1892 Fire and Building Regulations in Foreign STAR STAR Ocr

52d C on gress,
2d Session.
) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. ( Mis. Doo.

J
\ No. 111.
SPECIAL
CONSULAR REPORTS.
Volume
VIII.
FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
WASHINGTON;
GOVERNMENT
PRINTING
OFFICE.
i 892.
Purdue University Libraries
SPECIAL OONSULAE REPORTS.
Fie e
an d
Bu ild in g Regulations
IN
FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
REPORTS FROM THE CONSULS OF THE UNITED STATES IN ANSWER TO
A CIRCULAR FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE.
ISSUED FROM THE BUREAU OF STATISTICS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE.

ALL BEQUESTS FOB THESE REPORTS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED
TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE.
W A S H IN G T O N :
g o v e r n m e n t
p r in t in g
1892.
o f f ic e
FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS CIRCULAR.
D epartm ent
of
State ,
Washington, December l y 1891.

To the C o n s u l a r O f f i c e e s o f t h e U n it e d S t a t e s :
G e n t l e m e n : The National Board of Fire Underwriters of the United
States has represented to the Department the importance of securing,
through the good offices of its consuls, fire statistics and information
relative to building construction in foreign countries. The inclosed
series of interrogatories, prepared by said board, shows the scope of the
information desired.
In his correspondence with the Department the secretary of the board
writes as follows:
The statistics are called for as of 1890, although if other years could he added it
would be appreciated. We may further observe that the queries are similar to those
which our committee on statistics has prepared and addressed to places in the United
States, and you will apprehend their value for purposes of comparison with winrilT
information from abroad. The ultimate purpose is a reduction of the fire waste of
the country, which now averages over one hundred millions annually, by recom
mending to our own cities such measures as may have been found effective in cur
tailing the loss by fire in other and older countries which have bestowed attention
upon the subject.
In conformity with the foregoing, you are requested to prepare a report

containing the information above indicated and forward the same to
the Department at your earliest convenience.
I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
W
il l ia m
F. W
haeton,
Assistant Secretary.
[Inolour.]
STATISTICS OF FIEES FOE YEAE ENDED DECEMBEE 31, 1890 (AND FOB
OTHEE YEAES, IF PEACTICABLE).
1.
2.
3.
4
5.
.
Name of place (city or town in which the consular office is located).

Population.
Area of city limits.
Number of brick or stone buildings.
Number of wooden buildings.
Number of alarms.
PIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS CIRCULAS.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings.

8. Number of fires in frame buildings.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires.
10. Total loss thereon.
11. Total insurance thereon.
12. Total insurance loss thereon.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property.
16. Number of conflagrations, . e.t fires extending beyond adjoining property.
17. Of what does the fire department consist?
18. What system of water supply for fire purposes is used and what is the capac
ity of the supply f
19. What provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire and to provide for
prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or orimef
20. Number of incendiary fires.
21. What regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fire
works f
22. Copy of law regulating building construction, heating, lighting, etc.
CONTINENT OF EUROPE.
A U S T R IA -H U N G A R Y .
REPORT B Y CONSUL-GENERAL GOLDSCHMIDT, OF VIENNA.*
1. Vienna, Austria.
2. Population, 795,787, in ten districts or wards.
3. The area of city limits proper is 5,539 hectares.
4 and 5. There are no wooden buildings, a few magazines excepted.
The total number of buildings is 13,841, including churches and chap
els. There exist no wooden buildings whatever higher than ground
floor. The number of ground-floor buildings is about 1,200, most of
them being gardeners lodgings.
6. The number of alarms amounted to 894 in total, of which 70 were
double. The number of actual alarms was 633, of which 63 were double.
7 and 8. The number of fires was 570, without distinction of the kind
of the buildings.
9. Value of property involved could not be ascertained.
10,11, and 12. Also not ascertainable on account of a great part of
the insurances being with foreign insurance companies. Austria has
28 insurance companies.
13,14,15, and 16. There is no case known in this city where a con
flagration has extended beyond the building in which it originated,
and even hardly any cases are known where a fire extended beyond the
floor on which it originated. This is prevented by the solidity of the
buildings, by strict fire regulations, and by a pretty well-trained fire
department.
The last great conflagrations which took large dimensions were the
burning of the Ring-Tlieater in 1882, of the Stadt-Theater in the same
year, and of the great lumber yards near the Danube Canal, which lat
ter was incendiary; but in neither of these cases did the fire extend
to adjoining property.
The fires in 1889 were : Fifteen roof, 7 garret, 288 chimney, 30 floor
beam, 110 room, 74 store, magazine, or workshop, 3 stable, 23 cellar,
and 20 fires outside of buildings.
* Statistics of fires for year ended December 31,1889. Statistics for 1890 are not ob
tainable.
17. The fire department is municipal and consists of 265 active and
120 reserve firemen, with a chief, a number of officers, engineers, and
drilling masters. There are five steam engines and a large and suf
ficient number of hand engines. The steam engines are but very sel
dom called into action. In case of necessity the military is obliged to
assist the firemen. The cost for the maintenance of the fire depart
ment in 1889 (salaries of the officers and men, keeping of the horses, and
maintenance and renewal of material) amounted to 323,446 florins. The
fire alarms are placed in boxes situated in the different streets as well
as in principal buildings. These boxes are locked, but all policemen
and the different house owners and keepers are provided with keys.
Whoever sends the first alarm of a fire is entitled to a reward of 2
florins.
18. The water is taken from the Vienna aqueduct, coming a long dis
tance from the mountains and under a high pressure. Hydrants are
established in the streets in distances of about 300 meters apart*
Theaters and other public buildings have four to five hydrants in their
immediate vicinity and a suitable number of hydrants inside. The
capacity of the supply may be considered as unlimited.
19. This provision is made by section 46 of the fire regulations, as
follows:
S e c . 46.Investigations.After every conflagration the police authorities, together
with the chief of the fire department, have to make a thorough investigation as to the
kind, extension, and effect of the fire, and as to its cause, and eventually to guilty
persons.
20. Incendiary fires, proved to have been such, were three j there
were 102 fires the causes of which remained unknown.
21. The storage of oils in large quantities, of explosives, and of fire
works within the city limits is not allowed.
22. Inclosed are a copy of the building regulations and a translation
of all those paragraphs which specially refer to precautions against
fires. There is further inclosed a copy of the fire regulations apd of
the law containing certain amendments of the building regulations.
BUILDING REGULATIONS FOR THE CITY OF VIENNA.
P a r t F i f t h . O f
t h e r e g u l a t io n s r e l a t in g t o t h e e r e c t io n o f t h e b u il d in g s .
SUPERINTENDING B Y AUTHORIZED PERSONS.
Sec. 33. Builders must employ for the erection of their buildings only such persons
as superintendents who are duly authorized for this position, and must notify the
board of works of an/ change in the selection of such superintendent.
r e s p o n s ib il it y o f t h e s u p e r in t e n d e n t .
Sec. 34. The superintendent (section 33) bears the whole responsibility for the
employment of building material of perfectly suitable quality, as well as for the solid
and correct carrying ont of the building. This does not, however, exclude the re*
sponsibility of other persons employed in the building, in so far as any blame incurs
to them.
SAFETY AND POLICE REGULATIONS W ITH REFERENCE TO THE STREETS.
Sec. 35. The superintendent of the building is obliged:

(1) To inform the board of works by writing in due time of the commencement of
building.
(2) With new buildings and in the case of repairs, to always place the prescribed
signs of warning when such repairs take place upon any side of the building facing
a public way, and to place a suitable number of lighted lanterns, attended to by a
watchman, when any building materials or requisites must be left in the open over
night.
(3) In case of any ditching in a public road, to care for the complete securing of
such ditches.
(4) In fencing in the building ground from public roads, to keep within a distance
of 2 meters from the building line, when by such fencing the actual line of demarca
tion of the property is surpassed. The board of works, however, has the right to
prescribe another measure according to circumstances.
(5) To apply to the board of works for the assignment of a suitable storing place
for building material, where it becomcs necessary to store such material outside of
the fencing.
The sifting of sand, slaking of lime, mixing of mortar, and storing of building ma
terial in the open street are permitted only by consent of the board of works.
DIMENSIONS OF BRICKS.
Sec. 36. The normal dimensions of building bricks are fixed at 29 centimeters
length, 14 centimeters width, and 6.5 centimeters thickness. Roofing tiles, vaulting
bricks, paving bricks, hollow bricks, and other form or decoration bricks may be em
ployed in any desired dimensions.
THICKNESS OF W ALLS.
Sec. 37. The thickness of the walls is dependent upon the strain upon the walls,
upon the material employed, upon the number and height of the stories, upon the
depth of the rooms, and upon the construction of the ceilings. In the following,
therefore, are only fixed the regulations for walls of common buildings (dwellings),
to be made of common bricks and of common lime mortar, in which case the rule
is to be adhered to that in indicating and marking the thicknesses of walls the
rough casting and the plastering of the walls must be left out of consideration.
(1) The thickness of walls is to be calculated according to grades, differing by half
a brick length each. Thus there only may be built walls of , 1, l, 2, etc., bricks.
For marking and calculation the following rounded-off figures are to be used : Onehalf brick wall rounded off to 15 centimeters ; 1-brick wall rounded off to 30 centi
meters ; l-brick wall rounded off to 45 centimeters ; 2-brick wall rounded off to 60
centimeters ; 2-brick wall rounded off to 75 centimeters ; 3-brick wall rounded off to
90 centimeters ; 3-brick wall rounded off to 105 centimeters.
(2) In walls with many openings, the pillars of which would not be sufficiently
strong if built of common brick work, such pillars must be constructed of well-burnt
bricks with hydraulic lime mortar, or of stone, or of iron ; this has to be indicated
in the plan for the building.
(3) The main walls of the top story must have a thickness of 45 centimeters if the
depth of the rooms of that story is 6.5 meters or less ; if this depth is more than 6.5
meters the walls must be 60 centimeters thick.
In employing transom flooring, the main tv alls of the lower floors must be provided
with renforcements of 15 centimeters in such manner that the thickness of the main
walls is always the same only in every two immediately superposed stories. Ac
cordingly, when the depth of rooms on the top floor is 6.5 meters or less the main
walls of the ground floor must have a thickness of 75 centimeters for for-story and
of 60 centimeters for three-story buildings ; if however the depth of rooms on the
top floor is more than 6.5 meters tho minimum thickness for these walls is 90 centi
meters for four-story and 75 centimeters for tliree-story buildings.
In employing dowel-beam flooring, the main walls must be provided with ren
forcements of 15 centimeters for obtaining a free bearing surface for the beams,
commencing from the last story but one down to the ground floor, inclusive of the
latter.
In employing vaulted or wooden ceilings upon iron girders the thickness of the
walls in all stories and also of the ground floor (if the clear height of the latter
does not exceed 5 meters) may measure 45 centimeters when the depth of rooms on
the top floor does not exceed 6.5 meters ; if however the depth of these rooms is more
than 6.5 meters the walls must have a thickness of 60 centimeters, provided that the
bearing strength of the brick work is proved by the employment of suitable material.
Those parts of the main walls which do not serve as bearings for the ceilings may
have a thickness of 45 centimeters throughout all stories, including the ground floor
and without regard to the depth of rooms.
(4) The main walls in three-story buildings must have a thickness of 60 centime
ters in every story; in four-story buildings these walls must be 75 centimeters thick
on the ground floor[and 60 centimeters in all the other stories. Where ceilings upon
iron girders are employed, a thickness of 45 centimeters for the top story may be
permitted, if the bearing strength of the brick work is proved.
Tn buildings with less stories the main walls may have a thickness of 45 centi
meters when transom ceilings, vaulted ceilings, or ceilings upon iron girders are
employed. When, however, dowel-beam ceilings are employed in such buildings,
there must be a space of at least 30 centimeters in the mean wall between the two
bearings (of at least 15 centimeters) on either side for the beams when this mean
wall is continued upward, so that this wall receives a thickness of 60 centimeters.
(5) The party walls, from the ground up to the garret floor, must have a thickness of at least 30 centimeters ; in four-story buildings, however, they must be 45
centimeters thick on the ground floor. Where party walls serve as support for the
ceiling they must be made of a thickness of 45 centimeters where this is the case.
(6) The walls of light rooms, when they serve as direct bearings for ceilings, must
be at least 45 centimeters thick; otherwise a thickness of 30 centimeters is sufficient
for them.
(7) The walls for stairs, where these are not fliers, if they serve at the same time
a outer walls, must be at least 30 centimeters thick in buildings having but two
stories at the most ; in buildings of three and four stories these walls must have a
thickness of at least 45 centimeters. When fliers are employed the stair walls must
be at least 45 centimeters thick, without regard whether the stair walls also serve
as outer walls or not and without regard to the number of stories.
(8) Corridor walls, which neither serve as outer walls nor as supports for ceil
ings, may be made of a thickness of 15 centimeters ; on the ground floor, however,
they must be at least 30 centimeters thick.
(9) Partition walls must have a thickness of at least 15 centimeters. Where par
tition walls also serve as outside bearings for wooden ceilings, their thickness must
be 45 centimeters if they are continued upward; otherwise a thickness of 30 centi
meters is sufficient.
(10) All interior walls must be at least 45 centimeters thick in those places where
they-contain chimneys.
(11) The main walls of the cellar stories and also of the foundations, even when
IK FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
they are built of mixed material, must be 15 centimeters thicker than the walls of
the ground floor. These walls must not project more than 15 centimeters into the
street.
Any deviations from the above rules in the case of employment of other construc
tions and materials, such as stone, cement, iron, etc., or any deviations from the di
mensions of bricks, fixed by section 36, are decided upon by the board of works by
reason of proofs furnished of the sufficient solidity and stability.
P A R T Y W ALLS.
Sec. 38. Every house is to be separated from the neighboring property through
out all stories, including the garret, by independent party walls. These party walls
must contain no openings toward the adjoining property. Exceptionally and by
special consent of the board of works doors may be provided in these walls for the
purpose of establishing a connection between the rooms of certain stories of adjoin
ing buildings. Where wooden parts of the roof are to be let in to these party "walls
there must remain in the latter a solid body of brick work of at least 15 centimeters.
STAIRS.
Sec. 39. In every new building free communication by means of completely fire
proof stairs must exist from the garret and from all departments to the house door,
respectively, to the outside, and to the cellar. This conditions, according to the ex
tent of the building, the construction of one or more fireproof main stairs. These
stairs must, in one and two story buildings, have a clear width of at least 1.10 meters,
and in buildings with more stories at least 1.10 meters in the two upper stories, and
in the lower ones at least 1.25 meters. In main stairs the straight steps must not be
less than 29 centimeters wide, and the width of pointed steps must, at a distance of
40 centimeters from the stair wall, be at least 29 centimeters, and at the points at
least 13 centimeters. If in a three or four story building one or more by-stairs exist
besides the main stairs, these side stairs may serve as main stairs for the two upper
stories if they are constructed of fireproof material and have a clear width of at least
1.10 meters. The height of the steps must not exceed 16 centimeters in the different
stories and 20 centimeters in the cellar and garret stairs. The stairs must be pro
vided with hand rods, and in the free places with railings of at least 1 meter in
height. In fliers these railings must be provided with appliances for preventing the
sliding down upon these railings. In the staircases suitable devices for the setting
down of burdens must be provided ; in four-story buildings such devices must be in
the first and third stories, and in three-story buildings at least in the first story. In
special cases, or in public buildings, or with monumental stairs, the board of works
may dispense with the obligation of providing these devices and the hand rods. The
stair landings as well as the corridors in the extent of the staircase must be com
pletely constructed of fireproof material. By-stairs for the connection of certain
apartments which are also accessible from the main stairs are not subject to above
conditions. The employment of trap doors (horizontal doors) for stair decents is not
permitted.
SKYLIGHTS.
Sec. 40. If a staircase is to receive its light from a glass roof, the frame of the
latter must be of iron, and must rest on all sides upon masonry rising over the sur
face of the roof. When other places are to be lighted by skylights, all connections
with the garret liable to catch fire must carefully be avoided. Every glass roof is
to be provided with a ventilator, and, if necessary, the latter again with a guard or
grate for safety.
CORRIDORS.
Sec. 41. Free corridors (situated on the outside of the walls of a building), if
they form the only communication of the apartments with the main stairs, must be
10
FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
built throughout of fireproof material, and most have a clear width of at least 1.10
meters. Snch corridors must be provided with fireproof railings at least 1 meter
high, or with glass partitions. Open corridors on the top floor must be provided
with a fireproof roof, isolated from the roof of the building.
PLACES FOR STORING W OOD.
S e c . 49. The places for storing firewood are, as a rule, to bbnilt in the cellar, of
masonry. Such wood may, however, also be stored in low, open sheds. These sheds
must be built of masonry, and must have a party-wall as high as their roof, which
must be fireproof. Every apartment consisting of more parts than one room and a
kitchen must have a wood-storing place of its own.
ROOFS.
S e c . 50. Roofs must be covered with a material acknowledged as fireproof. The
surface of the walls upon which the roof is to rest must be at least 8 centimeters
higher than the floor of the garret. All parts of the roof must be perfectly isolated
from the top ceiling of the building.
GARRETS.
Sec. 51. The garret roem is to be closed by an iron door in an iron or in a stone
frame. The establishment of lodgings in the garret room is, without exception, pro
hibited.
PA R TY -W ALLS.
Sec . 52. Roofs of more than 30 meters length are to be partitioned by walls in the
entire width of the garret. These party-walls must be at least 15 centimeters thick
and, if necessary, strengthened by pillars; they must project at least 15 centimeters
over the surface of the roof, and must completely separate the rafters. Each of these
party-walls must be provided with an iron door in an iron or stone frame ; these doors
are to be made so as to close automatically, and their locks must open easily from
either side by knobs or handles.
STABLES AND FEED-LOFTS.
Sec. 54. Stables and feed-loffcs over which lodgings are situated must have fire
proof ceilings, and the former must be well ventilated. Opeuings from stables into
the street or lane are only permitted if they close air-tight and permanently. The
stables are to be provided with drains, and the latter as well as the floor must be so
constructed that an infiltration of the ground and of the brickwork is prevented.
SHEDS.
Sec. 55. The erection of sheds upon wooden posts, without ceiling, is permitted
when a fireproof roof is used. If such sheds touch the adjoining building they have
to be separated from the latter by a separate party-wall. The erection of wooden
sheds without fireproof covering can only be permitted by the board of works in
exceptional and pressing cases.
HEATING.
I.G e n e r a l
e g u l a t io n s .
Sec. 64. Chimneys must rise at least 1 meter above the surface of the roof. All
chimneys, without distinction, are subject to tho rule that between the woodwork
and the clear opening of the chimney there must be interposed at least the width of
11
one brick and one upright tile, in such manner that the latter covers up the bearings
and joints of the bricks. The masonry of chimneys must in the garrets also be
plastered or the joints filled out with fire-clay. The conducting of smoke through
pipes into the street, or into courts, or to the outside in general, is strictly forbidden.
II.S p e c i a l ,
R e g u l a t io n s .
A.Stoves and range, kitchen floors.

Sec. 65. The chimneys must be so arranged that every habitable room can be
heated. The conducting of flues from different stories into one and the same chim
ney is not permitted. As a rule, every set of apartments has to be provided with a
separate chimney. The employment of so-called dampers is forbidden for stoves of
any kind. The floor of kitchens must have a fireproof covering in front of the
range of at least 60 centimeters in width.
B.Chimneys.
Sec. 66. (a) Narrow chimneys.(1) Narrow chimneys must have their interior
surfaces as smooth a possible, and when serving for closed fireplaces must have a
cross-section of at least 255 square centimeters, which in rectangular chimneys must
at least be 15 centimeters wide and 17 centimeters long. One chimney must in no
case serve for more than four fireplaces. For open and exceptional fireplaces sev
eral narrow chimneys, or one chimney with a larger cross-section, suited to the pur
pose, must be employed.
(2) These chimneys are to be constructed as nearly a possible vertical. Inclina
tions of less than 60, with the horizontal line are, as a rule, not permitted;
should such, however, be allowed exceptionally, cleaning doors must be provided at
the angles, and care must be taken that the inner wall of the chimney at this angle
is not damaged by the ball or weight attached to the brush in cleaning the chimney.
(3) Every single chimney must, at its base and above the garret floor, be provided
with two cleaning doors placed behind each other and made of cast iron 4 millime
ters thick, fitting into a groove and provided with a lock. These doors must have a
height of 40 centimeters and their width must correspond to the clear width of the
chimney. These doors must be marked with the numbers of the respective apart
ments and floors, and must never be situated in those parts of the cellar or garret
which are locked, but must always be freely accessible.
(4) The sweeping or cleaning of the narrow chimneys can also be done from the
roof, in which case a suitable running bridge must be provided.
(5) Where woodwork can not be avoided in the vicinity of the cleaning doors, it
must be sheathed with sheet iron.
(6) For permitting the burning out of the chimneys at any time, double iron doors
must be provided ; and where chimneys lead from the cellar, separate burning-out
doors must be provided in the upper stories.
(b) Passable chimneys.Passable chimneys must have a clear cross-section of at
least 45 centimeters width and 48 centimeters length.
(c) Large chimneys.Chimneys for larger fireplaces, for purposes of ventilation or
for steam boilers, must be so constructed that they will not annoy the neighborhood
when in operation. These chimneys must be provided with an iron slide or door for
every opening, and with iron climbing supports on the inside throughout all that
p a T t where they have a diameter larger than 50 centimeters. The height of such
chimneys is fixed by the board of works according to local circumstances, and their
construction must always be such that an eventual future extension of at least 35
meters is possible. The material of the chimney must be fireproof. Iron chimneys
maybe permitted; such made of sheet iron, however, only for isolated industrial
buildings, or for temporary use only when they are situated among dwellings.
12

C.Steam-boiler planta.
LARGE BOILERS.
Sec. 67. Large steam boilers are to be placed as low as possible, and a far distant
from dwellings a possible. The rooms of such boilers must be separated from work
shops by a fnll wall of at least 60 centimeters thickness, provided with openings
only where this is absolutely necessary for the purposes of passage. These boiler
rooms must only be lightly covered, but not built over, and in no case must they be
vaulted.
SMALL BOILERS.
S e c . 68. For the placing of small steam boilers certain facilities are granted.
Small boilers are such the diameter of which does not exceed 1.2 meters the cubio
contents of which, when filled with water up to the legal water-level, is not more
than 1 cubic meter, and the pressure in which does not exceed 6 atmospheres. Such
boilers may be placed in dwelling houses, and free in workshops, when (1) the rooms
immediately above are habitated ; (2) the chimney, which may also be a common
smokestack, rises at least above the top edge of the immediately adjoining roofs; (3)
when the boiler stands at least 3 meters distant from the line of any adjoining prop
erty. For the placing of small steam boilers the permission of the board of works is
required. Dwarf boilers are such the diameter of which does not exceed 0.8 meter,
the contents of which, when filled up to the legal water-mark, is not more than 0.5
cubic meter, and the pressure in which does not exceed 4 atmospheres. For such
boilers only the regulations relating to common fireplaces are applied. There is no
special permission by the board of works required for the placing and employment
of these boilers.
P a r t S i x t h . B u i l d i n g s I n t e n d e d
for
arger
A c c u m u l a t io n s
of
People.
Sec . 70. In the erection of buildings intended for the accumulation of large num
bers of people there are, besides the foregoing regulations, to be observed the special
legal and police regulations applying to such buildings. (Law of December 15,1882,
No. 68, and decree of the governor for Lower Austria of July 1, 1882, No. 54.)
P a r t S e v e n t h . I n d u s t r i a l B u i l d i n g s .
BUILDINGS W HICH ARE CONSIDERED AS INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS.
Sec. 71. By industrial buildings are understood, contrary to dwellings, all facto
ries, workshop buildings, and magazines. Industrial buildings are separated into
isolated and not isolated, according to their situation.
INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS IN ISOLATED POSITION.
S e c . 72. Industrial buildings are isolated if every point of the same is a t least 20
meters distant from other buildings or from neighboring property. The width of
interposed streets, squares, rivers, and other waters is to be counted in. If factories
immediately adjoin factories of the same kind, a distance of 10 meters is considered
as sufficient isolating space. In every case the isolating space must be left perfectly
free.
SPECIAL REGULATIONS FOR I8OLATED INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS.
Sec. 74. The builder and superintendent are absolutely responsible for the obser
vation of the following regulations and precautions :
(1) In every industrial building consisting of more than one story, a fireproof safety
stair in a brick case with fireproof covering must be provided, offering a free exit
FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
13
from all parts of the building immediately to the outside. In extensive factories
several such stairs must he provided in such manner that no point of the factory is
further distant from a safety stair than 40 meters. If a stair of this kind is not in
tended for the use of more than 60 persons it must, if straight, have a width of 1.25
meter; if it is winding it must have a width of 1.50. For every 50 people in addition,
the width is to he increased by 115 centimeters, or the number of stairs must be in
creased accordingly. For greater facilitation these stairs and staircases may be
built on the outside of the factory upon the isolating space. Besides these fireproof
safety stairs wooden stairs are permitted according to requirement. For localities
which are not properly workshops, and which are frequented only at times, or in
which only a few persons are employed, wooden stairs may also be used.
(2) All walls of industrial buildings facing public streets must be fireproof.
(3) With regard to the construction of smokestacks and chimneys, as well as o f
fireplaces and steam-boiler plants, the regulations contained in sections 64 to 69
have to be applied.
GENERAI. REGULATION8 POR NOT-ISOLATED IN DU STRIAL BUILDINGS.
Sec. 76. For buildings which are not to be considered as isolated industrial build
ings, the general rules of this law have to be applied, with the following modifica
tions:
(1) All walls may be noggings, with the exception of those in the vicinity of which
there are fireplaces, or of those bordering public streets or adjoining property.
(2) The determination of the thickness of the walls, as well as of the strength of
all parts of the construction, is left to the builder and to the superintendent on their
responsibility for perfect safety. The board of works, however, is entitled to re
quire proof of the sufficient strength and stability. Therefore, in buildings of this
kind, complete plans must be presented.
SPECIAL REGULATIONS FOR NOT-ISOLATED IN DU STRIAL BUILDINGS.
Sec. 77. In these buildings there is permitted:

(1) The construction of wooden party walls, with exception of such localities in
which articles liable to catch fire are stored, or in which such articles are worked.
(2) The construction of beam ceilings with single-board flooring, without interme
diate layers of broken brioks or without plastering.
(3) The employment of the roof timbers for the construction of ceilings.
(4) Any desired number of stories, the same as in isolated buildings, provided the
total height of the building does not exceed 25 meters.
DW ELLINGS W ITH IN DU STRIAL BUILDINGS.
Sec. 78. In isolated industrial buildings the dwellings of the proprietor and for
the employs may be erected with brick nogging walls, under observation o f the
legal regulations with regard to stoves, hearths, and other fireplaces. These dwell
ings must, if they adjoin workshops, be separated from the latter by solid party
walls, and their walls facing streets must also be constructed of solid masonry. In
not-isolated industrial buildings such dwellings must be constructed according to
the existing general regulations.
W A T E R SU PPLY AND IMPLEMENTS FO R E XTIN GU ISH IN G FIRES.
Sec. 80. In all industrial buildings a supply of healthy drinking water must be
provided, and care must be taken that reservoirs for the necessary quantities of water
as well as the implements for extinguishing fires, to be prescribed by the authori
ties, are in readiness in suitable place.
14
PIKE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
The board of works may grant facilitated conditions for the erection of buildings
in certain localities. Suoh buildings may have somewhat thinner wall and plas
tered wooden stairs, bnt must not have more than two stories.
J u l js G o l d s c h m id t ,
Consul- General,
U n it e d S t a t e s Oo nstjlate -G e n e r a l ,
Vienna, May 13, 1892,
T R IE S T .
REPORTS* B Y CONSUL HARTIQAJT,
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
9.
10.
Triest, Austria.
Population, 157,300.
Area of city limits, 94 kilometers, or about 58 miles.
Number of brick or stone buildings, 5,860.
Wooden buildings, none.
Number of alarms, 133.
Number of fires in brick and stone buildings, 123.
Unable to obtain the value of property involved in the fires.
Loss on buildings, $6,455, and on furniture and merchandise,
$13,225.
11. Unable to obtain amount of insurance.

12. Unable to obtain loss of insurance thereon.
13. Fires confined to floors on which they originated, 123.
14. See answer last given.
15. No fires extended beyond floor of origination.
17. The fire department consists of 137 men, viz: 1 chief, 1 assistant
chief, 1 lieutenant, 1 sublieutenant, 44 permanent men, 41 ranked as
first-class for night duty only, 38 second-class for night duty, and 10
auxiliary men for the territory.
18. There are three systems of water supply, viz: 160 water plugs
scattered throughout the city, with a pressure of 3 to 7 atmospheres j
20 carriages with casks holding each about l cubic yards of water,
and 2 steam fire engines. The supply comes from a number of springs
at a place called Nabresina 9 miles distant, and is carried along in
pipes down the hillsides to the city. The capacity is not given, but it
is considered abundant.
19. The chief of the fire department is charged with the duty to im
mediately investigate the cause of all fires; he has full power to ob
tain all necessary information, summon witnesses, etc. His report is
made to the magistrate, who takes further steps in case of incendiarism
or crime.
20. No incendiary fires.
* Statistics of fires for year ending December 31,1890.
15
21. According to law all explosive materials are stored in isolated,

places outside the city, and only the daily requirement is carried within
the limits.
J am es F . H a r t ig a n ,
Consul.
U n it e d S t a t e s C o n s u l a t e ,
Triest, June 7, 1892.
BELGIUM.
ANTW ERP.
REPORT B T VIOE-OONSUL H AIN E.
It is to be regretted that, owing to the want of complete official sta

tistics, I am unable to give as full and detailed a report as I should
desire and as the interrogatories indicated in the circular of the De
partment of December 1,1891, warrant.
The city of Antwerp proper was encircled by a strong belt of fortifi
cations before 1867, which extended from the river Scheldt (north) to
the Scheldt (south). Outside of these fortifications were the villages
of St. Laurent, Berchem, St. Willebrord, Borgerhout, and a small ham
let, the Dam. The fortifications being removed since 1867 to the belt
now encircling the city, these villages continued to exist with the ex
ception of St. Laurent, St. Willebrord, and the Dam, which were incor
porated in the city proper, although they are still known by their
names.
Berchem and Borgerhout remained independent of the city. They
have their burgomaster, board of aldermen, and common council.
They administrate their own affairs, although they are within the for
tifications, and the territory occupied by them is counted to make the
area of the city of Antwerp, which was in 1890 of 1,525 hectares within
the fortified belt, or equal to about 3,500 square acres. These two vil
lages have their own fire departments, but it is not to be taken into
consideration, as in case of fire the city engines are always at hand
and demanded. They have no fire-alarm station except that of their
municipal hall. The water supply is obtained from the Antwerp water
works.
Very few industries are carried out in these places, and these have
their own hand engines, which are generally in a sad condition and of
little use in cases of an emergency. Since the introduction of the water
supply most of these industries have adopted it and established hy
drants with hose on their premises, but the men being rarely exercised
to their use they are of little value.
Antwerp has been very fortunate in point of view of large conflagra
tions, and this is to be wondered atyform the oldest quarters of the
16
city the buildings are thick together, and many have been standing
two hundred and three hundred years. The fire risk on account of
this is large, and, considering that many vices of construction, such
as large beams supporting floors, resting on fire chimneys which very
often crumble to pieces through age, exist, it is astonishing that fires
happening in these quarters do not spread to considerable extent, but
large conflagrations are unknown.
Chimney fires happen very often, and are almost all occasioned by
defective flues, built so long ago. The old obligation of having chim
neys swept still exists, and is made binding in all leases, and very often
one hears yet the cry of the chimney sweep after he has finished his
perilous ascent.
Buildings in general are well put up and party walls well established,
and to this and the well ordained habits and care of the inhabitants is
to be ascribed the few fires of any importance that happen.
As I observed in the beginning of this report, the official statistics
of fires and others are not accurately kept, for the answer to the inter
rogatories Nos. 7 and 8 given by the city authorities indicates the
number of fires to be 94, besides 58 chimney fires. The city does not
either answer as to the value of property or loss thereon, but turning
to the report of the chamber of commerce furnished by the different
local insurance companies and agencies, I find that during 1890 there
were 565 fires (large and small) and that the loss paid by them was
277,275 francs or $55,455. This sum actually represents the amount
paid for damages, but it is averred and proved that, since the water
supply has become abundant, at least as much damage is done by
water as by the fire.
Before the introduction of the water pipes the supply of water de
pended upon was that of pumps private and public, and that which
was in the city sewers, which communicate with the river and are
washed out through the rise and fall of the river tides.
ANSWERS TO INTERROGATORIES.
The answers to the queries are those given by the city authorities.
1. Name of place, Antwerp.
2. Population, 241,263 inhabitants.
3. Area of city limits, 1,525 hectares (or about 3,500 acres).
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, about 29,500.
5. Number of wooden buildings. There are only a few wooden sheds.
6. Number of alarms, no statistics.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 94 j 58 chimney fires.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, none j there are no more frame
buildings in Antwerp.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires unknown.
10. Total loss thereon unknown.
11. Total insurance thereon not stated.
17
12. Total insurance loss thereon unknown by the city authorities.

The Chamber of Commerce in its report for 1890 states 277,275 francs,
or about $55,455.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, no
statistics.
14. Number of fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 93.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, one.
16. Number of conflagrations, i. e.? fires extending beyond adjoining
property, none.
17. Of what does the fire department consist! The department con
sists of a body of men regularly enlisted a in the army, and who,
when not on duty for fires, are used for certain police services at the
city hall. There are: 1 first captain, 1 second captain, 1 lieutenant,
2 second lieutenants, 1 medical officer, 2 engineers, 6 sergeants, 12 cor
porals, 92 men. The fire apparatus are: 3 steam engines, 2 steamboats
with pumps for dock and river use, 24 hand engines, 25 hose carts, 22
standpipes, 12 apparatus for cellar fires, 12 apparatus for chimney fires,
3 safety ladders, 23 ladders with hooks, 2 wagons to cart men and
material, 2 ladder trucks, 2 coal wagons, bags, and safety escapes,
grapplers, forks, spades, hatchets, picks, wrenches, four horses, etc.
18. What system of water supply for fire purposes is used, and what
is the capacity of the supply t A system of water pipes (canalization)
with fire nozzles every 60 meters, under constant pressure of 4 to 5 at
mospheres, and in case of fire up to 6 and 7 atmospheres. The reser
voirs are several miles away from the city. Their capacity is sufficient
for every emergency. Besides the river water in the city main sewers are
comparatively abundant.
19. There exist no rules prescribing the investigation in cases of sus
pected incendiarism. The causes of fires are investigated with the aim
of finding out their origin, and in case of incendiarism the incendiary
is punished in conformity with the prescriptions of the penal code.
20. Number of incendiary fires, none.
21. What regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils, explo
sives, and fireworks The royal decrees of January 29, 1863, Decem
ber 27,1886, and of March 31, 1887, upon dangerous establishments j
of May 28,1884, and that of December 1, 1891. (The pamphlets con
taining these decrees are subjoined.)
22. Copy of law regulating building, construction, heating, lighting,
etc. Copy of law subjoined.
S t a n is l a s H . H a i n e ,
Vice-Consul.
Con su late
of th e
U n it e d S t a t e s ,
Antwerp, May 5 ,1892.

14A----- 2
18
BRUSSELS.
REPORT B Y CONSUL ROOSEVELT
1. Fame of city, Brussels.

2. Population, 176,026; including suburbs, 482,158.
3. Area of city limits, 897 hectares, not including suburbs.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 18,474, not including suburbs.
5. Number of wooden buildings, 1,049, not inhabited as dwellings.
6. Number of alarms, 347.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 184.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, none.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, about 13,186,200
francs.
10. Total loss thereon, 4,395,511.50 francs.
11. Total insurance thereon, 6,573,100 francs.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, 4,364,439.50 francs.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 173
out of a total of 184.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated,
184.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, none.
16. Number of conflagrationsi. ., fires extending beyond adjoining
propertynone.
17. The fire department consists of 6 officers, 168 men, 18 horses (6 of
which belong to the tramway company and are used for night service
only), 4 steam engines, 9 hand engines, 13 water wagons, 2 hose car
riages, 4 supplementary wagons, and two extension ladders on wheels.
It is a paid department under military discipline, and directly con
trolled by the mayor of Brussels.
18. The city of Brussels receives its water supply from the basin of
the Haine and from streams in the forest of Soignies, which furnish
about 30,000 cubic feet of water per day. The territory covered con
sists of the city of Brussels and part of its suburbs, and is distributed
among 280,000 inhabitants, representing an average daily supply of
107 liters per capita. The water brought from Soignies enters a reser
voir at Etterbeek, a suburb of Brussels, at an average quota of 55 me
ters. The water of the Haine is collected in a reservoir at Ixelles, also
an important suburb, at a quota of 88 meters, and the remaining 200
or 300 cubic meters are forced up by machine into the standpipe,
erected in the Bois de la Cambre, a large park on the outskirts of the
city, to the altitude of 125 meters.
The water is carried from these reservoirs by large and small con
duits. The Chateau dEau, or standpipe, supplies the section imme* Statistics for year ended December 31,1890.
19
diately surrounding the Bois de la Cambre, as well as the old and new
parade grounds and Avenue Louise.
The determined pressure of the water in the conduits of the sections
mentioned is as follows: From 8 to 10 meters at Langveld, from 25 to
30 meters at entrance to park, from 30 to 35 meters at new barracks,
from 30 to 40 meters on Avenue Louise.
The reservoir at Ixelles supplies the quarter of the city on the right
bank of the Senne, excepting the quarter of the Place des Martyrs, and
has a pressure of from 60 to 65 meters at the new boulevards, of 25
meters at the park, and from 6 to 10 mters at the least favored points.
The reservoir at Etterbeek supplies the section on the left bank of the
Senne, including the quarter of the Place des Martyrs, and has a pres
sure of from 30 to 35 meters. These are the general dispositions of the
ordinary water service. In case of a fire the two sections can be united
in a few minutes by a very simple maneuver. At the lower part of
the reservoir at Etterbeek the main pipe has a double box with auto
matic valves, and at the city hall there is another main pipe which
is shut by a sluice gate supporting on one side a pressure of from 60 to
65 meters, and on the other from 30 to 35 meters. At the first signal
the sluice gate is opened, the charge of water from the left slope in
creases, and the box containing the automatic valves at Etterbeek
closes. It results that these two sections, which comprise very nearly
all the water subscribers of the city, can,whenever desired, be depend
ent upon the supply of the reservoir at Ixelles alone, and in this man
ner the city proper obtains the following pressure:
Brussels.
Tn front of the curve 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Between the curves 25 and 50 .........................................

The plateau, altitude of 50 to 70 meters on the interior of the
circular boulevards
Host elevated part of quarter Lopold, altitude 50 meters, and
not supplied b y the Cnateau dEau standpipe. . . . . . . __. . . . . . . .
The parte supplied by the Chateau dEau..................................
The Avenue Louise quarter, between the Chausse deVleurgat
and the boulevard............................................................................
Xotal......... . ................................................................................
Houses Population Pressure in

in 1883.
in 1883.
meters.
8,600
5,000
81,100
48,000
60 and over.
60 to 35
3,360
23,520
35 to 20
1,444
370
8,550
1,930
35 to 20
30 to 50
360
1,900
30 to 40
19,134
165,000
In case of fire more than 78 per cent of the city receives a pressure
of from 35 to 65 meters, and the remainder, or 22 per cent, a very
small fraction less than 10 meters of the charge of water. The water
pipes have at intervals fire plugs as follows: In the city 1,685, or 1 for
every 87 meters of pipe. In suburbs^ 688, or 1 plug for every 187
meters of pipe.
19. After every fire the commissary of police of the quarter insti
tutes an investigation as to the cause of the fire, and if there is reason
to suspect incendiarism, he informs the court of justice of the fact,
which at once makes an examination on the premises. Legal punish
ment for attempted incendiarism is from two months to one year im
20
prisonment, and from 26 to 200 francs fine* All person convicted of

incendiarism, where the buildings are unoccupied^, are sentenced to
from ten to fifteen years hard labor. If the buildings are occupied and
used as dwellings, from fifteen to twenty years hard labor. If inhab
ited buildings are set on fire during the night, the crime is punishable
by hard labor for life. If lives are lost by incendiarism, the crime is
punishable as willful murder.
20. Number of incendiary fires in 1890, three.
21. It is against the law to sell, store, or form a depot of explosive,
inflammable, or dangerous substances, without permission from the
municipal authorities. The applicant for permission to establish a
depot or store, or for the authority to sell explosive, inflammable, or
dangerous substances, must present a written application to the mu
nicipal authorities, requesting the said permission or authority. The
municipal authorities carefully consider the request, and if there are
no serious objections to the establishment of a depot, store, or for the
sale of the explosive, inflammable, or dangerous substances, a notice
is posted on the premises of the applicant, informing the public that
the said applicant has made a request to the municipality for the per
mission to keep, store, or sell such and such articles on his premises,
and requesting the public to make known within a certain specified
time, such objections, if any, it may have against the establishment of
a depot or store for the sale of the substances mentioned. The munic
ipal authorities also inform the inhabitants of the neighborhood, in
which the desired depot or sale of the substances mentioned is to be
made, of the intention of such a person to establish at such a place the
sale or depot of such articles, and requesting them to make known,
within a specified time, their objections, if any, to such an establish
ment. If the objections of the inhabitants of the neighborhood or
the general public are well founded, the municipality informs the ap*plicant that his application has been rejected; but if there are no ob
jections made against the request of the applicant, the municipal
authorities grants him the necessary license.
The ordnance of April 27, 1868, prohibits the making of fires in
stores or depots for coal, wood, hay, straw or any other inflammable
substances, or in cellars containing inflammable matter. It also pro
hibits persons entering such cellars or stores with lights other than
those in closed lanterns.
G e o . W . B o ose v e l t ,
Consul.
Brussels, February 12,1892
21
Table showing number o f fire to which the firemen of Brussels were called during
1890.
Table showing number o f fires to which the firemen o f Brussels were called from 1881 to
1890.
Fires.
Tens.
Ordinary.
Serious.
Total
Chimney
fire.
False
alarms and Total num
ber of
fires extin
guished by alarms.
inhabitants.
1881................................................
1882................................................
1883................................................
1884................................................
1886................................................
1886................................................
1887................................................
1888................................................
1889................................................
1890.................................................
70
36
80
89
140
113
111
111
94
122
6
11
10
7
8
8
5
4
6
11
76
47
90
96
148
121
116
115
100
133
74
90
88
131
144
168
206
174
144
104
49
83
46
57
59
88
100
83
83
85
199
220
224
284
351
377
422
372
327
322
Total....................................
966
76
1,042
1,323
733
3,098
22
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS
Table showing the nature of fires to which the Brussels firemen were called during the year
1890.
Nature of fires.
Cellar or basement.
Ground floor...........
Entresol.................
First floor..............
Second floor...........
Third floor..............
Fourth floor...........
Garret.....................
Outhouses..............
Buildings................
Theaters................
Fair buildings.......
56
31
19
22
1
I
1
10
184
113
Total fires.
Chimney fires___
False alarms---Total alarms.
41
38
31
31
25
18
19
19
11
17
46
322
Losses by fires occurring at Brussels from 1887 to 1890.

Buildings insured.
Tears.
1887........................................................................
1888.........................................................................
1889.........................................................................
1890........................................................................
Amount of
insurance.
Loss.
Francs.
9,167,205
3,805,500
4,652,000
6,573,100
Francs.
966.576.00
150.215.00
646.945.00
4,364,439.50
Buildings
not insured
loss.
Francs.
151,296.00
18.267.00
5,651.50
31.072.00
Total loss.
Francs.
1,117,872.00
118.482.00
652.597.00
395,511.50
The suburbs of Brussels, being distinct municipalities, have volunteer firemen or

policemen who perform the duty of firemen in case of necessity. The service of Brus
sels firemen are seldom required in the suburbs. In case of an extensive conflagration
the municipal authorities or the commandant of the suburb firemen or police request
the assistance of the Brussels fire department.
GHENT.
REPOST* B T CONSUL OSBORNE.
1. Ghent.
2. Population, December, 1890,153,740; 1889, 152,391.
3. Area of city is 5,750 acres; its circumference about 6 miles.
4 and 5. August 5, 1890, there were 31,515 buildings of all kinds.
No classification is made as to material, but nearly all are of brick, a
small number of stone, and a very few of wood; September 1, 1889,
there were 31,576 buildings.
6. There are 36 fire-alarm boxes (system Welsh) placed at the dispo
sition of the public. This system is the invention of the present chief
* Tear ended December 31,1890; also, of the previous year.
23
of the city fire department. Besides the central headquarters of the

firemen there are three other gardes, whence they may be summoned by
alarm box, telephone, or otherwise. No fire bells are rung.
7 and 8. There were 49 fires in 1890, and 70 fires in 1889.
9. Impossible to give a satisfactory answer as to the value of prop
erty involved in the fires, there being no records kept.
10. The total loss by fire for the year 1890 was nearly $81,000; in 1889,
$28,000.
11
and 12. The total insurance on the fire loss for 1890 was $80,800
(all except $200 fully insured) ; for 1889, $27,500.
13. In 1890, 43 fires were confined to the story in which they origi
nated, and in 1889, 65.
14. In 1890, 46 fires were confined to the building in which they
originated; 1889, 68.
15. In 1890, 3 fires extended to adjoining property, and 2 in 1889.
16. There were no conflagrations in either 1890 or 1889.
17. The fire department of Ghent is maintained by the city. It com
prises about 80 men, including a captain commandant, a lieutenant,
and subordinate officers. The firemen wear a distinctive uniform, re
side in barracks, and go through daily exercises. The apparatus com
prises two steam fire engines throwing 555 gallons per minute; a float
ing fire engine fixed upon a yacht for use at the docks and which may
also penetrate the city in time of need by the numerous canals; a sta
tionary steam pump for use at the entrepot; 19 hand pumps; 7 hose
carts; an extension ladder, 57 feet in length, mounted on wheels, and
2 supply wagons with accessories. Arrangements have been made
with the street car company to furnish their horses for the engines,
but the lighter material is drawn by men and dogs. These facts give
one the impression that the department is not very progressive for a
city of this size.
18. The water supply for fire purposes is derived from the mains of
the water supplied by the town, which comes from the river Scheldt.
For this purpose there were, in 1890,849 fire hydrants. In the previous
year the number was 838. An unlimited supply of water may also be
obtained from the rivers and numerous canals intersecting the city.
19. The commissaire of police of the district in which a fire occurs
makes a report of the fires to the chief of police of the city, and in
cases of suspected incendiarism or crime the latter informs the juge
$intruetion, who makes an investigation, examining witnesses, etc.
In case the evidence is found sufficient to warrant it, the persons sus
pected are arrested and tried by the proper tribunal.
20. In 1890 there were only two cases of incendiarism, but in 1889
there were 72 persons arrested and tried on this charge.
21. Special surveillance and control is exercised over establishments
considered, first, dangerous; second, unwholesome; third, disagree
able. These must receive authorization from the town. During the
24
years 1889 and 1890 a number of depots of petroleum and matches

were visited by the authorities and precautionary measui'es were pre
scribed for the security of the inhabitants and workmen.
22. There is no special law covering this subject.
J ohn B . Osbo rn e,
Consul.
Ghentj January 20, 1892.
L I G E .
REPORT* B T CONSUL DANFORTS.
1. Name of place, Lige.

