§ 63. Mr. M. MacPhersonasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the accident rate in iron and steel foundries continues to be higher than in most other industries; and what special steps he is taking to reduce it.
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe answer to the first part of the Question is, "Yes." My Department continues to pay special attention to the prevention of accidents in foundries by stressing the importance of education and training in the field of safety, the maintenance of tidy and orderly conditions and the establishment of Joint Safety Committees.
The Joint Standing Committee on Conditions in Iron Foundries, which consists of representatives of both sides of the industry as well as of the Factory Inspectorate, maintains a constant review of means of preventing accidents and has recently urged the setting up of more 5W Works Safety Committees. An assurance has been given of co-operation between trade unions and the employers' associations in this matter.
The Committee is now considering what further practical steps can be taken to stimulate the use of special safety boots and other types of personal protective equipment in an endeavour to reduce the number of accidents due to splashes from molten metal and other causes.