goggles.

2. Gauntlets.—They shall provide all bottlers with full-length gauntlets for both arms.

They shall provide all wirers, sighters, and labellers with gauntlets for both arms, protecting at least half of the palm and the space between the thumb and forefinger.

3. Fencing.—They shall cause all machines for bottling to be so constructed, so placed, or so fenced, as to prevent as far as possible, during the operation of filling or corking, a fragment of a bursting bottle from striking any bottler, wirer, sighter, labeller, or washer.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

4. Face-guards.—All bottlers shall, while at work, wear faceguards, masks, or veils of wire gauze.

All wirers, sighters, and labellers shall, while at work, wear faceguards, masks, or veils of wire gauze, or goggles; except labellers when labelling bottles standing in cases.

5. Gauntlets.—All bottlers shall, while at work, wear on both arms full-length gauntlets. All wirers, sighters, and labellers shall, while at work, wear on both arms gauntlets protecting at least half of the palm and the space between the thumb and forefinger; except labellers when labelling bottles standing in cases.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

August 1897.

Note.—These Rules must be kept posted up in conspicuous places in the Factory to which they apply, where they may be conveniently read by the persons employed.

Any person who is bound to observe these Rules and fails to do so, or acts in contravention of them, is liable to a penalty; and in such case the occupier also is liable to a penalty, unless he proves that he has taken all reasonable means by publishing, and to the best of his power enforcing the Rules, to prevent the contravention or non-compliance. (Factory and Workshop Act, 1891, Sections 9 and 11.)

Form 274.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

VULCANISING OF INDIA-RUBBER BY MEANS OF BISULPHIDE OF CARBON.

DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS.

1. No child or young person shall be employed in any room in which bisulphide of carbon is used.

2. After May 1st, 1898, no person shall be employed for more than five hours in any day in a room in which bisulphide of carbon is used, nor for more than two-and-a-half hours at a time without an interval of at least an hour.

3. In vulcanising waterproof cloth by means of bisulphide of carbon—

(a) the trough containing the bisulphide of carbon shall be self-feeding and covered over;

(b) the cloth shall be conveyed to and from the drying chamber by means of an automatic machine;

(d) the machine shall be covered over, and the fumes drawn away from the workers by means of a downward suction fan maintained in constant efficiency.

4. Dipping shall not be done except in boxes so arranged that a suction fan shall draw the fumes away from the workers.

5. No food shall be allowed to be eaten in any room in which bisulphide of carbon is used.

6. A suitable place for meals shall be provided.

7. All persons employed in rooms in which bisulphide of carbon is used shall be examined once a month by the Certifying Surgeon for the district, who shall, after May 1st, 1898, have power to order temporary or total suspension from work.

8. No person shall be employed in any room in which bisulphide of carbon is used, contrary to the direction of the Certifying Surgeon given as above.

9. A Register in the form which has been prescribed by the Secretary of State for use in Indiarubber Works shall be kept, and in it the Certifying Surgeon will enter the dates and result of his visits, with the number of persons examined, and particulars of any directions given by him. This Register shall contain a list of all persons employed in rooms in which bisulphide of carbon is used, and shall be produced at any time when required by H.M. Inspector of Factories or by the Certifying Surgeon.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

10. No person shall enter the drying room in the ordinary course of work, or perform dipping except in boxes provided with a suction fan carrying the fumes away from the workers.

11. No person shall take any food in any room in which bisulphide of carbon is used.

12. After May 1st, 1898, no person shall, contrary to the direction of the Certifying Surgeon, given in pursuance of Rule 7, work in any room in which bisulphide of carbon is used.

13. All persons employed in rooms in which bisulphide of carbon is used shall present themselves for periodic examination by the Certifying Surgeon, as provided in Rule 7.

14. It shall be the duty of all persons employed to report immediately to the employer or foreman any defect which they may discover in the working of the fan or in any appliance required by these rules.

Arthur Whitelegge,

H.M. Chief Inspector of Factories.

1897.

Form 343.

Factory and Workshop Acts, 1878 to 1895.

SPECIAL RULES.

DRY AND DRYSALTED FOREIGN HIDES AND SKINS, AND DRY AND DRYSALTED EAST INDIAN HIDES AND SKINS.

DUTIES OF OCCUPIER.

1. Protection for Neck, Arms, and Hands.—Efficient means of protection for the neck, arms, and hands shall be provided for the use of all persons employed in unpacking, sorting, packing, handling, or carrying any dry or drysalted foreign or East Indian hides or skins.

2. Storage of Food and Clothing.—Proper provision, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the District, shall be made for the keeping of the workmen’s food and clothing outside any room or shed in which any of the above described hides or skins are unpacked, sorted, packed, or stored.

Meals.—No meals shall be allowed to be taken in any such room or shed.

3. Washing.—Proper and sufficient appliances for washing, comprising soap, basins with water laid on, nail-brushes and towels, shall be provided and maintained for the use of the workmen, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Inspector in charge of the District.

4. Dressings.—Sticking plaster, and other requisites for treating scratches and slight wounds, shall be kept at hand, available for the use of the persons employed.

5. Wounds.—No person having any open cut, scratch, or sore upon face, head, neck, arm, or hand shall be allowed to work on the premises until the wound is healed, or completely covered by a proper dressing after being thoroughly washed.

6. Note to be Exhibited.—A copy of the appended notes shall be kept affixed with the Rules.

DUTIES OF PERSONS EMPLOYED.

7. Protection for Neck, Arms, and Hands.—Each person whilst engaged in unpacking, sorting, packing, handling, or carrying any dry or drysalted foreign or East Indian hides or skins shall use the means of protection provided by the Occupier in pursuance of Rule 1.