2. Population, 147,660.
3. Area of city limits, 4,648.33 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 19,235.
5. Number of wooden buildings, only a few, which are condemned
and will in time be torn down.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires: No statistics obtain*
able.
10. Total loss thereon, $20,000.
11. Total insurance thereon : no statistics obtainable.
12. Total insurance loss thereon : no statistics obtainable.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated, 73.
16. Number of conflagrations, i. e., fires extending beyond adjoining
property, 2.
17. Of what does the fire department consist!One captain, 1 lieuteuant, 1 sergeant-major, 1 quartermaster, 3 sergeants, 9 corporals, 18 fire
men of the first class, and 36 of the second class.
is the capacity of the supply?Besides a water distribution having a
pressure of 5 atmospheres there are two rivers, the Meuse and the
Ourth, and the canal from Lige to Maastricht.
19. Wliat provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire and
to provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime?
After each fire the local police make an inquiry to find the causes, and
in case of crime there is judicial prosecution.
21. The storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks are regulated by royal decrees of January 29,1863, and May 31,1887. A royal
* Year 1890.
25
decree of December 1,1891, regulates the manipulation and storage of

explosives.
22. Copy of law regulating building construction, heating, lighting,
etc., is inclosed in separate parcel.
Jam es B. D an fokth ,
Consul.
Lige, February 10,1892.
DENMARK.
COPENHAGEN.
REPORT B T OGNBTTL RTDBR.
I have herewith the honor to present a report, with replies to a series

of interrogatories contained in the circular dispatch from the Depart
ment of 1st December last year, in relation to fire statistics in the city
wherein my consular office is located; the statistical returns on these
matters being those for the year 1890.
My consular office is located in the city of Copenhagen, the capital
of Denmark, the same having in 1890 a population o f312,859 souls,
with a ground area of two-thirds of a Danish square mile, and contain
ing about 7,000 houses, chiefly consisting of brick and stone. It is
only in the oldest parts of the city that frame buildings are to be met
with, while entire wooden structures are only to be found as outhouses
to the main buildings. The number of fire alarms is returned as being
about 330 yearly. No information is to be obtained as to the num
ber of fires occurring in the different classes of stone or other structure,
no distinction being made in the tabular returns in this respect, all
classes being massed under one head. The number of fires in 1890
was 262. Neither is any approximate information of the value of the
property involved in the fires, with the total losses thereon, to be ob
tained from the fire department or from any other State or municipal
office, as regards the value of insurances on all household and personal
property, as neither the Danish insurance companies nor the numerous
agencies of foreign insurance offices represented in this city are under
any obligations to make any public returns of the amount of premiums
received by them on policies against fire risks nor of the amounts paid
by the offices in settlement of claims on fire losses ; whereas, on the
other hand, the real property of the city (public and private buildings),
having by law to be officially valued for the compulsory insurance
thereon, the collective value of the city real property is seen to have
been valued for such insurance in 1890 at the aggregate sum of
477,642,141 kroners.
The number of fires confined to the flat in which they originated are
26
PIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
returned as 257, and 262 as those confined to the building. No cases

occurred where the fire extended to the adjoining property.
The fire brigade in this city is a municipal institution, composed of
the following force and material, namely:
(a) The permanent paid force, consisting of 1 fire-brigade inspector,
chief in command; 1 vice-inspector, second in command; 5 company
commanders; 21 engine leaders; 4 engineers; 132 firemen; 3 trumpet
ers; 25 drivers, and 34 horses, with a material of 4 steam fire engines,
10 hand-worked engines, 5 mechanical escape-ladders, 2 conveyances
for transport of firemen. This force is distributed among three large
and three smaller fire-stations, which are mutually in connection with
each other by telegraph and telephone wires; and to each station is
attached a network of public alarm fire-apparatuses, about 60 in
number.
(b) The reserve force.This is formed out of yearly conscriptions of
men liable for military service, and whose time of service is four years.
This reserve corps is divided into two companies, consisting of 2 com
pany commanders, with 80 fire-engine leaders and 320 firemen, with a
material of eight hand-worked fire engines.
(c) A mobilised reserve corps selected from the reserve, consisting of
6 engine leaders and 18 firemen.
According to the statutes ot the fire ordinances, both the military
and naval garrisons of the city are bound, on the requisition of the firebrigade inspector, to render their assistance on all occasions of fire of
more serious extension. This assistance, according to agreement, is
fixed at four engines from the military garrison and all the dispos
able floating and driving steam engines of the navy. An ample supply
of water for fire purposes is secured by pipes from the city waterworks,
in connection with about 1,325 fireplugs, and with a forcing water-pressure of 150 feet.
The police authorities have to investigate and hand in their report
over every case of fire, and all breaches of the fire laws being a police
offense, these are punishable by the police magistrate with fine or im
prisonment. In all suspected cases of incendiarism, however, the ac
cused will be handed over for trial in the criminal courts. In the tables
for the year 1890 there was only the return of one case of incendiarism.
Warehousing of petroleum and other fluids of highly inflammable na
ture is prohibited inside of the city walls, and is confined to such places
outside the city as in the opinion of the fire board are at a sufficiently
safe distance from all other buildings. These regulations are not, how
ever, applicable to the storage of small quantities of such articles, say
of 800 quarts or less, which may be required by retail dealers in their
trade or by manufacturers in their works; the same must, however, be
stored in underground cellars with stone walls and flooring. Under
the fire regulations any display of fireworks or illuminating with torch
lights is prohibited without the sanction of the police authorities. The
27
filling of cartridges with explosives, such as gun cotton, dynamite, etc.,

without special permission from the fire department is also forbidden,
and the transport of explosive substances and filled cartridges through
the city can only be made in quantities not exceeding 4 pounds at one
time; such explosives under transport to be placed in strongly secured
packages, and the transport must not be made by omnibus, tram-car,
or other public conveyance. No larger quantity than 10 pounds of pow
der may be stored in any one building, and this must be kept in wellclosed tin. or copper cases and under such further restrictions as may
be deemed necessary by the fire department, these regulations being
equally applicable to gun cotton and other explosives as well as for
fireworks. Factories in which highly explosive substances are dealt
with, such as powder mills, gun cotton and percussion cap factories, as
well as manufactories of fireworks on a large scale, can only be erected
in isolated spots where they will be at such distance from all dwelling
houses and buildings as may be considered to afford full security to the
public safety. No new buildings may be erected inside the city walls,
nor any changes in any way affecting the building regulations be made
in the standing houses before a notification thereof in writing together
with fully detailed plans of the proposed works have been submitted to
and received the sanction of the members of the building commission
in this city. This board is composed of the mayor of that division of
the city to which matters relating to public works are relegated, acting
as president, together with a state appointed architect and medical offi
cer of health and of two other members respectively appointed by the
state and municipality for a term of four years, and on completion of
the works the building can not be taken into use before a certificate has
been obtained from an inspector of the building board, certifying that
the works have been duly carried out in accordance with the approved
plans, and that as a dwelling house it has been found in a well drained
and good sanitary condition.
The theaters are subjected to special precautionary measures against
fire. These establishments must be provided with an adequate supply
of water tanks, fire engines, and such fire apparatus as may be ordered
by the fire department, the same to be always kept in readiness for
immediate use. Every theater must also be connected by telegraph
wires with the fire stations, and immediate notice sent to these of any
outbreak of fire however trifling. Previous to and at the close of each
evenings performance a careful visit must be made to all parts of the
building to see that no fire is anywhere visible. All smoking or the
lighting of pipes and cigars in any part of the building is strictly for
bidden. Likewise the use of lucifer matches or going about with un
covered lights. Gas lamps and lamps on the stage compartments must
only be lit with the aid of lighting apparatus protected in closed lamps.
The inspectors and assistants of the fire brigade are at all times to be
allowed free access to all parts of the building, and at every represent*
28
tion reserved seats are to be kept apart for these officials on the front
row of benches on the floor of the house. In all the staircases and
corridors taken in use by the audience a sufficient number of oil lamps,
in addition to the ordinary gas lights, must be placed, so that these
passages may be sufficiently lit up in case the gas lights should by
accident be extinguished; these lamps to be kept burning from the
opening until the final departure of the audience and the employs of
the theater. The whole of the stage part of the building must be
divided off from the rest of the house by stone walls, and the proscenium
capable of being closed when necessary by a curtain of metal plates.
AU other openings in the stage compartments to be provided with
tight closing iron doors. Under every representation until the spec
tators have left all the ordinary as well as reserve means of egress to
be kept unlocked, and all corridors, staircases, and passages taken in
use by the audience on leaving the theater are to be kept clear, so that
there be nothing in the way of a free, unimpeded passage. All the
reserve outlets must be designated as such in conspicuous letters, and
during the performance to be kept closed by a sliding bolt fixed on the
inside, but placed at such convenient height that it may at once and
with ease be thrown open.
H e n r y B. R y d e r ,
Consul.
Copenhagen, April 4,1892.
FRANCE.
C A L A IS .
REPORT* B T CONSULAR AGENT YENDROUX.
1. Name of city, Calais.

2. Population 56,867.
3. Area of city limits very large, as a new fortified boundary wall
has been recently built in provision of further extension of the city.
4 and 5. Number of brick or stone buildings; number of wooden
buildings; impossible to obtain this information, but from personal
knowledge would say there are few if any wooden buildings. Brick
being both plentiful and cheap.
6. Number of alarms in 1890, 7.
7. Number of fires in brick and stone buildings 2, the other 5 being
but chimney conflagrations for lack of cleaning in proper time; the
soot alone having caught fire without any damage being done to the
chimney.
8. Number of fires in wooden buildings, none.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires; two small hoe
Year 1891.
29
burnt, one estimated at 8,000 francs, totally burned except the walls.
The other a grocery, damage to the amount of 700 francs on building,
and 10,000 francs of goods damaged by water from pumps and other
salvage implements.
10. Total loss thereon, 18,700 francs.
11. The whole was covered by insurance, and the companies paid for
the two fires, in rough figures, 15,000 francs.
13i Of fires confined to floor in which they originated, besides the two relatively large fires above mentioned, the insurance agents settled
in 1890 eleven claims amounting together to about 2,000 francs for small
fires in private houses or factories; these fires caused no alarm and
were all of them extinguished by the workmen or servants.
14,15,16. The fires above mentioned did no injury to neighboring
property.
17. Since 1830 Calais has an efficient fire brigade: Nine officers, 22
under officers, and 247 firemen called Sapeurs-Pompiers. All vol
unteers recruited principally amongst men accustomed to going up
ladders, scaling walls, climbing roofs, etc., such as carpenters, plumb
ers, smiths, and other craftsmen. They receive no pay but have certain
privileges, the most important being the exemption from lodging sol
diers in case of troops passing through the town in too great numbers
to be accommodated in the barracks. They obtain medals when they
distinguish themselves by deeds of bravery. They become firemen only
after strict inquiry has been made as to their honesty and manner of
living. It is regarded as a certificate of good character to become a
member of the corps of u Sapeurs Pompiers (firemen). The uniform
they wear is highly appreciated by the men.
18. Calais is abundantly supplied by springs centralized in the
vicinity of the town whence water is forced into two large reservoirs
and distributed to all parts of the city. There are 182 hydrants besides
the private pipes existing in almost every house. The supply of water
has always been in excess of the demand in the few instances when
fires have occurred at Calais.
19. The gendarmerie, police, and town clerks make a very thorough
investigation when there has been a fire.
20. Number or incendiary fires, none.
21. Very strict regulations exist in regard to the storage and sale of
explosives, and very frequent inspection made by the police, and dele
gates of town council, magistrates, etc. Noncompliance with the law
renders one liable to fines and even imprisonment;
22. No special book exists on the subject, but no building can be
erected without approval by the town architect and the work is
thoroughly inspected as it progresses and also on completion.
J. V e n d b o u x ,
Consular Agent,
U n it e d S t a t e s C o n s u l a r A g e n c y ,
Calais, January, 1892,
30
FIBE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
CO G N AC.
REPORT B Y CONSUL PRESTON.
1. Name of city, Cognac.

3. Area of city limits, 424 hectares.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, impossible to give number.
5. Number of wooden buildings, nearly all are of stone.
6. Number of alarms, none.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, two.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, can not tell.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, none.
two.
15. Number of fires extending to adjourning property, none.
property, none.
17. Of what does the fire department consist? Of 75 firemen, 1 cap
tain, 1 lieutenant, 1 second lieutenant, 8 pumpers (by hand pumps), 8
assistants. The engines are worked by hand, and are of the most
primitive description.
is the capacity of the supply? Reservoir and hydrants ; water pumped
up from Charente; supply unlimited.
19. What provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire and
City laws and public prosecutor.
sives, and fireworks? Not over 150 liters can be kept in one place.
22. Copy of law regulating building construction, heating, lighting,
etc. Can not find any law on the subject, but a committee of the com
mon council direct these matters and give permits for building, regu
late street lines, etc.
W m . S. P r e s t o n ,
Consul.
Cognac, April, 1892,
31
HAVRE.
REPORT* B T CONSUL WILLIAMS.
1. Name of city, Havre.

3. Area of city limits, 2,586f acres.
5. Number of wooden buildings: An insignificant number in fisher
mens quarters; practically none. The construction of wooden build
ings is prohibited.
7 and 8. Number of fires 158, of which 105 were merely burning
chimneys; only one serious fire, which destroyed a music hall. There
was also a small fire in a petroleum refinery outside the city limits.
9 and 10. Value of property and total loss: No official data. Lead
ing insurance men estimate total loss at 450,000 francs, or at $86,850
for the entire year.
11. Insurance thereon, unknown.
12. Insurance loss unknown.
13,14. Every fire was confined to the building in which it originated.
17. Fire department: Three steamers, 28 hand engines, 9.94 miles
of hose.
18. Most ample water supply from pipes laid in nearly every street.
19. Investigation and punishment the most rigid. In cases of minor
offenses, offender punished by imprisonment at hard labor 5 to 20 years,
while in case fire be set in any inhabited building, carriage, or car, the
crime is u punished with death.
20. Only one incendiary fire during 1891.
21. The regulations for the storage and sale of oils and explosives
are most strict, and only after license by central government.
O. F . W i l l i a m s ,
Consul.
Hamre, April 15 1892.

M A R S E IL L E S.
RBPORT\ B T CONSUL TRAIL.
1. Marseilles.
3. Area of city limits: Of city proper, 3,174 acres; suburbs, 12,472
acres.
4. Number of stone buildings: City, 22,553; suburbs, 12,472. There
are very few brick houses.
For year 1891.
t Year 1890.
32
5. The number of wooden buildings is very insignificant.

6. There are 9 fire stations in coittmnication by telephone with
each other and with the subscribers to the telephone. Ko alarms.
7. The number of fires in brick or stone buildings in 1889 was 481; in
1890, 462.
8. No statistics as to frame buildings.
9. Value of property involved in the fires in 1889, $3,164,003; in 1890,
$1,149,200.
10. Total loss thereon in 1889, $330,676; in 1890, $218,003.
11 and 12. No statistics obtainable from the mairie as to the insur
ance, nor as to insurance loss.
13,14,15, and 16. No statistics obtainable in answer to these ques
tions.
17. The fire brigade numbers 146 men, viz : 7 officers, 17 noncommis
sioned officers, 122 corporals and privates. The apparatus consists of
2 steam engines, 2 horse engines, 18 hand engines, 11 carts for carrying
ladders, hose, and buckets; 3 extension ladders of the Porta system,
23 ordinary ladders, 18 ladders furnished with hooks, 49 spades, 68
shovels, 75 forks, 83 axes, 22 fire hooks, 10 stretchers, 249 leather buck
ets, 874 linen buckets, 9 ascenseurs et descensers 11Peys, 10 spiral
descenseturs, 1 elevator of the Chne model, 36 hose couplings, and 1
large wagon for carrying the men, coal, etc.
18. The water for the engines is supplied by 1,800 fire plugs, each
plug having an average pressure of 7 kilograms. The steam engines
have a total length of hose of 750 meters.
19. An investigation of the cause of the fire is made by the commis
saire of police.
20. No fires of incendiary origin were reported in 1890.
A copy of the law regulating building construction is herewith an
nexed, also a statement of fires of all sorts occurring at Marseilles from
1886 to 1890, inclusive, and a statement of the expense incurred by
the city for the fire brigade for the year 1890.
LA W CONCERNING BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.
The law concerning building construction is to this effect:

The walls of all buildings constructed on the public ways shall be of solid ma
sonry, built in strict accordance with the roles of architecture, and shall be thick
enough to secure the perfect stability of the buildings.
All wood or plank buildings that are to be used as dwelling houses, all sheds,
workshops, stables, coachhouses, etc. (except temporary sbeds, summer houses, and
the like), must have between their faade and the public way a wall of stout ma
sonry, such wall to be at least as high a the ridge tiles of such wood or plank con
structions, and to exceed them in width on either side to the greatest extent availa
ble, such excess of width not to be more than 3 meters on either side.
33
MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF HOUSES.
On and after the date of tlie present decree the maximum 1.eight of houses is fixed
as follows (decree dated April 11, 1890) :
(1) On thoroughfares more than 12 meters wide, houses may not exce ed 24.50 me
ters in height.
(2) On thoroughfares from 10 to 12 meters in width houses may not exceed 23 me
ters.
(3) On thoroughfares from 8 to 10meters wide, houses may not exceed 21.50 meters.
(4) On thoroughfares less than 8 meters wide, houses may not exceed 20 meters.
Statement o f fires of all sorts occurring at Marseilles from 1886 to 1890, inclusive.
Fires.
Year.
Serious. Ordinary. On liips. Chimneys.
1886...........................................................
1887...........................................................
1888...........................................................
1889...........................................................
1890...........................................................
38
51
52
43
45
118
152
167
169
182
3
4
1
3
6
208
221
278
2t>6
229
Total for the five years................
229
788
17
1,202
Cases of
lieli ren Total.
dered.
52
52
67
61
S3
205 jj
419
480
565
542
4!>5
2,501
Expenses incurred by the city of Marseilles for the fire brigade during the year 1S00.
1 captain, commanding officer...

1 lieutenant...............................
2 sublieutenants.........................
1 adjutant..................................
1 staff doctor..............................
1 assistant staff doctor.............
1 band master........................
1 sergeant major.......................
1 quartermaster sergeant..........
1 quartermaster corporal..........
1 engineer..................................
10 sergeants, at $240..................
$600 13 corporals, at $210.................. $2,730

440 2 buglers or drummers, at $200..
400
720 40 firemen, first class, at $200__
8,000
340 67 firemen, second class, at $195 . 13,065
180 3 auxiliary sergeants, at $30.......
90
120 1 auxiliary drummer..................
30
100 7 buglers or drummers, at $20...
110
320 4 auxiliary firemen, at $20........
80
280 50 musicians, at $35....................
1,750
260
Total spent in salaries for 1890. 32,465
360
2,400
Ch a r l e s B. T r a il ,
Consul.
Marseilles, April, 1892.
NANTES.
REPORT * B T CONSUL DUPIN.
1 and 2. The consular office of this district is located at Nantes, the

population of which city, according to the last census (1887) numbers
127,482 inhabitants.
3. The area of the city limits within the Octroi (places where
* Consul de Sallier-Dupin acknowledges liis indebtedness to M. E. Goug, chief of
the fire department at Nantes, for information in the preparation of this report.
14Ga -3
34
town (lues are paid) is of 2,487 hectares, 67 ares, 27 centiares. The

city with the outskirts has an area of4,278 hectares, 23 ares, )0 centiares.
4.
The buildings are all stone, with the exception of a few wooden
slieds which are of no importance. It is impossible to state the number
of houses, as the numration lias not been made since 1825.
0.
There are 420 fire alarms in the city, 40 of which are especially
employed to call up the steam engine.
7. In 1S89 Nantes had 14 large fires, and 32 fires which were extin
guished at the outbreak. In 3890 there were 8 large fires, and 41 extin
guished at the outburst; in 1891, 7 large fires, and 39 extinguished
immediately.
8. The total loss of property by fire in 1889 was 213,391 francs; in
1890, 311,511 francs; in 1891, 1,118,641 francs.
9. The total value of property involved in the fires in 1889 was
2,464,000 francs; in 1890,1,C07,500 francs; in 1891, 1,684,100 francs.
10. Losses by above fires covered by insurances. For the past three
years there has been but one large conflagration, that of the canning
manufactory of Saupiquet.
17. At the principal firemens buildings, owned by the city, are sta
tioned 32 firemen on duty during the day, and 55 on duty at night.
There is also a volunteer brigade of 125 men, besides a body of 45 men,
who compose the firemens baud. They are quartered at night at the
firemans station near the city hall, and are obliged to do duty during
all representations at the theaters and circuses. The entire fire depart
ment is under the immediate authority of the mayor and of the minis
ter of the interior. In case of a large conflagration, the chief of the
fire department can, by applying to the prefect or to the general com
manding at Nantes, obtain assistance from the troops. The apparatus
consists of two steam engines, one patent extension ladder, manufac
tured by Gngumus of Nancy, several apparatus for extinguishing fire
in cellars, sixteen hand pumps, and eight hose carts. Harnesses are
suspended over four horses ready for instant use.
All the firemens buildings, as also the residences of all the officers,
are connected by telephone with the principal station, which is at the
city hall. There are forty-five special telephone calls, used only for
fire alarms, besides all the private telephone boxes can be used to give
an alarm of fire; the number of these last is 400.
18. The water supply tor fire purposes is furnished from reservoirs
located in the highest part of the city. These reservoirs are constantly
filled by water from the Loire, forced in by steam power and distributed
through the city, by means of cast iron tubes; the maximum pressure
is 3 kilos.
In case of an incendiary, accompanied by loss of life, the law pro
vides that the guilty party can be condemned to death or sentenced
for life; if not, lie forfeits his right of citizenship, pays a heavy fine,
and has to serve a term of imprisonment adequate to the offense. For
the past years there has been no case of fire by incendiary.
35
The storage and sale of petroleum, oils, mineral essences, and all
other inflammable matter are regulated by an Imperial decree issued on
the 18th of April, I860, which reads as follows :
All cellars or buildings used as i>laces of storage for oils, petroleum, and all com
bustible material, must be of stone, witli Avails of solid masonry, have windows, be
well ventilated, easy of access, and have no communication whatsoever with any
adjoining building where there is wood or other combustible matter; tho fluids fco
be kept either in metal tanks, securely fastened, in barrels encircled with iron hoops,
capacity of barrel not to exceed 150 liters; or in glass or stone jars securely fastened,
having safety envelopes, either of wicker or of straw ; tho capacity of said jars not
to exceed 60 liters. The transferring of the fluids from one tank to another must be
done only by daylight, and as much as possible by means of a suction pump. The
storehouses to be lighted at night by lanterns fastened to the wall at a sufficient dis
tance from the tanks, and especially from those in actual use. All lighting of lire,
smoking, or keeping empty casks or barrels in these storehouses is strictly forbidden.
An amount of sand or earth proportionate to the size or importance of the storehouse
to be always preserved on the premises, to instantly extinguish a fire should one
occur. For additional light in examining the storehouses, safety lamps are allowed;
any other kinds are prohibited as being liable to occasion fire by contact with air
charged with gas. All retail dealejs, whose supply ranges from 5 to 60 liters are
required to observe the precautionary measures indicated and prescribed by the mu
nicipal authorities.
All storehouses not within the above requirements, or whoso proprietors should
fail in the strict observance thereof, will be closed by order of the city authorities,
and offenders suffer the penalty prescribed by law.
STATUTE REGARDING STORAGE AND SALE OF POWDER, ETO.
The storage and sale of powder, fireworks, and all other explosive
materials are regulated by a municipal statute dated March 3,1825.
This statute is similar to the above Imperial decree, necessitating all
precautionary measures both as regards the storage and handling of
all such goods.
22. The municipal statute of date of June 10,1870, gives only rules
and regulations for the frontage of houses, and refers most particularly
to beauty and symmetry of outline. The buildings and stairways of
the city of Nantes being of stone and the roofs covered with slate, fur
nish sufficient guarantee against fire. There exists no law regulating
heating, lighting, etc.
Though the equipment of the fire department of the city may appear
very incomplete, it is notwithstanding an incontestable fact that, com
bined with the excellent discipline exercised, the fire department of
Nantes saves the city annually the sum of 500,000 francs.
I may also add that the solidity of the building constructions and a
rigid enforcement of the requirements of the Imperial decree of 1866
contribute greatly to preserve the city from the devastating ravages of
fire.
H . de S a l l e r -D u p in ,
Consul.
Nantes, February 6,1892.
36
P A R IS .
REPORT B Y CONSUL-GENERAL KIN G.
1 and 2. Population of Paris, 2,424,705.

3. Area of city limits, 19,279 acres.
4 and 5. Most of tlie buildings in Paris are constructed of hewn stone
or of rough stone covered with plaster, or of brick ; there are very few
wooden buildings, and these are generally workshops, sheds, and other
low buildings.
6. At the close of the year 1800 there were 203 telephone fire alarms
with 409,506 meters of wires. The u etat-major of the regiment com
posing the fire department, situated at No. 9, Boulevard du Palais,
center of the general system, is connected with 12 barracks, and through
these with 124 relief posts or stations. It is, besides, connected with
the 7 isolated stations of steam fire engines.
There is under construction at tlie present time a new net work or sys
tem of public fire alarms. These new lines are already partly completed
within the limits of four barracks; they connect 112 public fire signals
by means of 95,033 meters of wires. There are besides 182 private
alarms with 171,984 meters of wire. In each post or barracks there is
a fireman telegraph operator on permanent duty, whose special mission
is to receive and transmit the alarms of fire.
7 and 8. No separate statistics obtainable for each class of buildings
(stone, brick, or frame), showing number of fires.
9,10,11, and 12. These questions are answered, as far as statistics
are obtainable, by the following tables :
E va lu ation o f losses.*
Tears.
1886.........................
1887.........................
1888.........................
1889.........................
1890.........................
Tears.
Fires declared to have occa

sioned losses of 1,000 francs
and over.
Num
ber of
fires. Num
Average
Total of
ber of
per fire.
losses.
tires.
953
988
9*23
1, 059
1,052
256
241
279
271
260
Francs.
6,090, 490
4,299, 700
6,486, 025
4,439, 725
9,102, 200
Num
ber
of
fires.
3886............................................
953
1887............................................
988
1888............................................
923
1889............................................ 1, 059
1890............................................ 1,052
Francs.
23,791.30
17, 275.90
23,247.40
16, 382.00
35,008.00
Number of cases
covered by in
surance.
Real
property.
842
878
877
1,032
1,035
Mova
bles.
640
686
769
830
831
Fires declared to have occa

sioned losses inferior
to 1,000 francs.
Num
ber of
fires.
Total of
losses.
Francs.
697 l *0,650.00
747 : 136,200.00
639 127,688.10
788 147, 408. 00
792 124,127.00
Number of cases
not covered by in
surance.
Real
property.
28
17
11
13
12
Total of
losses.
Average
per tiro.
Mova
bles.
203
209
119
215
216
Francs.
187.40
182. 30
200.00
187.00
156.70
Francs.
6.221.140.00
4, 299, 700. 00
6, 613,713.10
4.587.223.00
9.226.327.00
Number of cases
where the fire de
partment could not
ascertain whether
insured or not.
Real
property.
70
93
35
14
5
Mova
bles.
110
93
35
14
5
* These evaluations can only be approximate, since the figure of the losses is generally given on the
pot of tbe fire by the owners of the property themselves, who have tendency t o exaggerate losses.
37
m FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
Chimney fire.
INumber of
fires.
Years.
1886..........................................................
1887..........................................................
1888.........................................................
1,524
1,912
1, 924
Number of
fires.
Years.
1889.........................................................
1890_______________________________
Fires extinguished
by the inhabitants.
Fires extinguished by the firemen.

00
to
o
'
>
fl
Tears.
Mg |c
Steam
engines.
1886
1887
1888
1889
1890
hand
engines,
62
47
31
s%
i.
x3
s
11
Ss
c
HP
+J(rt
95
129
fl
Is
ss
497
449
389
381
344
163
193
196
1,572
1,504
729
664
614
622
590
224
324
309
413
416
224
324
309
437
402
13,14,15,16. No statistics are obtainable covering tliese questions.

17. The Paris fire department consists of a regiment called the Rgi
ment des Sapeurs Pompiers. This regiment, maintained at the ex
pense of tlie city of Paris, belongs to and is under the war department
as far as concerns organization, recruitment, military command, inte
rior police, discipline, promotion, rewards, emoluments, and interior
administration. But the services of the regiment as pertaining to fires
are under the direction and orders of the prefect of police. The regi
ment is commanded by a colonel and comprises two battalions of six
companies each. Officers, 51; men, 1,693; total, 1,744. The etat
major is located at No. 9 Boulevard du Palais. The twelve compa
nies are lodged in twelve barracks, situated in different parts of the
city, and each has a certain portion or section of the city under its
more direct protection.
BARRACKS.
In each of the barracks (3 officers and about 140 men) the service is
assured for each period of twenty-four hours by a picket of men
nnder the orders of an officer and conveyed to the scene of the fire by
wagons carrying apparatus. These vehicles are the apparatus wagon,
long ladder, steam engine, cart. The picket with the apparatus wagon
and the long ladder form the first equipment sent to the fire. The
apparatus wagon carries a reel with 320 meters of heavy liose, 120
meters of light hose, apparatus for extinguishing cellar fires with air
compressor, and life saving apparatus.
As soon as the first equipment has started, a second one is imme
38
diately formed ready to respond to a new call. This second equipment

comprises two hose cases containing- 200 meters of hose, one hand en
gine, and one caisson with life saving apparatus.
Eacli of the barracks is furnished with : (1) a steam fire engine, which,
always accompanies the first contingent sent to a fire at night, and
which in the daytime serves for fires of some magnitude, and also to
increase the water pressure in those parts of Paris where such pressure
is insufficient; (2) a ventilator, which is used to air localities containing
injurious or explosive gases; (3) a goat, or gin, for life-saving in wells,
pits, etc. ; (4) safety lamps.
STEAM FIRE-ENGINE STATIONS.
On December 31,1890, there were 12 steam fire-engine stations, of

which 5 were at the barracks and 7 at isolated stations. At each of
these stations there are 1 steam engine and 1 caisson with 720 meters
of hose, life-saving apparatus, 1 engineer and 1 assistant engineer, 1
stoker and*l assistant stoker, 2 drivers and 1 assistant driver, 2 portolances (foremen), 1 telegraph operator.
CITY POSTS.
Every twenty-four hours each one of the barracks sends a detach

ment of its men to a certain number of posts or s t a t i o n s s i t u a t e d in
that section of Paris over which the respective barracks has special
guard, these detachments of firemen being installed in localities hired
for the purpose from private property owners or in public buildings.
These posts are required to respond to every requisition of the police
or of the public for service in extinguishing fires or saving life. Tlie
number of men stationed at these posts varies from 1 to 8. The appa
ratus consists of one or more hand hose carts carrying each ICO meters
of hose, which the firemen attach direct to the fire plugs by means of
special couplings. In the districts of Paris where the water pressure
is insufficient these posts are furnished besides with hand engines for
increasing the water pressure. There are at the present time 124 city
posts.
In the public buildings there is generally provided a special canaliza
tion of water under pressure, with safety fire plugs placed at points
exposed to danger and furnished with fixed pipe and nozzles.
SERVICE IN THEATERS AND MUSIC HALLS.
For the theatrical performances the barracks send a contingent of

firemen in proportion to the importance of the establishment (1 to 30
men); they are on duty especially in the part of the building occupied
by the stage and sceneryJ To combat any outbreak of fire there are
permanent fixtures, with water under pressure, installed under the di
rection of the officers of the corps.
39
Size o f force on duty each day.
Officers :
On picket in the barracks...........................................................................
On patrol, rounds........................................................................................
12
13
Total officers on du ty..............................................................................
25
Firemen :
Pickets in the barracks................................................................................... 343
Steam-engine stations..................................................................................... 72
City posts....................... .............................................................................. 242
Theaters (during performances).................................................................... 199
Total of firemen on duty............................................................................ 856
18. The system of water supply for fire purposes is tlie following: On
the public streets the firemen immediately find water by opening special
fire plugs, called couches dincendie. This system, established in
1872, now comprises 4,500 fire plugsthe number provided for is 7,200;
when they shall have been all put in they will be about 100 motors
apart. They are branched on to the distributing mains of water under
pressure (rivers Seine, Marne, Vanne, and Oise). This pressure
varies from 1 to 6 atmospheres, according to the altitude of the dis
tributing reservoirs.
In most of these fireplugs the water pressure is sufficient, so that tlie
aid of the engines is not necessary.
19. Causes of fire are investigated by the commissaries of police.
20. Number of persons tried and sentenced for arson in the department o f the Seine.
For incendiarism of buildings.
Tears.
Inhab Not
inhab
ited.
ited.
1885..........................................................................................................................................
1886..........................................................................................................................................
1887..........................................................................................................................................
1888 .........................................................................................................................................
6
7
5
G
2
1
21
and 22. The laws and regulations for the storage and sale of oils,
explosives, and fireworks, and concerning building construction, heat
ing, lighting, etc., are substantially the same for all France, and have
already been reported on by several of the United States consuls in
France in their replies to the questions forming the subject of this
present report.
A d a m E. K in o ,
Consul-General.
U n it e d S t a t e s C o n s u l a t e -G e n e r a l ,
Paris, March 3, 1892.
40
R H E IM S .
REPORT B Y CONSUL ANGIER.
1. Name of city, Rlieims.

2. Population, 105,993 (census of 1891).
3. Area of city limits, 3 miles in diameter; 9 miles in circumference.
5. Wooden buildings, none
6. Number of alarms, 23 pi>.jlic and 300 private.
7. Number of fires, 47 in 1891.
9. Could not get information as to tlie property involved.
10. Could not get information as to losses.
17. Fire department, 25 hand engines, 1 steam engine, 1 hook and
ladder company, 1 patent lire extinguisher.
18. About the same system as in Paris. The supply of water is from
the river Yesle, and is almost unlimited.
19. About the same as exists in tlie United States.
20. Incendary fires, none.
A
lto n
A n g ie r ,
Consul.
Hheini8y February 15, 1892,
R O U B A IX .
REPORT B Y COMMERCIAL AGENT ATW ELL.
1. Name of place, Roubaix.

3. Area of city limits, 1,275 hectares,* 31 ares, 80 square meters.
5. Wooden buildings are not classed separately in Roubaix; they are
few in number, however, and are used only as storehouses or work
shops.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, 1.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, $333,311 in buildings.
10. Total loss thereon, $125,257 on buildings.
11. Total insurance thereon, 8972,720. This sum includes insurance
on buildings, machinery, raw material, merchandise, and furniture.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, $292,443.25, divided as follows:
* One hectare is equivalent to 2 acres 1 rood 35 pcrclies.
square yards.
One are = 119.6049
41
$125,257 on buildings as given in No. 10, and $107,186.25 on machin

ery, merchandise, furniture, etc.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated: 11 out
of 15 burned only the floor in which they originated, but the one floor
included the entire property, as the majority of factories and work
shops burned are one-story buildings.
14. Number of fires confined to buildings in which they originated,
14. 6 buildings out of 14 being a complete loss.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, 1.
property, none.
17. The fire department consists of a company of 130 voluntary fire
men, commanded by 2 captains, 3 lieutenants, and 2 sous-lieutenants ;
they are divided into sections, one of which is in charge of the steam
engines, two in number. The rest of the material comprises 10 hand
engines with properties, including ladders, ropes, etc. Scattered
through the town are 281 plugs for the service of the hand engines
and 166 large plugs for the steam engines. The fire company owns
one ladder measuring 20 meters. The hand engines are in ten differ
ent stations, the principal one being at the central police station and
the rest in stations at a distance from the center of the town. There is
telegraphic communication between tlie central station and the 29
street alarms, also between the street alarms and the bells of 6
churches. There is a special line between the central station and the
principal church of the town, which is guarded by a night watchman.
Notwithstanding these precautions, the system of volunteers is very
defective, the firemen being, as a rule, day builders, and tlieir officers
belonging to the class of master-builders. In case of fire by day, they
must leave their work and return to their homes to don their uniform;
this delay results in their arrival upon the scene of disaster only after
the fire has gained great headway.
The reason that the loss from fire in Roubaix is not greater is that
the majority of manufacturers own their own material for the sui>pression of fire, including hand and steam engines, and their workmen
are taught to operate them. In order that the situation may be thor
oughly understood, it is well to explain that Roubaix is only a short
distance from Tourcoing, Lannoy, and Croix. Tourcoing lias a com
pany of firemen, 20 of whom are always ready for service and who
have charge of a steam engine of great power. Lannoy also lias a
company of firemen who are authorized to use the steam engine be
longing to one of the principal manufacturers of the place. At Croix
there is a well-organized company of firemen among the employs of
Mr. Isaac Holden, the most important manufacturer, who also has a
steam engine. Roubaix is connected by telegraph and telephone with
these three towns, and at the first call the service of Tourcoing, Lan-
42
noy, and Croix starts to the rescue, arriving upon the scene almost as
soon as the Roubaix firemen.
18. Pipes are laid throughout Roubaix an d are supplied with what
is called industrial water, or water for the factories, from the river Lys;
the pressure is obtained by a standpipe at some distance from Roubaix.
19. Whenever there is suspicion that the fire is the work of an incen
diary, the chief of police interrogates the suspected malefactor and
whatever witnesses there may be, but it is very difficult to establish
proof, and as a rule the work of investigation is left to the insurance
companies, as being the parties having the largest interest at stake.
When the insurance inspectors suspect that the owners have knowledge
of the origin of the fire they offer a trifling sum in the way of settle
ment and threaten a suit in case the offer is rejected.
20. As seen by answer to No. 19, the police take so little interest in
tracing cases of suspected incendiarism that they are rarely proved
21. There are no laws governing the above points. Insurance com
panies exact an agreement that the person insured shall not store more
than200 liters of petroleum at one time, and that he will neither trans
fer nor sell the oil by tlie light of a lamp. The sale of oils, explosives,
and fireworks is absolutely free.
22. There are no laws with regard to the construction of buildings.
In the best establishments there is an engine which furnishes the mo
tive power to the machinery and light by electricity to the factory.
During 1891 a petroleum refinery was constructed in the vicinity of
Roubaix, and the prefectural authority, for the first time, required that
it should be distant at least 4 meters from any dwelling house and be
surrounded by a wall 4 meters high. A refinery built some years ago
is next door to dwelling houses.
I have frequently called the attention of the manufacturers of Rou
baix to the perfection of the American fire service, and have received
the assurance of one that lie will call the matter to the attention of the
Chamber of Commerce for investigation with a view to supplanting the
antiquated methods in vogue here by a perfect modern system.
W. P. A t w e l l ,
Commercial Agent.
U n it e d S t a t e s C o m m e r c ia l A g e n c y ,
Roubaix, January 23, 1892.
ROUEN.
R E F OUT B Y CONSUL WILLIAMS.
1. Name of city, Rouen..

3. Area of city limits. 4,095 acros.
4. The modern buildings, about 4,200 iu number, constructed in the
past thirty years, are of brick and stone.
43
5. Buildings entirely constructed of wood can not be said to exist in

Rouen. There are about 10,000 old buildings, some of stone, many
made of posts or ribs of wood embedded in mortar. The stairways,
floors, etc., of these old buildings are generally composed of stone, tile,
or brick.
6. Number of alarms, no record.
7
and 8. All of the fires were in brick or stone buildings. These old
buildings are generally removed to make space for improved streets, or
become so decayed as to run the risk of falling. For reasons above
named no classification is made which would give the desired informa
tion.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires. These statistics are
not recorded and could not be readily or perfectly obtained.
10. Total loss: On buildings, 484,000 francs; on furniture and mer^
chandise, 139,845 francs, all covered by insurance.
11. Total insurance thereon, not obtainable.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, all but 5,000 francs.
13. Fires confined to floor in which they originated, no statistics.
14. Fires confined to buildings in which they originated. In 1890
(statistics for 1S91 will not be completed till July, 1892) there were 29
fires, not counting those of chimneys. The number of persons affected
by the fires was 38, all except 4 of whom were insured.
15 and 16. Number of conflagrations, i. e., fires extending to and be
yond adjoining property, none.
17. The fire department of Rouen, although using primitive imple
ments, seems to be effective. The company of firemen (sapeurs-pom
piers) is composed of 80 men called volunteers and 23 regulars, paid
and under the orders of a lieutenant. The volunteers receive an indem
nity of 50.75 francs to 100 francs, according to the class to which they
belong. The regulars receive a yearly componction of 1,320 to 1,350
francs. The chief officer receives 1,850 francs and house rent free. The
fire department has in its central house 12 engines with brakes, 3 steam
engines, ladders, fire escapes, etc. Every fireman has at his house a small
hand engine for extinguishing fires in chimneys and those of little con
sequence. Besides there are 20 other engine houses, supplied with an
engine with brakes, buckets, etc. There are 3 permanent posts where
4 to 5 men are always on guard. Firemen are always in attendance
at every theater. There is a line of telegraphic and telephonic com
munication between all of the departmental and communal establish
ments with the headquarters of the city fire department, as well as
direct communication with every fireman at his home. The telegraphic
connection is complete wherever it exists. Firemen are promptly on
hand, and as most houses have a concierge whose business is to look
after the safety of the property, a fire seldom makes much headway.
The stone, tile, and brick floors of rooms, and the free access to front
and rear afforded by the porte-cochere entrance, and the usual con
struction upon an interior hollow square afford additional security.
44
18. The supply of water is abundant. Hydrants for the use of the
steam fire engines are placed at regular intervals. In many parts of
the city the hose can be attached to the ordinary conductors of water
ior flushing the streets and gutters, and a stream thrown to the height
of 60 or 70 feet.
19. Very few incendiary fires occur in the city. The same law would
apply to such as to any other criminals. The commissary of police and
a criminal judge and the departmental attorney would investigate the
affair and consider anyone guilty until he proved his innocence. If
the suspected person can not do this he is imprisoned and held for trial.
20. Number of incendiary fires in 1890, none.
21. The law of May 19,1873, regidates the sale and storage of oils
and explosives and is as follows:
LAW OF MAY 19, 1873.
A r t i c l e 1. Petroleum and its products, the schist oil, tar oil, volatile oil, and other
hydrocarburet fluids for lighting and heating, the manufacture of paints and varnish,
removal of grease in the manufacture of cloth and like trades, are placed in these
classes according to the degree of inflammability. The first category includes the
most inflammable substances ; that is to say, those which give out gas at a temper
ature less than35 C., and ignite -when brought in contact -with a lighted match. Tho
second category includes less inflammable substances ; that is to say, those which do
not give gas that will ignite when in contact with a lighted match at a tempera
ture equal to or higher than 35 C. An order from tho minister of agriculture and of
commerce, advised by a committee of consultation of the arts and manufactures,
will decide the manner by which the degree of inflammability of fluids can be ascer
tained and classified in each category.
A rt . 2. The factories for the treatment o f these substances and the docks and
warehouses for selling at wholesale and retail can only be organized and worked
under the prescribed conditions.
Section 1.F actories.
A r t . 3. Factories for tho making, distilling, and all the work on substances desig
nated in article 1 are placed in the first class under the head of dangerous, un
healthy, and troublesome establishments. Controlled by the law of October 1, 1810,
and by regulation of 4th of January, 1815.
Section 2.The D ocks and W holesale and R etail W arehouses.

Art . 4. Tho docks or warehouses for material mentioned in article 1, in which
the material is not submitted to any other manipulation more than a simple wash
ing in cold water, is ranked in the first, second, or the third class of dangerous, un
healthy, or troublesome establishments in proportion to the quantity of liquids they
are designed to hold. In the first class, if they should hold more than 3,000 liters, of
liquids of the first category ; in the second class if they hold from 1,500 to 3,000 liters ;
in the third class if they hold more than 300, but not more than 1,500 liters. When
the docks or warehouses are stored with the material of the second category, 5 liters
are counted as equal to 1 liter of the first. When the docks or warehouses hold com
bustible material in stock, notably inflammable liquids, such as alcohol, ether, the
8ulphuret of carbon, not controlled by the present decree, these materials are in
cluded in the general provision of dangerous substances, and are classed with those
45
of the first and second category according as they .mit gas at a temperature of 35
C., which can be ignited by a lighted match.
Art . 5. The docks or warehouses of the first or second class which include the ma
terials of the second category are subject to the following rules :
(1) The warehouse must be isolated, inclosed by walls of solid masonry at least
2.50 meters high, having but one entrance on tho public highway by a strong door
clamped with iron and furnished with lock and key. This door must be kept shut from
sunset till sunrise ; the key during this interval must be in the possession of the mana
ger of the warehouse or of a watchman appointed by him. During the day the ar
rival and departure of the workmen and cartmen must be watched by an appointed
guardian.
(2) The only other building allowed within the inclosure is a house for the use of
the porter or guardian and his family. This buildiug must have a private entrance
separated from the other buildings by a wall from 1.20 meters in height without any
opening.
(3) The least distance between the inclosure and dwellings or buildings of any
description must not be less than 0.50 meter from the magazines of the first class
and 4 meters of the second class.
(4) Tho stationary reservoirs holding the liquids and the boxed machinery must
have the party wall at least 0.50 meter from the inside wall of the inclosure and
must be arranged so that it could be easily inspected and watched.
(5) The bottom of the warehouse must be paved with tiles or asphalt, slopes and
channels made to convoy any liquid accidently spilt into one or more airtight cis
terns having combined capacity to hold all of the stored liquids, and must always be
kept closed. If tho bottom of the warehouse is below the surface, or if it is pro
tected by earthworks or thicket, without any opening, the basin thus formod
answers the same purpose as the prescribed cisterns of the preceding paragraph.
(6) The warehouse can be uncovered out of doors ; if it is inclosed in a building or
shed, this building must be of incombustible material, one story high, well lighted,
and well ventilated, with openings in the roof.
(7) The stored liquids must be kept either in metal tauks with movable covers, or
in wooden casks bound with iron. The transfer of liquids of the first category from
one tank to another must always be done by means of an airtight pump. The empty
casks and all the dbris of the packing must be carried outside of the building.
(8) The receiving, handling, and moving of the liquids must be made by day
light. During the night entrance into the warehouse is absolutely forbidden. It is
also forbidden to light, to carry fire, lamps, or matches, or to smoke. This prohibi
tion must be written legibly and posted on the outer walls and at the entrance.
(9) Sand or earth in proportion to the amount of material stored must be kept
always near the warehouse to be used to extinguish tho beginning of a fire if one
should break out. The Prfet can impose other conditions if he thinks it necessary
in special cases where public security requires them. In such a case the law author
izing such an order should be submitted for approval to the minister of commerce,
who acts with a consulting committee of the arts and manufactures.
A r t . 6. The Prfet can authorize the warehouses and storehouses already estab
lished and worked in different conditions from those determined by articlo 5, when
the applications offer guarantees at least equivalent for public safety. In such a
case the permission before being delivered to the petitioners must be submitted for
approval to the minister of agriculture and commerce, who advises with the con
sulting committee of arts and manufactures.
A r t . 7. Tho conditions establishing the warehouse and storehouse of the third class
are regulated by the order authorizing them. It is the same for warehouses and
storehouses in which the inflammable liquids are not moved or handled in any way,
or which contain only substances of the second category. Those working in such
warehouses or storehouses must conform to the prescribed orders in paragraphs 7,8,
and 9 of article 5 of the present decree.
46
A r t . 8. Tlie warehouses and storehouses in which the total supply does not exceed
300 liters of liquid of the first category or a quantity of liquid equivalent to one or
other category can be established without further authority. Nevertheless the pro
prietor must address to the mayor of the commune where he is established, and the
sous-prfet, a declaration describing exactly where he proposes building his store
house. This storehouse must be isolated from every habitation and from all buildings
storing combustible goods, well ventilated, and under lock and key. The bottom
must be sloped in form of a basin or tank, surrounded by a mound of earth or ma
sonry to hold the liquid in event of leakage. After this declaration the proprietor
can use his storehouse by conforming strictly with the regulations 7,8, and 9 of arti
cle 5 of present decree.
DECREE OF MARCH 20, 1885.

