§ 20. Mr. Thorneasked the Home Secretary whether he can give the House any information about a man that was killed while he was working at a factory in Alice Street, Bermondsey, S.E., on Wednesday, 24th February?
§ Sir J. SimonI understand that this accident did not occur in a factory but in the course of some work preliminary to pile driving for the foundations of an intended building. Such work is not at present subject to the Factory Acts. The accident appears to have been due to the dislodgement of a baulk of timber which was being raised in a chain sling. The timber struck the workman who was raising it, causing fatal injuries.
§ Mr. ThorneWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of bringing this class of accident under the provisions of the new Factories Bill which is now being considered?
§ Sir J. SimonYes, Sir, I am glad to be able to give an answer to the hon. Member. Under the Factories Bill, as it passed the Second Reading of this House, the preparation for and laying the foundation of an intended building will be brought within the definition of building operations, so as to make applicable the building regulations under the Statute.