HC Deb 28 June 1974 vol 875 cc33-4W
Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what were the trades which produced the highest incidence of eye injuries in 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973.

Mr. Harold Walker

I regret that the information requested is not immediately available. I propose to write to my hon. Friend shortly on this subject.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many prosecutions have been brought by the Factory Inspectorate for breach of regulations resulting in eye injury.

Mr. Harold Walker

From 1st January 1968 until 6th June 1974, 15 firms or persons were prosecuted for breach of regulations resulting in eye injuries; 17 charges were involved.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment when he anticipates finalising the Protection of Eyes Regulations.

Mr. Harold Walker

It has been necessary to hold discussions in order to elucidate comments made on the third statutory draft of the regulations. These discussions have now been completed, and my right hon. Friend hopes to make a decision shortly.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many industrial injuries resulted in some sort of damage to eyesight in 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973.

Mr. Harold Walker

The estimated numbers of accidents notified from premises subject to the Factories Act which involved eye injuries are:

1970 10,400
1971 10,000
1972 9,100
1973 9,900

These cases caused disablement for more than three days. It is not known how many resulted in damage to eyesight.