Se c t io n
3.S e l l i n g R e t a i l .
A r t . 9. All delivery of materials designated by article 1 of decree of May 19,4873,

must be addressed to the mayor of the comirune and the sous-prfet of the district,
the declaration must be as follows :
(1) The exact designation of locality of the shop, the manner of storing and place
where inflammable liquids are stored.
(2) Tho manner of storing and of delivery of the liquids.
(3) The exact nature of the different liquids held in stock.
(4) The quantity of each of the liquids that he proposes to keep in stock. In the
event of the shop changing proprietors, tho declaration must be renewed by the new
proprietor. After this declaration the proprietor is at liberty to sell according to
the regulations of the following articles :
A r t . 10. The liquids of the first category are transported covered to the shop, with
out being meddled with till they are received. They must be in movable airtight
receptacles made of galvanized iron, their bottoms being held firmly together by
means of outside bands, with at least two openings closed by stopcocks or hermet
ically sealed. These receptacles hold upward of 60 liters. They must be legibly
marked on a red plate inflammable essence. They must not be stored in a cellar.
They must be kept where it is light. They must stand on iron frames in such a way
that the bottoms can be inspected, and they should not be near any other merchan
dise. There must be basins of galvanized iron under the stopcocks to receive any
leakage when the essence is drawn. The basin can receive only one sort of liquid.
The liquid must not be poured back into the cask, but should be returned automat
ically into an airtight cask. Tho sides and bottoms of the receptacles where these
filtrations are confined must be covered by metal such as tin or lead or other imper
meable substances to prevent the filtration of tlie liquids.
As a precautionary measure in case of fire every dealer is obliged to keep out o^
the way of tho drains, and near tho receptacles and readily accessible, as many kilos
of sand in sacks of 10 kilos each, as the receptacles provided for the liquid of tho
first category can receive per liter, but that the total weight of tho sand for this
purpose must never be less than 100 kilos.
The liquids of the first category must only be delivered to the buyers in airtight
cans. The filling of these cans must be made either directly under the cask without
using a funnel or by stationary distributing casks, and the pipes, casks, and stop
cocks must all be connected and airtight and made of galvanized metal or tin. They
may be made of glass on the condition that they are airtight and protected from
shocks by metallic covering. The same distributing cask can not be used for differ
ent liquids. Tho liquids of tho first category can only be transferred by daylight.
The delivery to the consumer by artificial light is forbidden unless the seller keeps
these liquids in metal kegs in a manner to prevent transfer or leakage at the time of
47
delivery. These casks, holding 5 liters or more, elionld be arranged in boxes or cases
with rims, lined with tin or iron, forming an airtight receptacle.
Art. If. The liquids of the second category kept in stock must be kept in airtight
cans of sheet iron carefully closed. These cans should hold at the most 350 liters.
They must have a white plate on which is distinctly written mineral oil.
Art . 12. The stock on hand must never exceed 300 liters of liquids of the first cat
egory, or a quantity equivalent to 1 liter of substance of first category.
Art. 13. The inflammable liquids not under the present rule which may be found
in the shop are included amongst the dangerous substances, and are similar to those
of tho first category if they yield at a temperature of 35 degrees gas susceptible of
igniting when in contact with a lighted match. Essence of turpentine is classified
as belonging to the first category.
DECREE OF 12, 22 JULY, 1884.
Art 14. The preceding regulations regarding the depots for the retail sale can not
be replaced by equivalent dispositions except by special order given by the pjfet
at the request of hygienic council for the departments, and determining the require
ments imposed upon the seller in the interest of public security. In that which
especially applies to the fixed receptacles in which certain retailers place liquids of
tho first category, tho use can only be authorized by the prfet on the following con
ditions : The retailer must give the assuranco that he has a yard large enough for
storage without running any risk. The stationary receptacles must not hold more
than 300 liters ; must be made of sheet iron, galvanized inside, and absolutely air
tight. These must be in a separate place from the shop of the retailer, must be well
ventilated and well lighted. They must rest on a metallic frame not less than 1
meter raised from the ground and 0.50 meter at least from tho walls, in such a way
that each receptacle can be easily overlooked. Underneath there must be a metal
box to catch any leakage. Each receptacle must be labeled very legibly, black letters
on a red ground, inflammable spirits, with au indication of its capacity. They
must have on the upper part a safety pipe connecting with the air. It is strictly
forbidden to smoke, to light or to carry fire, lights, or matches where tho receivers
are. It is forbidden to draw directly from the barrels or casks, or to fill them. These
operations must be done outside, by means of a forcing pump mounted out of doors,
connected with the receivers by metal pipes securely soldered at the joints. A simi
lar arrangement must be used to refill the casks of the buyers. The extremities of
the pipes must be a suitable distance from all lights and lire. The emptying, filling,
and the moving of all spirits must be done in broad daylight. The delivery to con
sumers can not be effected by artificial light, except in conformity with the regula
tions in last paragraph of article 10 of the decree of May 19, 1873.
Tho administration, when authorizing the use of fixed receivers, reserves the right
to make further conditions when the public safety demands it. An account of the
number of permits issued by virtue of the present article must be sent to the minister
of commerce.
Section 4.General R egulations.
The warehouses and storehouses for wholesale and retail which have already been
authorized and acknowledged in conformity with the former regulations can be con
tinued on the conditions fixed by these requirements or by special permits. The
seller can not make any change except he conforms to the present law and obtains a
new declaration as determined by tho new law.
Art . 16. In case of not fulfilling the laws regulating the conditions of fixed in
stall ations, determined by the present decree or by special decrees, the warehouses,
storehouses, wholesale and retail shops, can be closed and the retailing may be pro-
48
hibitcd without interfering with the punishment accorded by disobeying the laws
o f the police.
A rt . 17. The transfer of goods designated in article 1 must be made exclusively in
metal-bound casks and hermetically sealed, or in barrels with iron hoops.
A r t . 18. The duties conferred on the prfets, sous prfets, and the mayor are carried
out by tlie prfet of police throughout his district.
22. Law regulating building construction, heating, lighting, etc.:

No copy of this law exists in English, and if the laws on this subject
were collected they would fill a large volume. The general laws date
from the year 1007, and have been in some instances modified and
changed, while many laws applicable only to the city of Rouen have
been sanctioned at different periods. I can therefore only undertake
to give a few of the more important features of these laws and ordi
nances. By royal decree of the year 1G07, still in force, and whirh is
now before me, the specifica tions of the building are required to be
made out in duplicate and submitted to the mayor for his approval.
As the nature of buildings changed, material more suitable than the
ancient rude style of posts or roughly hewn supports filled in with
stone and mortar, and sometimes covered with stucco in front (which
was a favorite style of building and adopted in all instances except
where stone was used) wras required. Houses which have stood for
centuries can only be repaired within certain limits, and ordinances
have been enacted forbidding any similar constructions. Many narrow
crooked streets have been entirely obliterated and wide streets with
straight lines formed upon their former site. Tlie city appropriated
large sums of money to these improvements, and became the owner of
much property in changing these lines. All constructions within the
past thirty years were required to be of stone or brick, and every
precaution taken to insure the erection of suitable buildings.
The different ordinances enter into much detail, and give the full
authority to the mayor and prfet to act summarily when they see fit.
An important chapter of the laws on building is devoted to the height
of stories and buildings. This law, promulgated in 1790, was amended
in 1852. Some extracts may afford desirable information.
All buildings hereafter erected in this city, on any of the streets, of
whatsoever nature they may be, must have on each lloor, between floor
and ceiling, a height of at least 2 meters 00 centimeters (8 feet inches),
with the exception of the mansards, which can have only 2 meters 30
centimeters of height between floor and horizontal portions of the ceil
ing. Henceforth buildings erected on this line of the street can not
exceed the following dimensions in height: Where the streets are 6
meters wide or less, 11 meters 80 centimeters; where the streets are
from 6 to 8 meters wide, 14 meters 00 centimeters; where the streets
are from 8 to 10 meters wide, 17 meters 80 centimeters; where the
streets are from 10 to 12 meters wide, 18 meters 00 centimeters;
where the streets are more than 12 meterson the quays, and places, and
boulevar<20 meters 50 centimeters, This disposition does not apply
49
to buildings on tlie quays of tlie right side of the river Seine; the height
is determined by a prfectoral decree of the lGtli of April, 1825, in con
formity with the royal order of October 8,1815, and August 20, 1824.
The height is regulated by the future width of the street, according to
'the plans approved for straightening and improving, and not by its
actual width at the time.
Hereafter no building can be erected, repaired, or modified upon a
site fronting upon the streets, or placed upon land intended, by the
widening of old streets, to be included in the new streets, without ob
taining permission from the proper authorities. This act was first pro
mulgated by edict of Henry IV, in 1007 ; proclamation of June 19,1093;
ordinance of March 29,1754; law of September 16,1807 ; state council,
June 16,1828.
The laws of 1789,1790,1791, 1837, and others, give to the mayors the
power to issue orders and prescribe rules for prosecuting the work of
changing the lines and straightening streets, as expressed in the crude
French of the year 1607, that the streets might be beautified and en
larged to the greatest possible extent. A royal decree of April 29,
1839, sanctioned the previous laws and approved the modifications which
had been made previous to that date by the municipal authorities in
regard to the location of new streets, erection of new buildings, and
repairs of old.
Decrees of March 26, 1852, March 12,1853, July 27,1859, and many
others down to the present year have been approved by the General
Government, which is always necessary to give authority to them.
An order of the mayor of llouen, issued and approved the 9th of Jan
uary, 1882, for the prevention of fires and for public security in theaters,
reaffirms and somewhat modifies the laws of 1790,1791, and 1837 upon
this subject. An officer and the number of firemen ordered by the
city government are detailed for every theater at each representation.
After a minute detail of requirements, in the way of engines, buckets,
etc., the last article of the order makes it incumbent upon the police
superintendent, captain of the fire department, city architect, the super
intendent of lights, and guardian of the working stock of the theater
to see to the requirements of the decree being carried out.
On the 3d of October, 1887, another decree was issued by the mayor
and approved by the General Government regarding precautionary
measures for preventing fires in theaters. Rather more stringent reg
ulations were introduced, but the decree seemed called for, to restore
the confidence in the public, alarmed at some laxity in carrying out the
former laws.
Many of the laws regulating the construction of buildings are framed
with a view of preventing the reconstruction of buildings on the sites of
the old buildings located in crooked and narrow streets. These old
buildings can only be repaired to a limited extent in conformity with
the style and material used in their construction. The streets are reg140a -------4
50
ularly mapped out iu these old quarters of the town and new buildings
must be placed in conformity with them. In the old constructions many
were of stone, others were constructed with longitudinal sills of wood
and the spaces between were filled in with stone and covered with mor
tar to bring them flush with these beams. , Stone, brick, and tile cover
ings for floor and staircase were in general use in these old liouses.
There was very little that was combustible about these dwellings, and
thousands remain to-day proof against fire and subject only to slow
decay.
C h a r l e s P. W il l ia m s ,
Consul.
E ouen, F r a n c e ,
February 1, 1892.
ST. E T IE N N E .
REPORT* B Y COMMERCIAL AGENT L 0 0 M I 8 .
1. Name of place, St. Etienne.

3. Area of limits, 8,545 acres.
4. Number of stone buildings, 9,308.
5. Number of wooden buildings, none.
6. Number of wooden and brick buildings, none.
7. Number of alarms. There are no fire alarms, properly so called, in
St. Etienne. The telephones of the six police districts serve for the purX>ose of communicating with the brigade depot.
8. Number of fires in buildings, 50.
9. Total value of property involved, 5,000,000 francs.
11. Total insurance thereon, unknown.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, unknown.
13. Number of fires confined to one floor, 50.
15. Number of conflagrations extending beyond adjoining property,
none.
17. The fire brigade of St. Etienne is fairly well organized. It is under
the entire control of the mayor of the town and has a numerical force
of 150 mon, including a captain, 1 lieutenant, 2 sublieutenants, 3 ser
geants, 6 buglers, and 2 engine men. The company is divided into
four sections, one for each of the four wards of the city. The officers
are appointed by the state and every member of the rank and file
is obliged to retire at the age of 50. The officers provide their own
uniform and arms, whereas the men are equipped at the expense of
* Year 1891.
51
the town, except as

vide for themselves.
regards thedress suit, which they have to pro

The salariesare as follows:
Per annum.
Captain.............................................................................................................
$300
Lieutenant..............................................................................................................
Sublieutenants (e a ch )................... ..... ..................................................................
130
90
Rank and file (average)....................................................................................
30
Independently of these salaries a fireman who is on active service

during the day receives 05 cents and during the night 20 cents. There
being no fire alarms in the city, if exception be made of the telephones,
the buglers, when a fire is announced, go through the town at a rapid
pace sounding the bugle in order to awaken up the members of the
force j a certain number of notes indicate the ward in which the fire
has broken out. The brigade possesses 2 steam engines and 12 pumps
besides the usual accessories of the service.
is the capacity of the supply? Fire plugs are placed at a distance of
every 25 yards in the streets, and these serve also for watering the road
ways. The supply of the water is very abundant, as above the town,
about 6 miles out, is a reservoir capable of containing 2,000,000 cubic
meters of water. This reservoir is generally well filled, and unless in pe
riods of exceptional drought is sufficient for every purpose required by
the city.
to provide for x>rosecutions of suspected crime? When a fire breaks
out in any part of the city the chief of the police arrives at the spot
and makes a minute inquiry as to the cause of the conflagration. If
he is not satisfied with the explanation given, he acquaints the police
magistrate (leparquet), who takes the matter in hand and follows it up
until the criminal is found, or until he finds other evidence that the
fire was not the work of an incendiary. A criminal of this kind is
always severely punished; lie rarely gets off without transportation.
20. Number of incendiary fires? Nil.
21. Eegulations for the stora ge and sale of oils, explosives, fireworks,
and petroleum? By the law of 1873 every store where kerosene oil
is kept must be surrounded with a wall of 3 yards in height and have
only one entry on the public road, c l o s e d by a s t r o n g d o o r a n d lock.
This door must be kept shut from sunset to sunrise. In the inclosure
no habitation may be built save that for the caretaker and his family.
The reservoirs containing the inflammable liquid must be so placed as
to be easily inspected; the floor of the store is flagged and so disposed
as to carry off easily any liquid which may accidentally overflow. All
manipulation or transvasation must be done by daylight; at night
entry to the establishment is strictly forbidden. A certain quantity of
sand is kept in the neighborhood in order t-o extinguish any fire, if
necessary.
ISale by retail.The petroleum when sold by shopkeepers is given
52
out in vessels made of sheet iron. These vessels can not be placed
with other merchandise ; a special cellar must be provided for them
and sand kept in proximity in order to extinguish any fire that might
take place. The oil can not be sold after sunset, and no retail dealer
can have on his premises more than 300 liters at one time.
Dynamite.Dynamite can be manufactured by private individuals,
provided that a sum of 50,000 francs is paid into the treasury as a
guaranty; this money is returned to the manufacturer when he ceases
business, and while in the hands of the Government he receives a rate
of interest not exceeding 3 per cent. Dynamite, so privately manufac
tured, pays a duty of 2 francs per kilo. A special Government permis
sion must be obtained by every person intending to manufacture dyna
mite, and this authorization will specify the site of the building and its
mode of construction. The site chosen is always at a considerable
distance from the habitations and surrounded with thick walls, as in
tho case of petroleum. Any offender is subjected to a fine varying
from 100 to 10,000 francs.
F r a n c is B. L o o m is ,
Commercial Agent.
U n it e d S t a t e s C o m m e r c ia l A
gency,
St. Etienne April 25,1892.
G E R M A N Y.
ANNABERG.
REPORT B Y CONSUL H U B B A RD .
In reference to Department circular dated December 1,1891, and re

ceived by me January 4,1892, requesting u statistics of fires, etc., I
have the honor to inform you that I have patiently and persistently
sought the information required from the city authorities, and have
finally been informed by an officer of the fire department that such
matters are not intended for publication, and can not be furnished to
anyone, the public welfare requiring secrecy as far as possible in Gov
ernment matters.
D a n ie l B . H u b b a r d ,
Consul.
Annaberg March 30 1892.
53
DRESDEN
REPORT* B T CONSUL PALM ER.
1. Name of city: Dresden.

2. Population: Census of December 1, 1890, showed 267,614 inhabi
tants, besides 8,908 (soldiers in barracks) in the independent district of
Albertstadt.
3. Area of city limits : City, 28,587,000 square meters, equal 34,304,400 square yards; Albertstadt,'2,736,520 square meters, equal 3,383,824
square yards.
4. At the close of the year 1890, according to the official report of the
fire insurance office in Dresden, there were 19,581 buildings, exclusive
of Albertstadt, i. e., 5,788, without any provision for heating, 10,378
with good provision for heating as prescribed by law, and 3,415 with
defective provisions for heating. Number of inhabited buildings of
brick and stone are, December 1,1890,10,036; in the suburb of Albert
stadt, [47 buildings. The buildings are mostly apartment houses or
flats, and from 2 to 5 stories. Stairs almost invariably built of stone.
5. Except barns of most privitive construction there are no frame
buildings in Dresden.
6. In 1890 there were 67 fire-alarm stations, of which 6 were con
nected by telephone with the central office and 61 by telegraph. For
the latter connection magneto-electric apparatus, system Siemens &
Halske, are in use. There are 13 underground cables. The telephone
connection has proved defective during thunderstorms.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 325, of which 76 were
merely curtain fires. The whole number of fires were divided as fol
lows:
Schedule showing character of buildings.
Character of buildings.
Dwelling houses........
Factories...................
H otels........................
Restaurant buildings
Business houses........
Stables and hay lofts
Boiler houses............
Storage buildings----Postoffice buildings..
Number
of lires.
290
7
6
3
3
3
Character o f buildings.
Number
of fires.
School buildings.................
Hospitals.............................
Boiling houses...................
Pitch houses........................
Carriage houses................. .
New buildings (unfinished)
Foundries...........................
* Year 1890.
Total
325
54

Schedule showing location o f the fires.
Location of fires.
Sitting and bedrooms

K itchens...................
Visitors room s.........
Bar-rooms.................
Bathrooms...............
Entrance halls..........
Sale rooms................. .
Staircases.................
Laboratories...............
Cloakrooms...............
W riting room s..........
Schoolrooms...............
Designing room s----Sickrooms.................
Drying rooms............
W ater-closets..........
Location of fires.
Number.
155
33
Factory rooms..........
Heating rooms..........
Storage room s..........
C ellars......................
8
1 L ofts............................
12 Stables ........................
10
14
4
11
2
4
Boiliug ro o m s..........
Lamp-cleaning; rooms
Pitch room s..............
Cofiee-roasting rooms
Laundries.................
Asli pits.....................
Chimneys...................
3
2
T o t a l.................
1
1
1
Number.
7
5
11
16
7
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
325
In addition to the above there were thirty fires in open spaces un

connected with buildings, such as tents, booths, coal and woodpiles, etc.
The total causes in brick and stone buildings (325) and open spaces
(30) were as follows :
Canses of fire.
Carelessness with fire and lig h t.....................................................................................................
Dropping, upsetting, or falling of lamps, lights, candles, cooking apparatus, or redhot heat
ing pipes........................................................................................................................................
Contact of straw, curtains, beds, clothes, etc., with burning lamps, lights, cigars, e t c ............
Throwing away o f cigars or matches............................................................................................
Dropping of burning coal or sparks from furnaces, fireplaces, stoves, etc................................
Defective or damaged fireplaces................................................................................................... .
Explosion o f kerosene lamps and cooking apparatus.................................................................
Children playing with matches and light....................................................................................
Placing furniture, wood, hay, clothing, etc., too near fireplaces, heating tubes, etc............... .
Springing of sparks while lighting matches...............................................................................
Placing or hanging washing too close to stoves, also clothing, wood, e tc ................................
Suspected incendiarism.................................................................................................................
Explosion of petroleum, alcohol, or sulphuric ether bottles, while pouring the contents on
fire.................................................................................................................................................
Throwing of burning ashes in the ash pits.................................................................................
Accumulation of soot at foot of chimney.....................................................................................
Overheating of stoves.....................................................................................................................
Gas explosion..................................................................................................................................
Boiling over of fat, varnish, and tar..............................................................................................
Flying of sparks from fireplaces into chimneys..........................................................................
Spontaneous ignition of prepared oil papers, varnished pasteboard strips, dry colors, and
ch a lk .............................................................................................................................................
Falling of sparks from lights, cigars, etc.....................................................................................
Inflammation of benzine and alcohol vapors............................................................................... .
Defective and damaged chim neys................................................................................................
Putting gas fixtures and lights'too close to wooden p a rts.........................................................
Bursting out of flames from furnace or stove d oors....................................................................
Beams too close to chimneys.......................................................................................................... .
Bursting of pitch and varnish boilers.........................................................................................
Pouring burning ashes on pasteboard or wooden floor..............................................................
Leaking o f varnish and spirits from damaged tin cans and cooking apparatus.....................
Known incendiarism......................................................................................................................
Burning out of petroleum lam ps..................................................................................................
Accumulation o f dust on heating pipes.........................................................................................
Lightning........................................................................................................................................ .
Throwing ashes (hot) on rubbish p ile s........................................................................................
Lighting of wood shavings without permission from authority............................................... .
Filling a hot roaster with ba rley ..................................................................................................
Plaeing o f hot ash boxes on wooden floor....................................................................................
Concentration of sun rays in the lens of a stereoscopic apparatus...........................................
Spluttering o f burning alcohol from coffee machines and alcohol lighters...............................
Stove explosion..............................................................................................................................
Flving of sparks while forging.............................................................. .....................................
Falling o f red-hot parts of metal from an exploded Wen ham lam p .........................................
Pouring o f alcohol in burning coffee-roasters..............................................................................
Falling of a red-hot ironing steel..................................................................................................
Spilling o f alcohol on hot kitchen-stove covers...........................................................................
Falling and exploding of a package of caps (percussion)..........................................................
Unknown causes.............................................................................................................................
Total number..........................................................................................................................
Number.
59
35
34
26
16
15
14
14
13
9
8
6
6
6
5
5
4
5
5
5
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
355
55
8. Number of fires in frame buildings: None.

9,10,11,12. At the close of the year 1890 the insurance sum on
buildings in Dresden amounted to 438,615,500 marks; the movable
property in the buildings was insured for 382,144,302.35 marks; the
buildings in which fire broke out were insured for 10,449,890 marks,
and the movable property contained in these buildings for 10,411,931
marks. An insurance loss of 78,737.50 marks was paid on these buildings.
13, 14, 15, 16. Number of fires confined to floor in which they origi
nated: All.
17. Fire department: 1 brand director chief inspector, salary
$975.80 per annum ; 1 brandmeister assistant inspector, salary $630.70
per annum; 1 sergeant, 14 chief or head ftremen, 103 firemen, each from
$249.90 to $414.12 per annum; total force, 120 men. The men are se
lected men and mostly such as have served in the army. Each man lias
to be on duty for seventy-two hours in succession ; that means he must
stay in tin4engine house during that period of time, where he is of course
at liberty to eat, drink, sleep, etc., as the regulations may prescribe.
There are two main engine houses in Dresden, one on the right and
one on the left bank of the river Elbe. Further, there are six smaller
stations in which are stored only hand engines and smaller apparatus.
The two main engine houses are supplied each with one hose car
riage, each with three revolving hose rollers, one hook and ladder wagon
for the firemen, with ladders and hand pumps. Steam fire engines are
not used here as yet. The natural pressure of the water supply has
been considered sufficient. The total expenditure for the use of the
fire department amounted in 1890 to 214,340.97 marks=$51,013.15,
divided as follows :
Marks.
Salary and clothing of firemen................................................................... 152, 578.75

Salary of signal mon..................................................................................
2, 920.00
Equipment of firemen.................................................................................
S14. 72
Maintenance of fire apparatus.................................................................... 4,313.94
Amount paid city stables for supplying and keeping horses..................... 11,480.00
Expenses for ren t.......................................................................................
7, 743.00
Keeping of watch rooms and their contents..............................................
8, 510.65
Repairs on telegraph apparatus and on cable, etc......................................
2,981.33
Maintenance o f storage rooms for mineral o i l..........................................................
2, 702.10
Miscellaneous and unforeseen expenses......................................................

Extension of net of telegraph wires toconnect two new stations...............
Other miscellaneous expenses.....................................................................
5, 208.82
5, 775.00
9, 282.66
Total................................................................................................. 214,340.97
The above sum of expenditures does not include cost of horses, which
are supplied by the city stables, who change tlie- horses every twentyfour hours.
18. The water supply is kept at a pressure of 4.5 atmospheres; 1,780
hydrants (underground) are always ready for immediate use, distrib
uted throughout the city.
56
FIEE AND BUILDING RGULATIONS
19. The general police laws provide, in case of fire, that the police shall
make immediate investigation and report upon its origin, and also,
where any evidence of incendiarism exists for the indictment and pun
ishment of the offender.
20. Number of incendiary fires, one known and six supposed to be.
21. The answer to this question is contained in copies of laws in.
closed, viz, law of December 12,1856, No. 102, containing the police
regulations in reference to the preparation, manufacture, and storage
of inflammable and explosive materials j law of November 3, 1879,
No. 115, referring to traffic in explosives; further Imperial law of Feb
ruary 24, 1882, No. 20, in reference to the sale and dealing in petro
leum, with additional Saxon law (No. 77) of November 4, 1882; law No.
78, dated November 6,1882, in reference to storage and keeping of min
eral oils; law No. 49, dated October 14, 1885, and law No. 52, dated
August 8,1884, in reference to the manner of keeping registers in store
rooms of explosives; law No. 17, dated June 9, 1884, against criminal
use of explosivesdynamite law.
22. New building regulations are now being prepared, but not yet
ready for issue.
A u l ic k P a l m e r ,
Consul.
Dresden, May 1,1892.
HAMBURG.
REPORT B T CONSUL JOHNSON.*
I. Name of place : Hamburg.

2 Population : About 580,000.
3. Area of city limits : About 18,286 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings: Total number of houses,
17,607. No statistics are kept from which the number of buildings
according to material can be ascertained.
6. Number of alarms: 1880,1,038; 1885,1,009; 1888,1,202; 1889,1,197;
1890, 1,159.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings : House, warehouse,
and factory fires, 1890,15; 1889, 31; 1888, 27; 1885,16; 1884, 18.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings: Stables, outbuildings, and
sheds, 1890,23; 1889,26; 1888, 23; 1885,13; 1884,17.
The figures asked for in questions 9 and 10 can not be given, as only
the value of the immovables and not that of the movables is recorded.
The value of the former is covered by the amount of total insurance
(see 11) and the loss thereon by the amount of insurance loss (see 12).
II. Total insurance thereon: 1890,137,594,000 marks; 1889,128,467,300
Year 1890.
57
marks; 1888, 121,286,800 marks; 1885, 110,855,200 marks; 1884,

108,620,100.
12. Total insurance loss thereon: 1800, 585,650 marks; 1889, 690,492
marks; 1888, 819,495 marks; 1887, 1,003,835 marks; 1885, 385,295
marks ; 1884, 381,041 marks.
13. Number of fires confined to floors in which they originated: 1880,
372; 1885, 480; 1888, 630; 1889, 675; 1890, 659.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated:
1880, 20; 1885, 36; 1888, 28; 1889, 36; 1890, 13.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property : 1880, 21; 1885,
7; 1888,14; 1889, 13; 1890, L0.
property: None since 1842.
17. The regular fire department consists of 1 fire director, 4 fire
masters, 1 fire masters assistant, 1 bookkeeper, 3 office officials, 1 mes
senger, 1 storekeeper, 1 assistant storekeeper, 1 telegraph inspector, 1
assistant telegraph inspector, 1 chief, 1 chief engineer, 18 (drill) chiefs^
14 engineers, 7 telegraph operators, 191 firemen, 27 drivers, 6 tower
watchmen. Fire apparatus ready for use : 11 steam fire engines, 8 steam
boat fire engines, 8 hand fire engines, 5 water carts, 5 patrol wagons, 6
hose carts, 3 supply wagons, and one large mechanical ladder. Fire
apparatus in reserve : 1 patrol wagon, 1 hose cart, 2 water wagons, 1
supi>ly wagon, 1 rotation fire engine, 1 portable fire engine. The vol
unteer fire department consists of 3 helpers, 4 assistants, 18 comman
ders, 18 hose players, 211 firemen, 3 tower watchmen, 3 surgeons, and
one protocol keeper. Fire apparatus in readiness : 25 hand fire en
gines, 5 ship fire engines, 7 water carts, 5 hose carts, and 2 fire-escape
ladders (extension). Fire apparatus in reserve: 11 hand fire engines
and 3 water carts.
18. Water conduits with a pressure up to 50 meters. The length of
the water conduits and the number of hydrants was as follows:
Tear.
Length of
conduite.
Number o f
hydrants.
1880.............................................................................................................................
1885.............................................................................................................................
1888.............................................................................................................................
1889.............................................................................................................................
1890.............................................................................................................................
Meters.
296,039
350,007
394,095
407,073
431,306
3,344
4,019
4,537
4,732
4,999
19. If, after the arrival at a fire, the chief has reasons to suspect in
cendiarism or crime he reports his suspicions to the prosecuting attor
ney through the police department. The prosecuting attorney there
upon first orders an examination or investigation on the spot, and if
this leads to no positive results it is his duty, with the aid of the police
authorities, to endeavor to either prove or disprove the incendiary origin
of the fire. Premeditated arson m connection with homicide is pun
ishable with death, unpremeditated arson with not less than five years
58
in penitentiary. Incendiarism is a penitentiary offense and is punished

with ten years to life imprisonment in the penitentiary, provided human
life is sacrificed thereby.
20. Number of incendiary fires, 1884, l j 1885,1; 1888, 4; 1889, 0;
1890, 3.
sives, and fireworks? Copies of the laws on this subject are inclosed.
C h a s. F . J o h n s o n ,
Consul.
Hamburg, February 25,1893.
M AGDEBURG.
RETORT B T COMMERCIAL AGENT WASBTJRN.*
1. Name of city, Magdeburg.

13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 111
(among them 21 simple chimney fires).
16. Number of conflagrations, 1.
17. The fire department belongs to the department of building, fire,
and field police. It is governed by a commission consisting of 1 man
ager, 1 submanager, 1 attorney (who is often the real manager), 1
assistant counsellor (technical), 3 officers, 4 building commissioners, 4
field police commissioners. The fire department itself has one chief
and 125 assistants and firemen. Hand engines with from 4-5 atmos
pheric pressure and steam engines with from 7-8 atmospheric pressure
are used. Streams of water arc thrown to a distance of about 20 meters.
19. Cases of suspected incendiarism are reported to the police author
ities, who investigate the matter and collect all the evidence possible
in behalf of the city attorney. This latter officer finally decides whether
there shall be a judicial examination or not.
20. Number of incendiary fires, 7.
A l b e r t H. W a s h b u r n ,
Commercial Agent.
Magdeburg, April, 1892.

* Year 1890.
59
S T E T T IN .
REPORT B T CONSUL KELLOGG
1. Name of place (city or town in which the consular office is located),

Stettin, Pomerania.
3. Area of city limits, 60 square kilometers.
4 and 5. For the last thirty yeaiv dwelling houses have been all built
of brick and stone only, sheds and outhouses of at least three-fourths
brick and casement, and one-fourth of wood.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 68.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, none. Adjoin
ing houses have each two fireproof walls.
property, none.
17. Fire department: 1 director, 1 chief inspector, 1 inspector, 8 fore
men, 50 firemen, and 42 extra men to work the engines, the latter only
doing night service. Besides these there is a reserve corps, who are
at the same time employed for other service, 2 sergeants, 3 engineers,
and 1 corporal. The equipment consists of 1 steam engine, 6 hand
engines, 2 water carts, 1 truck to carry the firemen, and a large hook
and ladder truck, and 18 horses, which are hired to the department.
18. High pressure water works, having a pressure of 5 atmospheres
in the lower and 2 to 3 atmospheres in the higher parts of the city,
furnish water through plugs (used only at large fires). Water carts are
used at small fires.
19. The causes of fires are investigated by the police.
J am es K e llo g g ,
Consul,
Stettin, March i, 1892.

Year 1890.
60
Table showing the number of fires andfalse alarms occurring at Stettin during the year 1890.
Months.
Medium.
Small.
Chimney.
False.
1
1
7
6
8
1
3
8
5
7
4
7
8
17
1
4
2
3
1
1
3
1
1
2
1
1
3
2
3
1
3
1
3
4
2
13
11
12
12
7
13
8
12
6
16
13
22
11
7
10
5
6
11
6
9
2
6
11
15
10
11
81
18
26
145
99
Large.*
January.........................................
February.......................................
M arch.........................................
A pril.............................................
M a v ..............................................
Ju ne..............................................
J u ly ..............................................
A u g u st.........................................
September....................................
October........................ ..............
November.....................................
December.....................................
Totals.................................
Number
of times
engines
were
Total. called out.
Alarms.
Fires.
2
2
3
5
2
Extinguished with more than two engines,
Extinguished without an engine.
ITALY.
FLORENCE.
REPORT B T JAM ES TERNE R LONG.
1. Name of city, Florence.

3. Area within the city gates, 1,102 hectares, equal to 2,722 acres ;
outside the city gates, 3,124 hectares, equal to 7,716 acres j aggregate
area, 4,226 hectares, equal to 10,438 acres.
4. No statistics as yet made of number of buildings.
5. None of wood.
6. Alarms located only at the central office of fire department.
7, 8. In 1890 there were 158 fires, all in brick or stone buildings.
9. No record kept as to value of property involved in the fires.
10. The total loss by fire in 1890 amounted to about $85,000.
11. No data about insurance thereon.
12. The insurance loss thereon is estimated at about $80,000.
13-16. The 158 fires occurring in 1890 were confined to the floor in
which they originated.
17. The fire department consists of 1 chief, 3 assisting officers, 1 sur
geon, 2 accountants, 5 sergeants, 12 corporals, 80 firemen, and 10 cadets j
11 horses, 5 two-wheel handcarts, 1 four-wheel horse cart, 7 four-wheel
two-horse carts, 2 steam pumps (Masons system). Firemen, besides the
duty for which they are employed, are required, by direction of the
municipality, to be present at all public theatrical performances and,
in case of destructive floods, where persons are in danger of drowning,
and at official funerals.
18. The water used for fire purposes is derived from the potable
61
water fire plugs, those of 40 millimeters giving each 460 liters (121
gallons) per minute, and the others measuring 60 millimeters, giving
each 1,700 liters (449 gallons) per minute.
19. The fire department, being a city organization, reports all fires to
the municipality, and in cases of suspected incendiarism, to the inquir
ing judge for prosecution. Articles 288, 289, and 297 of the Italian
penal code of November 22,1888, provide from thirty months to fifteen
years seclusion, and fines from $200 to $600, in cases of incendiarism
or crime.
20. No incendiary fires in 1890.
21. The municipality is studying local regulations for the storage
and sale of explosives, having experienced one or more serious fires
emanating from establishments where explosives and chemicals were
stored.
By the public surety law of December 23,1888, it is enacted that a
special license from the authority of public surety is to be obtained,
upon the approval of the sanitary council of the province, for the stor
age and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks, providing for life insur
ance of the attendants, and with different restrictions, according to
localities, subject to fines up to $100 and three months imprisonment,
besides the action of the penal code.
22. By law of December 22,1888, on hygiene and public health, the
supervision of building construction is left entirely to the commune
councils. According to that law new buildings are to be inspected
by the board of health before being occupied, and are not considered
to answer to hygienic requirements should they contain more than one
inhabitant for every 10 square meters of roofed surface; the uncov
ered part between two houses inferior to one-quarter of the front,
and if the rooms do not measure at least 8 square meters of surface
and 25 cubic meters in volume per every occupant. No particular
clause, however, as to heating, etc.
J am es Y e r n e r L ong,
Consul.
Florence March 9 1892.
Le g h o r n .
B E PO BT B T YIOE-OONSTJL M A 8I.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Name of city, Leghorn.

Population, 103,395.
Area of city limits, 6,000,000 square meters.
Number of brick or stone buildings, 5,154.
Number of wooden buildings, none.
Number of alarms, 85 in 1890 and 62 in 1891.
62
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 49 in 1890 and 55 in

1891.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires can not be ascertained.
10. Total loss thereon, $2,204 in 1890 and $2,409 in 1891.
11. Total insurance thereon can not be ascertained.
12. Total insurance loss thereon can not be ascertained.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 3G in
1890 and 30 in 1891.
30 in 1890 and 32 in 1891.
17,18. As the fires here are usually very insignificant, when an alarm
is received the firemen start at once with a hand pump for throwing
water, and another pump to be used to secure water. They bring at the
same time with them a large cask, which contains 380 liters, or 401.75
quarts, of water, and on arrival at the fire this first supply is used. The
water-supply pump is then placed near a well, cistern, or canal, or any
other available water, to be used if necessary. Should the fire be of
importance other pumps are brought in. There are no steam pumps,
and all pumps, ladders, etc., are pulled to the fire by the firemen, as
horses are not used.
to provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crimef
It is not under the control of the department, but depends upon the
judicial authorities, who act as prescribed by the penal code of Italy.
20. Number of incendiary fires, none in 1891.
E m il io M a s i ,
Acting Vice-Consul.
Leghorn, January 30, 1892.
M IL A N .
REPORT B T CONSUL PEPPER.*
1. Name of city, Milan.

3. Area of city limits, 8,000,000 square meters.
6. Number of alarms, unable to ascertain.
7. Number of fires in brick and stone buildings, 471.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, 471,000 lire.
10. Total loss thereon, not ascertained.
11. Total insurance thereon, not ascertained.
12. Total loss of insurance thereon, not ascertained.
* Year 1890.
63

14. Number of fires confined to buildings where they originated, 251.
17. The fire department consists of 100 persons, officers included.
18. The canals around and within the city limits are supplied by
means of various conduits (tubes or pipes), thirty pumps upon two
wheeled hand carts, and two steam engines. The city is provided with
these engines, projecting from 150 to 300 and from 1,200 to 2,700 liters
of water per minute respectively.
21. What regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils, explosives,
and fireworks? These kinds of goods are stored in waterproof stone
buildings situated in the outskirts of the city, being absolutely under
the control of the city authorities. Only a small quantity is allowed
at one time to dealers in the city, and only if they can prove their
supply to be exhausted.
Geo. W . P epper,
Consul.
Milan, April 11, 1892.
ROM E.
REPOJ(T B Y CONSUL-GENERAL BOURN.
1. Name of city, Kome.

3. Area of city limits, about 3,883 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings : practically all are
of brick or
stone.
5. Number of wooden buildings : practically none are of wood.
6. Number of alarms, not reported.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings: In1887, 373j 1888,
345; 1889, 340; 1890, 328; 1891 (until December 10), 321.
8. Number of fires iu frame buildings, not reported.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, not reported.
10. Total loss thereon, not reported.
11. Total insurance thereon, not reported.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, not reported.
13,14. Fires, as a rule, are confined to the room in which they origi
nate.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, none as far as
known.
17. The fire department of Eome, although a military body as regards
discipline, is dependent entirely upon municipal authority, and is di
vided into three classes, namely: First, second, and supernumerary.
The first class numbers 280 men, and includes those most experienced
64
in the service. The second class is composed of 140 men who are of
less experience, wliile the supernumeraries are taken on trial, to be
afterwards appointed, if worthy, as regular members of the department.
The entire corps, including the supernumeraries, numbers a little more
than 500 men. Of these nearly 100 constitute the staff, with a com
mander at the head. The salary of the men of the first class is 45 lire
($8.G8) per month; of the second class, 25 lire ($4.82), while the super
numeraries have no regular salary, but are paid only as substitutes.
The commander receives 5,000 lire ($905) per year, and other members
of the staff in proportion, making an annual total of salaries paid to the
fire department of 250,950 lire ($48,434). This, together with the ex
penses for the engines and materials, makes the total expenditure for
the fire department of Eome average between 400,000 and 500,000 lire
($76,200 and $90,500) per year. There are throughout the city seven
fire stations, all equally furnished with engines, horses, and other neces
saries. Every fireman must serve twenty-four hours each week, mak
ing 12 men on duty in each station daily. On Sundays the commander
calls together the entire body of firemen for instruction, practice, and
maneuvers, when all are obliged to attend. To give the alarm, in case
of fire, use is made of the alarm boxes, of which there are twenty in the
city, and the alarm is given by the American system.
18. Buckets and fire extinguishers are chiefly used for extinguishing
fires. If these are not sufficient, small hose, perhaps of l inches in
diameter, are brought into service. But the force of water in many
parts of the city is not great, although the supply is very abundant. If
the hydrant pressure is not sufficient, small portable hand fire engines
are used, and in cases of great emergency there is one steamer; but as
it is so seldom required, no proper arrangements exist for bringing it
into service. The last time the steamer was called out it was over two
hours before it was ready to throw water on the fire.
19. Cases of suspected incendiarism are investigated in precisely the
same manner as all criminal acts are investigated. In Italy all laws
are supposed to be enforced alike and impartially.
20. About from 4 to 5 per cent of the fires are of incendiary origin.
A u g u s t u s O. B o u r n ,
U n it e d S t a t e s C o n s u l a t e G e n e r a l ,
Consul-General.
Borne June 6 1892.
T U R IN .
REPORT OF COMMERCIAL AGENT TOUHAT.
1,
2, 3,4, 5. This consulate is located in the city of Turin. The latest
enumeration of the population of Turin sets down the number of in
habitants as amounting to 315,000. The municipal limits are bounded
by a city or octroi wall extending all around the city and measuring
65
13,820 meters in length. This wall incloses a superficial area of 1,662

hectares. All buildings in Turin, as well as its suburbs, are exclu
sively constructed in solid masonry, and the only wood used is that
employed for doors and window frames. The divisions between the
lower and upper stories of the habitations are constructed on trans
verse iron trusses, with the intermediate space, between the ceilings
and floor above, filled in with a concrete of pounded brick and mortar;
the floorings of each story is laid in tiling or marble squares; some
times, however, in the residences of the wealthy classes, an overfloor
ing is laid down in polished wood or marquetry, but this is exceptional,
and is considered a matter of great luxury. This system of construc
tion has constituted the houses of Turin as being fireproof for all prac
tical purposes, and although fires do occur at comparatively rare inter
vals, they are generally confined to the spot where they originate, and
of very limited proportions.
There are no wooden constructions whatsoever in Turin, nor would
the municipality grant a permit for any other than in solid masonry.
6. There are no fire alarms, properly socalled, in Turin. When a
fire breaks out, the first person perceiving it starts at a run for the
nearest police station and an alarm is sent through the public telephone
to the fire brigade. Telephone boxes are located on almost every street
in the city. In cases where fires occur in out of the way localities, the
first person bringing the alarm is compensated with a small reward of
about 20 or 25 cents. Should the alarm be given by a member of the
better classes, the fire department pays for the cab hire and a letter of
thanks is transmitted.
7-14. The following table shows the nature and total number of fires
occurring in Turin for the period of five years comprised between Jan
uary 1,1886, and December 31,1890:
Statistics of firc in Turin from 1886 to 1890.
j227 246
1
1
7
5
5
5
7
2
3
8
8
7
2
1
4
15
13
12
7
8
2
3
6
6
6
5
5
7
1
7
7
4
6
7
199 199
203 .203
i
i
18 28 24G 32 232 264
1
Total.
|Slight.
j Grave.
....
|Total.
4
9
13
7
1
7
6
Grave.
3
9
8
6
|Slight.
|Total.
2
3
1
7
4
3 *5
1
3
1
1
13
6
5
4
210 210
174 174
Total............................. 10 203 213
5
3
2
2
Slight.
1890.
1889.
|Grave.
3
2
4
2
1
13
1
7
6 ! l
1
1
3 li
5 j 2
|Total.
j Total.
1
2
2
4
12
5
4
1
5
u
|Slight.
|Slight.
|Grave.
Cellars
Lodging, to ......... ................
and garrets...................
Shops....................... .
Coal and wood yards . . . . . . . .
Sheds.......... .
Workshops.
Gas explosions . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chimney tires........................
1888.
1887.
1886.
Character of fire.
Grand
total.
10
13
10
12
12
5
10
1
2
166 166
29
54
46
40
22
36
28
2
952
39 201 240
1,209
As may be seen from the preceding columns an average of all the

fires occurring in Turin may be reckoned as about 240 per annum.
This includes everything that even approaches a blaze, and more than
three-fourths of the figures are the enumeration of fires in chimneys.
146a----- 5
66
It suffices that an unusual quantity of smoke be observed to have the

firemen promptly on the scene, and a spark burning in the soot is
enough to constitute, in the official figures, a u slight conflagration.
Fires enumerated under the heading of u grave would not certainly be
accounted so in the United States. They occur for the most part in
the roofs of extremely ancient buildings where wooden rafters still
exist. These rafters are often centuries old, and are reduced to the
state of tinder. As may be supposed, they catch fire easily, sometimes
spontaneously, but as the firemen always begin operations with their
axes in prompt demolition of the surroundings, the fires never get a
chance to spread, and in the course of an hour or two all danger is ob
viated. Fires in shops and stores are also quite insignificant and con
sist mostly in the burning of a portion of the stock in trade. Fires in
sheds are merely the burning of temporary erections set up for build
ing or other operations. These sheds being always isolated the fires
never assume serious proportions, and they are extremely rare in
occurrence.
9- 12. Insurance: To my great regret I am constrained to confess my
failure in obtaining exact information as to the value of property in
volved in fires in Turin, or the total loss thereon. The fire insurance
companies in this city are averse to furnishing balance sheets, and I
have only succeeded in procuring some general statements. The Pied
montese are farseeing and thrifty, and the principle of providing
against accidents is largely practiced among them even when the ap
parent risk is very slight. Insurance is effected on all sorts of property,
even down to beds and bedding. The premiums are very low, but the
companies do a profitable business all the same. Losses are caused by
the burning of sheets, mattresses, clothing, and, in rare instances, the
destruction of the stock in trade of shops or furniture. The entire loss
on property, injured or destroyed by fire, in this city would not exceed
$2,000 per annum. As for the total value of property insured in Turin,
I have been utterly unable to get any exact idea, but I should assume
it to be very large, for, as before stated, the inhabitants are careful, and
like to make certainty doubly sure.
17. The fire department of Turin is formed by the enrollment of
number of volunteers into a brigade, subject to a smart discipline, and
are officered in a military sense. Their stations, or engine houses, are
distributed in various points round the city and a number of men, night
and day, are always present at these stations ready for duty. In all
theaters and places of public assembly these men are obliged to be on
guard, and they can only leave duty on thejdeparture of the public and
when every possibility of danger is provided for. They are also called
upon to serve in all cases of accident, such as inundations and the falling
of masonry, as well as in every instance where assistance could be ren
dered. In these circumstances they serve in the same manner and with
the same legal right as in conflagrations. The fire brigade of Turin is
67
uniformed and commanded by its own officers. The corps is nnder the
direct superintendence of a commission appointed by the municipality,
and is at all times subject to the orders of the mayor.
The following schedule shows the number of men in the fire brigade
of Turin, together with their rating and grades:
Grade.
Yearly
Total
Num individu yearly
ber.
al sala salaries.
ries.
Commander............ ...........................................................................................
Vice commander *..............................................................................................
Electrician..........................................................................................................
Sergeant, accountant..........................................................................................
Sergeants, each....................................................................................................
Corporal...............................................................................................................
Corporal, 1st trumpeter......................................................................................
Corporals, each....................................................................................................
Subcorporal, 2d trumpeter................................................................................
Subcorporals.......................................................................................................
Corporal, 3d trumpeter......................................................................................
Firemen, each.....................................................................................................
Sergeant o f appliances......................................................................................
Supernumerary firemen, each............................................................................
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
4
1
16
1
40
1
40
Total............ .............................................................................................
111
Lire.
1,800
1.140
1.140
1,068
1,068
1.032
1.032
996
996
960
1,140
150
Lire.
3,500
2,100
1,800
1,140
2,208
1,068
1,068
4,128
1,032
15,936
996
38,400
1,140
6,000
80,516
* Appointed by municipal council.
The supernumerary firemen, in addition to their yearly pay of 150 lire,

and also to their pro rata when called for duty, receive a further com
pensation of 4 francs a day for every twenty-four hours of guard that
they perform in the engine house of their section.
AH applicants for entry to the fire brigade must be Italian subjects,
not younger than 18 nor older than 30 years, of good stature (lowest
limit, 5 feet, 6 inches), and of robust health, certified by a medical ex
amination. They are further required to know how to read and write,
be provided with certificates of morality and good conduct, and must
have a practical knowledge of some one of the following trades : Me
chanic (machinist), mason, plumber, carpenter, blacksmith, uphol
sterer, coppersmith, theater hanger, or tinsmiths.
Applicants must, in addition to the foregoing, be exempt from calls
to military service, either by having served their time or for any other
valid reason. The discipline in force is quite severe. For grave offenses
against the rules, punishments of imprisonment ranging from twentyfour hours to fifteen days are inflicted, and minor faults are visited with
fines and retention of pay. Should any member be habitual in his
shortcomings he is placed on trial, and if adjudged incorrigible is ex
pelled the service.
18. Turin is well supplied with water, the flow into the city being at
the rate of 9,000 gallons per minute. Fire plugs and hydrants are laid
down at the corner of each block ot houses, and by concentrating the
water from other quarters of the city a pressure can be obtained suffi
cient to throw streams to a height of a hundred feet. This is more
than enough to cover the tallest houses in the city.
68
19. AH investigations for causes or authors of incendiary fires are

conducted by the kings attorney, who is charged with the functions of
public prosecutor. The law defining the penalties for incendiary fires
is embodied in the code, and inquiries into such circumstances are pur
sued by the police as they would be in the case of any other crime
against the law.
20. There is mention on record in Turin of incendiary fires.
21.R e g u l a t i o n s
for
St o r a g e
and
Sa l e
of
O il s ,
x p l o s iv e s ,
and
F ir e
w orks.
MUNICIPAL REGULATIONS.
A r t i c l e 1. It is forbidden to all or any persons or person to establish or maintain
within the municipal limits of Turin any store, magazine, or shop for the deposit
or sale of lumber, firewood, coal, oil, petroleum, tar, pitch, benzine, or other inflam
mable or explosive substance, unless provided with especial license from the city au
thorities. It is also forbidden to establish or hold any manufactory for oil paints or
varnish of whatsoever nature without authorization from tho competent authorities.
ART. 2. Applications for the license of any magazine or store to be used for deposit
or sale of inflammable or explosive substances must be addressed to the mayor of
Turin, and must contain a full and accurate description of the nature of the manu
facture or deposit. Applicants must at the same time submit their lease of the
premises destined to such manufacture or storage, together with the written consent
ol the landlord. If tho applicant owns the property, ho must submit his title deeds.
The municipality will, on receipt of the applications, take measures for the inspec
tion of the premises, and when assured of their adaptability to tho desired purpose,
will specify the conditions under which license may be granted.
A rt . 3. All localities for the sale or storage of wood and coal must be under roof
and provided with ample means of access to the courtyards, together with a large
gateway from the exterior.
A r t . 4. It is obligatory on all keepers of coal and wood yards to place and maintain
at their own cost a hydrant in such a position as will be indicated in the license. The
premises must be inclosed by a solid wall at least 4 meters high. It is absolutely
forbidden to place or accumulate combustibles in any uninclosed locality. The roofs
of the sheds under which deposits are placed must be constructed of tiles or slabs of
stone. Said Toofs must be so built a to lean against the interior coping of the sur
rounding wall, with an inward elope.
A r t . 5. All deposits of petroleum or other hydrocarbonic substances within the
city limits must be stored in subterranean vaults. Under no circumstances is it
permissible that such deposits shall exceed 200 liters. Vendors of petroleum are not
allowed to keep a greater quantity than 50 liters of petroleum in their stores. All
petroleum must be kept in metal vessels, and must be completely isolated from sur
rounding substances. It is further enjoined that where petroleum is stored, a quan
tity, to be indicated in the license, of earth, sand, or similar material, shall be kept
on hand.
Art . 6. All deposits of petroleum exceeding 200 liters must be stored in an isolated
locality, apart from any group of buildings or inhabited center. Storage of petro
leum must in all cases be governed by such special conditions as circumstances may
require.
A rt. 7. All keepers or vendors of the substances hereinabove set forth must, within
the period o f fifteen days, dating from the publication of these presents, show that
they have duly obtained their municipal license.
Art . 8. All contraventions to the preceding ordinances will be prosecuted with tho
utmost rigor of the law.
69
R egulations for the Manufacture and Sale of F ireworks .
Art . 1. Tho manufacture of fireworks within the city limits of Turin is forbidden,
save in such cases where special license is granted by the municipal authorities.
A rt . 2. Buildings devoted to tlie manufacture of fireworks must be one story liigh,
without collars, and be completely isolated, at a distance of 130 feet from tho high
road and from any building or habitation whatsoever. The walls, partitions, and
floorings of such buildings must be constructed of incombustible materials, and the
roof must consist of an iron frame covered with metal sheets or slabs. The walls of
these buildings must have largo glazed windows placed in iron frames, and pro
tected by a close iron netting. The building must also have two large gateways
opening toward the exterior, and provided with iron fittings.
A r t s . 3 and 4. Tho quantity of pirie powder s t o r e d at any one time in the work
shops for fireworks is not allowed to exceed 5 kilograms. All powder must be care
fully placed in close vessels, and only taken therefrom when immediately needed for
manufacture. The working hours must close with daylight. The employment of
artificial light in the interior of the building is absolutely forbidden. "When arti
ficial light is essential, it must be provided by means of lamps and reflectors placed
outside the windows at a proper distance. It is further absolutely forbidden to
bring matches into any part of the bu iiding to smoke, or to use fire in any sense
whatsoever.
A rt . 5. When it may be considered a risk to tho public safety, no storage of pyro
technics in any dwelling will be permitted. License, however, may be granted for the
keeping of fireworks of ordinary description, but only in a quantity not exceeding 5
kilograms.
A rt . 6. Vendors and keepers of fireworks are obliged to conform to any and all
rules and regulations which the public authorities may consider necessary to pro
mulgate in the interest o f the public security.
A rt . 7. The use or explosion of fireworks in the vicinity o f stores where combus
tibles or inflammable substances are deposited, or in the interior o f dwellings, is for
bidden. The explosion of small cannons or mortars in localities accessible to or used
by the public on occasions o f popular holidays is absolutely forbidden.
A rt . 8. On public festivals and holidays, when exhibitions of fireworks might be
allowed, previous notice, specifying the locality to be used and the nature of the
fireworks, must be submitted to the city authorities. The municipality will then,
according to their best judgment, prescribe the precautions necessary for the pre
vention of danger or accident.
A rt . 9. All manufacturers, dealers, vendors, keepers, or individuals using fire
works will, although duly provided with the requisite license from the municipal
authorities, be held responsible for all accidents or damage to persons or property
caused by the explosion of said fireworks. (Arts. 1151, 1152, and 1153, of the Civil
Code.)
A rt . 10. All or any contravention to the above rulings will be prosecuted in con
formity with the text of article 146 of the communal law.
22. Regulations for building, heating, and lighting. For all erections
of houses, walls, or other constructions, a building permit must be ap
plied for and obtained, before beginning operations, from the mayors
office. The municipal authorities possess the absolute right to pre
scribe all regulations they may deem necessary for the solidity of the
building and for its architectural excellence and ornamentation. These
powers have been confirmed to the civic authorities by royal proclama
tions under dates of June IC, 1862, and September 20, 1875. Plans of
the proposed building must be submitted conjointly with the applica
70
tion for a building permit. These plans are examined by a committee,

of which the civic engineer and architects are members, and if not
deemed conformable either to the regularity of the streets or the beauty
of the city they are rejected and the building permit refused. Houses
in Turin are generally heated by furnaces. This is paid for by the ten
ants of the flats, each contributing a pro rata part, determined by the
space of cubic meters in their dwellings. The public stairway, used by
all the tenants in a house, is lighted by gas at the expense of the land
lord. Peti oleum is almost always used in domestic life. The Italians
have a strong prejudice against the use of gas in their living quarters,
and only tolerate it in their kitchens and hallways.
S t . L. A . T o u h a y ,
Commercial Agent.
Turin, February 16, 1892.
PORTUGAL.
F A Y A L AZORES.
REPORT B Y VICE-CONSUL SILVEIRD.
1. Name of city, Horta, Fayal.

3. Area of city limits,-------- .
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 1,665 (all stone).
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, none. (Fires are a rare
occurrence. The last one took place in 1885).
17. There is no fire department.
18. What system of water supply for fire purposes is used and what
is the capacity of the supply, none.
19. What provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire, and
to provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime.
Such investigations and prosecutions are attended to by the judiciary
department.
21. For the storage of these articles a license has to be obtained,
the stores remaining under the surveillance of the police.
J. M. DA S u .v e ir a ,
Vice- Consul.
Fayal, February 8, 1892.
71
RUSSIA.
M OSCOW .
REPORT B Y VICE-CONSUL WJSRTHBIM.
In presenting* herewith such statistics of fires in Moscow for the years

1884 to 1891, as I have been able to collect and arrange into something
like comprehensible form, I would observe that available records relat
ing to the subject are both scant and incomplete. The particulars here
given have been culled from a heterogeneous number of records en
tirely distinct from each other, including the reports of sixteen fire
insurance offices, a task that inevitably greatly retarded the comple
tion of my report, which is as exhaustive as the limited supply of infor.
mation on record will allow of.
The first fire insurance office in Bussia came into existence in 1827,
and had no rival until 1835. At present there are sixteen insurance
companies, representing a capital of $13,000,000.
The Moscow fire-brigade is an old institution said to have originated
soon after the great conflagration of L812. The men were drafted from
the conscripts for the army, and the service was, until but a few years
back, compulsory; it is now voluntary, but subject to military disci
pline, and is incorporated with the police force and subordinate to the
police-master general. All the expenses of the brigade are borne by
the municipality of Moscow; the total expenditure for the year ended
December 31,1891, was $224,394. The strength of the brigade is as
follows : The central depot, seventeen stations (one in each of the police
districts that Moscow is divided into as shown on the annexed plan of
the town) and one division station in district 1, 1,413 men, including
officers and all ranks, 450 horses, 106 water carts, 3 steam fire engines,
3 hot water tanks, 39 manual fire engines, 18 ladder carriages, 35 ex
tension ladders with escape appliances, 18 single ladders, 20 cars for
conveying the firemen, 26 leather buckets, 104 kerosene torches, 17
stretchers, 54 liooks (like boat hooks, on long poles), 180 axes, 36 spades,
72 crowbars, 20 pickaxes.
Dress.Helmets, entirely of brass, top boots, double-breasted coat
reaching to the knees, brass buttons. The chief of the brigade and the
19 superintendents, dark blue cloth. The men stout gray soldiers cloth,
broad black leather belt with attachment for axe, and distinctive shoul
der straps.
The command is done by sound of the bugle. Fire alarms can only
be given by telephone, special messengers, or signals on the watch
towers.
Water supply.The total supply is 1,500,000 gallons per diem. It is
brought by means of aqueducts and wooden mains a distance of about
7 miles. The houses have no water laid on; it is conveyed to them by
72
means of water carts from the fountains erected on the open squares
of the town, and the scarcity of water is the great evil that has to be
contended with in cases of fire, especially when it rages in districts
beyond the reach of the river. New waterworks are, however, now in
course of construction. Two water towers are now approaching com
pletion, and it is hoped that before the end of the current year the
supply will be increased to 4,500,000 gallons.
The duty of investigating the cause of every fire is in the first in
stance imposed on the police, and every case of suspicion reported to
the public prosecutor, who is bound to prosecute if the circumstances
of the case demand it.
The regulations for storage and sale of oils are very strictly enforced
and are translated as follows:
REGULATIONS FOR THE STORAGE AND SALE OF KEROSENE, NAPI1THA, AND OTHER
ILLUMINATING MINERAL OIL8 OF 1889.
(1) Storage only permitted in special buildings constructed in accordance with

the rules herein set forth.
(2) Special stores intended for the storage of more than (150 poods) 48 hundred
weight are classed as 1 large stores, those for not over 48 hundred-weight are classed
as small stores.
(3) Large stores may not be erected except beyond the boundary of the town,
and at a distance of not lees than 350 feet from any town building. No such store
to be within 175 feet of another.
Observation I .Existing stores must have been made to comply with section 3 of
these regulations within the expiration of the year 1894.
Observation II.Dwellings for the care-takers of such stores, to be built of stone,
roofed with sheet iron, only one story in height, and to contain not more than 105
cubic feet measurement, and not to stand within the distance of 70 feet from any
uch store.
(4) The rectifying of oils within such stores or in their vicinity, nor are such
stores to be used for the storage of any other class of goods or material.
(5) No works for rectifying mineral or naphtha to be within (3 verst) a distance of
2 miles of the boundary ot the town.
(6) Small stores are allowed within the town, the city proper (district I) excepted.
(7) Small stores mut be detached buildings removed not less than 175 feet from all
and every other store or warehouse of the same kind, or timber, or woodyard,
or spirit store, hay, flax, and other combustible storage, and not less than 70 feet
from any description of building.
(8) Large and small stores must be either stone or earthen structures, the latter
covered with sods or in excavations not less than 7 feet below the surface; in these
the casks containing the oil shall not be stowed to a height above the surface of the
ground. Stone-built stores that are not vaulted must be excavated to a depth equal
to one-third of the building, doors to be of iron, floors and stairs of stone ; to have
iron ventilators attached to the roof and to the walls, the latter covered with iron
netting and placed not less than 7 feet above the floor.
(9) For large stores, in lieu of the constructions described in section 8, specially
constructed metallic cisterns may be used for the storage of mineral oils, such cis
terns not to be within the distance of 175 feet from any other of the same kind.
(10) The retailing of mineral oil on premises whore other inflammable articles or
goods are stored or old is prohibited.
(11) The retailing of mineral oils on premises where such oils are stored in vaulted
stores or cellars built of stone, the oil to be kept in casks, and not to exceed (60
poods) 20 hundredweight. Where the stores or cellars are not vaulted, the ceilings
73
must be lined with felt and covered with heet iron and properly ventilated, the ve
tilator to be placed away from any flues. Not more than stairs to be of stone or
iron; doors iron or iron-cased. The quantity of mineral kept in the shop of such
store not to exceed (20 poods) 5hundredweight.
(12) In small stores of mineral oil may be stored candles, oleine, vegetable oils,
and soap, but no other article.
(13) Shops retailing small quantities of mineral oil are limited to a stock of (3
poods) 360 pounds, to be kept on the premises. The handling of mineral oils near a
light or fire is strictly prohibited.
(14) The sale, delivery, and handling of mineral oils in any store or cellar shall
not be done after dark. In case of need the premises where mineral oil is stored
may only be entered with a lighted lantern, fitted with thick glass protected by a
wire netting.
(15) Mineral oil empty barrels or casks are not to be kept in the yards of small
stores nor at any one time more than six in the stores or three in the cellar.
(16) Smoking or lighting of flres in stores or cellars where mineral oils are kept
is prohibited.
(17) Fireplaces and every heating apparatus are prohibited in stores and cellars
where mineral oils are stored, but it is permissible for retailers to store their min
eral oils in premises situated between heated locations.
(18) No small or large stores shall be constructed nor retail trade be carried on
until it is sanctioned by the municipal authority.
(19) No transport or delivery of kerosene or mineral oil is allowed after dusk, but
during broad daylight only and exclusively in vessels made of tin or other metal.
(These regulations come into force from the 6th day of July, 1885.)
Explosives and fireworTcs.No storage, sale, possession, or manufac

ture of such allowed except by special permit of the governor-general
on terms and conditions he may think fit to decree from time to time.
Expenditure for the year 1891.
Chief of brigade,* per annum.............................................................$2,000
19 division chiefs,* at $143 per annum................................................ 2,717
--------- $4,717
1,393 men and petty officers.............................................................. 91,591
Rations.......................................................................................... 24,673
Clothing........................................................................................ 23,661
--------- 139,925
Lighting and fuel...........................................................................................
9,825
Extra hospital charges...................................................................................
50
450 horses :
Fodder.......................................................................................... 29,388
Annual remount........................................................................... 4,200
Sundries........................................................................................
863
--------- 34,451
Maintenance, repairs, and renewals of all apparatus.......................... 15,359
Sundries...............................................................................................
200
--------- 15,559
Buildings :
Improvements and repairs............................................................ 15,344
Cleaning.......................................................................................
932
Insurance..................................................................................... 2,403
--------- 18,679
Hire of telephones..........................................................................................
1,188
Total..................................................................................................... 224,394
* These officers reside at their respective stations, where they have free quarters,
fuel, and light.
74
Sketch ofwatchtower and system of signaling used at all the fire stations
in Mo8coto, including the central depot.
Daylight signal hoisted; when dark, white and green lanterns are used.
75
All tlie fire stations are connected with the lines of the telephone
company of Moscow.
Number of fires in Moscow from 1887 to 1891, inclusive.
Month.
1887.
1888.
1889.
1890.
January.......
February---March..........
A pril............
May..............
J u n o ............
Ju ly.............
A ugust........
September...
O ctober.......
Novem ber...
December ...
Total..
444
498
465
False alarms
18
21
27
59
Time of outbreak of fires in Moscow from 1887 to 1891, inclusive.

Hour.
Midnight.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1 a. m .................................................... .
2 a. m ................................................................................. .
3 a.m .....................................
4 a . m .... ....... - .................. ......................................................
5 a,m ____ . . . ......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 a. m .........................................................................................
7 a>m....... ................................................................. .
8 a .m .........................................................................................
9 a .m ........................ ........................................................ .
10 a. m ..................................................... ..................................
11 a. m .........................................................................................
Noon..........................................................................................
Ip . m.........................................................................................
2
D.
Jr m.........................................................................................
.......................................................................
3j p.
F m.........................................................................................
.........................................................................................
4 p. m............................................................... ........................
5 p. m.........................................................................................
6
D. m .................................................................................................................................
F
.........................................................................................
y m.........................................................................................
m ............................................ ........................................ ............................ . . . -----7 D.
8 p. m..........................................................................................
9 p. m..........................................................................................
10 p. m..........................................................................................
11 p. m..........................................................................................
1887. 1888.
21
24
17
29
24
10
9
3
10
13
14
18
23
20
18
19
14
14
23
25
30
19
20
21
1889.
1890.
25
23
23
28
20
11
11
8
18
14
18
17
12
16
33
19
23
27
19
23
22
27
20
28
26
28
25
36
13
19
13
5
14
17
26
22
11
27
31
25
21
29
19
25
36
30
25
16
24
24
28
14
31
17
18
12
7
15
15
18
14
22
12
20
10
21
25
29
27
32
30
33
1891. Totals.
25
26
21
39
19
13
11
10
22
12
13
18
16
14
20
21
28
25
24
24
26
39
32
23
121
125
114
146
107
70
62
38
71
71
86
93
76
99
94
104
96
116
110
126
141
147
133
121
Causes of fires in the city of Moscow from 1887 to 1891y inclusive.

Causes of fires.
From causes not known............................................
From want of precaution...........................................................
Chimneys on fire........................................................................
Falling and upsetting kerosene lamps....... .............................
Defects in fiue, stoves, fireplaces, etc.....................................
Spontaneous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gas explosion............ ............ ...................................................
Lightning.................................. .................................................
Tyr*ATi<rflTn..................
.......................................... .....
1887.
1888.
1889.
205
52
86
37
46
8
6
209
88
100
32
56
4
1
219
126
75
22
19
1
1890.
267
155
70
28
18
1891.
249
131
74
34
25
1
1
7
76

Localities of fires in the city of Moscow from 1887 to 1891, inclusive.
1887.
Localities on fire.
Inhabited dwelling places............... - ........................................
Outhouses, stables, haylofts, washhouses, collars, garrets,
batlis,unoccupiod houses, ote....... .
Shops, stores, taverns, ote...................... .
Manufactories, works, workshops, etc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Government and public buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Streets, courtyard courtyards, and spaces *.............................
Timber and wood yards ...................... ...............
Churches,palaces,theaters,etc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On the water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total.................
1888.
1889.
1890.
1891.
253
230
197
211
201
107
24
21
8
19
2
123
61
60
13
9
2
145
62
90
15
9
3
4
168
56
73
14
8
1
10
117
62
47
24
12
3
2
1
444
498
465
539
521
* Tho above tabular record is a literal translation of the official report issued by CoL Lichtiansky,
chief of the Moscow fire brigade.
Total insurance loss paid by the companies on property involved in fires in Moscow in the
years 1887 to 1891.*
[Extract from the official annual reports by the chief of the fire brigade.]
Denominations o f the
insurance companies.
1887.
1888.
1. First Russian of
1827...................... $202,563.33 $377,104.63
2. Second Russian of
1835......................
26,721.07
64,693.85
58,715.13
3. Ia k o r ......................
39.992.58
4. Moscow................... 681.472.49
331,757.89
5. Northern.................
48,781.34
78,600.35
6. St. Petersburg.......
48,655.00
32,330.63
42.224.50
7. Russian...................
35,753.60
31,640.25
8. Commercial............
23,693.75
29.225.50
9. V olga......................
56.596.58
27,765.82
56,291.91
10. Salamander............
27,462.87
47,498.00
11. Russia.....................
21,284 75
17,362.87
12. Warsaw...................
11,046.03
8,991.11
13. Nadeshda................
6,128.00
621.32
14. Baltic......................
15. Moskva t.................
16. City of Moscow Mu
tual t ...................
1889.
1890.
$191,147.63 $174,630.32
73,875.99
152,228.85
81/656.89
157,662.13
38,558.86
150,000.00
39.831.00
38,706.69
67,612.07
48.416.00
17,960.09
8,452.88
9,952.50
101,792.92
10,848.30
Total................... 1,256,124.48 1,178,850.67 1,188,702.80
1891.
Total.
$265,362.49 $1,210,808.40
35,149.90
45,686.29
98,480.12
137,494.84
40,757.47
30,218.00
27,999.49
34,128.93
32,398.69
37,251.02
42,977.88
17,801.22
4,184.00
58,881.84
70,125.90
45.774.24
151,220.42
42.460.00
52,114.07
62.772.50
39,773.64
34,238.54
35,444.19
60,306.60
33.412.50
15.937.25
30.415.00
56.666.00
17,625.46
36,649.73
65.123.49
835,665.47 1,032,673.07
5,492,016.49
* The amounts have been converted Into dollars, at the rate of 2 rubles per dollar*
t Only established in 1889*
270,5C6.71
342, 397.09
1,344,587.81
464, 998. 66
212,416.03
320,968.60
162,938.13
192,896.24
219,512.68
220,934.49
132,998.09
62.228.49
51,300.82
217,340.76
77
Table showing number of buildings, amount o f furniture, machinery, movable property, and
goodsj raw and manufactured, destroyed by fire in the city of Moscow from 1884 to 1890,
inclusive.
[The ruble is calculated at 50 cents.]
BUILDINGS.
Year.
Number o f
buildings.
Yale.
On
Insured. fire.
Amount
Involved
insured for. in fires.
Nature o f building.
Total in
surance
lose.
188 4--- Brick or ston e...................

Wood, and wood and brick
15,258
49,582
189 $119,493,500 $5,019,000

364 65,859,500
849,000
T o ta l........................-
64,840
553
185,353,000
5,868,000
415,791
188 5--- Brick or stone...................

18,120
55,456
736
142,919,000
69,145,000
5,151,000
1,413,500
293,946
403,415
$232,556
183,235
73,576 1,056
212,064,000
6,564,500
697,361
188 6 -- Brick or ston e...................
18,800
58,719
513
147,630,000
72,305,500
4.640.000
1.006.000
141,670
279,884
T ota l........................
77,519
775
219,935,500
5,646,000
421,554
1887.... Brick or stone...................

19,297
57,976
244
610
150,484,000
73,107,500
4.848.500
1.171.500
190,563
304,484
T ota l.........................
T otal............ ............
77,273
854
223,591,500
6 020,000
459,047
1888.... Brick or stone...................

18,940
56,721
274
528
145,251,500
71,722,500
5.945.500
1.315.500
146.931
330,725
T o ta l........................
75,661
802
216,974,000
7,261,000
477,656
1889.... Brick or stone...................

17,978
53,581
268
594
141,220,000
68,877,000
5.447.500
1.198.500
149,721
281,632
T o t a l ......................
71,559
210,097,000
6,646,000
431,353
1800.... Brick or stone...................
18,178
52,649
292
611
143,667,500
67,870,000
7,062,500
1,181,000
104,477
295,302
T o ta l........................
70,827
903
211,537,500
8,243,500
399,779
78

Table showing number of buildings, amount o f furniture, etc.Continued.
FURNITURE. M ACHINERY, MOVABLE PROPERTY.
Number of
lots.
Year.
Nature of building.
1884.... Brick or stone.....................

Wood, and wood and brick.
T o ta l.
1885..
Brick or stone.....................
1886
Brick or stone.....................
Total.
T otal.
1887----- Brick or stone.....................
T otal.
1888----- Brick or stone....................
Total.
1889.... Brick or stone.....................
Total.
1890.... Brick or ston e....................
Total.
Value.
Amount
Insured. On insured
for.
fire.
10,616
8,875
Involved
in fires.
$719,000
163,500
Total
insurance
113
91
608,000
17, 720,000
$167,719
43,757
19,491
204
48,328,000
882,500
211,476
10.575
10.575
194
218
403.500
554.500
995,000
387,500
176,651
120,933
21,150
412
56,958,000
1,382,500
297,584
10,706
10,530
183
170
846.500
500.500
839,500
336,000
150,256
133,418
21,236
353
68,347,000
1,175,500
283,674
11,556
10,912
155
176
378,500
221.000
936,000
281,500
162,234
62,156
22,468
331
60,599,500
1,217,500
224,390
11,309
10, 740
147
170
346,500
298,000
786.000
366.000
205,603
85,890
22, 049
317
61,644,500
1,152,000
291,493
11,129
10,933
138
190
046,500
910,000
953,500
364, 000
143,908
75,537
22, 0C2
328
63,956,500
1,317, 500
219,445
15,950
11,225
172
240
705.000
866.000
1,198,500
473,500
56,799
103,408
27,175
412
63,571,000
1,672,000
260,207
172.500 $2,217,000
62,500
8 452.500
$861,424
32,380
GOODS, R A W AND MANUFACTURED.

1884...
Brick or stone....................
1885...
Brick or stone.................... .
1886...
Brick or stone.....................
Wood, and wood and brick .
1887...
Brick or stone....................
T o ta l.
Total.
T otal.
Total.
1888...
Brick or stone.................... .
1889...
Brick or stone......................
1890...
Brick or stone......................
T otal.
Total.
T ota l............................
8,063
2,140
150
27
10,203
177
97,625,000
6,279,500
893,804
9,101
2,508
134
45
512.500
367.500
1,482,500
140,500
250,141
63,241
11,609
179
105,880,000
1,623,000
313,382
9,130
2,294
112
37
369.000
303.000
1,045,500
113,500
194,723
25,823
11,424
149
102,672,000
1,159f000
220,546
8,857
2,397
141
43
100, 590.000
7, 015.000
2,291,500
179,000
580,426
21,557
11,254
184
107,605,000
2,470,500
601,983
8,685
2,461
134
56
104, 981.000
9, 016.000
1,535,500
100,000
378,877
35,744
190
113,997,000
1,695,500
414,621
104, 413.000
8,916.000
1,549,000
105,000
347,959
26,904
113,329,000
1,654,000
374,863
256,500
1,558,000
61,500
165,662
30,245
128,698,500
1,619,500
195,907
11,146
8,340
2,357
10,697
122
33
155
8 8$0
2,393
132
43
11,273
175
120,442,000
79
Table showing number of buildings, amount of furniture, etc.Continued.
TOTALS.
Year.
Number of lots
and of
buildings.
TTature o f building.
On
Insured. fire.
Value.
Amount
insured for.
Total
insurance
loss.
Involved
in fires.
1884...
Brick or ston e.....................

33,937
60, 597
452 8239,274,000 $7,955,000 $1,261,699

482
92,032,000 1,075,000
259,372
T o ta l...........................
94,534
934
331,306,000
9,030,000
1,521,071
1885...
Brick or stone.....................
37,796
68, 539
618
999
276,835,000
98,067,000
7,628, 500
1,941,500
720,738
587,589
106,335 1,647
374,902,000
9,570,000
1,308,327
290,845,500
100,109,000
6,525,000
1,455,500
486,649
439,125
T ota l............................
38,636
71,543
1886.... Brick or stone.....................

557
720
110,179 jl, 277
T ota l............................
390,954,500
7,980,500
925,774
290.452.500
101.343.500
8.076.000
1.632.000
933,223
388,197
391,796,000
9,708,000
1,321,420
290,579,000
102,036,500
8,267,000
1,841,500
731,411
452,359
392,615,500 10,108,500
1,183,770
1887...
Brick or stone.....................
39,710
71,285
T ota l............................
110, 995
1888...,
Brick or stone.....................
38,934
69,922
T ota l............................
108,856 1, 309
1889...
Brick or stone.....................
37.447 ! 528
66, 871 j 817
288,679,500
98,703,000
7,950,000
1,667,500
641,588
384,073
T ota l............................
104,318 1,345
387,382,500
9,617,500
1,025,661
1890...
Brick or stone.....................
596
894
306,814,500
96,992,500
9.819.000
1.716.000
326,938
428,955
403,807,000 11,535,000
755,893
43, 008
66,267
540
829
1,3(
555
754
109,275 il, 490
T ota l............................
K W e r t h e im ,
Vice-Consul.
U n ited S t a te s C on sulate ,
Moscow March 28, 1892.

ODESSA.
REPORT* B Y CONSUL THOMAS E. HEENAN.
1. Name of city, Odessa.

2. Population, about 300,000.
3. Area of city limits, about 13 square miles witliin the last francoporto.
6. Number of alarms, no alarms, but lookout towers at three police
stations.
9. Total value of the property involved in the fires; no statistics.
* Year L891.
80
10. Total loss thereon, estimated at 737,992 roubles (about $400,000).

11. Total insurance thereon, 8G6,558 roubles.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, 8G6,558 roubles.
230.
16. Number of conflagrations, none.
17. The fire department consists of three district brigades, each hav
ing oue truck with three water casks and one manual pump; no fire
escapes or extending ladders.
18. The system of water supply for fire purposes consists of street
hydrants 63 feet static pressure and capacity of each hydrant 180 im
perial gallons.
19. No special provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire.
The governor of the city may order an investigation where incendiar
ism is suspected. The police prosecute, but the jury invariably acquit
the accused. Fires have become so frequent of late that the governor
has applied to St. Petersburg for permission to try all cases of sus
pected incendiarism by a military court.
20. Number of incendiary fires, unknown.
21. Storage of oils allowed from 540 pounds to 2,800 pounds, accord
ing to circumstances, by permit from the governor. No explosives or
fireworks are permitted to be stored in the city; but 1 pound is allowed
to be kept or purchased at a time. This quantity of powder in fire
works is allowed to be stored in town.
22. No law regulating building construction, heating, lighting, etc.,
exists, but all plans must be sent to and approved by the city authorities
in conjunction with the architect and engineer in the governors de
partment.
Thos. E. H ee n a n ,
Consul.
Odessa, February 10, 1892.
R IG A .
REPORT B Y CONSUL BORNHOLDT.*
1. Name of place, Eiga.

3. Area of city limits, 15 square miles, of which 3 square miles cov
ered by river Diina.
5. Number of wooden buildings, 12,000.
Year 1890.
81

9. Total value of property involved in tlie fires, not ascertainable.
10. Total loss tliereon, $293,948.
11. Total insurance thereon, $998,375.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, not ascertainable.
29.
property, 2.
17. The fire department consists of about 300 men, 50 horses, 3 steam
engines, 11 carriages and cart engines, etc.
18. System of water supply for fire purposes, steam waterworks with
40 miles of pipe, able to supply 500,000 cubic feet of water in twentyfour hours.
19. The causes of fire are investigated by the police authorities, and
in case of incendiarism or crime, prosecution instituted.
21. The sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks is only allowed in retail
in the city j the storage of same is outside the city limits.
22. In the inner part of the city only brick or stone buildings are al
lowed. The thickness of the walls in the upper story must not be less
than 22 inches and the partition walls not less than 11 inches. Wooden
buildings must be at least 2 fathoms from the neighboring building;
otherwise fire walls have to be erected. The houses are heated with
wood and lighted with gas or petroleum lamps.
N. P. A. B o r n h o l d t ,
Consul.
Riga, January 27, 1892.
ST. P E T E R S B U R G .
REPORT B T CONSUL-GENERAL CRAWFORD.
The city of St. Petersburg, situated on both sides of the river Neva,
covers a large area and has nearly 1,000,000 inhabitants. The buildings
within the city limits are made principally of brick or stone, wooden
buildings being permitted in the suburbs only. The statistics issued
by the fire department show that there were 574 fires in this city in
1891. From this number 357 fires were in brick and 217 in wooden
146 a ----- 6
82
buildings, representing a loss of $591,605, of which $448,726 was cov

ered by insurance. Comparatively great fires are very rare in St.
Petersburg, 443 of the cases cited being confined to the buildings
in which the fires originated, while in 128 instances the fire extended
only to adjoining property. Three conflagrations of some extent and
8 incendiary fires took place in 1891.
Owing to the extensive area of this thickly populated city, it is com
pelled to maintain a strong and well-organized fire brigade. The city
is divided into 14 police districts, having each as many fire brigades,
with their respective superintendents, and the whole under the com
mand of one chief. There are in addition four reserve fire brigades
and two attending the imperial palace. One thousand men and 381
horses are in the service of the fire department and the following acces
sories are detailed for its work : 14 wagonettes for the men, 30 pumps,
58 wheeled casks for water, 20 carts with automatic and 12 with hand
ladders, 8 fire escapes, and 3 steam engines. The same supply is pro
vided with sledge runners for winter use.
If the fire takes inside of a building the fire brigade of the respective
district and those of the adjoining district, if located nearer to the fire
than the former, are bound to turn out. In case of an outside fire, five
brigades with two fire engines turn out; and, if a large fire, ten brigades
with three or four fire engines proceed to the spot; while in case of a
conflagration all fourteen brigades with six engines take part in the
work.
The waterworks conducting the water through pipes laid down in the
streets to different buildings in the city supply the water for fire pur
poses. Its capacity is enormous, there never having been experienced
a shortness in water supply. Then, too, the rivers and canals crossing
the town in different directions with their abundant water supply may
be applied to this purpose.
In every instance a prompt and careful investigation of causes of fire
is made by the police and in case of suspected incendiarism the matter
is handed over to the public prosecutor.
The following table will show the respective number of fires in 1891
according to their causes :
Causes of fire.
Causes unknown....................................
Soot igniting in the chimneys...............
Bad condition of stoves, fireplaces, chim
neys, e tc ...............................................
Carelessness........................-..................
Oil lam ps.................................................
Explosion of petroleum, benzine, tar,
oil, e t c ...................................................
Spontaneous combustion o f lime and
coal........................................................
Number
of fires.
133
123
124
109
44
16
9
Causes of fire.
Number
of fires.
Incendiarism....................
Sparks from steamers___
Gas explosion...................
Boiler explosion..............
Fireworks explosion........
Friction of engine wheels
T o ta l......................
574
83
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE STORAGE AND SALE OF

OILS, EXPLOSIVES, AND FIREWORKS IN ST. PETERSBURG.
Oils and other combustible fluids are divided into two classes: Fluids
ignitable at a temperature of 28 0 . are considered less dangerous and
come under the first class. In the second class are fluids ignitible at
a lower temperature.
There are five different kinds of warehouses set apart for the storage
and sale of oils in this city: (1 ) Large wholesale warehouses; (2)
middle wholesale warehouses; (3) small wholesale warehouses; (4)
retal warehouses; (5) retail sale, without warehouses. Permission
for establishing of such warehouses is granted by the prefect of the city
police force in conformity with the following rules :
Large wholesale warehouses, holding more than 540,000 pounds fluids
of first class and above 14,400 pounds fluids of second class, are not al
lowed in the city limits, except those already existing. Middle whole
sale warehouses, holding less than 540,000 pounds of first-class fluids
and less than 14,400 pounds of second-class fluids, are allowed only in
the outskirts of the town. The fluids above mentioned, in metal, glass,
or wooden vessels, must be stored in brick, stone, or earthen buildings,
with floors of some fireproof material. These warehouses must have
iron roofing and a good ventilation and be connected with ditches, or
must contain the quantity as maybe stored in the respective warehouses.
Ko more than 54,000 pounds of first-class and 7,200 pounds of secondclass fluid is allowed to be stored in each separate building of the
warehouse. Should, however, a larger quantity be placed in one build
ing, each compartment must be separated by a brick wall reaching
about 3 feet above the roof. The compartments being totally isolated
must have each a separate door. In each of such compartments not
more than 54,000 pounds of first-class and 7,200 pounds of second-class
fluid may be stored.
Oils in metal vessels or movable cisterns may be placed in the open
air, but on a floor, as described above. Instead of buildings the oils
may be kept in well-made reservoirs, provided, however, that the same
are furnished with a lightning conductor and are connected with ditches
of same dimensions as each reservoir. Furthermore, that the distance
between the reservoirs be 70 yards and that each reservoir should
hold not more than 54,000 pounds of first-class and 7,200 pounds of
second-class fluids.
In the yard surrounding the warehouse no other buildings are al
lowed except warehouse office and workshops; they must, however, be
erected at a distance of not less than 58 yards from the warehouse.
Inhabited buildings, if any, being at the same distance, must be sur
rounded by a high fence, with an entrance into the street, wherea
erecting of stable is totally prohibited. The warehouse yard must be
surrounded by a ditch and a wall 3 yards high.
84
Empty barrels may be piled in rows not exceeding 23 yards by 19

yards by 5 yards, the intervals being not less than 23 yards, and at a
distance not less than 35 yards from the warehouse.
Small wholesale warehouses, holding not more than 21,600 pounds of
first-class fluids exclusively, are allowed in the city limits, excepting
market hall, market places, and passages, provided they are erected 26
yards from wooden and 16 yards from brick buildings. Such fluids in
wooden barrels, if stored in these warehouses, must be placed in sepa
rate brick buildings furnished with iron doors and surrounded with a
3-yard high brick wall at a distance of 32 yards from the warehouse.
A ditch must run along the wall and the floors of fireproof material be
connected with the former. Well-made reservoirs containing such
fluids may be placed in the open air, but, as mentioned above, must
be provided with a brick wall and a ditch running alongside of the
same. Empty barrels may be piled into four piles, not exceeding 15
barrels in each and not surpassing tho brick wall.
Retail warehouses for storage of not more than 3,600 pounds of firstclass fluids are allowed within the city limits, excepting market halls,
market places, and passages. These warehouses must be located in
brick vaulted buildings, furnished with fireproof floors, and properly
ventilated. The entrance door of l yards width, leading to the yard
or street, mupt be of iron. The warehouse must have no connection
with the shop, nor can there be stored any other materials but empty
barrels. In each yard adjoining the shop as many warehouses are
allowed as there are entrances leading to the street, provided that
there are 70 square yards of the yard applied for each warehouse, sit
uated about 18 yards from one another. Fluids in glass, metal, or
wooden vessels or in well-made reservoirs and movable cisterns may be
stored in these warhouses. Empty barrels are not allowed to be stored
in these warehouses.
RULES GOVERNING THE RETAIL SALE WITHOUT WAREHOUSES.
The retail sale of ignitable fluids is granted to drug and oil stores in
any district of the town except in market halls, market places, and
passages, provided, however, that the supply of each such store should
not exceed 324 pounds of second-class and 720 pounds of first-class
fluids. The sale of fluid of first class is also allowed in retail shops
selling lighting materials. Drug and oil stores dealing in fluids of
second class must be located in vaulted buildings. The same applies
to stores and shops with fluids of first class, excepting those shops sit
uated in districts where wooden buildings are tolerated.
The supply of fluids of first class in stores and shops must not exceed
360 pounds in wooden and 720 pounds in metal vessels. Under these
vessels fireproof reservoirs of a larger size than the vessel itself must
be placed, which have always to be kept empty.
Fluids of first class are delivered to the public from stores and shops
85
in metal vessels, and in glass if the quantity docs not exceed 2 pounds,
whereas fluids of second class are delivered only in metal vessels
properly sealed.
Shops located in wooden buildings in districts where such buildings
are allowed, and shops located in brick and vaulted buildings in the
same districts, are allowed to have a supply of fluids of first class not
exceeding 72 pounds.
Warehouses of second and third kind must be furnished with fire
alarms and must have wells and fire-extinguishing axiparatus, unless
a proper water supply is provided.
Delivery of the above fluids from warehouses of first and second class
is allowed at daytime only, unless the warehouses are furnished with
electric lights.
REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE STORAGE AND SALE OP EXPLOSIVES.
The license for the sale of explosives, either from warehouses or retail
shops, may be granted to private persons if applied for to the proper
authorities. In granting the license it must be mentioned in the cer
tificate the quantity of explosives the respective party is entitled to
warehouse. The licensed warehouseman may obtain explosives from
military warehouses to the extent mentioned in his license only, and in
no case more than 3,600 pounds in European Russia and 5,400 pouuds in
Siberia at one time. He is entitled to refill his warehouse if his stock
does not exceed 1,800 pounds in European Russia and 2,520 pounds in
Siberia; to prove this he must present a testimonial from the local po
lice. The warehouseman is compelled to insert in a separate book
every purchase of explosives that is made by him, showing at the same
time the quantity sold from his warehouse.
The retail shops licensed for the sale of explosives are allowed to
keep a stock of not more than 25 pounds.
J. M. C r a w f o r d ,
Consul-General.
St. Petersburg, April 25, 1892.
W ARSAW .
REPORT B Y CONSUL RAWIOZ.
In compliance with the dispatch of December 1,1891,1 have directed

the number of inquiries concerning the statistics of fires for the year
ending December 31,1890. The answers received from the Warsaw
Fire Insurance Company, as well as from the magistrate of the city of
Warsaw, are communicated here, below:
1. City of Warsaw.
86
3. Area of city limits, 312,795,800 square feet.

4,5. Circa 5,600 houses.
7. Number of fires in brick buildings, 65.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, not ascertained.
11. Total insurance, 72,574,200 rubles.
12. Total insurance loss, 2,383,885 rubles.
17. Tlie fire department of the city consists of 1 chief, 5 captains, 1
secretary, 1 higher master chimney-sweeper, 2 masters, 1 veterinary
surgeon, 3 engineers, 5 corporals, 8 subordinates, 296 soldiers, 60 chimney-sweepers, and 60 apprentices.
18. The water supply is from the river Vistula, through pipes
with high pressure, and is carried to all stories; hydrants are also
arranged in the streets to be easily connected with the hand and
steam engines.
19. The investigation of the causes of fires in the first place is in the
hands of the police, and by them given over to the police judge. Be
sides arrest of suspicious party, there is no special way to obtain the
clew to the causes of incendiarism.
20. Out of above number of fires, 60 are reported of unknown
causes, 22 were caused by poor construction, 19 from carelessness with
fire, and 1 from explosion of gas.
21. There is from time to time a police instruction concerning the
storage of oils and explosives in general.
22. No special regulation.
J o se p h R a w ic z ,
Consul.
Warsaw, April 11, 1892.
SPAIN.
BARCELONA.
REPORT B Y CONSUL BOWEN.
The fire department of the city of Barcelona is under the direction

of the cuerpo municipal. The chief and four subalterns are named by
the corporation (ayuntamiento). The department consists of a brigade,
with 4 chief foremen, 28 assistant foremen, a custodian, a subcusto
dian, an adviser, an assistant adviser, 124 firemen, a professor of gym
nastics, 2 physicians, and an engineer. This brigade is divided into
four companies, each composed of a foreman, 6 assistant foremen, and
31 firemen, each company being located in one of the four quarters of
Barcelona. The foremen must know how to read and write. The fire
men receive a salary of 5 cents a day, and those that arrive first at a
87
fire receive rewards for diligence that range from $2 to 16 cents in the
order in which they arrive, up to the number of 16.
Any fireman that receives an injury in the performance of his duty
receives 60 cents a day for three months, provided he is incapable of
resuming his work. If he is killed his family receive $25. Every month
drills are held, and on the first Sunday of September every year the
entire brigade is reviewed. A prize is given on that occasion of $25 to
the foreman that excels in maneuvering his company, and other prizes
are given for preminence in skill as to climbing and managing the
machines.
The custodian must remain in the engine house and be responsible
for the machinery and fire materials, and must keep them clean and in
order. When he learns of a fire he must notify the adviser, who there
upon must call with his whistle the firemen who live in the neighborhood,
and who must also notify the chief and foreman and assistant foremen.
The physicians are named by the corporation, and must attend the
fires, and render such services as are requisite. For attending fires at
night they receive $4. In addition they may present their bills for serv
ices to the injured and for subsequent attendance. The professor of
gymnastics must attend all the fires, and he ranks as a foreman. The
engineer must inspect the machines. For attending a fire he receives $4.
The citys annual allowance to the department is 75,486 pesetas
(about $15,000).
The engine houses are connected by telephone with one another, and
they number eight in all, two in each of the four districts. Of the en
gines four are modern steam engines and eight are hand engines similar
to those used in Paris. The liose carriages are ten in number, and be
sides there are five wagons for transporting pickaxes, shovels, spades,
handsaws, levers hydrant keys, and other small objects. The hose
supply consists of 1,060 meters, 0.07 of a meter in diameter, and divided
into pieces 30 meters long, for the steam engines; and of 1,600 meters,
0.05 of a meter in diameter, and divided into pieces 30 meters in length,
for the hand engines. The life-saving ladders are two in number, one
24 meters long, purchased in Italy; and the other 18 meters long, pur
chased in England. The remaining material consists of rope-ladders,
hook-ladders and hooks, nets for saving life, portable extinguishers of
French make, and buckets. Three horses are at present at the disposi
tion of the fire department, two for the engines, and one for a wagon
that holds a driver and five firemen. The water supi>lyis furnished
by 2,110 hydrants located near those lamp-posts that are provided with
red glass. The hydrants are all several inches under ground and are
covered by an iron plate or lid opened by a key. The pressure is suf
ficient to send the water to any ordinary height.
The population of Barcelona, according to the latest enumeration,
was 272,481. Its area is 12.20 square kilometers. It does not contain
any houses constructed entirely of wood.
88
During the year 1890 there were 39 fires. None of them were extraor
dinarily destructive, owing to the fact, doubtless, that all the build
ings are either occupied or well watched, and are constructed of stone,
or mostly of stone. As a rule, gas and candles are used for lighting
them at night, and nothing whatsoever is used for heating them, except
in certain of the houses and shops gas stoves or small coal stoves or
grates. So little danger is apprehended of fire that the regulations
that exist for the storage of oils, explosives, and fireworks are practi
cally disregarded. Generally speaking, a fire is put out here imme
diately, before it spreads beyond the room in which it appeared.
Insurance is low and not so frequently obtained as in equally impor
tant cities outside of Spain.
The only valuable suggestion that one can obtain here regarding the
steps that Americans should take to reduce the fire waste of our country
is that we should not think so much of providic g means to put out fire
as we should of constructing our buildings so as to prevent fires.
H e r b e r t W . B ow en,
Consul.
B a r c e l o n a , April 26,1892.
CARTHAGENA.
REPORT B Y CONSUL CIRILO MOLINA y GROS. *
1. Name of city, Carthagena.

2. Population, about 50,000 within walls.
3. Area of city limits, 81 hectereas 63 areas 55 meters 5 decimeters
within walls.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, all.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, four in 1890, three in
1891.
9. Total value of property involved in fires, not ascertainable.
10. Total loss thereon, $3,000 in 1890 and $2,400 in 1891.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, $2,400 in 1890, $1,600 in 1891.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, all.
17. There is no fire brigade.
18. Water is supplied by two companies in great abundance through
pipes:
19. What provision is made by law to investigate cause of fire, if
any, and discovered? Punished by the criminal code.
C i r i l o M o l in a y Gr o s ,
Consul.
Carthagena, January 23, 1892.
89
M ALAGA.
REPORT B Y CONSUL NEWSOM.
1. The United States consulate is located in Malaga.

2. Population of Malaga in 1890 was 135,000.
3. The area of the city limits is about 4,000 acres.
4. Number of brick and stone buildings, 12,554.
5. There are no wooden buildings.
6. There are nine alarm-bells which give warning of fires. The tele
graph is not used; the telephone is.
7. The number of fires in brick and stone buildings for the year 1890
was 13.
9. The total value of the property involved by fires in 1890 was
$50,000; mostly small buildings.
10. Total loss, $5,000.
12. Total insurance loss, $4,500.
13. About one-half the fires were confined to floors on which they
originated.
15. One-third of the fires extended to adjoining property.
16. No conflagrations extended beyond adjoining property.
17. The fire department consists of 6 small engines, 2 of which are
only 6 feet long by 4 feet wide, and the other 4 are small, crude ma
chines, 2 bars, made in London, such as were used in the United States
folly fifty years ago. There are several small hose-carts, and every
thing connected with the department is of the most primitive and crude
character. The hose is good. There is 1 chief and 2 assistants, a
storekeeper and a mechanic, and 60 men, who are paid at the rate of
5 pesetas, or $1 per hour, for six hours; after that time 10 pesetas, or
$2 per hour. The chief gets 5,000 pesetas, or $1,000 per year, while his
assistants get 2,000 pesetas, or $400, per annum. The storekeeper re
ceives 600 pesetas, or $120, per year, while the mechanic who keeps the
machinery in order receives $182 yearly; and these constitute the fire
department of Malaga.
The chief must be a first-class architect. The present officer, Manuel
Eivera Valentin, was at school studying his profession (that of an
architect) for seven years, and he is the architect of the city of Malaga
and by law the chief of the fire department. No man who is not an
architect can be chief of the department. His assistants must be
architects and practical house builders, and every man of the force is
either a carpenter or a mason; so that when a fire occurs these practi
cal men know what to do when they enter a building. No one can be
long to the fire department who does not possess these qualifications,
and they are obliged to pass a strict examination to get on the force.
The chief has in his office the names and number of residences of his
90
men, and when an alarm of fire is given by the bells in the district in
which the fire is, he telephones each man, and in twenty minutes they
are all on the ground. It seems to me that these facts are of great
importance to the insurance companies of the United States, as they
demonstrate an advanced movement towards the perfection of fire
companies and the lessening of the loss by fire in great cities j for if an
architect, who knows the construction of buildings, can only be chief,
and his assistants must be practical builders, and the men on the force
must be masons and joiners, it follows that when they enter a burning
building they know just how and the most effective way to get to the
fire, and hence time is gained, the fire is suppressed, and a great
amount of insurance money is saved.
Of course, the mode of building in this city has much to do with pre
venting the spread of the flames. Here all is brick and stone and
iron, and special care is taken to have the walls between one building
and another very thick and very strong, so that a fire can not spread
to an adjoining building. The rafters and supports are of iron, the
floors are of marble, the partition walls are of fire-brick and mortar,
but the window-casings and doors are of wood; so that when a building
burns it is generally gutted from bottom to top, leaving solid walls
standing and not creating much loss. The fact that Malaga, with a
population of 135,000 inhabitants, lost only $5,000 by fires in 1890 will
no doubt astonish our American people, but the information is gleaned
from the chief of the department himself, who ought to know, and who
has no motive to misrepresent the facts. Horses are hired to draw the
engines when necessary (are never kept), and the whole cost of the
department in 1890, for sick men, medicine, and other expenses, inde
pendent of the salary of the officers and the men, did not exceed $1,000.
Perhaps I ought to say that in case a man is injured while in the dis
charge of his duty or is taken sick growing out of his efforts at a firehe is paid 3 pesetas, or 60 cents, per day, with medicine and the services
of the doctor included. If he dies, he is buried at the expense of the
department and his widow gets $250. The officers, if sick or injured,
get 3 pesetas per day, or 70 cents, and a larger sum is given the
widows. At fires the chief has no authority to press citizens into the
service, but he has authority to command the soldiers in the city to
help him and also the men on board of a Spanish ship of war. The sol
diers and the civil guards not only assist at the fire, but surround the
building and let no one approach it without permission. The men
wear no uniforms, only a strong strap is tied about the waist, so that in
case of danger a fellow-fireman can attach a hook to this strap and pull
him out. The chief and his assistants wear caps, so they may be known.
Everything is very simple and very inexpensive.
18. The system of water for fire purposes is good. There is a large
bulkhead some distance off and the pressure is 34 meters to the square
inch. When a fire occurs the hose is attached to the hydrant and the
91
water is thrown four and five stories higli, or at least 200 to 250 feet in
height. When afire takes place where there are no hydrants, then the
engines are called into requisition and draw their water from wells and
other sources.
19. When a suspected incendiary is caught he is tried by the jndge
of the superior court, and if found guilty is sentenced to five and six
years imprisonment. If a human life is sacrificed in the fire, he is im
prisoned for life.
20. In view of the strict law on the point of incendiarism there are
but few cases where incendiary fires occur.
21. All kinds of fireworks and explosives are stored outside of the
limits of the city. Shops authorized to sell these articles do so under
strict limitations as the law provides.
22. There is no law regulating building construction, heating, light
ing, etc. All is under the control of the architect of the city, who is
also chief engineer of the fire department, and of course his whole am
bition is to so construct buildings so as to avoid destruction by fire
and to reflect credit upon his efforts as chief engineer, and hence the
beauty and efficacy of this system. It is one which ought to commend
itself to the serious consideration of not only insurance companies, but
to cities in the United States that are now obliged to support enor
mously expensive fire departments.
T. M. N e w s o n ,
Consul,
Malaga, January 26, 1892.
SW EDEN.
GOTHENBURG.
REPORT B Y CONSUL SHEPARD.
1. Place, city of Gothenburg.

4. Number of brick and stone buildings, 1,397.
6. Number of fire alarms, 128.
7. Fires in brick or stone buildings, 40.
8. Fires in frame buildings, 25.
9. Value of property involved, not known.
10. Total loss thereon, not known.
11. Total insurance thereon, $1,262,201.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, $15,148.
92
13. Number of fires confined to floor of origin, 57.

14. Number of fires confined to building of origin, 8.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining buildings, 1.
17. Department consists of 70 men, 3 steam fire engines, 13 hand en
gines, and 3 fire escapes.
18. Water supply is by gravitation from a lake 235 feet above city
level, giving good hydrant service.
*
19. Police and detective service, as for other crimes, is given to inves
tigation of suspected incendiarism.
20. No incendary fires this year.
Ch a r l e s H . Sh e p a r d ,
Consul.
Gothenbury, May 24,1892.
S W IT Z E R L A N D .
BERNE.
REPORT B T VIOE-CONSUL GENERAL HINNEN.
1. Name of city, Berne.

2. Population, according to census, 1888, 47,151 inhabitants.
3. Area of city limits, with suburbs, 3,128.64 hectares j* without sub
urbs, 82.12 hectares.
4 and 5. No correct statement can be made in regard to these questions
for want of the necessary material, but it may be said that from the
1,521 insured houses mentioned in the town directory, 200, almost pub
lic buildings, are of stone, and the larger part of the remaining have
at least stone fronts, with partition walls of stone; whilst in the sub
urbs the frame buildings are prevailing, but no pure wooden buildings
can be found.
9. The total insurance of these houses in which in 1890 fire broke out,
amounted to 2,194,500 francs.
11. The total damage on these houses, 94,093 francs. The amount of
damages on movable property or household goods can not be given,
as only such calculations are made from the authority by incendiarism
or careless causes of fires.
11. The insurance is obligatory in the canton of Berne, and the amount
corresponds with the total amount stated in question 9.
* Hectare equals 12,000 square yards or 21.47 acres.
93
12. Prom the same reasons the insurance loss corresponds with the
amount stated in answer 10.
16. Number of conflagrations, i. e.} fires extending beyond adjoining
property, none.
17. The fire department forms a division of the city police direction,
and has a division chief as commander.
18. The city of Berne has a pipe system, with high pressure, from 5
to 13 atmospheres, according to the higher or lower location of the city.
J o h n E. H in n e n ,
Vice- Consul- General.

Berne, February 9, 1892,
HORGEN.
REPORT B Y CONSUL ADAMS.*
1. Name of place, Horgen. The following statistics cover the whole

township, which is included in a single fire department.
3. Area of township limits, not known.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings not known, as the materials
of construction are not of official record.
Generally all residences are built of brick or stone, often with wooden
beams let into the walls as braces. Barns and outhouses are ofbener
of wood. Nearly all buildings are roofed with tiles or slates; rarely
with shingles or planking.
5. Number of wooden buildings, not known. Whole number of
buildings of all sorts, 1,200.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, none.
There have been no fires of any kind in the township for several
years, so that questions 8 to 16 must be answered in the negative.
17. The fire department consists of the whole ablebodied male popu
lation of the township between the ages of 17 and 55, excepting the
clergy and post-office, railway, and steamboat employs. It is organized
as follows :
(a)
The Oberfeuercommando, or staff, including 1 chief with 4 ad
jutants, 3 local chiefs for the smaller villages of the township, 2
*Year 1891.
94
superintendents of material, 2 surgeons, 3 mounted orderlies, 1 torchbearer for night service, and 2 bell-ringers for alarms.
(b) The Kettungskorps, or life and property saving corps. As the
most dangerous service falls to this body, it is composed of volunteers,
but in case of necessity is filled by conscription, as the other corps are.
It is governed by its own statutes, subject to the approval of the fire
commission and the town council.
(c) The Hydrantenkorps, for service at the reservoirs, hydrants, and
other sources of the water supply.
(d) The Spritzenkorps, for service with the engines and hose carts.
(e) The Floclinerkorps, for removal of property from burning or en
dangered buildings.
() The Hacken- und Leiternkorps, or hook and ladder corps.
(g) The Wassertragerkorps, or water-carriers.
(h) Yerordnete zu Schwelladen und Wassersammlern, persons dele
gated to dam the brooks in the vicinity of a fire or to arrest the flow
from reservoirs.
(i) Arbeiterkorps, or corps of workmen, masons, carpenters, chimney
sweepers, etc., with their tools, for any work of construction or demoli
tion required at a fire.
(&) Wachekorps, corps of watchmen, including an armed section for
police duty at the fire, and when necessary for preserving order in the
township during the fire.
(I)
Ailarmmannsohaft und Feuerboten, drummers, trumpeters, and
mounted messengers, to give the alarm in case of fire.
Each of the corps has its own staff of officers, its uniform or dis
tinctive insignia, and its station and duty assigned during a fire. It
meets at certain times for practice, and the whole department meets in
the village of Horgen at least once a year for inspection and drill.
18. The villages are all abundantly supplied with water, brought in
pipes from the neighboring hills and distributed in hydrants. Reser
voirs are also formed by damming the brooks, either permanently or by
temporary planking, on occasion of fire. The capacity of the supply is
not known. When accessible the lake (Zurich) is resorted to for
water.
19. The duty of investigating the causes of fire and providing for pros
ecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime devolves upon
the Statthcalter, or prefect, of the township.
L y e l l T. A d a m s ,
Consul.
Horgen, February 23,1892.
95
TURKEY.
C O N S T A N T IN O P L E .
REPORT B Y YIGE-GOXSIJL GENARAL ALBERT.
1. Name of city, Constantinople.

2. The population of city and suburbs, 1,000,000. The last official
census, which was taken in 1888-89, gave the number at 850,000, but
this is believed much less than the real number of inhabitants.
3. The city is divided into two separate towns, viz : Stamboul, com
prising the ancient city of Constantinople and Byzantium, and the
town of Pera and Galata, and is surrounded by many beautiful suburbs
and summer resorts. All these suburbs, being within the area of the
city limits, extend more than 8 or 10 miles in each direction.
4. 5. Most of the buildings in Stamboul and the suburbs are
wooden; those in Pera and Galata are stone and brick. Their number
is unknown.
6. No fire alarms exist here, as in the United States. There is a
fire-cannon station on a mountain in the Bosphorus, and cannon shots
are fired from same whenever there is any fire. Immediately signals are
put up on the two towers in Stamboul and Galata, being red balls dur
ing the day and lanterns at night, and fire-runners are dispatched from
those towers to the barracks of the three fire brigades. This system,
of course, causes much delay before any help can arrive in time to the
spot of the fire.
7, 8. There were 101 fires in 1889,155 in 1890, and 141 in 1891; 77
stone buildings were burned in 1889,140 in 1890, and 87 in 1891; 474
wooden buildings were burned in 1889, 948 in 1890, and 571 in 1891.
9 , 10, 11. Only one-half of the buildings are insured. No statistics
as to losses by fire or as to value of property involved.
12. Total insurance loss, $213,100.80, during the year 1891.
13,14. There were 89 small fires in 1889,128 in 1890, and 123 in 1891.
16. There were 12 conflagrations in 1889, 27 in 1890, and 18 in 1891;
besides these, 4 mills, 2 large wood depots or stores, 6 brick factories,
and 10 apartments have been destroyed by fire.
17. The fire department consists of three regular fire brigades and of
many other private fire companies and firemen, called wild, owing to
their wild way of vociferating and running. The regular fire brigades
are under the command of Count Szecheny, a Hungarian, who was for
merly at the head of the fire department in Buda Pesth, and came to
Constantinople in 1875, for the purpose of organizing the fire depart
ment. Each brigade is composed of 400 men.
18. The Constantinople Water Works Company supplies the city
with several hydrants, but they are quite weak in their supply, as the
96
reservoir is not sufficiently high and can not consequently exert much
pressure.
19. The proper investigation as to the cause of the fires is conducted
under the Turkish law, before the local correctional tribunals of first
instance; but usually, insurance agents investigate the causes of fire
themselves, and regulate their losses before the official investigation
takes place.
20. About one half the fires are of incendiary origin.
21. Petroleum is stored outside of the city, on the Bosphorus, in a gen
eral depot under the surveillance of the Government officials, and only
twenty cases of petroleum are allowed to dealers to keep in their shops
or stores. Gunpowder and other explosives are prohibited within the
city, but the regulation in this respect is constantly infringed.
22. There is no special law in the matter, except the law published in
the Ottoman legislation.
W
m.
A lbert,
Vice- Consul- General.

Constantinople, January 14, 1892.
T H E UNITED KINGDOM.
BELFAST.
RERORT* B T CONSUL RUBT.
1. Name of city, Belfast, Ireland.

4. 5. The total number of buildings is estimated at from 50,000
to 55,000; of these at least 95 per cent are brick. There are very few
stone buildings, and the only wooden buildings are a few old sheds in
the outlying districts.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings: Brick, 47; stone, 1.
9. Total value of property involved in fires not known.
10. Total loss not known.
11. Total insurance, 425,692.
12. Total insurance loss not known.
13. Number of fires confined to the floor on which they originated, 32.
14. Number of fires confined to building on which they originated, 49.
16. Number of conflagrations, fires extending beyond adjoining prop
erty, none.
# Year 1890.
m fo reig n co u n tries .
97
17. Fir department: Head station, 1 superintendent, 1 deputy, and

29 men. Branch station, 1 foreman and 4 men.
18. A high-pressure water system is used for fires, and the supply is
practically unlimited.
19. When the officers of the brigade have reason of suspicion of cases
of incendiarism, they report the matter to the police, who put the law
officers of the crown in motion.
21. The law relating to manufacturing, keeping, and selling of gun
powder, nitroglycerin, and other explosive substances, is contained in
an act which came into operation on January 1,1876. The act pro
vides as follows :
(1) All stores and places for the manufacture and keeping of gun
powder must be licensed.
(2) All premises upon which gunpowder is kept must be registered,
and the registration must be renewed annually.
(3) No gunpowder is to be hawked, sold, or exposed for sale upon any
highway, street, public thoroughfare, or public place.
(4) The sale of gunpowder to any child apparently under the age of
13 is strictly prohibited.
The act applies to every description of explosive substances. Gen
eral powers of search and seizure are given to Government inspectors,
constables, and officers of the local authority, either with a warrant or
in cases of emergency without a warrant, by a written order from a
superintendent of police or other officer.
22. Copy of the law regulating building construction, etc., is inclosed
herewith.
S a m u e l G. E u b t ,
Consul.
Belfast, March 1, 1892.
BUILDING LAWS
of
BELFAST.
[Inclosure in Consul Bubys report.]
At a meeting of the council of the said city of Belfast, held in the council chamber,
within the said city, on Saturday, the 1st day of February, 1890, the said council
did, in pursuance of the Belfast improvement act, 1878, and the public health (Ire
land) act, 1878, duly make the following by-laws, that is to say:
(1) Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the walls of such
building to be properly bonded and solidly put together with good mortarcom
pounded of good lime or cement and clean, sharp sand ; or with good ground mortar
compounded of good lime and proper clean materials equal to clean, sharp sand.
(2) A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any wall thereof
o that any part of such wallnot being a projection intended solely for the purposes
of architectural ornament or a properly constructed corbelshall overhang any part
beneath it.
146 A----- 7
98
(3) Every person who shall erect a new building shall canse every wall of ncli
building which may be built at an angle with another wall of such building to be
properly bonded therewith.
(4) Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct every wall of
uch building so as to rest upon proper footings. He shall cause the projection at
the widest part of the footings of every wall, on each side of uch wall, to be at least
equal to one-half of the thickness of such wall at its base, unless an adjoining wall
interferes, in which case the projection may be omitted where that wall adjoins.
He shall also cause the diminution of the footings to be in regular offsets or in one
offset at the top of the footings, and he shall cause the height from the bottom of the
footings to the base of the wall to be at least equal to two-thirds of the thickness of
the wall at its base, where such wall is 13inches and upwards in thickness, and at
least 10 inches where such wall is less than IS} inches in thickness.
(5) Every person who shall erect a new building shall, in cases where the city sur
veyor shall deem necessary, cause sufficient longitudinal and transverse timber
sleepers to be placed underneath the footings of the walls mentioned in No. 4 by-law,
and if the city surveyor shall further deem necessary, such person shall place and
drive down under such sleepers sufficient piles.
(6) A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any foundation
of such building upon any site which shall have been filled up with any material
impregnated with fecal matter, or impregnated with any animal or vegetable matter,
or upon which any such matter may have been deposited, unless and until such
matter shall have been properly removed, by excavation or otherwise, from such site.
(7) Every person erecting a new building shall construct every external or party
wall of such building of such thickness and in accordance with such requirements
as are specified in the tables and statement of rules hereunder appended.
T a b l e s a n d S t a t e m e n t o f R u l e s R e f e r r e d t o i n t h e F o r e g o in g B y - l a w .
PRELIMINARY.
The thickness of every wall as hereinafter determined shall be the minimum

thickness.
The height of every topmost story shall be measured from the level of its floor up
to the under side of the tie of the roof, or up to half the vertical half of the rafters,
when the roof has no tie ; and the height of every other story shall be measured from
the level of the floor thereof up to the level of the floor of the story next above it.
P a r t l . R u l e s f o r t h e W a l l s o f D w e l l in g H o u s e s .
The external and party walls of dwelling houses shall be made throughout the dif
ferent stories of the thickness shown in the following table, and if built of bricks,
such bricks shall be not less than 9 inches in length, the heighth of the stories being
subject to the conditions hereinafter given :
T a b le
Height in stories.
I.
External walls.
Ground floor to second floor, 18 inches'

Second floor to uppermost floor, 13
inches.
Remainder, 9 inches...........................
Ground floor to first floor, 13 inches ?
From to 5 stories. Remainder,
9 inches........................... J
From 2 to 3stories.. 9 inches................. .................................
Not exceeding 2 sto inches....... ..........................................
ries.
Above 5 stories....... |
Party walls.
Ground floor to uppermost floor, 13

inches.
Remainder, 9 inches.
9 inches.
9 inches.
9 inches, except in such oases as the
party wall shall contain piers or
chimney breasts, properly distribu
ted, ana in those cases 4inches.
99
In using the above tal)l the number of stories is placed in the vertical column on
the left hand of the table. Tlie thickness of the wall in each story is given in inches,
and begins with the wall from the ground floor upwards.
If any party wall exceeds 9 inches in thickness in tho above table, such additional
thickiicss may be confined to piers or chimney breasts properly distributed, of
which the collected widths amount to one-third of the length of such party wall.
If any story exceeds in height sixteen times the thickness prescribed for the walls
of such story in the above table, the thickness of each external and party wall through
out such story shall be increased to at least one-sixteenth part of the height of the
story ; but any such additional thickness may be confined to piers properly distrib
uted, of which the collective widths amount to one-fourth part of the length of the
wall.
If any party wall described in the above table to be 4inches in thickness extend
for a distance of 23 feet or more without a cross wall being bonded into it within
the limits of such distance, the thickness of such external or party wall shall be at
least 9 inches.
The thickness of any wall of a dwelling house, if built of materials other than
bricks, shall be deemed to be sufficient if made of the thickness required by the
above table, with this exception, that in the case of walls built of stone the thick
ness shall in no case be less than 18 inches.
All buildings, excepting public buildings and such buildings as are hereinafter
defined to be buildings of tho warehouse class, shall, as respects the thickness of
their walls, be subject to the rules given for dwelling houses.
Part
II.R u l e s
fob
the
alls of
B u il d in g s
of
the
areh o u se
Class.
The external end party walls of all warehouses, manufactories* breweries, distilleries,
and public buildings shall at the base be made of the thickness shown in the follow
ing table, calculating the walls up to 60 feet in height, and supposed to be built of
bricks not less than 8inches and not more than 9 inches in length.
The height of every external and party wall shall be measured from the base of
the wall to the level of the top of the topmost story.
Walls are deemed to be divided into distinct lengths by return walls, and the
length of every wall is measured from the center of one return wall to the center of
another, provided that such return walls are external party or cross walls of the
thickness hereinafter required, and bonded into the walls so deemed to be divided.
Table
I.
Length up
Height np to
35 feet;
60 fe e t .. . . . . . .
40 feet;
50 ft-...........
30
feet;
40 f t.. . . . . . .
45 feet ;
30 ft . . . . . . .
25 fe e t..............
n.
II.
m.
IY .
L ength up t o
to
Length unlim ited
50 feet; base. 22 inches
base, 18 inches.
Base, 27 inches.
base, 18 inches.
70 feet; base, 22 inches
Base, 27 inches.
Bao, 2J.\ inches.
60 feet; base, 18 inches.
base, 13 inches
base, 13 inches
Base, 18~inches.
Base, 13 inches.
If any external or party wall, measured from center to center, is not more than 25
feet distant from any other external or party wall to which it is tied by the beams
of any floor or floors, other than the ground floor, or the floor of any story formed
in the roof, the length of such wall is not to be taken into consideration, and the
thickness of the wall will be found in the second vertical column in the above
table.
The thickness of the walls of buildings of the warehouse class at the top, and for
16 feet below the top wall plates, shall be 13 inches, and tho intermediate parts of
the wall between the base and such 16 feet below the top shall be built solid through-
100
ont the space between straight lines drawn on each side of the wall, and joining
the thickness at tho base to the thickness at 16 feet below the top, as above deter
mined ; nevertheless, in walls not exceeding 30 feet in height, the walls of the topmost
tory may be 9 inches thick.
If in any story of a building of the warehouse class the thickness of the wall, as
determined by the rules hereinbefore given, is less than one-fourteenth part of the
height of such story,the thickness of the wall shall be increased to one-fourteenth part
of the height of the story; but any such additional thickness may be confined to piers
properly distributed* of which the collective widths amount to one-fourth of the
length of the wall.
Notwithstanding the required thicknesses of external and party walls prescribed
in the above table, where the city surveyor shall allow, such walls may be reduced
in thickness to permit of panelling or architectural adornment, provided always that
the average sectional are of such walls shall equal or exceed the sectional area of
the walls required by adherence to the thickness prescribed in the above table.
The thickness of any wall of a building of the warehouse class, if built of mate
rials other than such bricks as aforesaid, shall be deemed to be sufficient if made of
the thickness required by the above table, with this exception, that in the case of
walls built of stone, the thickness shall be increased to one-third greater than that
prescribed, but in no case shall they be less than 18 inches in thickness.
(8) Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every wall of such
building to have a proper damp course of asphalt, or slates laid in cement, or of
other durable material impervious to moisture, beneath the level of the lowest timber, and at a height of not less than 3 inches above the surface of the ground
adjoining such wall.
(9) Every person who shall erect a new building and shall leave, in any story or
stories of such building, an extent of opening in any external wall, which shall be
greater than the one-half of the whole extent of the vertical face or elevation of the
wall or walls of the story in which the opening is left, shall construct :
() Sufficient piers of brickwork, or other sufficient supports of incombustible
material, so disposed as to carry the superstructure ; and,
(b) A sufficient pier or piers, or other sufficient supports of that description, at
the comer or angle of any street on which the buildings abut; or,
(c) Such a pier, or other support, in each wall within 3 feet of the comer or angle
of the street.
(10) A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any party wall
of such building so that any opening shall be made or left in such wall, except such
opening shall be protected by a proper fireproof iron door or doors, and shall cause
such party wall to be carried up for its entire length to the slates, or other roofing
of such building, and in such cases as the improvement committee of the council
ahall TiinTr desirable above the roof to such height as they shall determine.
(11) Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every wall of such
building, when carried up above any roof, flat, or gutter, so as to form a parapet,
to be properly coped, and otherwise protected, in order to prevent water from run
ning down the sides of such parapet, or soaking into any wall.
(12) A person who shall erect a new building shall not place the end of any breatsummer or beam in any party-wall of such building, unless the end of such breastsummer, or beam, be, at least, 4inches distant from the other side of such party
wall.
(13) Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every breastsummer
to have a bearing in the direction of its length of 4 inches at least at each end, on
a sufficient pier of brick or stone, or on a story post of timber or iron fixed on a
solid foundation in addition to its bearing on any party wall ; and he shall also, if
required by the city surveyor, cause such breastsnmmor to have such other story posts,
iron columns, stanchions, or piers of brick or stone on a solid foundation under the
same a may be sufficient to carry the superstructure.
101
(14) Every person who sh all eroct a now building shall, except in such case as is
hereinafter provided, cano every chimney of such building to be built on solid foun
dations and with footings similar to the footings of the wall against which such
chimney is built, and to be properly bonded into such wall; provided, nevertheless,
that such person may cause any cliimcey of such building to be built on sufficient
corbels of brick, stone, or other hard and incombustible materials, if the work so
corbelled out does not project from the wall more than the thickness of the wall
measured immediately below the corbel.
(15) Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the jambs of every
chimney of such building to be at least 9 inches wide on each side of the opening of
such chimney.
(16) Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the breast of every
chimney of such building, and the brickwork, or stonework surrounding every smoke
flue of such building, to be at least 4 inches in thickness.
(17) Every person who shall erect anew building shall cause every chimney shaft
or smoke-flue of such Duilding to be carried up in brickwork or stonework all around
at least 4inches thick to a height of not less than 3 feet above the roof, flat, or
gutter adjoining thereto, measured at the highest point in the line of junction with
such roof, flat, or gutter.
(18) A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any chimney or
flue of such building so a to make or leave in such chimuey or flue any opening for
the insertion of any ventilating valve, or for any other purpose, unless such open
ing be at least 9 inches distant from any timber or other combustible substance.
(19) A person who shall erect a new building shall not fix in such building any
pipe for the purpose of conveying smoke or other products of combustion, unless
such pipe be fixed at a distance of 9 inches at the least from any combustible sub
stance.
(20) Every person who shall erect a new dwelling house shall so construct every
room which shall be situated in the lowest story of such building and shall be pro
vided with a boarded floor, that there shall be for the purpose of ventilation between
the under side of every joist on which such floor may be laid, and the upper surface
of the asphalt, concrete, or hard dry material with which the ground or surface
site of such building may be covered, a clear space of 3 inches at the least in
every part, and he shall cause such space to be thoroughly ventilated by means of
suitable and sufficient air bricks, or by some other effectual method, except where
each joists rest on, and are partly covered by asphalt or concrete at least l inches
in thickness.
(21) Every person who shall erect a new dwelling house shall cause every habit
able room of such house to be provided with special and adequate means of ventila
tion by a sufficient aperture or air-shaft which shall provide an unobstructed sec
tional area of 50 square inches at the least.
(22) A person who shall erect a new dwelling shall not construct any drain there
of so a to pas under any building, except in any case where any other mode of
construction may be impracticable, and he shall have obtained the sanction of the
city surveyor therefor, and in that case he shall cause such drain to be so laid in
the ground that there shall be a distance equal at the least to the full diameter
thereof between the top of such drain at its highest point and the surface of the
ground under such building, such distance being not less in any case than 12 inches.
He shall also cause such drain to be laid in a direct line for the whole distance
beneath such building, and to be completely embedded in and covered with good
and solid concrete at least 6 inches thick all around.
He shall likewise cause adequate means of ventilation to be provided in connec
tion with uch drain.
He shall cause every inlet to every drain, not being an inlet provided a an open
ing for the ventilation of each drain, to be properly trapped.
102
(23) Every person who shall erect a new building shall provide, within the curti
lage thereof, in every main drain or other drain of such building which may directly
communicate with any sewer or other means of drainage into which such drain may
lawfully empty, a suitable disconnecting trap, at a point as distant as may be prac
ticable from such building and as near as may be practicable to the point at which
such drain may be connected with the sewer or other means of drainage.
(24) A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any drain of
such building in such manner a to allow any inlet to such drain (except such inlet
as may be necessary from the apparatus of any water-closet) to be made within such
building.
He shall cause the soil pipe from every water-closet in such building to be at least
4 inches in diameter, and to be fixed outside such building, and to be continued
upwards without diminution of its diameter, and (except where unavoidable) with
out any bend or angle being formed in such soil pipe, to such a height and in such
a position as to afford, by means of the open end of such soil pipe, a safe outlet for
ewer air.
He shall so construct such soil pipe that there shall not be any trap between such
soil pipe and the drains or any trap (other than such as may necessarily form part
of the apparatus of any water-closet) in any part of such soil pipe.
He shall also cause the waste-pipe from every bath, sink (not being a slop-sink
constructed or adapted to be used for receiving any solid or liquid filth), or lavatory,
the overflow pipe from any cistern and from every safe under any bath or watercloset, and from every pipe in such building for carrying off waste water, to be
taken through an external wall of such building, and to discharge in the open air
over a channel leading to a trapped gully grating at least 18 inches distant.
He shall, as regards the mode of construction of the waste-pipe from any slop-sink
constructed or adapted to be used for receiving within such building any solid or
liquid filth, comply in all respects with such of the provisions of this by-law a are
applicable to the soil pipe from a water-closet.
(25) Every person who shall construct a water-closet in a building shall construct
such water-closet in such a position that one of its sides at the least shall be an ex
ternal wall.
(26) Every person who shall construct a water-closet in connection with a build
ing, whether the situation of such water-closet be or be not within such building,
hall construct in one of the walls or ceiling of such water-closet a window, fanlight,
or skylight, made to open, of not less dimensions than 2 feet by 1 foot exclusive of
the frame, and opening directly into the external air.
(27) Every person who shall construct a water-closet in connection with a building
or within such building shall furnish such water-closet with a separate cistern (suffi
cient to contain not less than 2 gallons) or service box or flushing box of adequate
capacity, which shall be so constructed, fitted, and placed as to admit of the supply
of water for use in uch water-closet without any direct connection between any
service pipe upon the premises and any part of the apparatus of such water-closet,
other than such cistern, service box, or flushing box.
He shall furnish such water-closet with a suitable apparatus for the effectual ap
plication of water to the receptacle with which such apparatus may be connected
and used, and for the effectual flushing and cleansing of such receptacle, and for the
prompt and effectual removal therefrom of any solid or liquid filth which may from
time to time be deposited therein.
He shall famish such water-closet with a basin or other suitable receptacle of nonabsorbent material, and of such shape, of such capacity, and of such mode of con
struction as to receive and contain a sufficient quantity of water, and to allow all
filth which may from time to time be deposited in such basin or receptacle to fall
free of the sides thereof, and directly into the water received and contained in such
basin or receptacle.
103
(28) Every person, who shall construct a privy or ashpit attached to & privy in
connection with a building shall construct such privy or ashpit at a distance of 4
feet, at the least, from a dwelling house or public building, or any building in which
any person may be, or may be intended to be, employed in any manufacture, trade, or
business.
(29) A person who shall construct a privy or ashpit attached to a privy in connec
tion with a building shall not construct such privy or ashpit within the distance of
5 feet from any water supplied for use, or used, or likely to be used, by man for drink
ing or domestic purposes, or for manufacturing drinks for the use of man, or other
wise in such a position as to endanger the pollution of any such water.
(30) Every person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building shall
construct such privy in such a manner and in such a position as to afford ready means
of access to such privy for the purpose of cleansing such privy and of removing filth
therefrom, and in such a manner and in such a position as to admit of all filth being
removed from such privy, and from the premises to which such privy may belong,
without being carried through any dwelling house or public building, or any build
ing in which any person may be, or may be intended to be, employed in any manu
facture, trade, or business.
(31) Every person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building shall
cause the floor of such privy to be flagged or paved with hard tiles, or other non
absorbent material, and he shall construct such floor so that it shall be in every part
thereof at a height of not less than 6 inches above the level of the surface of the
ground adjoining such privy, and so that such floor shall have a fall or inclination
towards the door of such privy of half an inch to the foot.
(32) Every person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building, and
shall construct such privy for use in combination with an ashpit or fixed receptacle
for filth, shall construct or fix in or in connection with such privy suitable means or
apparatus for the frequent and effectual application of ashes, dust, or dry refuse to
any filth which may from time to time be deposited in such receptacle.
He shall construct such ashpit or receptacle so that the same may be properly ven
tilated and covered over, and that the contents thereof may not at any time be ex
posed to any rainfall or the drainage of any waste water or liquid refuse from any
adjoining premises.
He shall also construct such ashpit or receptacle of such material or materials and
in such a manner as to prevent any absorption by any part of such receptacle of any
filth deposited therein, or any escape by leakage or otherwise, of any part of the con
tents of such receptacle.
(33) A person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building shall not
cause or suffer any part of the space under the seat of such privy, or any part of any
receptacle for filth in or in connection with such privy, to communicate with any
drain.
(34) Every person who shall construct an ashpit in connection with a building,
but not with a privy, shall, unless in such cases as the improvement committee b*.11
otherwise sanction, construct such ahpit at a distance of 2 feet, at the least, from a
dwelling house or public building, or any building in which any person may be, or
may be intended to be, employed in any manufacture, trade, or business.
(35) A person who shall construct an ashpit in connection with a building, but not
with a privy, shall not construct such ashpit within the distance of 3 feet from any
water supplied for use, or used, or likely to be used, by man for drinking or domestio
purposes, or for manufacturing drinks for the use of man, or otherwise in suoh a posi
tion a to endanger the pollution of any such water.
(36) Every person who shall construct an ashpit in connection with a building, but
not with a privy, shall construct such ashpit in sucli a manner and in such a posi
tion as to afford ready means of access to such ashpit for the purpose of cleansing
uch ashpit, and of removing the contents thereof, and, so far as may be practicable
104
in such a manner and in such a position as to admit of the contents of such ashpit
being removed therefrom, and from the premises to which such ashpit may belong^
without being carried through any dwelling house or public building, or any build
ing in which any person may be, or may be intended to be, employed in any manu
facture, trade, or business.
(37) Every person who shall construct an ashpit in connection with a building
shall construct such ashpit of a capacity not exceeding in any case 24 cubic feet, nor
less than 16 cubic feet.
(38) Every person who shall construct an ashpit in connection with a building
shall construct such ashpit of good brickwork, at least 9 inches thick.
He shall construct such ashpit so that the floor thereof shall be at a height of not
less than 3 inches above the surface of the ground adjoining such ashpit, and he shall
cause such floor to be properly flagged, asphalted, or otherwise rendered impervious
to moisture, and the inner faces of the walls to be lined with cement at least threequarters of an inch thick.
He shall also cause such wall as the city surveyor shall point out to be furnished
with an aperture at its lower portion communicating by a paved channel course with
the trapped grate in the adjacent yard.
He shall cause such ashpit to be properly roofed over and ventilated, and to be
furnished with a suitable door in such a position and so constructed and fitted as to
admit of the convenient removal of the contents of such ahpit, and to admit of
being securely closed and fastened for the effectual prevention of the escape of any of
the contents of such ashpit.
(39) A person who shall construct an ashpit in connection with a building shall
not cause or suffer any part of suoh ashpit to communicate with any drain.
(40) Every person who shall be permitted to construct a cesspool in connection
with a building, other than a tank for the reception of the liquid manure fr o m a
stable or byre shall not construct such cesspool within a distance of 100 feet from a
dwelling house or public building, or any building in which any person may be, or
may be intended to be, employed in any manufacture, trade, or business.
(41) A person who shall be permitted to construct a cesspool in connection with a
building, shall not construct such cesspool within the distance of 50 feet from any
water (other than water supplied by the Belfast city and district water commie*
ioners) supplied for use, or used,or likely to be used, by man for drinking or domes
tic purposes, or for manufacturing drinks for the use of man, or otherwise in suoh a
position as to endanger the pollution of any such water.
(42) Every person who shall be permitted to construct a cesspool in connection with
a building shall construct such cesspool in such a manner and in such a position a
to afford ready means of access to such cesspool for the purpose of cleansing such
cesspool, and of removing the contents thereof, and in such a manner and in such a
position as to admit of the contents of such cesspool being removed therefrom and
from the premises to which such cesspool may belong, without being carried through
any dwelling house or public building, or any building in which any personmay be,
or may be intended to be, employed in any manufacture, trade, or business.
(43) The word person shall include a corporation, whether aggregate or sole.
(44) Any person acting in contravention of any of the foregoing by-laws shall be
liable to forfeit and pay for each offense a penalty of not exceeding 40., and, in case
of a continuing offense, a further penalty of not exceeding 40. for each day after
written notice of the offense from the city surveyor.
(45) If any workman, laborer, servant, or other person employed in or about any
new work, willfully and without privity or consent of the owner or person causing
such work to be done, does anything in or about such work contrary to the provi
sions hereinbefore contained, he shall, for each such offense, incur a penalty of not
exceeding 40
*.
105
B R IS T O L .
REPORT B T CONSUL LATHROP.
1. Name of city, Bristol.

4. 5. All buildings are of brick or stone, but there is no record of the
number.
6. Number of alarms in 1890, 308; in 1891, 294.
7, 8. These fires were all in brick or stone buildings.
9 , 10,1 1 , 12. No statistics are preserved either by the municipality
or the insurance companies as to values, insurance, or loss.
13. In 1890,161 alarms were for chimney fires, 11 were false alarms,
118 are described as slight, and 13 as serious. In 1891,168 chimney,
10 false, 101 slight, 14 serious.
14,15,16. The classification is not followed here in such way as to
answer these three questions. It is the rarest exception, however, that
a fire extends to adjoining property and a conflagration is practically
unknown. A moist climate and well-constructed party walls, rather
than a highly efficient fire department, bring this about.
17. The fire department consists of the entire police force.
18. Unlimited water is supplied through the mains at considerable
pressure, and there is sufficient pressure to get an adequate force in
most parts of the city without the use of the steam fire-engine.
19. There is no provision of law for the investigation of the causes of
fire, and prosecutions for suspected incendiarism are conducted as or
dinary prosecutions.
20. There were no incendiary fires in Bristol in 1890 or in 1891.
21. All places where oils, explosives, and fireworks are sold must
be licensed and there are provisions as to the maximum amount that
may be stored.
22. A copy of municipal by-laws regulating building construction,
etc., is herewith inclosed j also, copies of the report of the watch com
mittee of the town council, 1890 and 1891.
L o r in A . L a t h r o p ,
Consul.
Bristolj March 11, 1892,
106

BRISTOL BUILDING RULES.
[Inclosure in Consul Lathrops report.]
Thickness o f external walls.
I f o f brickwork, or
partly brickwork and
partly freestone.
Class of building.
Height o f front from pavement

to top o f cornice and the ex
treme frontage.
sr?
.9 8
D ot............
Second class..
Third class---Fourth class..
Fifth class.......
s.i
11
it
3^
First class*-----
I f of rubble wall stone,

or partly rubble and
partly freestone, or
partly rubble, partly
brick, and partly
freestone.
5O
v
1
58
_Z
ac H
Oo
I Io Ig
|
.
S <
da ? !
J
Bricks' Bricks Bricks'

length. length. length. Ft. in. Ft. in. Ft. in.
2
20
2 4
About 5 squares, or 500 super
J
ficial feet on plan.

2
Under 5 squares........................ .
2
Exceeding 44 feet in height, or
2 4
20
?
27 feet in front, or 10 squares

on plan.
Not exceeding 44 feet in height,
*
and nDt exceeding 27 feet in
front, or 8 squares on plan.
N o t e x c e e d in g 36 fe e t in h eig h t,
1 10
i
and not exceeding 21 feet in
1 10
and of any frontage, or less
than 4 squares on plan.
16
16
16
20
20
16
16
16
16
16
16
* Every chapel or place o f worship, brewery, distillery, manufactory, or warehouse of whatever height
or extent o f frontage.
Every dwelling-house or other building, including all fence walls connected with or adjoining the
107
BRISTOL BUILDING RULESContinued.
[Inclosure in Consul Lathrop report.]
Thickness o f party walls.
I f o f brickwork, or
partly brick work and
partly freestone.
Cla of building.
Height of front from pavement

to top of cornice and the ex
treme frontage.
5
8
l l&
3
First class*...
Dot.......
Second class.
Third class...
Fourth class.
Fifth class-----
About 5 squares, or 500 super

ficial feet on plan.
Under 5 squares........................ .
Exceeding 44 feet in height, or
27 feet in front, or 10 squares
on plan.
Not exceeding 32 feet in height.,
and not exceeding 15 fet*t in
and o f any frontage, or less
than 4 squares on plan.
c.
go
S2
*
~oS00
II
111
ce fl p< * i
"5
S ch
S
u S *f
bf>
o
o j o
o
I f o f rubble wall stone,

or partlv rubble and
partly freestone, or
partly rubble, partly
brick, and partly
freestone.
n*~
li
s.a
t>
sS
a fi.
s-S H
^3o
oS
Isa s is
**-5 Pi
I11
Bricks' Bricks' Bricks'

length. length. length. Ft. in. F t in.
2
2
2 4
2 0
1
g
>S
l t
f
ill
Ft. in.
2 4
20
1
1
16
20
1 0
1 10
18
1 10
1 6
i*
s*
20
1 0
* Every chapel or place o f worship, brewery, distillery, manufactory, or warehouse of whatever height
r extent o f frontage.
Every dwelling-house or othex building, including all fence walls connected with or adjoining the
108
D U B L IN .
REPORT B T CONSUL RE ID .
1. Name of city, Dublin.

3. Area of city limits, 3,808 statute acres.
4. The number of inhabited houses, 25,980, are brick or stone.
5. About 50 small wooden offices in the cattle market.
6. Number of alarms, 346 in the year 1890.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings in 1890, 332.
8. Fires in wooden buildings in 1890,1.
9. * Total value of property involved by fires, 248,818 (ascertained).
10. Total loss thereon, 10,436.
11. Total insurance thereon, 324,454 (ascertained).
12. Total insurance loss thereon, 10,081.
13. Number of fires confined to floors on which they originated, 337.
344.
16. No conflagrations extending beyond adjoining property.
17. The fire brigade consists of 1 chief, 3 officers, 2 engineers, 3
drivers, and 38 firemen, with a sufficient supply of escapes, engines, and
other fire appliances. (For full details of the Dublin fire department
see Inclosure No. 1 to these answers, containing a full report thereon
presented to the corporation of Dublin by Councillor J. J. OMeara,
solicitor, with a comparison of the provisions in several English and
Scotch towns.)
18. The water supply is constant and unlimited in quantity. The pres
sure is 60 pounds to the square inch, sufficient to reach the highest
house without the aid of a fire engine. Batmans hydrants affixed.
19. There are no inquests into the origin of fires, but the brigade
have so far as possible to ascertain the cause and report thereon.
Should cases of arson occur the police who are controlled by the impe
rial government intervene and prosecute under the criminal statutes.
20. One (pending) incendiary fire in 1890.
21. The markets committee of the corporation grant licenses for the
storage and sale of oils, etc. Upon the certificate of the inspector as to
the suitability of the premises the license is granted subject to the
observance of certain rules and regulations. (See inclosure No. 2 for
forms of application, certificates, license, and rules regulating retail and
wholesale dealers.)
* The answer to question 9 i not complete ; that is to say, the information avail
able does not give the value of all the property covered by insurance. The answer
i only approximately correct, therefore.
Referring to the answer to question 11 I have to ay that the amount named
covers the contente of the buildings insured as well a the buildings themselves.
109
22. The corporation have local acts dealing with building construc
tion under which they have formed certain by-laws to be observed by
the builders. (See inclosure No. 3 for copy of those by-laws.)
A. J. R e i d ,
Consul.
Un it e d S t a t e s C o n s u l a t e ,
Dublin, February 5 ,1892.
[Incloiar No. 1.]
FIRE DEPARTMENT AND BUILDING LAWS OF DUBLIN.

Report of J. J. OMeara, T. C., chairman waterworks committee, upon the provision
for protection of life and property from fire within the city; the organization of
the Dublin fire brigade; the defects therein; the remedies suggested, and state
ment of the appliances and acccommodation provided by the local authorities of
several large English and Scotch cities.
The recent fire in Westmoreland street, and the lamentable accident by which two
of our firemen lost their lives in endeavoring to save life, has so influenced the pub
lic mind, and made them anxious to ascertain the means provided by the corporation
for the effective prevention of damage from fire, and the means at hand for the rescue
of citizens from dangerous positions in the event of serious fires, indiiced Mr Harty
and myself to investigate, as far as possible, the condition of the brigade, and, in
accordance with the direction of the committee, sanctioned by the council, we visited
London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, for the pur
pose of inquiring into the brigades organized in these towns.
The committee will readily perceive that as the circumstances of fires are so vari
ous, it is all the more difficult for the brigade to act according to any prescribed
order. There is no possibility of the application of any means or method which re
quires lme, pre-arrangement or system as a condition of success. In dealing with
fires, we are dealing with uncertainties, both as to time and place. There is no ques
tion of doing a given amount of work which can be ascertained and provided for
beforehand. The work has to be done on the spur of the moment, and in any posi
tion that may be available. The large number of lives and the immense quantity
of property saved by the brigade, shows the promptness with which a trained body
of men can avail themselves of the means at their disposal, and successfully over
come serious conflagrations.
Our brigade has had a laudable reputation, and the frequent exhibitions of cour
age by its members have called forth renewed expressions of approval from the citi
zens. When we come, however, to examine the conditions under whieh these men
live, the manner in which they work, and the appliances at their command, we can
ascertain if their training, discipline, and management is perfect and their equip
ment satisfactory.
Previous to the passing of the fire brigade act of 1862, the corporation and the
insurance companies provided, in a small way, means for the extinguishing of fires;
but on the act coming into operation, the corporation acquired the plant of the in
surance companies, and thereupon immediately extended the provisions for the
preservation of property and safety of the public. Since 1862, however, the insur
ance companies have in no way contributed towards the expense of the maintenance
or equipment of the brigade, although they reap in the majority o f cases the imme
diate benefit derived from the efficient discharge by the brigade of its duties.
The municipal area is 3,808 statute acres. The population is 279,896, and the num
110
ber of hos within the Metropolitan police district is 49,184. The protection of
this large population is now intrusted to 47 men, and although the protection of the
city i their first concern, they are accustomed, in cases of emergency, on receiving
the sanction of the lord mayor, to extinguish fires in the surrounding townships,
and have often traveled for that purpose as far as Bray, with successful results. It
is manifest, therefore, that the responsibility devolving upon this small body of
men is great.
The force comprises 1 chief; 3 officers, viz, 1 lieutenant, 1 inspector, and 1 in
spector of escapes; 2 engineers; 3 drivers, and 38 firemen. The drivers and firemen
are divided into four classes. During probation, and for the first year of service, the
driver or fireman is placed in the fourth class, which entitles him to a weekly wage
of 21. After the first year of service he goes into the third class, which brings a
weekly wage of 23. After another year he goes into the second class, at a weekly
wage of 24., and after the third year into the first class, at a weekly wage of 25.
In recognition of signal acts of bravery on the part of any firemen in saving life, the
committee invariably grants a chevroneach of which carries l. a week increase in
the mans pay, no matter what class he may be in, and such is the high standard of
courage in the brigade that many of the men merited and received these rewards.
In addition to their weekly pay, each unmarried employ receives gratuitously
sleeping accommodation, etc., light, fire, and clothing; and each married employ
his domestic accommodation and clothing.
The engineers take charge of the engines. They are tradesmen, and receive, in
addition to their lodging accommodation and clothing, a weekly wage of about 32.
They take charge of the station with a fireman whilst the remainder of the force is
away at work on a fire. Should an alarm be received of a second outbreak, the en
gineer sends off the fireman to convey the intelligence to the officer in command at
the first fire, so that the strength of the force can be divided between the two.
The drivers are classified with the firemen, and devote their entire time to the
care, management, and driving of the horses and the cleanliness of the stables. The
stud consists of 8 horses, 5 in the central station at Clarendon row, and 3 in the fire en
gine station at Winetavem street. The horses are sound and in good form, and the
fact that the average cost of the keep of each animal last year, whilst maintaining
them in good condition, only amounted to 6. 4d. per week, reflects great credit
upon the economical management of the captain.
Each fireman when appointed obtains two suits of clothes, a helmet, two pairs of
top-boots, a hatchet, ax, belt, and hose key, and each year he gets an additional
suit of clothes. He is instructed in the use of the several fire-extinguishing and
life-saving appliance, and each man periodically goes through a certain drill, which
is altogether insufficient and in no way up to the complete system of drill practiced
in several important English towns.
THE CENTRAL STATION.
The central station is situated at Clarendon row. The approaches to it are nar
row, and consequently render it inconvenient for the rapid dispatch of the brigade
to the scene of a fire. The drivers must exercise caution and proceed at a compara
tively slow rate until they reach more open thoroughfares. It appears strange that
the architect who selected the site and designed the buildings did not provide the
essentials absolutely necessary for a chief station.
The courtyard faces Clarendon row, from which it is separated by an iron railing.
It is of small dimensions and inadequate for drill purposes. In London, Birming
ham, and Glasgow they have courtyards of ample size and secluded from the public
gaze for brigade practice.
Upon one side of the courtyard are situated the office and quarters of the chief, and
on the other side are situated the mens kitchen and pantry, and the telegraph, and
telephone room, in which day and night there is always a man on duty.
Ill
On the first floor there i what i called a smoke or day room for the men, but
which is utilized for storing lumber and harness ; a boots and clothes room; two
w. c.; and a heating-room with tove for drying the men clothes after a fire.
On the second floor there is a room of email dimensions, containing 6 beds; a labo
ratory containing 4 basins, 2 w. c., and a bathroom for the use of the men. In the
center opening onto the courtyard there is the engine and vehicle house, and adjoin
ing, the stables. Overhead there is the oats, fodder, and lumber room, and on the top
a bedroom running the breadth of the court, containing about 16 beds. The engine
house contains one steam engine and four other vehicles, and ranged on shelves are
the usual fire-extinguishing appliance and an ample upply of leather and canvas
hoe, . ., 2,400 feet of leather and 6,000 feet of Rob Roy canvas hoe.
The impression gathered from an inspection of the station is that in every respect
its dimensions are wholly inadequate for brigade purposes. This i more marked in
the accommodation provided for the men. For their number the bedroom are en
tirely too email, consequently, when fully occupied, the atmophere must be very
unhealthy. As treated of eleewhere, during the entire day, when the men are not
on active duty, there i no place for them to ret or recreate themeelve other than
the bedroom or kitchen. If a workshop was provided their minds and time would
be folly occupied and an opportunity afforded them of receiving eome technical and
practical intruction in the construction of the various appliances which they use
at firee. The utilization of the wasted energy of the men would also result in a sav
ing to the committee for repairs, painting, etc.
The enlargement of the station is a matter which mut engage the attention of
the committee, a it will not brook delay, and an excellent opportunity now existe
for doing so without any very considerable expense. The prime expenditure will, of
course, be for the purchase of ground; but at present, at the rear of the engine house,
there is a small square of one-storied tenements, which might be obtained at a reason
able figure, and which, in the interests of public health, it would be desirable to
level. Adjoining the quarters of the chief there is a row of houses, lately condemned
and closed by the public health committee, which would answer admirably for the
8ite of a workshop.
The inspectors residence is situated at the rear of the tation, with which it ha
no internal communication.
There are 23 men ationed at Clarendon row, and they are all unmarried.
WINETAVBRN-STRBKT STATION.
The married men, to the number of 22, attend duty at the Winetavem-street ta
tion. The men do not live on the premises, and practically the only portion used
for fire brigade purposes are the engine and appliance room, the stables, office, and
bunk room. The remainder i occupied the by deaning department.
This station is famished with 1 steam engine, 3 manual engines, 1 hoe carriage
hose jumper, hose reel, tool cart, 6 standpipes, 9 branch pipes, 6 hand pumps, 3,100
feet of leather hoe, and 2,855 feet of Rob Roy canvas hose, and other necessary appliances. There are 3 horses in the stable.
A very objectionable feature in this station i the manner in which the members
of the brigade are scattered. To be really effective and to enable them to afford
prompt assistance and protection to this portion of the city, their residences should
be concentrated at the station. At present they and their families occupy room in
the houses 11, 32, and 33 Winetavem street, and 5 and 6 Cook treet, and, hould an
alarm of fire be reoeived, men have to be dipatched to knock at each house and
eall put the remainder of the force. Much loss of time mut occur by this rather
primitive mode of procedure.
The manner in which the men are housed calls for remark. The corporation ha
always condemned the evil of crowded tenements, and ha endeavored to effect a
112
FIBE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
remedy by making sufficient air-space. In this respect, however, eome of their

own employs have been neglected. A large number of them have only one
room, although in several cases the number in family i large. In fact, there are
cae where ix in family existe in one room and eight in another. This i highly
objectionable, and should be remedied without delay. There i no drying provided
at the tation, so that men, if their clothes are wet when they return from extin
guishing a fire, have to get them dried in their solitary apartment; and again, al
though they may be in need of rest, possibly they can not obtain it, on account of
the presence of the young children in the room.
The course adopted in Birmingham, where the majority of the force are married,
i to allocate to each married fireman gratuitously a pantry, kitchen, and three bed
rooms, with the nee of wash-houses placed on the roof of the station. The single
men are allowed. 2. M. a week in lieu of apartments, but must lodge with the mar
ried. men, who generally sublet one of their apartments to a fireman. In Glasgow
the single men are allowed 2. a week if there is no sleeping accommodation for
them. They mut, however, also lodge with the married men, some of whom live
in the station, and others in the houses adjoining. All are, however, in electrical
communication with the central station. In Edinburg the force are all married,
and are allowed gratuitously two rooms in the houses adjoining the station. They
are also in communication with the offices. In Manchester the married men are al
lowed three bedrooms, kitchen, and pantry in the station, but 2. 6d. per week is
deducted out of their wages for the accommodation. The single men also lodge
with the married men. In London, also, most superior accommodation is provided
in the station for the men, both married and single. The single men, like oure,
sleep in dormitorie.
FIRE ESCAPE AND SUBSTATION.
Large tations, with aocumulation of appliances and concentrated forces of men,

will always be indipenable, for there can be no guarantee under any circumstances
against large fires.
Brit if large fires are to be less frequent in consequence of the construction of more
uniform and properly equipped structures, there must be an increase in the number
of places at which first aid in fire extinguishing can be procured. The necessity of
the times point to the multiplication of positions, where light, handy appliances are
kept, such as hand-pumps, hose-cart, life-lines, etc., and men at hand from whom
the peediet assistance can be obtained.
In this respect we are admirably provided for, and, if finanoial conditions would
admit of it, the facilities could be further extended.
The committee know that to make fire-escapes really efficacious, they should be
readily available when required, and for this purpose we have ub or fire-ecape sta
tions in several portions of the city, in addition to the chief stations at Clarendon
row and Winetavem street, so that means may be at hand to save life pending the
arrival of the brigade on the scene. Those stations are, Pauls Church, Catherines
Church, Bank of Ireland, Bolton treet, Georges Church, Kevin street, Kildare street,
Nelsons pillar, Wood quay, New Wapping street, and Cardiffs lane. Each station
is supplied with a fire-escape, with jumping sheets, 8 feet square, made of the beet
navy canvas, with sixteen hand-loop, also 70 feet life lines, and a firemans night
box. A fireman is in charge of each of these escape stations from 8 p. m. to 6 a. m.
during the months of May, June, July, and August, and the remaining months from
8 p. m. to 7 a. m. The night boxes appear to be too small for the convenience of the
men, and during the winter months should be provided with a small stove ; other
wise, if the weather is severe, the men would be in danger from exposure.
In consequence of the construction of the Loop Line Bailway, the northern and
southern line of quays and the streets adjacent were practically cut off from the serv
ice of escapes, a the latter could not be rolled under the railway arches -without
113
much manual labor, loss of time, and extreme difficulty. To obviate this, and afford
immediate protection to such districts, two new substations have been erectedone
in Cardiffs lane, commanding tho southern quays, and the other in Wapping street,
on the northern quays. Each station is provided with an escape, and a large and
ample wooden structure for the men in charge. Each i furnished with one hose-cart,
containing 240 feet of high-preure hose, one single-headed standpipe, with tap,
branch pipe, hand-pump, with 20 feet of hand-pump hose, two bucketsone galvan
ized and one canvas; a stove, trunk, and telephone. Two men are in constant at
tendance in each station during the night at the hours already mentioned a fixed
for attendance at the other fire-escape stations, and one man by day.
All the fire-escape and substations are in telephonic communication with the gen
eral post-office, Leinster House, Castle Yard (Metropolitan police office), the central
station at Clarendon row, and the fire-engine station at Winetavem street.
All the escapes are of the most improved telescopic pattern, and they appear as
good, if not superior, to any Mr. Harty and I have seen on our inspection.
A large number of the escapes used in London are of the fly-laddr pattern, which
is wholly unfit for working in narrow streets, and appears not as useful as the tele
scopic escape. Indeed, Capt. Shaw, C. B., chief of the London fire brigade, has such
a favorable opinion of the telescopic escape that he referred to it in our presence as
the escape of the fture, and has provided a large number, many with shoots.
Notwithstanding the strictures which appeared in a portion of the Dublin press,
the supply of escapes in my opinion is sufficient for the city of Dublin. At least
we are better provided in that respect than some of the towns we have visited,
where, from the importance and number of the buildings and the proximity of dan
gerous and inflammable concerns, one would think adequate provision should exist
for the preservation of life. In the important town of Glasgow at present there is
not one single fire escape, the only provision being common ladders, made to fasten
one to the other. In Birmingham they have one fly-ladder and twelve telescopic fire
escapes, but not of the Dublin pattern. They are smaller and are not provided with
the lattice girder and hand-rail throughout. In Manchester, for 1890, they had nine
teen escapesfly-ladder and telescopicbut the latter are small, consisting only of
two ladders. The boundaries of the borough have been recently considerably ex
tended, and a very large additional area has been thus placed under the charge of
the brigade.
In Liverpool they have the Dublin telescopic escape and in Edinburgh they have
only three telescopic escapes. With the exception of London and Glasgow, we did
not find the electric street alarm in use in any of the places we visited, neither did
there appear any inclination to advocate their use ; but in London and Glasgow they
are highly approved of. The patterns are various, but Mr. Harty has already reported
upon the subject very fully.
The fire brigades in the towns we have mentioned have, however, powerful auxil
iaries assisting them. In addition to the several fire-brigade substations scattered
throughout each town, they have the advantage of the assistance and cooperation of
the polioe in extinguishing fire. The police, except in a portion of London, are under
the control of the local authorities and receive in several places training as firemen.
The police stations thus answer the purpose of fire sub stations and are provided
with the necessary appliances for rendering first aid. Each policeman receives a
small gratuity for each fire he attends. In Birmingham they have nine such police
fire stations, five of which are provided with escapes and the rest with ladders, and
all with a supply of canvas hose, hand-pumps, stand pipes, buckets, and jumping
sheets, and in several instances an expert fireman is also in charge. In Manchester
there are twelve police fire stations, provided with seven fire-escapes and an adequate
supply of hose, stand pipes, hand-pumps, etc. In Glasgow they have always fortysix policemen trained as firemen on duty, and to whom 2. a week is paid out of the
fire brigade funds. In Liverpool all the policemen are firemen and vice versa, but
146A------ 8
114
about sixty are permanently engaged at fire business. From what we learned from
onr own observation, we would not like to see the Liverpool system at work in
Dublin.
The Dublin police and their officers, it is right to say, have upon all occasions ren
dered willing and valuable assistance to the fire brigade. Their duty is practically
confined to an important particular, and that keeping back the populace at the scene
of a fire, so that the brigade can have a clear field for work and can not be impeded.
Iu London, Liverpool, and Glasgow, there are salvage corps to assist the fire brig
ade, supported by the associated fire offices at a considerable annual expense. These
salvage corps are all trained men and are admirably equipped. The outlay of the
insurance companies upon the stations in Liverpool, we were informed, amounted to
about 20,000.
INSTRUCTION AND RECREATION OF FIREMEN.
The more a fireman can become acquainted with the scientific principles by which
fire exists and what it is the more will he be enabled to use the proper means to ren
der his work more efficient. Every member of a fire brigade can profitably study
the principles governing the components of fire, the effect of heat, air, and water on
the different materials used in the construction of buildings, the science of fire ex
tinguishment, the appliances used, and the saving of life and property. Knowledge
such as this will raise the tone and mental capacity of the men and make them more
proficient in their duty.
At present I find the men are mere machines. When they join they are instructed
in the exeroise of certain manual labor and in the manner in which the various
appliances are used. Here their knowledge in connection with fires ceases, and from
the internal arrangements of the stations no provision is afforded them for improving
themselves or of extending their education in this respect. When not on leave they
must be within the walls of the station, and if not on duty they mope about their
bedrooms, lumber room, or kitchen. These are not appropriate places where leisure
hours should be spent, if the principles of health are to be regarded. It is true a
day or smoke room is provided for them, but it is of little avail, as I found it locked
upon each occasion on which I visited the station. It is to be wondered at that re
strictions such as these and the absence of any means for profitable recreation do
not mentally depress the men and make them indifferent to duty. I would recom
mend that a library be provided in the central station, containing an adequate sup
ply of standard books and periodicals upon fire protection, fire appliances, etc., of
which the number published are many and various. I would also recommend the
provision of a billiard and smoke room, where the men can amuse themselves during
their leisure moments. I think also a small gymnasium should, if possible, be pro
vided, as, unless when extinguishing a fire, the duties of a fireman do not always
conduce to athletic efficiency; Station duty, escape duty, and telegraph duty are
purely sedentary and afford no opportunity for much bodily exertion.
Athletic exercises would harden their muscles and keep them in a fit condition to
encounter the stress and strain of work at fires, with a minimum of injury to their
constitution. If the committee occasionally gave a few small prizes for proficiency
in this respect it might act as an incentive to the men to practice, if their own incli
nations did not induce them to break the monotony of their station life.
In the majority of the towns we visited these provisions are in full working order
and appear to work well. Indeed, in London Capt. Shaw has endeavored, a far a
possible, to have provisions to make his men happy and take away the appearance
and effect of restraint within the walls of his stations. In Birmingham the library
and billiard-room is managed by a committee of the firemen.
A little instruction in the dressing and cure of bums, bruises, and such like acci
dents would be of much service.
115
QUALIFICATION OF FIREMEN.
The practice has hitherto been in Dublin to enrol among the brigade as firemen
those who have spent some time at sea. In fact it appears to be an essential condi
tion that the applicant for service should be a seaman.
In London, like Dublin, the men must be seamen; but Capt. Shaw goes further,
and in the majority of cases will only admit men who have, in their early days,
spent some period of apprenticeship and practice at some trade or handicraft. The
result is, in his force he has nearly every trade represented and at stated periods he
makes each man in his turn practice his particular trade. Workshops, smithies, etc.,
have been provided, and whilst each man is at his work therein he is paid a slightly
additional wage of 6d. per day. Whilst at work, however, they are liable at any
moment to be called away to attend a fire. In fact they have to perform the dual
duties of tradesman and fireman. The result is, the members of the brigade make
their own ladders, paint their own escapes, execute all manner of repairs, and thus
effect a large saving.
In Edinburgh and Manchester, in like manner, and in Birmingham, where trades
men only are enrolled as firemen, the men are similarly engaged when not on active
duty. The effect is, each man requires an intimate knowledge, not only with the
nature and use of fire-extinguishing and life-saving appliances, but also with their
construction and the utility of their component parts, a knowledge which will be
always useful and especially when engaged upon active duty.
DISCIPLINE.
For the guidance of the brigade a tolerably complete set of rules should be made
out, regulating all the working of the department. Those at present in force appear
to be imperfect and in no way specify the peculiar duties devolving upon each par
ticular member of the brigade, whether officer or fireman. Discipline can be en
forced, so that there is nothing to be lost, but everything to be gained, by having
the duties of each member specifically described, and not left in a great measure as
an uuwritten law. At present, on the occurrence of a fire, the officer in charge has
either to nominate different duties to each fireman present, which would entail the
loss of precious moments, or the firemen themselves have each instinctively to allo
cate to himself the performance of certain work. In the absence of a prearranged
system the latter course might lead to confusion, which would be only remedied by
the judicious commands of the officer in charge and their immediate performance.
Of course, as I stated before, the circumstances of fires are so various no prescribed
method can always be observed, but still I think some general instructions ought to
be given and laid down, by which each man might know what particular duty i
required from him immediately upon reaching the scene of the fire. Although the
instances are of very rare occurrence in which the committee have had occasion to
question the discretion of any of their employs, who throughout their years of
service have exercised their judgment with zeal and activity, nevertheless the op
portunity should not be left open for even the shadow of censure. A notable
instance of indiscretion occurred at the recent fire in Westmoreland street, where
the lamentable accident was caused by the violation of one of the existing rules,
with which every brigademan was bound to be familiar. In Birmingham, we found
provision made for this. When the men are being conveyed to a fire, the officer or
senior fireman on the machine points out to each member of the brigade the particu
lar duty he is to perform when they reach the scene of their operations. No time is
thus lost, and possible confusion is thus avoided.
Sometime baok, in consequence of the illness of some of the officers, the drill of
the men was stopped, and the practical education and instruction of those on pro
bation neglected. Emergencies like these should be provided against, for we can
hardly estimate the value of drilled, disciplined, combined, and united effort; the
116
progress of fire can be resisted with, more hope of -success and with less risk of per
sonal injury to the brigade.
WATER SUPPLY AND HYDRANTS.
The rapid tnm out and arrival of a brigade on the scene of a fire is of little avail
nnless the water supply is constantly laid on and of sufficient pressure to render it
an efficient auxiliary. Instances have happened in some districts in London and
elsewhere where the efforts of the brigade have been hampered by the absence of a
sufficient supply of water in the mains laid on the district of the fire, and valuable
time lost in getting the needed supply turned on. In such places the supply of water
is intermittent, which adds to their disadvantage as regards facilities for extin
guishing fire. Dublin, however, is very favorably circumstanced in this respect, for
day and night an abundant and constant supply of water is flowing through the
city mains at a pressure sufficient for all practical purposes. In fact, the pressure
has been so satisfactory that no occasion has ever been found to use on the Vartry
the fire engines since the supply was obtained. The engines are utilized now merely
to carry the men to and from a fire, and to render aid outside the city limits, or pump
canal or other similar supply of water.
The head of the water, or the height to which it can be thrown, as well as the
volume, can be regulated by the firemen arranging the nozzle attached to the hose.
For this purpose a sufficient quantity of inch, half-inch, and three-quarter inch
nozzles are always kept in stock.
Whilst it is peculiarly advantageous to have a constant supply of water in the
mains, adequate facilities should be afforded firemen for readily tapping it. The
absence of such facilities at a recent fire in Drumcondra Township was the subject
of much public comment. There the paucity of hydrants on the main road was
nearly leading to serious results.
In the city there are about 1,500 hydrants, but I do not find them in any way par
ticularly marked out, or any means provided for firemen and others to readily ascer
tain their position, the consequences being that probably a long line of hose might
be laid from a hydrant at some distance from the fire, whilst a smaller quantity of
hose (and consequent less friction and higher pressure) could be laid from a hydrant
in closer proximity to the fire, but the position of which could not at first be ascer
tained. I think every fireman should be thoroughly acquainted with the position of
the city hydrants by means of maps or labels on the lamp-posts. A periodical in
spection by the firemen should be made of each, to see if they are in sound working
order. This is more important in winter, when they are liable to become frozen.
It is customary for our brigade to affix to the hydrants a double standpipe, bo
that they can work two lines of hose from the one hydrant.
BUILDINGS AND PRIVATE PROTECTION.
The chief lesson of fires affects the public, and especially the owners and oeoupiers
of large buildings in which many people sleep or work. It is their duty not to rely
upon outside assistance at all, in order to enable their employs to make safe and
speedy retreat in case of fire.
There are large numbers of lofty structures, the occupiers of which have not
thought it necessary to incur the expense of even a knotted rope. The upper exits
of the large and tortuously constructed buildings in which many people sleep are
frequently out of reach of the ordinary escape, and even when they are approaohable by the escapes an accident or a piece of negligence which no foresight can alto
gether provide against may sentence a number of human beings to a horrible death.
In my opinion, all houses should be provided with a trapdoor opening out into
the roof, for from the roof, in most cases, escape can be made. Where these trap
117
doors are constructed it generally happens they are out of reach of the inmates, and
no ladder or other means provided to facilitate escapcs by that way.
The nature of the trade carried on in other buildings and warehouses may also in
crease the risks of fire in a large measure and add to the fury of the flames if a fire
breaks out. Premises where petroleum or other inflammable oils are stored for sale
should be frequently inspected and, if the power exists, regulations made for the
storage of such combustible matter in cool and less dangerous places.
In Birmingham we learned that the superintendent of the fire brigade invariably
looks over the plans of new buildings lodged with the local authority, so as to ascer
tain what provision is about being made against fire, and, if required, to suggest
necessary alterations. In Edinburgh, where the great majority of the houses in the
old town are lofty structures, all have stone staircases, which affords a means of
escape, and we were informed a regulation exists requiring stone to be used in the
construction of the houes except the partition walls, where brick is allowed ; and
in Glasgow, I have learned, many of the householders have provided shoots for their
own safety.
TH E M ANAGEM ENT.
Notwithstanding the existing disadvantages under which they work, and which I
have referred to, the present efficiency of the brigade reflects great credit upon the
ohief, Capt. Boyle, and his lieutenant, Mr. Byrne, especially when it is borne in
mind that, having regard to the area and population of the city and the nature of
the-risk from fire, the brigade is numerically a small one. Of course, under the
captains management, it could hardly be expected that each member of the rank
and file would be satisfied with every recommendation he made to the committee.
If the promotion of a fireman was the subject of the recommendation it is natural
that the spirit of jealousy should animate those who thought they had been passed
over or had better olaims for promotion. This will always happen whilst human
nature remains as it at present exists.
The men should understand that the efficiency and reputation of the brigade must
be maintained, and that promotion will depend upon the activity, qualifications,
and merits of each member of the brigade, and not necessarily upon age and length
of service alone.
The captain has rendered very valuable services to the committee during the period
of his service, now extending over twenty years, and as his age has exceeded seventy
years I think the time has arrived when the committee ought to recognize his claims
to an adequate pension and relieve him from his present responsible and arduous
duties. His duties have been of a most exacting and laborious character, requiring
him to be always ready, day and night, to encounter dangers which younger men
would shrink from, and the able manner in which they were performed has often
been testified to by the citizens, and the beet proof of his ability is evidenced by the
present efficient force which he has gathered together.
The like remarks apply to Lieut. Byrne, now over 70 years of age, after an active
service of over twenty-eight years. Indeed such was the zeal and energy of Lieut.
Byrne in the service of the city, that he appears to have always selected for himself
the most dangerous positions, and consequently has been unfortunately visited with
many severe personal injuries. Services like these demand adequate recognition from
the committee.
I think the committee should obtain a return of the entire force, date of admission,
age, poitio, and pay, and retain it among their own records.
118

HOURS OF LABOR*
Generally speaking, tlie men are required to perform certain duties for a period of
twelve hours each day, and during the remaining twelve hours, should a fire occur,
they are liable to be called out on active duty to extinguish it. It should be borne
in mind, however, that except when working at a fire the duties performed during
the first twelve hours are purely sedentary. Except when on leave, all the men
must always be within the walls of the station, and the married men, after 10 o'clock
p. m., must be at their homes. Two men of each station, Clarendon row and Winetavem street, are allowed out each day from 5 o'clock p. m. until 10 oclock p. m.,
on leave, and any man applying for a day's leave has no difficulty, I presume, in get
ting it.
I do not, however, find in the management of the force any other leave given in
practice, and considering the restraint upon the men, the confinement to the station,
and the other disadvantages which I have pointed out, I think a more extended
leave should be granted them. Five hours is hardly sufficient to allow a man to see
and interview his friends, and should the committee adopt my suggestion they will
only be following the practice of the English brigades.
Practically the same hours of labor exist among the English brigades as in Dublin.
In fact, the men, except when on leave, are always upon duty, and are under a simi
lar restraint. There is this difference from Dublin, that the daily work of the men
partakes more of the character of hard manual labor in the workshops. They receive
a recompense, however, in this way : In Manchester each man is entitled to a full
day leave every thirteenth day, and one week leave in the year. In Edinburg
they obtain one day leave every fourteenth day, and one weeks vacation in the
year.
In Birmingham they are allowed forty-eight hours7leave of absence every month,
and six days in the year; and in Glasgow the annual leave is nine to ten days.
WAGES OF FIREMEN.
I have already detailed the rate of wage received by the engineers, drivers, and
firemen in our brigade, and have prepared the following tabular statement, showing
the comparison with the rate paid in England and Scotland :
Name of town*
Dblin..........
London.........
Birmingham.
Manchester..
Edinburg. . . .
Glasgow.......
Population.
279,896
400,774
373,583
No. o f
No. o f
permanent Area of No. o f acres alarms per
Rate o f
brigade,
per
annum, to weekly wages
district.
including
fireman.
each
o f firemen.
officers, (a)
fireman.
47
780
c33
c57
46
Acres.
3,808
81.02
8,420
5,927
255.15
103.98
88
8. d.
7.36
21 0 to
4.5
524 0 to
14.12
22 6 to
7.48 <*23 6 to
9.28
21 6 to
5.68
26 0 to
8. d.
25
34
27
27
27
32
0
0
6
6
0
0
a In all the above towns, except London and Dblin, a large number o f auxiliary firemen are en
gaged, as before stated, in addition to the permanent staff.
b In London the firemen pay sums varying from Is. to 2s. 6d. per week for rent.
e They are accustomed in Birmingham to engage assistance, and for the year 1890 about 60 was
expended in this way. In Manchester thev expended in Uke manner 64.
a In Manchester, as already stated, 2s. 6d. per week is deducted from the wages o f the married
men for the apartments provided in the station*
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS.
In addition to the improvements suggested by me in the foregoing pages, I beg to

summarize the most important for the consideration of the committee :
(1) The superannuation of the chief and first lieutenant and the appointment of
younger men.
119
(2) The construction as speedily as possible of a central station, or the extension

of the present one in Clarendon Row, so as to provideadcqnate sleeping and recrea
tion accommodation for the men, and sufficient yard space for drilling and technioal
instruction and testing escapes and other appliances.
(3) The extension of the premises in Winetavem Street, so a to concentrate the
homes of the married firemen, and the redistribution in a more liberal manner of
domestic accommodations for themselves and their families, and the provision o f
drying and bath rooms similar to those in Clarendon Row.
(4) The provision for a more efficient and expeditious call together of the married
men in case of an alarm of fire.
(5) The preparation of a more elaborate set of rules and regulations detailing gen
erally the dutie of the officers and firemen, and their rigid enforcement.
(6) The provision of a library of technical works for the instruction of the brigade,
and of some rational amusement to occupy their minds and attention during leisure
hours.
(7) The construction of larger boxes or shelters for the men in charge at esoape
stations during night, and the purchase of a suitable stove for each for heating pur
poses.
(8) The distinct identification of each hydrant within the city, and the periodical
inspection and immediate repair of any found defective.
(9) The inspection by the chief of the brigade for the time being of all maps and
plans of buildings in course of erection, or constructed in an unusual manner, or
having tortuous passages or exits, and the enforcement, where possible, of his sug
gested alterations.
(10) The immediate carrying out of the order of council dated October 20, 1890,
and the construction of the most approved system of electric fire alarms.
(11) That a small dispensary be provided and supplied with the requisite materials
for the cure of cuts, bums, etc., and the men instructed in their use.
(12) The alteration in a small way of tlie existing escapes, according to the sug
gestion and under the direction of Mr. Harty.
(13) The granting of a more liberal leave of absence to the members of the brigade,
according to the practice in the English brigades and the exigencies of the service.
(14) Although we have not specially inquired into the subject, I think the law
agent ought to advise the committee as to the feasibility of insuring the lives of the
entire force against accidents, and if tlie committee are advised they have no power
to pay the premiums upon the policies effected, a small deduction could be made from
the weekly wage of each member of the brigade. The premium on each 100 as
sured should not exceed ld. per week of a man's wage. The question of superan
nuation ought to be left over, and each individual case dealt with upon its merits.
N o t e . The carrying out of the above recommendations will of course entail the
expenditure of a large sum of money, so that the committee will have to consider the
circumstances of the funds available for fire brigade purposes.
The following are the sources of revenue for the maintenance and extension of the
brigade, and the amounts received from each for the lat financial year (1890) ;
SOURCES OF REVENUS.
. d.
1. The produce of ld. in the pound of the water rate, which last year
*ealizd................................................................................................... 3,676 14 7
2. Proportion of government bounty in lieu of public water rate (fire
brigade proportion)..................................................... ....................
143 19 2
3. For special services of firemen.............................................................
237 5 0
4. The corporation can charge the owners of property lying without the
city boundary the actual expense that may be incurred in sending
120
the brigade to extinguish fires happening to such property, and also

a reasonable charge for the use of an escape, or engine, implements
and apparatus, and for the attendance of the brigade. The amount
realized from this source last year was............................................
5. The owner and occupier of property within the limits of the city are
jointly and severally liable to pay the sum of 15 towards the ex
pense of extinguishing a fire on such property, or whatever lesser
sum is equal to one-half the actual expenses. The amount received
from this source last year w as.........................................................
6. The corporation can receive voluntary contributions from insurance
companies and others towards the maintenance of the brigade. The
amount received from this source last year w as.............................
a. d.
19 4 9
20 0 0
Nil.
Total receipts................................................................................. 4,097 3 6

The amount expended upon the maintenance and extension of the bri
gade, and other expenses chargeable to the same fund during last year
w a s...................................................................................................... 4,350 6 2
The committee will thus see that the present revenue is less than the actual ex
pense of tho brigade. The difference has, however, been met by the appropriation of
a similar amount from the debt duo by the water-works fund to the fire-brigade fund,
the balance of which amounted, in December, 1890, to 6,833 19. ll<., which is still
available for fire-brigade purposes.
John J. OMeara,
Chairman Waterworks Committee, Dublin Corporation.
[Inclosure Ko. 2.]
Btail license to keep petroleum or other substances giving off an inflammable vapor at a
temperature of lees than 78 F.
In pursuance of the petroleum acts, 1871 and 1879, the right honorable the lord
mayor, aldermen, and burgesses of Dublin, acting by the municipal council of the
city of Dublin, hereby license----------------- on---------own application, to keep petro
leum, and any product thereof, and all such rock oil, Rangoon oil, Burmah oil, ni
any product of them, and any oil made from petroleum, coal, schist, shale, peat, or
other bituminous substance, and any product of them a gives off an inflammable
vapor at a temperature of less than 73 F., in and upon the following premises, that
is to say,----------------- under and subject to the following conditions:
(1) The license is to be and continue in force until the 31t December, 18, or
until the same shall become void under the conditions herein contained, or be re
voked by notice in writing from the said council (which they have the power to do
whenever they deem fit), whichever event shall first happen.
(2) The quantity of said articles to be kept on the said premises, of whatsoever
description the same may be, shall not at any time exceed 40 gallons in the whole.
(3) It shall be lawful for any person authorized by the said council, at all season
able hours, to enter into and upon the said premises, and examine any place what
soever in which any of the said articles may be deposited or kept, and to take away
samples thereof, in order to examine or test the same.
(4) No article of the description above mentioned shall be sold, or exposed for sale,
unless the bottle or vessel containing the same have affixed thereon a printed label
stating as follows : Great care must be taken in bringing any light near the con
tents of this vessel, as they give off an inflammable vapor at a temperature of less
than 73 F.
(5) Such petroleum or other products above mentioned, shall be kept in an iron
tank, provided with an opening of not more than 2 inches diameter, through whioh
121
the liquid is to l>e introduced, and which i to be kept sealed by means of a screw
stopper; and the tank shall also be provided with a metallic self-shutting cock; all
of which must at all times be kept in perfect repair and order.
(6 ) The petroleum or other products above mentioned, shall be kept in a separate
department or compartment, thoroughly ventilated; and no matter capable of under
going combustionsuch as oil, spirits, resin, candles, matches,paper, clothing, wood,
etc.shall be stored in the same apartment or compartment.
(7) The petroleum or other products above mentioned, are to be brought into and
from the store during daylight only; and no lighted lamp, candle, or other artificial
light, or artiole liable to ignite, is ever to be introduced or used in the department
or compartment where same are kept; and no person shall moke, or knowingly per
mit or suffer smoking, in or near the said store.
(8 ) Nothing herein contained, or anything done in pursuance hereof, shall be
deemed to exempt any person from any liability to which he would otherwise be
subject in respect of a nuisance, or from the consequences of injury to persons or
property arising from-------- own negligence.
(9) In case of any breach, nonobservance, or nonperformance of any o f the con
ditions herein contained, this license shall thereupon, ipso facto, be and beoome ab
solutely void, and the person or persons to whom same may have been granted shall
thereupon become liable to the penalty provided by the statute, and this license may
at any time be revoked (without previous notice) by the said council.
[Inclosure Ho. 3.]
License to store petroleum or other substances giving off an inflammable vapor at a tem
perature of less than 73 F.
In pursuance of the petroleum acts, 1871 and 1879, the right honorable the lord
mayor, aldermen, and burgesses of Dublin, acting by the municipal council of the
city of Dublin, do hereby license----------------- on --------- own application, to keep
petroleum, and any products above mentioned, in and upon the following premises,
that is to say,----------------- , under and subject to the following conditions :
(1) This license is to be and continue in force until the 31st of December, 18, or
until the same shall become void, under the conditions herein contained, or be re
voked by notice in writing from the said council (which they have power to do
whenever they deem fit), whichever event shall first happen.
(2) The quantity of any of the said articles to be kept on the said premises, of
whatsoever description the same may be, shall not at any time exceed 100 gallons in
the whole.
(3) No petroleum or other products above mentioned (kept in pursuance of this
license for wholesale dealers) shall be deposited, stored, warehoused, or kept within
60 yards of any dwelling house in the city of Dublin, except in sheds having only
one floor; the floor and walls at the sides thereof being perfectly secured against
the escape of such petroleum, or other products as aforesaid, into or upon any street,
court, lane, or place, or into any of the public drains or sewers; good and sufficient
ventilation being provided in the roof, or at the sides of every such shed, for en
abling the vapors arising from such articles to escape from such shed : Provided
always, That if the floor of any such shed can not, by reason of basement story being
under the same, be sunk in suoh manner as aforesaid, then the intervening floor or
separation between such basement and ground floor may be removed, and the whole
made to form one shed for the storage or warehousing of such articles, but not for
any other purpose; and in all such cases the floor and also the walls below the level
of the street or place on which the same may abut, shall be perfectly secure against
the escape o f such petroleum or its products as aforesaid : Provided also, In case said
floor o f any ueh shed can not be sunk as aforesaid, that upon .all external openings
122
or apertures being well and sufficiently built up to the height of 2 feet at least
above the level of the road, street, court, lane, or place as aforesaid, and the walls
of such height, and the floor being so made or altered as effectually to retain the said
petroleum and its products, and prevent the escape thereof, as aforesaid, then such shed
shall and may be used for the purposes aforesaid. But, nevertheless, the said coun
cil may, if they think fit, on special request, allow such articles or any of them to
he deposited, stored, warehoused, or kept in any open yard or other place, if the
same be surrounded with a wall of such height and thickness as they may consider
necessary, if the surface of such open place be sunk 2 feet below the street or road
level and the same, and the walls at the side thereof, for the height of 2 feet at the
least, be perfectly secure against the escape of the said articles or any of them, a
aforesaid; and the said council may also, if they think fit, on special request, not
withstanding anything herein contained, allow such petroleum or its products to be
placed in any vault under a shed having one floor, if such vault be ventilated and
made in all respects satisfactory to the said council, and no other article than petro
leum or its products be placed in the said vault.
(4) Such petroleum, or other products above mentioned, shall be kept in an iron
tank or tanks, provided with an opening of not more than 2 inches diameter, through
which the liquid is to be introduced, and which must be kept sealed by mean of a
screw stopper; and each tank shall also be provided with a metallic self-shutting
cock; all of which must at all time be kept in perfect repair and order.
(5) All of such articles, respectively, hall be deposited, stored, warehoused, and
kept in a separate compartment or department, apart from all other merchandise,
eave and except merchandise not capable of taking fire.
( 6 ) The petroleum, or other products above mentioned, are to be brought into and
from the store during daylight only; and no lighted lamp, candle, or other artificial
light, or article liable to ignite, is ever to be introduced or used in the department
or compartment where the same are kept; and no person shall smoke, or knowingly
permit or suffer smoking, in or near the said store.
(7) It shall be lawful for the officers of the said council or the police, at all seas
onable hours, to enter into and examine any place whatever in which any of the said
articles maybe deposited, stored, warehoused, or kept, and take away samples
thereof in order to examine or test same.
( 8 ) Nothing herein contained, or anything done in pursuance hereof, shall be
deemed to exempt any person from any liability to which he would otherwise be
ubject in respect of a nuisance, or from the consequence of injury to person or prop
erty arising from-------- own neglect.
(9) In case of any breech, nonobservance, or nonperformance of any of the con
ditions herein contained, this license shall thereupon, ipso facto, be and become ab
solutely void; and the person or persons to whom same'may have been granted
shall thereupon become liable to the penalty provided by the statute, and bin
license may at any time be revoked (without previous notice) by the said council.
GLASGOW .
REPORT B T CONSUL BROWN.
In compliance with your circular of the date of December 1, last, I

have the honor to transmit herewith statistics in relation to fires in the
city of Glasgow for the year 1891.
I furnish for the year 1891, for the reason that I found upon consul
123
tation with the superintendent of the fire department, that fuller sta
tistics for last year could be furnished than for the year previous, and
hence concluded the same would be more valuable.
It will be noticed that direct answers are not given to some of the
questions. For example, in relation to question 9, it is customary to
only take into account, as being involved by the fire, the actual loss,
hence answer to number 10 covers both questions as far it can be given.
A few other questions are left unanswered because no statistics of
any value, i. e., reliable, could be obtained.
In relation to question 21 I have to say, as amplifying the answer
given, that there are several acts and parts of acts bearing upon the
subjects named, but all are considered antiquated and not up to the
present day requirements. I have been unable to get copies separate
from the volumes of the laws in which they are printed.
The u dean of the guild court now has control of the matters com
prised in question 22, and I may add that it is a law unto itself very
largely, but the interests of the city are nevertheless carefully looked
after by the court. An act or bill is now pending in parliament, very
complete and comprehensive, which with amendments it is believed will
become law. The bill as introduced, together with the proposed
amendments is herewith sent. If able to procure proposed act with
amendments incorporated, at an early day will send the same. The an
nual report of the superintendent of the fire department for the year
1891 is also herewith sent.
REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF FIRE DEPARTMENT.

C h i e f F i r e St a t io n , C o l l e g e St r e e t ,
Glasgow, January 15,1892.

To the Glasgow Police Commissioner :
G e n t l e m e n : I beg to submit the annual report of fire department for the year
ended 31t December, 1891.
During that period the brigade received and attended to 539 calls for actual fires
and on 86 occasions the firemen and engines were turned out to what proved to be
false alarms.
Of the false alarms 5 were oaed by contacts on the overhead line wires of the
alarm system, 42 were due to errors of judgment on the part of persons who rang the
alarms needlessly, 21 were the result of malicious mischief, and 18 were received
through miscellaneous sources.
Five hundred and four of the fires were within and 35 beyond the municipal bound
aries, 315 were attended by firemen with engines, etc., while 224 were of such a
trifling nature that firemen with hand pumps only attended.
Of the fires within the city only two resulted in what may be termed serious lose :
one in Messrs. Martin & Millers tan works, Duke street, and the other in Messrs.
Malloch glass and adjoining warehouse buildings, Miller street.
An increase of 111 fires has taken place as compared with the previous year, or an
increase of 150 fires as compared with the average for the ten years previous to 1891.
The increase in the number of fires can not be accouuted for by the extended area of

the city. Since November 1 last only 13 fires have occurred in the newly added dis
tricts.
The increased number of fires attended by the brigade beyond the municipal bound
aries is very marked. The services of the department at fires outside the city have
increased from an average of 14 for the ten years ending 1890 to 35 in 1891.
As indicating the erratic nature of the fire service, I may mention that -from Au
gust to October there were four occasions on which the brigade received nofirecal
for five consecutive days, while in November and-December one day in each required
the services of the brigade at 8 fires.
The city still bears an unenviable notoriety in its large percentage of fires due to
faulty building construction. Our causes tables show that under the headings of '
(( defective vents, etc, and timber under hearths,1wno lees than 168 fires are due.
This is to be deplored, and, I fear, will only be remedied by parliamentary sanction
being given to the leading features contained in the bill now being promoted.
I submit a tabulated statement for the past ten years, showing the number of fires,
attended within and beyond the municipal area, the use of the fire-alarm system and .
its abuses, the fires to which engines were and were not turned out, and estimated ''
amount of loss at fires within th city.
Tear*
1882..............
1888..............
1884..............
1886....... .
1886..............
1887..............
1888..............
1889..............
1890..............
1891..............
Total..
Average
Fires
Good Number
Urea Fires
Number
Estimated
extin
of fires
within outside Total. of lires Malicious intent* attondedby fires
guished
loss
bystreet alarms. contacts, by en
within
the
the
the
without
ftlTWML
etc.
city.
city.
city.
gines, etc. engines.
370
884
388
302
365
368
405
443
413
504
9
8
15
15
7
18
17
29
15
35
379
392
403
377
372
389
422
472
428
539
152
160
182
163
194
172
239
290
200
216
21
12
16
16
22
17
8
23
29
21
24
26
37
68
50
37
58
58
43
65
224
225
262
235
244
237
272
311
270
315
155
167
141
142
128
149
150
161
158
224
153,000
234,000
72,000
85,000
141,000
74,000
206,000
150,000
43,500
110,000
4,002
168
4,170
1,968
185
466
2,595
1,575
1,268,500
400.2
16.8
417.0
196.8
18.5
46.6
259.5
157.5
126,850
One of the firemen had a leg broken and another had his shoulder dislocated dur
ing the year. These men, I am pleased to say, have fully recovered and are thor
oughly fit for duty.
One of the department horses was accidentally killed during the year and one
had to be destroyed through heart disease ; the others are in a satisfactory condition.
The engines and other plant have been maintained in thorough repair and two
hose and ladder carriages and two general purposes carriages are at present under
construction by the staft*.
Fully 8 per cent of the alarms of fire have been received through the telephone
exchange.
The water supply ha in all cae been satisfactory, and it affords me much pleasure to acknowledge the aid and attention given to this department by the officials th1others of the water commissioners staff.
By the extension of the city boundaries 301 additional fire cocks have been taken
over and added to the plant as at 1st November. Three hundred n<l nine fire cooks
and five valve hydrants have since been attached to the m*iTi within the new-area,
while within the limits of the older city allpossible improvements for drawing water,
were attended to during the year.
The organization of the brigade has been changed to meet the requirements, of the
extended city, the staff has been converted from a partially to a wholly permanent
one, and the disposition of its various members is shown on page 18
125
Special Brvio have been rendered by the firemen as follows : extinguished 161
fool chimneys ; extinguished 39 ashpit fires; searched 10 roof for thieves; examined
48 properties for fire; entered 12 houses for locked-out tenants; removed 8 danger
ous chimney cans. The staff has been regularly drilled in the use of the various appliances.
I have pleasure in here thanking the chief constable and his staff for their earnest
cooperation on all occasions of fire. Several serious fires have been preventd dur
ing the year by the careful manner in which some of the constables examined impor
tant buildings on their beats and discovered fires in their early stages.
Tables giving strength of brigade and the appliances in use, the description of
premises in which fires occurred, and the means taken to extinguish them, with the
supposed cause, so far as could be determined, are appended.
I un, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
W j j a m P a x e b so x .
.................
Buildings (unoccupied).............................
1
1
Cftrtwriglits and coach-builders . . . . . . . . . .
1
1
3
2
4
4
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1,
9
1
1
Total.
3
1
2
14
14
1
188
1
3
3
1
2
....
25
1
1
1
1
12
4
8
7
4
2
1
8
1
1
2
i
!
i
1
1
1
1
1
4
1
1
3
x
5
1
BEGULATIONS
Brewery..........
Yapor in contact with

light.
Window blinds or goods
in contact with light.
Tobacco, smoking.
Unknown.
Spontaneous ignition.
Boot and shoe shops and factories.. . . . . . .
Churches,schools,and halls . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coal rees........................................
Confectioners shops and works . . . . . . . . . .
Cotton thread mill............................
Cotton waste dealers..................................
Counting houses.......... .............................
Dairy shop............. .................................
Dwelling houses................. ......................
Electrotypers..................... . ...................
Engineers and boilermakers......................
Fancy and packing-box makers...............
Firewood-makers........................................
Fleshers.......................................................
Fruit brokers.............................................
Furriers workshop....................................
Glass and china dealers.............................
Grinding mill (general).............................
Grocers shops and stores..........................
Ham-curers.................................................
Hotels and clubs.........................................
1
1
BUILDING
Blacksmiths
AND
Timber under or near

hearth.
Spark from locomotive.
3
d
Spark from fire.
>.
3
g b|)
b.9
Spark down chimney.
Eailway collision.
Lime, slaking.
i u.
-
Spark from chimney or

flue.
or
dropped,
matches.
Lamps.
Lights
j Intoxication.
Hot ashes.
Tr)fion<,riam.
Heat from gas, g a s

stove, or engine.
Heat from boiler, stove,

vent, or furnace.
Friction of machinery.
|Fumigating.
Escape of gas*
|Dust in contact with gas.
gas fittings.
Defective vents, flues,

or fireplaces.
1Defective
FIBE
Children playing
lights.
with
Description of premises in which fires occurred, in Glasgow and supposed causes, year 1891.
10
2
2
8
Iron foundries and ironworks...........

Ironmongers shops.........................
Jewelers and silversmiths.................
Joiners' shops, stoves, and yards...... .
Laundries........................................
Lodging houses...............................
Milliners, drapers, and hosiers...........
Musio-sellers and instrument-makrs.
Muslin gas singers...........................
Oil and color works, stores and shops .
Outhouses, cellars, and open yards ....
Painters...........................................
Pawnbrokers and salesrooms............
Pnotographers.................................
Piokle-makers.................................
Plumbers, copper and tinsmiths.........
Pottery and Bottle works.................
Bag and waste paper stores.................
Banway signal d o x ...................................
Bailway station.................................
Bailway works (underground)......... .
Bestaurants and cook shops............ .
1ft
IN FOREIGN
Total.
81
8
3
13
10
COUNTRIES.
Sawmills.
Sculptors.................................................
Shirt factory............................................
Skating rink............................................
Slaters ......................................................
Stables and hay lofts..............................
Staircases, passages, and roofs...............
Stationers, printers, and lithographers .
Steam-boiler and engine houses............
Steamships..............................................
Stores (various)......................................
Tailors shops and workshops.............
Tan work.................................................
Theater (Royal).......................................
Tobacco manufacturers.........................
Tobaoeo pipe makers..............................
Tool-maker.............................................
Warehouses (various).............................
Warpers and winders.............................
Waterproof manufacturers....................
Wharr and transit sheds........................
Wine and spirit shop.............................
Wire-workers..........................................
Wood-turners..........................................
Wool flock manufactures.......................
12
132
13
20
8 21
12
72
24
64
27
604
to
: f l f\ i I i
i f r f
315 |224
en

Oi MM*
M* W
Public flreengines out.

a te firesengines not
out.
Total flre.
-osfca o id5 -s eC .
Total.
***MOOfcOCOOOrf*MOlfcOlK
2 ! Hi HMCHC! OlMOl
>4>)H; MM<cgeiw! e
<o ft8 K C S S S S 2 5 2 S 8
Miscellaneous.
3 8 8 S S S S S & g fc
Total.
S8SG SSSgSK S52
From 7 a. m. to 7 p. m.
g SrSSS S5
From 7 p. m. to 7 a. m.
Hand pump or buckets.
I )^ io ^ S S e
1 line hose.
2 lines hose.
s
fed
COj *tM> 0- m n m w n
Mk| | HHt>!
MM
8 lines hose.
MMM HH m !
4 lines hose.
6 lines hose.
7 lines hose.
i i i i : : i **
8 lines hose.
9 lines hose.
M M
i i i i : i Mi
11 lines hose.
i i i i i i i M
12 lines hose.
: : : : : : i :
15 lines hose.
Firemen.
o o
comm!
oi in ^ m ik g S
MM
_MM5fc3MMMM
o < i o o o m k ^ m o i m
mS
m!
M*
S! S
m h m m h c o w
Occupante or others.
Extin
guished
&
S
K
M
5 lines hose.
: : : : : :
S I S M M
Fires
occurred.
J. The 35 flre beyond municipal boundaries are included in above.
Street fire alarms.

Telephone exchange.
Fire calls given

by-
s
c& S S e K K E S S g g i S S
Maine.
Elver, canal, and ponds.
||
Mains and river, canal,

or ponds.
Steam.
Manual.
Steam and manual.
snoLLV'irioaH x i i m a n v araij
!f!i
calls received for fires and false alarms, how calls were given, how and by whom fires were extinguished, sources
of water supply, and occasions on which engines were used, etc., during 1891.
MMHt0HC0C0! b9HMM
False alarms.
Street fire alarmscon

tact of wires.
Street fire alarmgood
intent.
Street fire alarmsmail*
cions.
M<wJ1mhwih .
Monthly statement showing number of
!!H
rebruary..............................................
kiaroh................................................
Statement howing numerical strength o f brigade, number of horses and appliances in use at the various stations, number of street fire alarms, and
number of hydrants attached to water mains.
146A----- 9
Hose on en
(spare),
gines and car Hosefeet.
riages, feet.
Permanent firemen.
1
>>
'2
8tatios.
680
7,750
500
1,900
1,050
900
3,200
80
520
520
440
1,200
2,400
2,400
1,400
3,920 ! 22,700
1,600
11,650
187
13
49
36
13
18
36
(*)
11
39
572
164
*745*
*84
(t)
88
12
1,015
1,600
11,650
572
94
11
8
6
602
322
92
102 30 4,149
76
172
71
22
COUNTRIES.
520
240
200
720
IN FOREIGN
w ;w
Chief station, College street.
Substation, St. Enooh square.........................................................
Northern district superintending station, St. Georges r o a d ---Northern Hillhead station, Byars road.
Northern Maayhill station (temporary)
Southern district superintending station, Warwick street.........
Southern Queens Park station (temporary), Westmoreland
street...........................................................................................
Eastern district station, Soho street............................................
Western district station, Cranston street..................................
St. Bollox district station, Kennedy street..................................
589
* The men on duty at St. Enoch's substation are drafted from the other stations,
t The men stationed here are auxiliaries and are not included in table.
KN?
CD
130
GLASGOW BUILDING REGULATIONS (BILL NOW BEFORE PARLIAMENT).

(Incloure in Consol Bro`wri reporte.)
31. No new dwelling house shall hereafter he erected and no building shall here
after be altered into dwelling houses and no existing dwelling house shall hereafter
be reduced in size in such a manner that the new altered or reduced dwelling house,
exclusive of any lobbies, closets, presses, and recesses therein, shall be of less than
the dimensions following, viz: Dwelling houses of one apartment, 1,000 cubic feet;
dwelling houses of two apartments, 1,600 cubic feet; dwelling houses of three apart
ments, 2,400 cubic feet. The provisions of this section shall not prevent the. restora
tion according to the original plan of dwelling houses destroyed by fire to an extent
not exceeding one-half of the cubic contents of the building.
For the purpose of this section the word recesses means and includes any recess
which, being in a room of a dwelling house and having no separate window, is not
open from front to back, from floor to ceiling, and from side to side, and. free of fix
tures.
32. Every sleeping apartment except attic rooms shall be at least 9 feet in height
from floor to ceiling, and every sleeping apartment in an attic story shall be at least
8 feet in height from floor to ceiling throughout not les than one half o f the area of
the room. There shall not be more that one habitable story in any roof.
33. It shall not be lawful for any person ,hereafter to build or rebuild any tene
ment or to increase the number of houses or occupiers in any tenement, so. that more
than sixteen separate dwelling houses or other separate occupancies enter from me
common stair or passage within the tenement, or more than twentyfour separate
dwelling houses or other separate occupancies enter from one common stair or bal
cony outside the tenement, or more than four separate dwelling houses or other sepa
rate occupancies enter from one common stair landing and every tenement shal;be
separated from the buildings on each side by a party wall or mean gable carried -up
through the roof in manner in this act provided.
34. It shall not be lawful in any dwelling house which may hereafter be built.or
rebuilt or in any dwelling house which may be constructed in any existing building
for any person to make an inclosed bed or a bed recess which is not open in front
from end to end and from floor to ceiling nor shall any dwelling house which con
tains any inclosed bed or bed recess be altered so as to increase the number-.of
houses or occupiers unless all such inclosed beds and bed recesses are opened iMtt
aforesaid.
35. The master of works may by notice require the owner or owners of any occu
pied building to make such alterations and to execute such works thereon as maybe
necessary to provide sufficient means of light, ventilation, and drainage, having re
gard to the situation of such building and the uses to which it is being applied, ad
the dean of guild may interdict the use of such building as an occupied building
until the requirements of such notice have been complied with and the plans of U
new or altered buildings intended to be used as occupied buildings shall make sugftcient provision for light, ventilation, and drainage to the satisfaction of the dean,of
guild.
36. The roofs of all buildings and every turret, dormer, lantern, light, qt other
erection upon such roofs, and every gutter, water conductor, or trough in -connec
tion with such roofs shall be constructed of or covered with incombustible material
except as regards the door, door frame, window, or window frame of any pch tur
ret, dormer, lantern, light, or skylight. The provisions of this section shall apply
to all existing buildings on the expiration of seven years from the commencement of
this act and at any time after the expiration of such period of seven years the mas
ter of works by notice may require the owner to remove or alter any roof which;l
not in oonfonity with these provisions.
131
S7 . "The 'dean of guild may, with the oonsent of the commissioners (whose consent
shall only be given upon a report in writing by the medioal officer and the master
.Of worksof the city that adequate provision is made for light, air, ventilation, and
^drainage), relax or modify to such extent as he may think proper all or any of the
provisions of this act, or of the act of 1866, or of any by-laws made in virtue of
this act in any of
cases following, viz: Blocks of laborers dwellings con
taining more than twenty-four separate dwelling houses; large inns and hotels;
dwelling houses situated in business premises and occupied by the caretakers there
of; poorhnse, hospitals, asylums; any other building of a special description.
38. The external walls of every building and all party walls and cross walls there
in, and in tenements all passage walls and all partition walls dividing separate
houses," and-all staircases, stairs, and landings shall be constructed of stone, brick, or
ether hard and incombustible material. A temporary building or movable structure
may be erected of wood,- or having walls consisting of wooden posts, or framing
filled in or oovered with wood, provided such building or structure is detached from
-any other btuLldingby a distance equal to the height of such wooden building, and
provided the roof is entirely covered with incombustible material.
39.!Every wall built of tone, brick, or other similar material shall be properly
bonded add solidly put together with mortar or cement, and the stones, where stone
is used, shall be>laid on their natural bed and all return walls shall be properly
bonded to the walls adjoining, but where a new building is erected against an ex
isting building it shall not be necessary to bond the walls thereof into the existing
building and the bond stones (if any) projecting from the existing building may be
out off. The top of every wall where exposed shall be ecurely coped or otherwise
-protected, so as to prevent the access of damp or water to the wall.
`40. The foundations of all walls shall be of cube stones, concrete bricks laid in
cement* or other suitable and substantial material, and shall be laid at such depth
as to secure a solid subsoil `for ' building on, except, where such foundations are in
-contact with an existing building or rest upon solid rock, they shall project beyond
the face of the wall on eaoh side to the extent of one-half of the thickness of the
wall, and where any foundations are laid at a lower level than the foundations
of the wall contiguous thereto, such contiguous wall shall be underbuilt and sup
ported in a safe and satisfactory manner. Where such contiguons wall is built with
projecting foundations or scarcements the person building agaiust the same may, in
'the absence of any contract or agreement with respect to the laying of such founda
tions or the removal Of the projections thereof, require the owner of such wall to cut
off the-scarcements of the foundations at and along the line of boundary, and failing
such owner complying with such requisition,' the person building may himself cut
off such scarcements and charge the owner with the cost of the operation in so far
as such cost exceds ' the ordinary cost of excavating for a foundation of similar
dimensions on such a site. The diminution of the footing of every wall shall be
formed in regular offsets and the height from the bottom of such footing to the base
Of the wall shall be at least equal to one-half of the thickness of the wall at its base.
41. ' Every wall and pier of any building, if used or intended to be used' to support
any floor or roof, and every chimney, shall rest upon proper foundations or upon a
snffioient beam, arch, lintel, or other suitable support, resting upon proper walls or
piers, and every such arch, lintel, or beam shall be of brick, stone, iron, or other in
combustible material, and every column, standard, beam, girder, or other member
forming part of any wall or pier shall be firmly and truly laid on a sufficient bearing
and securely fixed and attached to the other members of the structure.
42. 'Every chimney, stalk, or flue connected with the furnace of a steam boiler or
other Similar furnace hall be built as high as the chimney tops of any buildings sit
uate within 100 feet thereof, and the dean of guild may, on the application of any
person interested, require any such chimney, stalk, or flue to be carried up to a
height uffloientto carry off the products of combustion without offense to the occu
132
pants of neighboring buildings. Any person, before adding to the number of fhrnaces connected with a chimney, stalk, or flue situate -within 100 feet of any building
belonging to a different owner, shall give notice thereof to the master of works, and,
if required by the master of works, shall apply to and obtain warrant from the dean
of guild authorizing him so to do before commencing operations.
43. It shall not be lawful for any person to occupy or use or to permit the occupa
tion or use of any new building, or of any building that has been rebuilt, or of any
part of a building which has been converted into a dwelling house, or of any dwell
ing house which has been converted from a larger to a smaller occupancy, until the
waste and soil pipes, and tho drains thereof and leading therefrom, have been tested
by tho sanitary inspector and found satisfactory and a certificate to that effect ha
been deposited with the master of works. Such certificate shall be so deposited be
fore the master of works reports to the dean of guild upon the completion of the
building or alteration as provided by this act, and the import of such certificate
shall be embraced in his report.
44. The work of connecting any drain formed by or belonging to any private owner
with any common sewer shall, from the line of curb to the common sewer, be ex
ecuted by the master of works or by contractors employed by the commissioners, at
the cost of such owner, and the master of works shall be bound to make such connec
tion on receiving seven days notice from any owner having a right to use the com
mon sewer requiring him so to do.
45. Every ash pit shall be so placed and constructed as to admit of ready access
and of the contents thereof being removed without being carried through any occu
pied building. No ash pit shall be placed nea?er to any occupied building than 12
feet nor connected with any cesspool drain or common sewer, but existing ash pits
may be repaired or rebuilt on the same site where the owner can not, within the
limits of his ground, remove them to a distance of 12 feet. The owner of any ash pit
which is so situated as to be inaccessible by a cart or wheelbarrow from a public or
private street shall pay to the commissioners such a sum, not exceeding 5 per
annum, as the commissioners may fix as a reasonable charge for the extra trouble of
emptying and cleansing the same.
46. The master of works may by notice require the owner or owners of lands or
heritages connected with any drain to make alterations and repairs thereon, and
where necessary to reconstruct the same, and failing compliance with such notice
the commissioners or the master of works may execute the works specified in such
notice and recover the cost thereof from such owner or owners, and where such drain
i used for the joint accommodation of lands and heritages owned by more than one
person the commissioners may apportion the cost of such works among such owners
as may be just.
47. The commissioners may by resolution declare all or any of the common sewers
as defined by the act of 1866 and all or any of the private sewers as defined by that
act in so far as they are sewers for the drainage of the lands and heritages of more
than one proprietor, to be common sewers within the meaning of this act, and there
upon the burden of maintaining, repairing, and renewing such sewers shall devolve
on the commissioners, and the owners of lands or heritages connected with such
sewers shall be relieved thereof. The provisions of this section shall not apply to
any drain connecting one building and the purtenance thereof with a common sewer,
although owned by several proprietors.
48. No cesspool shall be constructed in the line of any drain and no drain shall
communicate with or discharge into any cesspool, except where, from the situation
of the building or other circumstances, there is no common sewer within a reasonable
distance and at a suitable level into which such drain may be conducted, and in the
event of and upon a common sewer being constructed within 100 feet of any such cess
pool the master of works may by notice require the owner of such cesspool to remove
the same and to connect his drains with such common sewer in manner provided in
this act.
133
49. Every water-closet hereafter constructed in any new or existing building shall
be so placed that one of its sides is an external wall and shall have a window of at
least 4 square feet in area, exclusive of the window frame, and such window shall
be made to open to the extent of at least one-third of its area and shall communicate
directly with the external air. The provisions of this section shall not apply to
existing tenements situated at the comer of and fronting two streets.
be supplied with water from a separate cistern of adequate capacity to flush such
water-closet, and so constructed, fitted, and placed as to obviate any direct connection
b e t w e e n the service or supply pipe and any part of the apparatus of such W a te r
closet, and the soil pipes leading from such water-closets, as well as all pipes leading
from sinks, basins, baths, and other water fittings, shall be sufficiently trapped and
ventilated.
51. Every building having both water-closet and water fittings shall be provided
with a soil pipe or pipes and also a waste pipe or pipes. All pipes from waterclosets and from slop sinks or other sinks or troughs which receive solid or liquid
filth shall be carried into and connected with the soil pipes, and no pipes conveying
waste or oveflow water from sinks, baths, lavatories, cisterns, basins or from any
safe plates, shall be oarried into or connected with the soil pipes. Both oil pipes
and waste pipes shall be sufficiently ventilated.
52. The chief officer of the fire brigade and the firemen appointed by him may in
cases of urgency take any measures which appear to him or them expedient for im
mediately removing buildings or parts of buildings which have become dangerous
in consequence of damage by fire or for supporting and protecting such buildings,
and may barricade, inclose or shut up any street or court, or any part thereof, and
any damage occasioned or expense incurred in connection with any such operations
shall be deemed to be damage by fire. The expense incurred in virtue of the powers
of this section shall be recoverable by the commissioners from the owner of the
dangerous building in the manner, and with the remedies and powers contained in
section 382 of the act of 1866.
53. Where any part of a building is occupied as a theater or a music hall, or for
making, storing, or selling hazardous goods, it shall not be lawful for any person to
let or take on lease, or to suffer to be used as a dwelling house any part of such
building situated above such theater, music hall, store, warehouse or other premises,
unless such dwelling house is completely separated from such other premises by a
fireproof floor and walls, and the staircase, stairs, and passages leading to such
dwelling house are fireproof and completely disconnected from the other parts of
the building. For the purpose of this section, premises for making, storing, or selling
hazardous goods moan and include asphalt works, benzine or benzole distilleries,
candle and candlc-wick factories, coanut-fiber works, cotton-waste stores, creosote
works, firework factories, and premises for the storage or sale of gunpowder or fire
works, japanned-leather factories, lampblack works, lucifer-match works, naphtha
works, oil stores, pitch, tar, and rosin works, skntch mills, shoddy mills and ware
houses, tarpaulin works, turpentine and varnish works, stores for all or any of the
foregoing goods, and any other premises of a hazardous nature that may be defined
in any by-law made under this act. The provisions of this section shall apply to
all existing buildings not already occupied in the manner hereby prohibited, and on
Che expiration of seven years from the passing of this act they shall also apply to and
be enforceable against existing buildings which are so occupied. Any person who
violates this section shall be liable to a penalty of 1 for every day during which
such violation continues, with the alternative of imprisonment for a period not ex
ceeding sixty days.
54. Where any warehouse occupies more than two floors of a building it shall not
be lawful for any person to occupy or use in connection therewith any workrooms
in which more than ten persons are employed, if situated above the first story and
134
FIRE AND BUILDING BEGULATIONS
in direct communication with such warehouse, unless such workrooms are provided
with a separate passage and stair giving access to a street or court and -inclosed
within walls of stone, brick, or other incombustible material. The provisions of thi
section shall apply to all existing buildings not already oooupied in the manner
hereby prohibited, and on the expiration of seven years from the passing of this act
they shall also apply to and be enforceable against existing building which are so
occupied. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be liable to
a penalty of 1 for every day or part of a day during which such violation is con
tinued with the alternative of imprisonment for a period not exceeding sixty day.
55. Wherever more than 40 persons are employed on an upper story of any build
ing, and access to such story is provided by a stair whioh is notinclosed within walls
built of stone, brick, or other incombustible material, and communicating direct with
a street or court the owner or occupier of such upper story shall provide at least
two separate stairs or means of exit from suoh story 25 feet apart, with two separate
doors leading therefrom direct to a street or court. Wherever by reason of the
structure of any such building a fire occurring at or near one of the exits might cut
off a section of the building extending to one fourth of the area of any story and
prevent egress therefrom by either exit, such section of the building shall be pro
vided with a separate stair and door of the description and in the situation afore
said. The provisions of this section shall apply to all existing buildings.not already
occupied in the manner hereby prohibited, and on the expiration of seven years from
the passing of this act shall apply to all buildings whatsoever.
56. Every factory, mill, workshop, or similar work which is more than one story in
height and 80 feet in length, shall have an escape stair case of fireproof construction
placed outside the walls of such factory or work, with a fireproof entrance from eaoh
floor not less than 4 feet wide, and the doors from each floor to suoh tairoase shall
open outwards and shall remain unlocked during working hours, and every suoh
factory or work which is more than 80feet in length shall have one such escape stair
case and gangway for each 80 feet of length and one for the surplus length beyond
complete multiples of 80 feet.
57. It shall not be lawful for any person hereafter to place or fit up on an upper
floor of any new or existing building any heavy machinery, unless such building, is
constructed or supported for the purpose and unless such machinery is resting upon
beams or columns of stone, brick, iron, or other incombustible material. Heavy ma*
chinery for the purposes of this section means and inoludes all machinery the weight
of which exceeds 280 pounds per square foot of floor spaoe oooupied thereby,
58. The dean of guild may on the application of the master of works cause any
existing public building to be inspected, and may, after hearing any person interested,
direct such works to be executed for the proper drainage and ventilation of suoh
building and for providing proper means of aocess and exit and for the protection of
the public from fire and other dangers as to the dean of guild shall seem fit, and he
may interdict the use of such building as a publio building until suoh works have
been executed.
59. No new theater shall be built to accommodate more than 1,000 persons unless
there is a free space adjoining on three sides of at least 15 feet in width and suoh
theater is provided with sufficient accesses from two streets, and no new theater
shall be built with the principal floor of the auditorium more than 3 feet above the
level of the street, and no existing building shall hereafter be altered into or adapted
for the purposes of a theater unless the conditions in this act applicable to a new
theater are complied with.
60. Any installation for electric light in any building shall be subject to suoh regu
lations and conditions for securing the safety of the public, and, in case of file, as-may
from time to time be imposed by the lord provost magistrates and town council of
Glasgow, being the authority empowered to supply gas ana electricliglit within the
v,ty.
IS
FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
135
9tf Tecomilsioners may cause to be put up at or upon the rails or in or upon

the wall of buildings or [elsewhere in any street public or private fire alarms and
battery'boxes and index plates, and they may make markings showing the position
o f the fire pldgs in any street and they may make and place fire plugs in any street.
62. The dean of guild shall not grant decree of lining for the erection of houses on
hih lvelS within thecity òr for increasing the height of such houses or the number
of separate occupancies therein or for the alteration of other buildings on high levels
intodwelling houses until intimation of the petition has been made to the town
clerk of Glasgow and to the engineer, to the Glasgow water commissioners, and evi
dence is laid before the dean of guild that water can be raised to such house by
means ofhe existing reservoirs and works of the water commissioners, and whore
only an intermittent supply can be given that uitable cisterns and other apparatus
for the reception and storage of the water are provided and shown on the plans to
the atifction of the water commissioners.
63. Wherever the master of works or any inspector appointed by him or by the
cominitftoners finds any operation in progress or work being done contrary to this
act orto the act of 1866, or to any by-law made in virtue of this act, he may forthwith
stop such operation or work and take precautions by the appointment of watchmen
and otherwise to insure that such operation or work shall not be resumed until the
pon concerned orthe master of works or other officer intrusted with the cognizance
of*the matter in-question has had an opportunity of bringing the same before the
dean of guild or other competent tribunal, and constables of police shall be bound to
render such assistance to the master of works or such inspector a he may require in
order to enable hita to carry the provisions of this section into effect.
64. Wherever, uridfer the provisions of this act or of any by-law made in virtue of
tfiisr&t, any act is required to be done or to be done in a particular manner, or the
commissioners or the master of works are authorized to require anything to be done,
it shallbe in the power of the master of works, by notice given in terms of the
act o f 1866, to require such act to be done in the manner prescribed in such notice,
and wherever anything exists or any act has been done in violation of the pro`\ isions
of this net orof any sueh by-laws, the master of works may by such notice require
such'thing or act to be undone or altered or other remedial works to be executed in
th manner prescribed in such notice, and failure to comply with any such notice
within'the period therein mentioned or if no period is mentioned then within ten
days afteir the date thereof, hall constitute a guild offense and shall, except where
otherwise providd, subject the owner or other person to whom such notice is given
in a penalty not exceeding 1 for every day during which such failure is continued.
65; The provisions contained in section 322 of the aot of 1866 with reference to the
review by the magistrate or dean of gild of any notice given by the master of works
shall apply to any notice given by the master of works under this act or under any
by-law made in virtue of this act, and a copy of that section shall be printed on every
such notice.
66 .' The by-laws contained in the schedule to this act are hereby enacted and shall
remain in'force unless and until altered or repealed by the commissioners in manner
hrein providd. The commissioners may from time to time make by-laws with
rspect to the following matter, that is to say :
( 1 ) With respect to the level, width, and construction of streets, the accesses thereto,
th'alteration, deviation, and repairs thereof, and the drainage and sewerage therein;
( 2 )' Wlthrepect to the sites, sizes, levels, heights, and building lines of buildings,
lid the structure of walls, foundations, roofe, floors, stairs, passages, partitions, and
chimneys of buildings. With respect to the free space about buildings to secure a
free circulation of air, and with respect to the lighting and ventilation of buildings
and protection from dmp. With respect to the drainage of buildings, the water
supply and water fittings, and to soil pipes, waste pipes, drain conductors, traps, and
connections, and to water-closets, earth closets, privies, ashpits, and cesspools;
136
(3) For securing the stability of buildings for the prevention of fires and the pro
tection of the occupants in the event of and against fire for purposes of health and
for the closing of buildings or parts of buildings unfit for human habitation, and the
preventing of their use for such habitation, and to make special provisions with
respect to public buildings, wooden buildings, temporary buildings, buildings of
unusual construction, and to the inspection, erection, construction, alteration, and
removal thereof;
(4) With respect to notices, inspections, tests, plans, procedure, and other matters
incidental to the carrying into execution of this act and of such by-laws;
(5) With respect to the exercise of all or any of the powers conferred by-this act
or by the act of 1866 upon the commissioners, the master of works, the medical offi
cer of health, the sanitary inspector, the chief officer of the fire brigade, the superin
tendent of cleansing, or other person, the appointment of additional officers and
servants, and the allocation among the officers and servants of the commissioners of
their respective duties ;
(6 ) With respect to all or any of the matters mentioned in Parts xxm , xxiv, and
xxvii of the act of 1866, and the application and extension of the same or similar
provisions to other and analogous circumstances ;
(7) With respect to all or any of the matters mentioned in this act or in the sched
ule to this act, and to provide for the observance of the provisions of this act and of
the by-laws in such schedule, and the application and extension of the same or sim
ilar provisions to other and analogous circumstances ;
The commissioners may from time to time alter, repeal, and reenact such by-laws :
Provided, That such by-laws shall, before coming into operation, be confirmed by the
secretary for Scotland and shall be advertised at least once in each of two daily
newspapers published in Glasgow and shall not come into force till the expiration
of at least one month from the latest of such advertisements: Provided always, That
a later date may be fixed by the commissioners for such by-laws to come into force.
67. Any person violating any of the provisions of this act or of any by-law made
in virtue of this act shall be guilty of a guild offense, and shall, except where other
wise provided, be liable in a penalty not exceeding 5 and any person omitting to do
any act or thing prescribed by this act or by any such by-law after notice given by
the master of works in manner aforesaid requiring such act or thing to be done,
shall be guilty of a guild offense and shall, except where otherwise provided, be
liable in a penalty not exceeding 1 for every day such omission is continued.
68. If any workman, laborer, servant, or other person employed in or about any
land or heritage willfully and without the privity or consent of the person causing
such work to be done does anything in or about such land or heritage contrary to
the provisions of this act or of any by-law made in virtue of this act, or omits any
thing which by this act or such by-law is required to be done, he shall be guilty of a
guild offense and shall bo liable in a penalty not exceeding 5.
69. A penalty for a guild offense under this act or under any by-law made in vir
tue of this act shall be recoverable in the same manner and with the like remedies
as a penalty for a guild offense under the act of 1866; such penalty may also be
recovered by summons before the sheriff of Lanarkshire, at the instance of the pro
curator-fiscal of the dean of guild court in the summary form prescribed by the act
passed in the first year of the reign of Her present Majesty, entitled An act for the
more effectual recovery of small debts in the sheriff courts and for regulating the
establishment of circuit courts for the trial of small debt causes by the sheriffs in
Scotland, and any acts amending the same, and that irrespective of the amount of
such penalty, and all such penalties when recovered shall be paid into the funds of
the commissioners.
70. The provisions of this act are in addition to and not in derogation from the
provisions of the act of 1866 and the other recited acts.
71. Nothing in this act shall relieve any person of any liability which he may incur
137
at common law and compliance with the provisions of this act, or of any by-law
ma<lo in virtue of this act, or with any order of the doan of guild, or any notice of
the master of works shall not relieve any person of responsibility at common law
for any fault or neglect which may be attributable to him in connection with any
land or heritage or any operations thereon. All sizes, dimensions, and strengths
prescribed in this act or in any such by-law are minimum sizes, dimensions, an<l
strengths, and all limitations imposed by this act or by any such by-law are pro
hibitive and not permissive.
72. Copies of this act having appended thereto any by-laws made in virtue of this
act shall be printed by the commissioners and sold to any person who may apply
therefor at a price not exceeding 6d. for each complete copy, and no by-laws made
in virtue of this act shall be in force or binding except such as are printed and sold
along with and appended to copies of this act.
73. All costs, charges, and expenses of and incident to the preparing for obtaining
and passing of this act or otherwise in relation thereto and all expenses incurred
and disbursements made by the commissioners in the exercise of the powers con
ferred and the performance of the duties imposed by this act shall be paid by the
commissioners in equal moieties out of the police assessment and the assessment for
tho maintenance and repair of streets and roads.
S c h e d u l e . B y - l a w s r e f e r r e d t o i n t h e f o r e g o i n g a c t .
1. Every application to the dean of guild for a warrant to build or for a decree of
lining shall be accompanied by plans and sections in duplicate, drawn to a scale of
not less than l inches to 10 feet, and showing the boundaries of the petitioners
ground and the names of the adjoining proprietors, and also by detailed plans in
duplicate of all stairs, iron or steel beams, pillars, walls containing chimney flues,
principal timbers supporting walls and portions thereof, and the positions and sizes
of all drains, pipes, traps, and cesspools shall be shown or marked distinctly on the
plans and sections, and the dimensions of all joiting, beams, and roof timber shall
be marked on the plans in figures. In the absence of dimensions marked on such
plans the dimensions prescribed in these by-laws or in any by-law in force at the
time shall be presumed to apply to such plans. On decree of lining being pro
nounced one set of the plans shall be retained by the clerk of court, and the dupli
cate shall be authenticated by the clerk of court and returned to the petitioner.
2. All new streets exceeding 150 feet in length shall communicate at each end
with a public or private street or lane. Lanes may be formed of a width of not less
than 15 feet, and shall communicate at each end with a street or another lane, and
failing such communication shall be widened out at the closed end to a width of at
least 20 feet.
3. No building fronting or abutting on any street shall be erected of a height
greater than the width of such street, and no building set back from the building
line of any street, whether the intervening space is vacant ground or not, shall be
erected of a height greater than the width of such space added to tho width of the
street, provided that this section shall not apply to buildings fronting or abutting
on any street opposite to a square, park, pleasure ground, or public open space, of a
greater width than 80 feet.
4. The level of every new street shall afford the easiest possible gradient to the
street with which uch new street communicates at either end, and where such new
street crosses the line of any existing street the level at the crossing shall conform
to the level of such existing street, and every new street shall be properly drained,
and there shall be constructed therein a drain or sewer of sufficient capaoity to
drain the street and the buildings that may be erected thereon, and such drain or
sewer shall communicate with a common sewer or other suitable drainage outlet,
and the gradients and levels shall be snch that the surface water runs off all its sur
face immediately to the gutters at the edge of the pavement and thence into the
drain or sewer under the street.
138
5. Before beginning to take down or remove any bnilding abutting on or within

SOfeet of any street or court, and also before beginning to erect any bnilding, the
owner shall give seven days notice in writing to the master of works, and shall con
struct and erect a hoarding or barricade for the protection of persons using each
street or court, and also, if required by the master of works, a platform to be used as
a footway for passengers, and a substantial overhead covering, all of such description
and dimensions and in suoh position as the master of works may direct, and during
such operations such proprietor shall keep and maintain such hoarding or barricade
and snch footway and overhead covering where required in good condition to the
satisfaction of the master of works. Until such hoarding or barricade and others afore
said are erected to the satisfaction of the master of works, and while and so long as they
are not maintained as aforesaid, the master of works shall be entitled to prohibit
and stop all operations in connection with the taking down, removal, or erection of
such buildings.
6 . The master of works may by notice require the owner to fence, stay, shore, or
otherwise protect any underground vault, cellar, passage, or other excavation, and
to reconstruct, arch over, or otherwise well and sufficiently repair the same, and
may renew snch notice when and so often as the same may be necessary.
7. The site of every building shall be prepared by removing therefrom all animal
or vegetable matter, and unless such site be gravel, sand, or subsoil, and sufficiently
dry for the proposed building, it shall be covered with a layer of concrete of such
thickness as the dean of guild may order, being not less than 6 inches thick and
smoothed on the upper surface. Where necessary such site shall be drained by:
means of earthenware field drains properly laid and connected to a main drain or
sewer in such a way that any sewer gas is effectually intercepted. Any filling up
that may be required in consequence of excavation for the purposes aforesaid, or
froiu any other cause, shall be done with hard brick or dry stone shivers or other
innocuous materials.
8 . The cement to be used must be of the best quality.
9. The cement mortar to be used must be composed of cement mixed with dean
sharp sand or grit, or ground bricks hard burnt and free from rubbish, or ground
free stone, or hard-burnt ashes commonly called clinkers or danders without dust orearthy matter, in the proportion of one of cement to two of the other material.
10. The lime mortar to be used must be composed of fresh-burnt lime and clean
sharp sand, or ground bricks hard burnt and free from rubbish, or ground freestone,
or hard-burnt ashes commonly called clinkers or danders without dust or earthy mat*
ter, in the proportion of one of lime to three of the other material. If Arden lime i
used, the proportions must be one of lime to two of the other material.
11. The concrete to be used must be composed of clean gravel, broken hard-briok
ballast properly burnt, whinstone or granite shivers, or other hard material free from
earthy matter, well mixed with cement or fresh-burnt lime, in the proportion of one
of Arden lime to three or one of cement to five of the other material.
12. In the process of underbuilding, the following method shall be adopted: Ifstones are used, pillars of cube stone the full thickness of the wall shall be built and
placed not more than 18 inches apart. The space between the pillars shall be built of
large rubble stones, and both pillars and intervening spaces shall be wedged tight
against the under side of the wall. If bricks are used, they must be built solidly to
the fall thickness of the wall, and in length of not more than 3 feet at a time, and
bedded in cement and wedged as aforesaid. Both as regards workmanship and
material the work shall be done in a careful and substantial manner.
13. No part of any wall fronting or abutting on any street shall overhang or pro*
ject into such street except for architectural ornament ; but where otherwise lawfilin streets which are less than 60 feet wide the pilasters of the front walls may project
l inches beyond the building line, and the body of any bay window or oriel above
the ground story may project 12 inches beyond the building line, and in streets of 6
feet wide and upwards the extent of these projections may be doubled. - No balconies >
139
platforms, or galleries shall overbang the window of any sleeping apartment at a

height o le than 11 feet above the floor thereof. Any cornices or projections which
overhang the ground of an adjoining proprietor shall be cut off by the owner there
o f when required to enable such adjoining proprietor to build, and failing his doing
so may be cut off by such adjoining proprietor at the owners expense.
14. The following shall be the minimum dimensions of the external walls of build
ings:
(1) If built of stone or concrete, buildings one story in height, 16 inches; build
ings two stories in height 18 inches; buildings three stories in height, 20 inches;
buildings four stories in height, 24 inches. In buildings above four stories in height
the thickness of each of the first two stories shall be increased by 4 inches for each
additional story. Any stone wall in which the beds of masonry are not laid horizon
tally shall be thicker to the extent of one-third than the dimensions above stated.
(2) If built of hriokBuildings one story in height, 9 inches ; buildings two stories
in height, first story, 14 inches; buildings two stories in height, second story, 9
inches ; buildings three stories in height, first story, 18 inches ; buildings three stories
in height, seoond story, 14 inches; buildings three stories in height, third story, 14
inches ; buildings four stories in height, first story, 22 inches ; buildings four stories
in height, second story, 18 inches; buildings four stories in height, third story, 14
inches ; buildings four stories in height, fourth story, 14 inches. In buildings above
four stories in height the thickness of the four upper stories shall be as hereinbefore
fixed and the thickness of the lower stories shall be increased by 4inches for each
eaoh additional story, and no part of the walls shall be less than 14 inches thick.
Intermediate parts between base and top floor may be built with scarcements of off
sets, but so that no part is thinner than if the wall gradually tapered from base to top.
For the purposes of this section the height of a story sliall be 14 feet, measured from
the center of the floor joists to the center of the ceiling joists, and the walls of any
building containing stories of a greater height shall be proportionately increased in
thickness.
Any wall which is more than one story in height and longer than 45 feet or which
is a bearing wall for a floor or roof with a span of more than 60 feet shall be strength
ened by pilasters, buttresses, or counterforts.
15. Any cross wall, except so far as it contains chimney vents or smoke flues, may
be thinner to the extent of one-third than the dimensions prescribed for an external
wall, but no such wall shall be thinner than 9 inches.
16. Where the external walls of any building are supported by or rest upon iron
columns at the ground story such columns shall be surrounded and suitably protected
against fire by plaster or cement or other fireproofing material three-quarters of an
inch thick.
17. If any openings are left or made in any external wall to an extent greater than
one-half of the superficies of the wall of any story or if any openings are left or made
which extend into two or more stories the wall between such openings shall be
strengthened by sufficient pilasters, buttresses, counterforts, or otherwise and in every
each case a uffloient pier or other support shall be provided at the comer or angle
of any street on which any building abuts or within 3 feet therof.
18. No opening through any party wall or through any cross wall the erection of
whieh is required by this act or by any by-law made in virtue of this act shall exceed
5 feet in width and 8 feet in height and every such opening shall be properly seoured
with doable iron doors and frames. Before any such opening is made the proprietor
shall give three days notice to the master of works. Any opening in or removal of
a party wall to an extent greater than 40 feet of superficial area on any one story
and any removal of a cross wall to the extent of one-third of its superficial area on
any one story shall be held to be a structural alteration and to require the sanction
of the dean of guild.
19. All openings in cross or party walls or mean gables bniltof stone shall be built
with dressed stone rybats built inbond and otbond and no part of such rybats shall
140
be lees than 6 inches broad on the dressed horizontal be*l. Iron doors through party
or cross walls and mean gables shall be set in iron frames bolted to each other through
the wall. The wall for a space of 6 inches round the opening shall be plastered solid
with cement and no woodwork shall be placed nearer to the iron door than 6 inches,
20. No recess shall be formed in any external or party wall unless the back of such
recess is at least 9 inches thick or in any cross wall unless the back of such recess
is at least 4 inches thick and built of brick and no recess shall be formed nearer
than 14 inches to the inner face of any return external wall and the aggregate extent
of recesses in any one story shall not exceed one-half of the superficies of the wall
of the tory in which they are placed. For the purposes of this section a recess in
cludes any part of a wall whioh is of lees than the thickness prescribed for a wall of
that description.
21. Every wall, dwarf wall, and partition of a building shall have a damp course
throughout its entire thickness, and such damp course shall be of durable material,
impervious to moisture. The damp course shall be beneath the level of the under
side of the joists of the lowest floor and at a height of not less than 6 inches above
the surface of the ground, and such damp course may be of sheet lead weighing 4
pounds to the square foot or slates or flag stones laid in cement.
22. The external walls of every dwelling house, with the exception of party walls,
shall, where such walls are less than 24 inches in thickness if built of stone or less
than 18 inches in thickness if built of brick, be lathed and strapped or otherwise
sufficiently protected from damp. Where the lowest story is below the surface of
the ground such precautions shall be taken by building double walls or otherwise,
a effectually to prevent the damp from penetrating the wall.
23. Every gable wall of every dwelling house shall be carried up 9 inches thick
above the roof to the extent of 15 inches measured at right angles to the slope of
the roof and if the roof on one side of such wall is higher than the roof on the other
side thereof such wall shall be carried up to the extent of 15 inches, measured as
aforesaid, above the higher of the two roofs, and every party wall and every cross
wall of every building not occupied exclusively as dwelling houses and also every
external wall contiguous to another building shall be carried up 9 inches thick above
the roof to the extent of 3 feet, measured as aforesaid, and where the roof projects
beyond the face of the wall every such party and cross wall shall be corbelled out
to the full extent of such projection and carried np above the projecting eave to the
extent foresaid.
24. Every beam shall have a sufficient bearing at each end. The ends of every
wooden beam shall be protected by a cast-iron beam box with solid back, or a fire
clay shoe, or by solid building 4 inches thick, and the space between any two
wooden beams shall be at least 4 inches, and shall be filled up with solid building.
The supports of every beam shall be a stone or brick wall, or stone or brick pier, or
iron columns, or other incombustible structure on a solid foundation.
25. The floors between each story of a dwelling house or tenement of dwelling
houses shall be deafened. The deafening boards between the joists shall be overlaid
with a coating of lime mortar, upon which a layer of clean dry riddled engine ashes
or other suitable material shall be spread, and the surface shall be finished and
flushed with mortar. All voids between walls and contiguous joists shall be deaf
ened and all voids behind skirtings shall be solidly filled with mortar or other suit
able material. All partition walls unless built of brick or stone shall be deafened.
26. Flooring joists shall be placed not more than 15 inches apart, measured from
center to center, and shall have a bearing at each end of 9 inches. They shall be of
the following dimensions or of such other scantlings as shall be of equal strength:
Under 8 feet span, 6by 2 inches; under 10 feet span, 8 by 2inches; under 14 feet
span, 9 by 2inches ; under 16 feet span, 10 by 2 inches ; under 18 feet span, 11 by
2 inches ; under 20 feet span, 11 by 2inches ; under 22 feet span, 12 by inches.
Joists shall be laid on their edge and the spaces between the ends of the joists
141
shall he filled In at every floor and ceiling with solid building or incombustible ma
terial firmly packed in.
Joists exceeding 12 feet o f span shall have one row of bridging. Joists exceeding
18 feet of span shall have two rows of bridging. Joists exceeding 22 feet of span
shall be supported by at least one sufficient beam of wood or iron.
Bridle joists and trimmer joists shall be thicker by half an inch than the other
joists of the same floor.
27. Buildings of unusual construction or for special purposes must be made of suf
ficient strength, and all buildings must be designed and constructed so that the com
pleted structure, exclusive of the materials of which it is composed, shall be able to
carry as a safe load the weights following, viz : Halls, schools, churches, theaters, and
places for public meetings, 180 pounds per square foot of floor ; warehouses and work
shops, 280 pounds per square foot of floor. For the purposes of this section a safe
load upon timber is one-seventh, and upon wrought iron or cast iron is one-fifth of
the breaking strain.
28. Where the stretch of the roof exceeds 35 feet the spars shall be strengthened
and supported by hangers measuring 5 inches by 2 inches. Balks shall be 5 inches
by 2 inches. Bound roofs and other roofs of special construction shall be designed and
made to the satisfaction of the dean of guild. A roof must be so constructed as to
carry safely a load of 50 pounds per square foot of surface exclusive of the materials
of the roof itself.
29. The sarking of all roofs shall be not lees than five-eighths of an inch thick and half
checked at the joints. The slates of all roofs shall be secured by at least two strong
copper galvanized or other suitable nails, and each slate shall overlap tho slate sec
ond beneath by at least 3 inches. The slates at the wall top shall be bedded in
mortar.
30. Where the common stair within a tenement is not in juxtaposition to and
lighted from an external wall the well-hole of the stair shall have an area of the di
mensions following : In tenements of two stories and under, 14 square feet ; in ten
ements of three stories, 18 square feet; in tenements of four stories, 23 square feet,
and in higher tenements the area shall be proportionately increased, and such com
mon stairs shall be lighted from a cupola or skylight of a superficial area equal to
five times the area of the well-hole of the stair, according to the height of the build
ing, and every common stair in new and existing tenements shall be provided with
sufficient means of ventilation at or near the roof thereof.
31. Where washing-house accommodation is placed in the basement of the tene
ment sufficient precautions shall be taken to prevent damp or steam penetrating to
the rooms above.
32. The master of works may by notice require new or existing chimney cans to
be properly secured, fenced, or protected; and if the owner thereof^ on receiving such
notice, causes the chimney head containing such chimney cans to be surmounted by
an iron railing of a height and style suitable for the protection of the chimney cans
and properly secured to such chimney head, his doing so shall be held as sufficient
compliance with uoh notice.
33. Every chimney head rising above and in continuation of the front wall of a
building, or above any wall fronting or abutting on any public or private street or
court, shall be surmounted by an iron railing of a height and style suitable for the
protection of the chimney cans, and such railing shall be properly secured to such
chimney head and shall be repaired and renewed from time to time when necessary,
and every such chimney head shall be stayed to the roof of the building by a per
manent iron ladder of sufficient strength.
Wherever the master of works is satisfied that such chimney cans are otherwise so
fastened or secured as to be equally free from danger to the lieges using uoh streets
or courts he may dispense with the obligation to erect such iron railing.
34. No part of a built chimney or smoke flue shall be less than 9 inches by 9 inches
if square, or than 9 inches diameter if round or oval, and every such chimney flue
142
shall be surrounded by 4inches of brick, if built of brick, and 6 inches of stone, if

built of stone, and every such chimney or flue used or intended to be used in connec
tion with any furnace, steam boiler, or close fire, constructed for any commercial or
manufacturing purposes, shall be surrounded by 9 inches of brick, if built of briek,
and 12 inches of stone, if built of stone, for a distance of 10 feet from the floor on
which such furnace or lire is placed. The bridges between two chimneys shall be4
inches thick. Each chimney shall bo carried up separate and distinct to the top of
the chimney head. Wherever the wall containing such chimney or moke fine is less
than 22 inches in thickness the chimney shall be built into or against the wall and
properly bonded into it, and such chimney may either be built up solid from the foun
dation or on corbcls, provided tho projection of the corbels does not exceed tho thioknes8 of the wall. The inside of every chimney which is not lined with fire-proof
pipes 1 inch thick and solidly fitted shall be carefully plastered with good mortar
and rendered smooth and oven on the surface, and every inside wall and the inner
surface of every external wall shall be carefully plastered with good mortar or ce
ment over against such chimney and to the extent of 9 inches on each side. Every
chimney head shall be carried up to a height of at least 3 feet above the highestpart
of the roof in contact therewith, or above the higher of two roofs where such chim
ney head is in contact with two buildings of unequal height, and every chimney
head shall be surmounted by a stone cope extending the full thickness of the stalk
with holes cnt in tho solid or cramped and closely joined in the center, and into
which the chimney cans shall be securely fixed.
35. No opening shall hereafter be made into any chimney shaft or flue of any new
or existing building for the purpose of inserting any ventilating valve or for any
other purpose unless such opening is at least 14 inches distant from any timber or
other combustible substance, and no pipe for conveying smoke or other products of
combustion from any stove, Are, or furnace shall be brought within 14 inches of any
timber or other combustible substance.
36. All chimneys and flues which are off the perpendicular to such an extent a to
form with the perpendicular an angle of more than 45 shall be provided with doors
for inspection and cleaning, and all such chimneys and flues on their upper side shall
be at least 9 inches in thickness.
37. No person shall place any joist, beam, timber, or woodwork in any wall or
chimney-breast of any new or existing building nearer than 4inches to the inside of
any flue or chimney opening, or nearer than 4 inches to any pipe for conveying
smoke or other products of combustion or hot water above 212 of heat, or under
any chimney opening nearer than 14*inches to the upper surface of the baok-hearth
thereof, nor shall any person drive a wooden plug or pin into any wall or chimneybreast nearer than 4inches to the inside of any flue or chimney opening.
38. Wherever, in any building, the wall surrounding and inclosing any chimney
shaft or smoke flue is less than 9 inches in thioknes and is within 3 inches of any
timber or woodwork the external face of such wall shall be plastered with mortar
or otherwise suitably protected.
39. Where any chimney vent or smoke flue has been originally constructed for do
mestic purposes or for an open fire or grate and is used in connection with a range
or hot plate for a hotel or eating house, or a furnace steam boiler, bakers oven, or
close fire used for commercial or manufacturing purposes, the master of the works
may by notice require"sucli operations to be executed upon such chimney or fine as
may be necessary to render the same safe for such purposes. For the purposes of
this section the master of the works or the chief officer of the fire brigade, or any
assistant appointed by either of them, may at all reasonable times make an examina
tion of any such chimney or flue.
40. No pipe for discharging smoke, heated air, gas, steam, or hot water shall be
fixed on any building against the outside of a wall facing any street; nor ahallany
such pipe be allowed to exhaust through any window.
41. No pipe for conveying smoke or other products of combustion shall hereafter
be placed in any new or existing building nearer than 9 inches to any timber or
other combustible substance; and where any such pipe passes through a roof or
floor or through any wall or partition which is not built of brick, stone, or other in
combustible material, it shall be surrounded by an iron jacket filled with boilercovering composition or other nonconducting fireproof substance at least 2 inches
thick, and extending 9 inches under and above such floor or on each side of such wall
or partition.
42. No pipe for conveying heated air or steam shall hereafter be placed in any
new or existing building nearer than 6 inches to any timber or other combustible
substance.
43. Every fireplace, opening, or chimney opening shall have a sufficient hearth or
horizontal slab of durable and incombustible material at the level of the floor, ex
tending throughout the length and depth of such opening and to a distance of 18
inches beyond the face of the chimney-brent and 9 inches beyond each side of the
opening. The joists at every such hearth shall be bridled, and every snch hearth
shall be laid upon a bed of mortar, concrete, brick, or other compact and incombus
tible substance under its whole area, and having a. depth of at least 6 inches below
the upper surface of the hearth. The back of every chimney opening shall be 9
inches thick for a height of at least 10 feet above the floor level.
44. Every fireplace shall have jambs and lintels or arches of incombustible ma
terial projecting at least to the flush of the plaster work, and no timber, joist, beam,
or safety lintel shall be placed nearer to a fireplace opening than 12 inches, and no
wooden mantelpiece shall project beyond the face of the jamb more than 1 inch for
every 2 inches of vertical distance from the fireplace opening.
45. Every fireplace opening or chimney opening containing no grate or stove and
which is not in use as a fireplace, or which shall be hereafter disused shall be built
up with brick, and it shall not be lawful to board up any such opening with timber
orfill up the same with any other combustible material. The provisions of this sec
tion shall apply to existing buildings but not to dwelling houses.
46. No stove, oven, or steam boiler used for any purpose of trade or manufacture
shall .be placed on the wooden floor of any new or existing building unless there is
placed between the floor and such stove, oven, or boiler a layer of brick, concrete, or
other incombustible material at least 6 inches in thickness and properly laid, jointed,
bedded, and set, and extending at least 18 inches all round beyond the space occu
pied by such stove, oven, or boiler, and an air space left of not less than 2 inches be
low the ash pan and between it and the incombustible material on which it rests, and
where any suoh stove, oven, or boiler reaches to within 3 feet of the ceiling of the
apartment, such ceiling, for a space of 18 inches all round the area of such stove,
oven, or boiler shall be rendered fireproof and protected.
47. The street floor level of all dwelling houses shall be not less than 12 inches
above the mean level of the adjoining street or court. The space under the floor of
any dwelling house on or under the street level shall be sufficiently ventilated, ex
cept where the area of the building is covered with asphalt, concrete, or other ma
terial impervious to moisture.
48. No warehouse or other business premises shall be constructed with mansard
roofs or. roofs steeper than 45 degrees, unless special provision is made by parapets
and gangways or otherwise for firemen being upon such roofs. Mansard towers may
be constructed for architectural effect of such dimensions as the dean of guild may
sanction.
49. Special provision shall be made to the satisfaction of the dean of guild for
the ventilation of all sleeping apartments which contain no fireplace. Where prac
ticable the windows of all sleeping apartments in attics shall be made vertical.
50. Every owner who wishes drains or pipes tested by the sanitary inspector for
the-purposes of the foregoing act or these by-laws shall give him written notice
144
thereof, and the sanitary inspector shall, within the period of eight days after re
ceipt of such notice, examine and test the drains, 'pipes, and sewers referred to
therein and report thereon to the master of works, and shall send a duplicate of his
report to the owner.
51. All buildings shall be properly drained. The drains shall be composed of
sound, vitrified, fire`clay pipes or stoneware pipes, or others equally good, laid on a
bed of concrete 6 inches thick and bedded so that the body of the pipe lies on the
solid concrete. The pipes shall be made spiggot and faucet, and the joints shall be
formed smooth inside with Portland or other hydraulic cement. If cast iron pipes
jointed with lead are used the bed of concrete may be dispensed with. As far as
possible the drains shall be laid in straight lines with oblique junctions, both hori
zontal and vertical, in the direction of the flow, with a sufficient and uniform fall,
and the top of the drains, where not of cast iron, shall be at least 6 inches below the
level of the lowest floor. The junction from the drains shall be above the middle
line of the sewer. An allowance of 3 inches for the subsidence of the building shall
bo made by a space immediately above any drain where it passes under the wall of
a new building.
52. All drains shall be properly ventilated. Between the building and the sewer
and if possible at a distance of 6 feet from the building there shall be inserted a
ventilated trap of the same diameter as the drain and so constructed as to cut off all
direct communication of sewer gas from the sewer to the farther side of the drain.
Each such a trap shall be provided with an air inlet on the level of the street or
court or other suitable position.
53. No drain shall be built into or cemented to any wall, nor shall any drain pass
under the floor of a dwelling house where any other mode of construction is prac
ticable. Any drains conducted through or under a dwelling house shall be com
pletely surrounded by Portland cement concrete 6 inches thick. No draine and no
junctions connecting drain pipes and lumber work shall be covered up until after
the owner has given the master of works three days notice to enable him to examine
and test the same.
54. Every ash pit shall be built of concrete, brick, or stone, bedded and jointed, or of
iron, the floor shall be on the level of the adjoining street or court and shall be con
structed of concrete, and the walls, when not of iron, shall be plastered on the inside
with cement to a height of 3 feet above the floor. Every ash pit shall be roofed with
a water-tight roof and thoroughly ventilated by means of louver openings in the
roof or otherwise. No ash pit shall be of less dimensions than 5 feet by 4 feet and 7
feet high, and any ash pit intended for the use and accommodation of two tenements
shall be at least 6 feet by 5 feet ; for three tenements, 7 feet by 5 feet, and for four tene
ments ; 7 feet by 6 feet. The openings for cleansing shall be at least 3 feet by 2 feet 6
inches, and the sill of the openings shall be 2 feet 6 inches above the ground level.
Where, owing to the situation of an ash pit, it can not be reached by a cart or wheel
barrow, or where there is extra difficulty in emptying or cleansing, the owner shall
arrange with the superintendent of cleansing for emptying and cleansing the same.
55. Any and every earth closet shall be placed in a building which is thoroughly
ventilated and water-tight and distant 6 feet from any occupied building, and shall
be furnished with a movable receptacle of suitable construction and of adequate
size for containing earth or other deodorizing substance, and such receptacle shall
be so placed as to admit of ready access and so constructed as to provide for the
frequent and effectual application of a sufficient quantity of earth or other deodor
izing substance to any filth which may, from time to time, be deposited in such earth
closet.
56. No cesspool shall be constructed within 100 feet of any dwelling house or within
200 feet of any well, stream, or spring of water capable of being used foT food or food
processes.
57. Every cesspool shall be so placed as to be readily emptied and oleansed without
the contents being carried through any building.
145
58. Every cesspool shall be o constructed as to be wator-tiglit by being built of

stone or brick, cementod on the inside or otherwise, and shall be provided with ade
quate means of ventilation and outlet.
be so constructed as to be fully flushed at each discharge, and no container or o tl o r
similar fitting shall be constructed beneath the basin. Every such water-closet
shall be provided with a suitable trap beneath the basin, but no D-trap or lead mid
feather shall be regarded as suitable.
60. Every other water-fitting, including sinks, wah-hand basins, baths, urinals
and washtubs shall have the water lock of its trap of at least l inches. Each trap
shall be fitted with a trap screw at the side or bottom for cleansing.
61. All soil pipes from water-closets and all pipes from slop sinks, or other sinks '
or troughs, which receive solid or liquid filth, shall be at least 4 inches in diameter
internally, and shall be composed of heavy cast iron or of lead weighing 7 pounds
to the linear foot, and all such pipes shall be connected to the drains without the
intervention of a trap, except where sufficient ventilation is otherwise provided,
and shall be continued upward to a height of 8 inches above the eave of the roof,
and the upper end or outlet shall not be nearer to any window or skylight than 10
feet. Every such pipe shall, where practicable, be carried outside the building
without bends and securely supported against the wall at intervals of 5 feet, and
have a solid heel at the bottom resting on a sufficient base. Every iron pipe shall
be a quarter inch thick, jointed and staved with lead. No person shall be required
to place a soil pipe on the outside of any wall facing a street.
62. All waste pipes from sinks, baths, and lavatories, and all waste pipes not used
for receiving solid or liquid filth, shall be carried out through an external wall and
discharged into a suitable ventilating trap. All such waste pipes shall be continued
upwards to a height of 18 inches above the eave of the bnilding, and the upper end
or outlet shall not be nearer to the window or skylight of any occupied apartment
than 6 feet. All other inlets to a drain, including rain conductors, wash-house
gratings, and gratings in courts, shall be trapped by syphon traps, and thorough
ventilation shall be provided by a pipe from the drain 10 feet high, and distant 15
feet from any dwelling house or otherwise.
63. Wherever a soil pipe or waste pipe of lead is connected to a similar pipe of
iron within any building, the lead pipe shall be inserted through to the end of a
brass ferrule 2 inches longer than the inside of the faucet of the iron pipe and the
joint made with solder or lead. No such connection shall be made to tlie spigot end
of an iron pipe.
64. The following shall be the dimensions and weights of the pipes and conductors
following:
Cast-iron rhones, size 4 inches, 2 pounds per foot ; cast-iron conductors, size 3
inches, 4 pounds per foot; cast-iron soil pipes, size 4 and 4inches, one-fourth inch
thick; lead branch soil pipes, size 4 and 4inches, 7 pounds lead per square foot;
lead traps for water-closets, size 4 and 4inches, 7 pounds lead per square foot ; lead
waste pipes from sinks, size 2 inches, 5 pounds lead per square foot ; lead traps from
sinks, size 2inches, 5 pounds lead per square foot; lead overflow waste pipes, size
l inches, 4 pounds lead per square foot.
65. Every building shall be provided with a stop-cock for turning off the gas sup
ply therefrom, and such stop-cock shall be placed on the street or court, or in some
convenient situation on the building, and accessible from a street or court.
66 . Every building shall be provided with a window or hatchway on the roof, by
which, in case of fire, access may be had to the roof from a common stair or the
upper story of the building, and any person opening or interfering with such win
dow or hatchway without lawful authority shall be liable in a penalty of 2 with
the alternative of thirty days imprisonment.
67. All passages, corridors, staircases, and stairs in any publio building shall be
built of stone, brick, or other incombustible material, and shall be so placed that
146a ------ 10
146
from every part of the building there is easy exit. No stairs shall be constructed
with wheeling steps, or with steps less than 11 inches on tread, or more than 6 inches
deep, and hanging stairs must be supported at the outer end. All stairs shall be
provided with hand rails on both sides, and stairs which are 10 feet in width shall
be divided in the center by a substantial hand rail.
68. All entrances, passages, corridors, stairs, and other means of ingress and
egress to public buildings shall at all times be kept in good order and repair and free
from impediment or obstruction, and while and so long as any such public build
ing is being used shall be kept open and efficiently lighted ; all doors shall open
outwards and be kept unbolted and unlocked, and all barriers shall be so constructed
as to yield to the slightest pressure from within.
69. The exits from public buildings shall be not less than 1 foot in width for every
70 x>crsons who can be seated within the building, and where separate exits are pro
vided for different floors or sections the exit for each floor or section shall be not
less than 1 foot in width for every 70 persons who can be seated in such floor or sec
tion, and the minimum width of any exit shall be 4 feet.
70. In theaters and music halls every floor or section of a floor shall be provided
with separate exits, and the ratio between the width of exit and the number of per
sons to be accommodated shall diminish by 10 for each floor above the first floor of
the building. Safe and easy means of exit shall be provided for the performers, and
their rooms shall not be constructed of inflammable material, and shall be properly
lighted, drained, and ventilated. The word exit or the words way out hTi11
be conspicuously exhibited at each exit door. The seats in the auditorium, if ar
ranged in rows, shall be intersected by at least one passage 4 feet wide and side
passages shall be provided 2 feet 6 inches wide. No row, measured from one pas
sage to the next, shall contain more than 15 sittings.
1. Name of city, Glasgow.

2. Population till November 1,1891, 564,968 j thereafter, 656,185.
3. Area of city limits till November 1,1891, 6,111 acres; thereafter,
11,861 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, unknown.
5. No wooden buildings.
6. Number of fire alarms in 1891, 590 within city limits.
7,8. Number of fires, 504.
9. Total value of property involved, unknown.
10. Total loss thereon, 110,000 ($535,315) (estimated).
11. Total insurance, unknown.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, say from 90 to 95 per cent.
497.
16. No conflagrations extending beyond adjoining property.
17. As to the fire brigade of Glasgow, I give herewith annual report
of fire department; sent herewith.
18. Water-supply system: Gravitation, at varying pressures; maxi
mum, 100 pounds per square inch; capacity unlimited, except by dis
tributing pipes, which vary in size from 4 inches to 15 inches.
19. No legal provision is made for investigation of causes, except
147
FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
when fire is serious or incendiarism suspected, when cases are reported

to u procurator fiscal, who has power to precognise witnesses and for
ward evidence so collected to crown authorities, who order prosecution
in eases of arson if deemed advisable.
20. Incendiary fires in 1891, 3.
21. See petroleum act, gunpowder acts, and Glasgow police act, 1866.
22. Bill now before Parliament with the view of providing improved
control o f such matters. The dean of guild court, which at present
adjudicates on plans of buildings proposed to be erected, is an institu
tion dating further back than the modern fire service, and its powers
do not adequately meet the requirements of to-day.
L. W . B ro w n ,
Consul.
Glasgow, March 10,1892.
H U D D E R S F IE L D .
REPORT B Y COMMERCIAL AGENT W ILLIAM P. SMYTH.
1. Name of town: Huddersfield, in the county of York.

2. Population: A t the last census, which was taken on March 1,
1891, the population of Huddersfield was 95,417.
3. Area of towns limits: 11,788 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings: 20,930 inhabited, 978 unin
habited, and 100 in course of building.
5. Number of wooden buildings: No record of these is kept, as there
are no habitable houses built of wood permitted to be erected. There
are only a few stables and other sheds for cattle and built of wood.
Stone is cheap in this district, so that nearly everything is built of
stone, even the fences around fields, etc.
6. Number of alarms: 28.
7. There were 28 fires in the town of Huddersfield during the year
1890; the damage done by 12 of these fires was trifling; at 8 otbers it
did not exceed 50 per fire, and the greatest amount of damage caused
by one fire was estimated at 500.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings : There were two wooden sheds
on fire during the year 1890. One a farm outhouse of trilling value
(about 20), and the other a shed in a timber yard. The shed and timber
(stored) burnt was of the value of 500j both these cases were covered
by insurance.
9. There is no record kept of the values of the properties involved in
the fires, and as the owners are very reticent in giving information it
would be almost impossible to obtain accurate information from them
individually.
10. Total loss thereon: About 1,640.
148
11. Total insurance thereon: Hot ascertainable. (See answer to

Ko. 9.)
12. Total insurance loss thereon: About 1,610.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated: No
record kept (but see table at the end of this report compiled from cor
poration fire book).
28. All the fires without exception were confined to the building in
which they originated.
17. The department consists of a brigade with captain, who is the
chief constable of the town for the time being, and he holds sueh cap
taincy by virtue of his office of chief constable; a deputy captain, who
is one of the acting police inspectors selected from them for this office;
21 police firemen. There is a central fire station near the town hall,
where are kept 1 steam fire engine, double and single hose horse carts,
hand hose cart, 2 fire escapes, and other fire-extinguishing apparatus,
and this station is connected by telephone with various parts of the
town and with four branch stations (which are police stations), and
having 2 police firemen in connection with each branch. A t each
branch station are kept hand hose carts and fire-extinguishing appa
ratus.
A t most of the larger buildings and mills they have chemical fire ex
tinguishers and other devices for extinguishing fires, and nearly all the
large mills are connected by telephone with the central fire station.
At the theater and one or two mills Rayner patent is used. It is a
device by which by turning a tap connected with the main the whole
or any part of the interior may be flooded immediately. In this patent
the water is thrown upwards on to the ceiling (the gridiron pipes being
a few inches below the ceiling) and descends in floods upon the room
beneath. In the daytime this tap can be turned by the workman or
person in charge of the room, and in the night there is an ingenious
connection between each room and the caretakers cottage (near at hand).
The connection is worked by electricity, the current being connected
by a thermometer in each room which, when raised by the heat to a
certain height, rings a bell in the cottage, and by turning the tap situate
in the cottage the caretaker can flood the whole mill or any room or
rooms. This is most useful in cotton mills, as the fluff, or waste from
the cotton in course of manufacture, sometimes, clogs the shafting and
is ignited by the friction.
Most of the mills have fire escapes connected with the buildings.
One of these consists of a small pulley at the top of every window, by
which the inmates can let themselves down in baskets or skeps, of which
there are a large number in every mill.
All the large mills have fireproof staircases from top to bottom in
addition to fireproof hoists. A t the theater in this town they have a
fireproof curtain*
149
18. The water supply for domestic purposes, and also for fire-extinquishing purposes, is obtained from the same reservoirs, and is con
veyed in main pipes to the town and district.
The following is a description of the waterworks, with the capacity,
etc., of supply from the several reservoirs, obtained from the town
record:
HUDDERSFIELD WATERWORKS.
The waterworks derive their supply from three different sources,

viz, the Longwood reservoirs, the Blackmoorfoot and Deerhill reser
voirs, and the Wessenden springs.
The Longwood reservoirs are two in number, situate at the foot of
the east side of Scapegoat Hill, and distant from Huddersfield 2 miles.
The supply to these reservoirs is from three separate springs which
rise near the top of the hill above, and the water is piped direct into
the upper storage reservoir, which contains when full 50,000,000 gal
lons and covers an area of 8 acres. The lower reservoir, situate at the
foot of the embankment of the upper one, is also supplied with water
from the same, and acts as a service reservoir. It has a capacity of
20,299,134 gallons and covers an area of 3 acres. The water from this
source is piped down to a service tank at Clough Head, Longwood, and
to Spring Street tank, Huddersfield. It has also a connection with the
Snodley service reservoir. The Longwood Millowners Compensation
reservoir is constructed on the Longwood brook, with a capacity of
40,500,000 gallons, and water area of 8 acres when full.
The Blackmoorfoot reservoir is situate on the southwest side of Hud
dersfield, at a distance of 4 miles, and at an elevation of 831 feet above
sea level to top water line. This reservoir contains about 700,000,000
gallons.
The water covers an area of 105 acres when the reservoir is full. The
drainage area is 1,900 acres and the water from this gathering ground
is conveyed into the reservoir by means of catchwater conduits con
structed along the contours of the Fennive range of hills for a distance
of 7 miles.
There are two embankments to this reservoir, one on the north side
and one on th e south side.
The larger embankment is that on the north side, being 850 yards
long, 400 feet wide at its base, and 70 feet high.
The southern embankment is 500 yards long, 240 feet wide at its base,
and 40 feet high.
The available supply of water for the town and neighborhood from
this reservoir is calculated at 3,000,000 gallons per day, exclusive of
compensation water, which is given out daily during twelve hours of
every lawful working day at 841,000 gallons.
The main which carries the water from this reservoir to Huddersfield
150
is laid from the north tunnel entrance along the highway in the town
ship of Linthwaite to the village of Milnsbridge, where it crosses under
the bed of the Biver Colne and thence under the viaduct of the London
and Northwestern Eailway at Longwood station near which there is
a connection with the Longwood reservoir main whereby water can be
sent into that reservoir to supplement its own supplies as required.
The main then passes on to Paddock and thence across the fields to
Marsh and along the New Hey road into the Snodley service reservoir
at West Hill which is situated at a height of 500 feet above sea level
and is constructed to hold 1,250,000 gallons. From this service reser
voir water is distributed through the town and is also taken forward
along the Leeds road for the supply of Mirfield and Ravensthorpe which
are distant 4 and 6 miles respectively, from Huddersfield.
The main from the south entrance tunnel at Blackmoorfoot conveys
tho water to the villages of Netherton, Armitage Bridge, Berry Brow,
Honley, Almondbury, Kirkheaton, Kirkburton, Shelley, and Shepley,
and also to a portion of Huddersfield.
The Deerhill reservoir is situated in Lingards Township on the slope
of the west side of the hill from which it derives its name. Its top
water level is 1,144 feet above sea level. It contains 160,000,000 gal
lons of water when full, covers an area of 45 acres, and has a drainage
area of 800 acres. The water is conveyed in the reservoir by means of
a catchwater conduit 2 miles long in Marsden Township. Compensa
tion to the mill-owners in the Wessenden and Colne valleys is delivered
from this reservoir at various points, amounting in the aggregate to
481,080 gallons every working day. There is also a connection from
this reservoir with the Wessenden main which supplies the high levels
so as to supplement that supply as occasion requires.
The Wessenden Springs are situated on the west side of the Wes
senden reservoir, consisting of the Great Dyke Springs and the Blake
Clough Springs which are piped across the Blake Clough Talley into
a tank situate at an elevation of 1,025 feet above sea level, from which
the water is conveyed by a 9-inch main laid down the valley to Marsden
and thence passing along the Manchester and Huddersfield Turupike
road to Llaithwaite, where there is a connection with the Deerhill
main. From thence the main that supplies Golcar branches off up the
Cimble Valley to the service reservoir at Clough Head and thence to
Ouslane. The main continues along the Manchester road through
Milnsbridge and Quarmby to the Service Eeservoir at Lindley. These
springs yield on an average 500,000 gallons per day.
There are two compensation reservoirs in the Wessenden Yalley.
The old Wessenden reservoir, situated at an elevation of 984 feet above
sea level, and of a capacity of 107,000,000 gallons.
The new Wessenden Head reservoir, situate at an elevation of 1,268
feet above sea level, with a capacity of 82,000,000 gallons.
The total area of the limits of supply is 39.758 acres.
151
IN POEEIGN COUNTRIES.
The following table gives the several areas, depths, and capacities of
the storage and service reservoirs:
Huddersfield corporation waterworksStorage and service reservoirs.
Nome o f reservoir.
Height
above sea
level.
Ft. In.
Storage:
700 0
Longwood, up p er. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ___ . . . . . . . . . ____
6 o0 0
Lon g wood, lower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
575 0
Longwood,compensation.. . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................
831 0
Blackmoorfoot....... .................
Deer H ill.......................................................................... 1,144 0
Wessenden (old)................................................... ..........
984 8
Wessenden H ea d ............................................................. 1,268 0
Service:
500 0
Snodley................................................. ...........................
Lindley..............................................................................
750 0
Qolyar................................................................................
975 0
696 0
Gladhill...........................................................................
Tanks:
Spring street. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
389 0
Longwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
433 0
Berry B row .............................. .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
525 0
650 0
Hall ow er................................................................ .
Kirkbnrton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
501 0
611 0
Cowlersley..................................................... .
Area.
Depth.
A. B. P. Ft. In.
30 0
8 0
0
3 1 34
22 6
8 2 38
38 0
105 0 0
48 6
45 0 0
35 0
14
IC
48 o
10
10
4
0
9 o
9 0
18
12
10
15
11
10
11
9
0
0
0
0
Capacity.
Gallons.
50.000.000
20 , 000 , 0 M
40.000.000
700.000.000
160.000,
000
107,000,000
82.000.000
1,250,000
570, 000
280,000
280,000
399,400
140,720
184.000
90, 000
46,000
128.000
19. What provision is made by law to investigate causes by fire and

In cases of suspicion the police make careful investigation, and if they
consider there is sufficient grounds for this suspicion, then, at the in
stigation of the police, there is a public inquiry by the government
board of trade (London).
The police take up the matter on information from anyone, and are
always the first to move officially in the matter.
If the board of trade, after full inquiry, come to the conclusion that
there has been incendiarism or crime committed, they order a prosecucution by indictment, and the case is tried at the assizes.
20. Number of incendiary fires, none in 1890; one in 1891.
21. Regulations for the storage and sale of oil, explosives, and fire
works. The following clause (being section 260 of the Huddersfield
improvement act of 1871) is one of the restrictive regulations which
exist for the making of explosives, etc. :
260. If any person makes, within the borongh, lncifer matches or any combustible
article in the manufacture of which gunpowder or detonating powder is used, in any
place other than in a detached building, or in any case nearer than 100 yards to any
street or dwelling house, he sSall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 10, and to a
further penalty not exceeding 1 0 for every day during which the offense continues
after the time when the first penalty of 1 0 is incurred.
The gunpowder act of 1860 and any act for the time being in force
amending the same is in force for the borough of Huddersfield, as also
the act of the session of Parliament (25 and 26 Vic., cap. 66) for the safe
keeping of petroleum, and any act for the time being in force amend*
ing the same.
22. Law regulating building, construction, heating, lighting, etc.
152
FIBE ADD BUILDING REGULATIONS
[Extract from Part V o f the Huddersfield improvement act, 34 and 35 Viet., session 1871, as to build
ings.]
Sec. 100. For the purposes of this act, any building the erection whereof is l>egun
after tho commencement of this act, shall be considered a new building, andthererecting of any building pulled down to or below the level of the ground floor thereof, or
of any building of which only the framework is left down to the ground floor, ortho
conversion into a dwelling house of any building not originally constructed for human
habitation, or tho conversion into more than one dwelling house of a building orig
inally constructed as one dwelling house only, shall be considered the erection of a
building.
Sec. 101. For the purposes of this act, the height of the front elevation of a build
ing shall be measured from the level of the street or court (if any) immediately ad
joining the building to the eaves or square of the building.
Sec. 102. A building shall not, except with the consent of the corporation, be
erected on the side of any new street exceeding in height the distance from the front
of the building to the opposite side of the street, nor except as aforesaid shall the
height of any building so erected be at any time subsequently increased so as to ex
ceed the height aforesaid.
Sec. 103. Every person who intends to erect a new building shall give notice to
the corporation of such intention by writing left at the surveyors office, and shall
at the same time leave there the following documents, namely:
(1) A drawing of the front elevation of the building on a scale of not less than 1
inch to 8 feet.
(2) A detailed plan and section of the building on a scale of not less than 1 inch to
8 feet, showing the positions and forms of the several parts and windows, and the
thickness of the walls, with figured dimensions of the several parts, the water-clos
ets, privy drains, cesspool, ash-pit, well, and all outbuildings and other appurtenances,
and showing the then and also the intended level of the ground line of the yard or
other ground belonging thereto, and the level of the several floors of the intended
building.
(3) A description of the intended mode of drainage and means of water supply.
(4) A block plan on a scale of not less than 1 inch to 44 feet, showing the positions
of all buildings within 3 feet of each boundary of the intended building and of its
yard or other ground belonging thereto, and the width and level of the street.
Every such drawing, every such plan, and every such section shall contain the
name and address of the person intending to erect tho building, and be signed by
him or his authorized agent, and shall be deemed for purposes of this act part of the
notice ; and every such notice shall be accompanied by a duplicate thereof ; and every
such drawing, and every such plan, and every such section shall be accompanied by
a duplicate or tracing thereof; and every such duplicate or tracing shall be retained
by and shall be the property of the corporation; and every such notice, drawing,
plan, and section shall be delivered back to the person giving the notice, having
been first stamped, or otherwise marked, so as to indicate the fact and date of the
leaving of the notice, drawing, plan, and section at the surveyors office.
Skc. 104. The corporation shall approve or disapprove of an intended new build
ing within twenty-one days after the receipt of the *otice required by this act, and
if they do not disapprove within that period, then at the end of that period they
shall be taken to have approved.
Sec. 105. Nothing in an approval by the corporation of an extended new building
shall bo taken to authorize the erection of the building or the doing of anything rel
ative thereto or in connection therewith in any manner contrary to any of the pro
visions of this act, or of any by-law thereunder, except so far as may bo specially
sanctioned by the approval.
Sec. 106. If an intended new building approved by the corporation is not completed
within three years from the time of approval, the approval shall, at the expiration of
153
that period, cease to operate, and fresh notice and approval shall he requisite, as if
notice and approval had never been given.
Sec. 107. The walls of every new building shall he constructed of such thicknesses
as the corporation in each case determine. Where not otherwise prescribed the
outer walls shall be not less than 16 inches thick if built of stone, and 9 inches if
built of brick, and the party or division walls or other walls dividing tenements
shall extend from the foundation of the building, which foundation shall rest on
solid ground or on concrete or other solid substructure, and such party or division
walls shall be not less than 12 inches thick if built of stone, and 9 inches if built of
brick, exccpt in the case of cottage dwellings of not exceeding 10 pounds per annum
ratable value, in which case snch party or division walls shall not be less than 6
inches thick, whether built of stone or of brick.
Sec. 108. The external and party or side walls of every new building shall be con
structed of brick, stone, or other hard and incombustible substances, unless the
corporation otherwise allow in cases in which it appears to them that no danger
would exist of the spread of fire.
Sec. 109. No joists, beams, or other woodwork fixed in or upon any external or party
wall, exccpt beams or breastsummers and story posts under the same, and frames of
doors and windows of shops, shall be brought within 4 inches at least of the exter
nal face of such wall, unless with the previous sanction of the corporation.
S e c . 110. The roof or flat of every new building and every gutter, dormer, and other
work or construction connccted therewith, except the doors, door-frames, windows,
and window-frames of such dormer and other construction, shall be formed of or
externally covered with incombustible materials, except in special cases when other
wise allowed by the corporation.
S e c . 111. The chimneys and flues of every new building shall be constructed in
such mode and of such materials and dimensions as shall from time to time be deter
mined or approved by the corporation. Unless otherwise prescribed or ordered every
chimney or flue shall be constructed of good brickwork, or stonework and mortar,
well grouted ; and, if circular, must be formed of earthenware pipes of not less than
10 inches diameter, set in mortar; and, if not circular, must be pargeted with mor
tar, and not less than 14 inches by 12 inches clear interior measurement. No flue or
chimney shall have angles less obtuse than 120, except when proper iron or stone
doors or openings are left for clearing purposes. No timber or woodwork shall be
placed within 9 inches, or wooden plugs driven nearer than 6 inches, of the inside
face of any chimney or flue, and no opening shall be made in any chimneys or flues
for any purpose, nor pipe for conveying smoke, heated air, steam, or hot water, fixed
in any new building, except of the materials and in the manner to be submitted to
and specially approved by the corporation.
Sec. 112. Every fireplace in any room with a board floor shall have the hearth or
slab of such fireplace bedded on brick, stone, or other incombustible substance, which
shall be solid for a thickness of 6 inches at least beneath the upper surface of such
hearth or slab ; and such slab shall extend in breadth at least 6 inches on each side
beyond tho opening of the fireplace, and shall extend from the back of such opening
to a distance of 18 inches at least in front of the chimney breast.
S e c . 113. In the case of buildings erected in any part thereof over roadways or
passages the dividing walls and chimney breasts and flues, if any, over such road
way or passage, shall in no case rest upon or be supported by timber, but shall be
arched under with arches not less than 8 inches in thickness over such ways, roads,
or passages with good sound brick or stone arches, or supported with stone or iron
supports of sufficient strength, and according to the directions to be from time to
time given by the surveyor.
Sec. 114. No chimney shaft of any new building shall, except with the special
approval of the corporation, exceed the height of 6 feet above the outside of the roof
of such building, measuring upwards from the center of such chimney immediately
above the roof, unless the same be secured by sufficient iron stays of uch strength
154
and dimensions and to be fixed in such manner as shall be approved o f by the sur
veyor, or unless the same be built with another chimney shaft, back to baok, o f nh
height and o f such strength and dimensions as shall be approved o f by the surveyor.
Nor nhfl.11 any such chimney shaft above such roof be o f less dimensions than 23
inches on any one side thereof, but nothing in this section shall apply to the chim
ney shaft o f any detached building distant 18 feet or upwards from any public street
or way, or of any steam engine or manufactory the chimney shaft o f which has been
or shall be erected of such strength and dimensions and in manner satisfactory to
and approved by the corporation.
Skc. 115. The height and dimensions and structural thickness of all chimneys in
tended to be erected and used after the commencement o f this aot for purposes o f
trade or manufacture shall be ubject to the approval o f the corporation, and shall
be from time to time regulated and determined by them.
Sec . 116. In case any building is, after the commencement o f this aot, erected or
raised to a greater height than the adjoining building, and any flues or chimneys o f
the adjoining building are against or in the outer or party wall against the building
so erected or raised, the person erecting or raising such building shall at his own
expense build up those flues and chimneys so that the tops thereof may be o f the
same height as tho tops of tho chimneys o f the building so erected or raised.
' Sec . 117. Every oven belonging to any baker, and every furnace belonging to any
smith, tradesman, or artificer, shall have a protecting wall o f not less than 9 inches
in thickness between the fire of the oven or furnace and the side or end wall, party
wall, or outer wall, as the cao may bo o f the building in which such oven or furnace maybe, and such protecting wall shall be so constructed and be o f such height,
depth, and breadth above, below, and beyond the oven or furnace as the corpora
tion direct.
S e c . 118. It shall not be lawful for any person to erect any new dwelling houses
with their fronts facing each other, separated from each other by a space o f less than
8 yards, or to erect dwelling houses in a court without making or leaving a passage
or entrance to the court from a street at least 3 yards wide.
Sec . 119. Where the backs o f dwellings in one street are opposite the backs of
dwellings in a street parallel or nearly parallel thereto, there shall be (except in spe
cial cases, at the discretion o f the corporation) a passage or road at least 12 feet wide
between the yards of such dwellings, uncovered throughout its length, and commu
nicating at each end with a street the entire space between the backs o f such oppo
site dwellings, including the open yards, and the passage or road aforesaid shall be
at least 12 yards wide, and no building exceeding 10 feet 6 inches in height from the
level of the ground to tho ridge o f the roof shall be erected on any portion o f such
space.
Sec . 120. Unless the corporation otherwise allow, in every new building every
room used as a dwelling or sleeping room below or partly below the level o f the ground
wha.ll be in every part thereof 8 fee* 6 inches in height at least from the floor to the ceil
ing, and every other room so used, except rooms in the roof, shall be in every part 9
feet in height at least from the floor to tho coiling, and every room in the roof so used
shall be at least 7 feet in height from the floor to the ceiling through not less hftn
one-half the area of the room.
S e c . 127. In a new building, every room used as a dwelling or sleeping room shall
have at least one window, and the total area o f glass in the windows clear o f the
frame and sash shall be, unless in any case the corporation otherwise determine, at
least one-tenth of the area of the room, and the top o f one at least o f the windows
shall not be less than 7 feet 6 inches above the floor, and in case o f a sash window
the upper half at least shall be made to open the full width, and in case o f a case
ment window one-half at least shall be made to open.
Sec . 128. Every public building, school, shop, and factory erected after the com
mencement o f this act shall be supplied with means of ventilation approved by the
155
corporation, and every room in any house or other building used after the commence
ment of this act a a day school shall, unless supplied with special means of ventila
tion to the satisfaction of the corporation, be so used subject to the following regu
lations (namely) : If the room is less than 8 feet 6 inches in height from the floor to
the ceiling, the space for each scholar shall be 9 superficial feet at the least, and if it is
8 feet 6 inches or upwards in height, the space for each scholar shall be 8 superficial
feet at least.
Sec. 129. Every new building intended to be used as a place of public amusement
or entertainment, or for holding large numbers of people for any purpose whatso
ever, shall, in its apparatus or means of provisions for lighting and warming and
for prevention of or precautions against fire, and in the number and dimensions of
its entrances, staircases, and means of access or of egress in case of fire, as well as
its ventilation and means of supplying fresh air, be subject to tho approval of the
corporation. In all such public buildings the doors shall be made to open outwards
or in the direction of egress, but the outer doors shall not extend over the footway
of any street.
S e c . 130. Every room used as a dwelling or sleeping room built after tho com menccmeut of this act of less area than 100 superficial feet, and without a fireplace,
shall be provided with special means of ventilation by air-shaft or otherwise, as
tho corporation determine.
S e c . 132. In any building erectcd after the commencement of this act in which
the floor of any room or cellar intended to be used as a dwelling or sleeping room is
below the street or ground level, there shall be an open area not less than 3 feet wide
from a level 6 inches below the floor level of such room or cellar to the ground or
street level for the whole extent of such room or collar, but this section shall not be
taken to prevent any archway or covering from being laid across such area for the
purpose of an approach to the doorway or windows of such house.
S e c . 133. The level of tho ground floor of every dwelling house built after the com
mencement of this act shall be at least 12 inches above the highest level of the foot
way or road adjoiningor near the same.
S e c . 135. A new house shall not be occnpied until the house drainage is completed
nor until the house has been approved by the corporation as in every respect fit for
human habitation.
Sec. 144. If any person covers any dwelling house or any building adjoining to
any other building either wholly or in part with straw thatch or other combustible
material he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 10, and the corporation may
order such straw, thatch, or other combustible material to be removed by the owner
of such building, and in default the corporation may remove the same and recover
the expenses of so doing from such owner.
Sec. 145. From and after the commencement of this act no pipe or funnel for con
veying smoke or steam shall at any time be newly fixed against any building next to
any street or court or on the inside of any building nearer than 9 inches to any tim
ber or other combustible material, nor shall any fiiimel built or made of brick or
stone, or both, be newly placed on the outside of any building next to any street or
court so as to extend beyond the general line of the buildings in the street or court,
and if any pipe or funnel is fixed or placed contrary to this act tho occupier, or in
the case of there being no occupier, then the owner of the building to which the same
belongs, shall within fourteen days next after notice served on him by the corpora
tion cause the same to be removed, and on default shall be liable to a penalty not
exceeding 10*. a day for every day during which such default continues after the ex
piration of the time specified in such notice.
S e c . 146. The corporation may vary as they think fit the intended details and ma
terials of any new building so as to make the same accord with the provisions of
this act and of any by-law thereunder, or with the requirements of publie health
and safety.
156
Sec . 147. The surveyor may at any reasonable time inspect any building in prog
ress of construction or any work connected therewith but the owner or his agent or
the builder shall give forty-eight hours notice in writing to the surveyor before the
commencement of the building and before any foundation of a new building or any
ewer or drain is covered up and the like notice after any work required by the
corporation to be done in amendment o f any irregulation has been completed, and
before the same is covered up.
S e c . 148. Within fourteen days after a building has been completed the owner
shall give notice thereof to the surveyor, a id the surveyor shall forthwith proceed
to survey it, and shall report to the corporation thereon.
Sec. 149. I f in the erecting o f a building or the execution o f any work connected
therewith anything is done in contravention of this act, or anything required by
this act is omitted, the surveyor may within forty-eight hours after obtaining knowl
edge thereof give to the owner of the building or his agent or the builder notice in
writing requiring him within a time specified in the notice to amend what has been
so done in contravention or to do what is so required, and if any such owner or
builder fails to comply in any respect with the requirements of the present soction,
he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 5 and to a further penalty not exceed
ing 40 for every day during which such failure continues after the expiration o f a
time specified in that behalf in the notice.
Sec. 150. If any person begins to erect a new building without giving the notice
required by this act, or before the expiration o f twenty-one days from the receipt by
the corporation o f that notice is given, or the previous approval o f the corporation,
or begin to erect a new building which has been disapproved by the corporation, or
after the corporation has approved o f a new building, makes, either before or after
completion thereof^ any alteration in the whole or any part thereof so approved with
out fni*tlir previous approval l>y the corporation of tho alteration, or does anything
in contravention of this act, or omits to do anything required by this act, or by the
corporation or surveyor under the authority of this act with reference to a new build
ing, he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 5, and in case of a continuing
offense to a further penalty not exceeding 40. for every day during which such
offense continues after the expiration of twenty-four hours from service of notice
thereof on him by the corporation.
Sec. 151. Nothing in this act or any by-law thereunder shall make void any agree
ment in writing entered into before the commencement of this aot for erecting or
altering any building, but the same may be performed with such alterations as may
be rendered necessary by this act or any such by-law, and a if such alterations had
been stipulated for in such agreement, and the difference between the cost o f the
work, according to the agreement and the cost thereof, as executed according to this
act or any such by-law shall be ascertained by the parties to the respective agree
ments and paid for and deducted as the case may require, and in case of dispute such
difference shall, on the request of either party (notice being given to the other), be
decided by the surveyor, and for his trouble in making such decision each party
shall pay him such sum, not exceeding 20., as the corporation direct.
Sec. 152. Where under a lease or agreement for a lease any person has before the
commencement of this act covenanted or agreed to erect a building, such building
shall be built according to tho provisions of this act as if this act had been passed
and in operation at the time o f the making of such lease or agreement and a if the
same had been made subject to this act, and that without either party being entitled
to any compensation.
il l i a m
P . Sm y t h ,
Commercial Agent.
Huddersfield, January, 1892.
157
LEEDS.
REPORT B Y OONSTTL WIGFALL.
1. Name of city, Leeds, Yorkshire.

2. Population in 1891, census year, 367,506.
3. Area of municipal limits, 21,572 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, not known.
5. Number of wooden buildings, not known.
6. Number of alarms during year, 266 (1 outside of borough limits),
of which 22 proved to be false ones (or 20).
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, not returned.
8. Number of fires in wooden buildings, not returned.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires during the year,
1,010,700 ($4,918,571.55), including one fire outside the borough limits.
10. Total loss during year, 24,454 ($118,846.44), including one fire
outside the borough limits.
11. Insurance, amount not known; number insured, 213; uninsured
33; total alarms, 266.
12. Loss on insurance, amount not known.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, not
known.
every one.
17. The composition of the fire department will be found in the accom
panying extract from the Leeds County borough police annual report.
FIRE REPORT.
L e e d s , October, 1890.
Two hundred and sixty-six fire alarms have been received during the year, 22 of
which proved to be false ones. This is an excess of 40 fires for the year, as compared
with last.
Damage at such fires has been estimated at 24,454, and property saved,980,946.
The following were the serious fires of the year, and the damage estimated at
19,000: Messrs. Dixon & Gaunt, Wortley; Mr. Johnson, Bramley; Liveey and
others, Covered Market; T. Washington, Armley; Mr. Councillor Greaves, Gelderd
Road; J. Curtis & Son, Wade Lane; J. Switheubauk, Bank Low Mills.
The estimated damage at the one fire out of the borough, viz, Morley,
was 300, and property saved, 5,000.
C o m p a r a t iv e T a b l e .
Destroyed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A t r is k ___. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Saved....................................... .
1886.
1887.
1888.
1889.
1890.
189L
18, 054
629,020
610,966
36,707
625,925
589,218
63,459
527,220
463,761
49,251
621,910
572,609
44,925
1,034,850
989,925
24,450
1,005,400
980,946
The above table shows most satisfactorily that the loss sustained i the lowest f
five years, and the risk with one exception the greatest.
158
There are now 15 fire alarms in the public streets.

The liorse-ambulance has turned out to -166 cnees during the year, againt 426 last.
The cost of keep of horses, 9 in number, including shoeing, etc., is about 9. 9d.
per week. The cost of repairs about 30. per week.
The wages of firemen of all ranks, other than the superintendent, are police
wages, witli 4. per week added maximum.
The whole of the fire brigade have quarters found them, for which 3. per week
each is deducted from their pay.
The brigade is composed of the following number and grades: Chief constable,
superintendent, 4 sergeants, 28 constables.
During the year tho steam fire engines Jumbo and Jubilee have been thoroughly
overhauled by a practical man from the makers, and both are now in thorough work
ing order.
A new hose cart, with hose, standpipes, and other appliances complete, has been
sent to Upper Wortley police office, at which place a new engine house has been
erected since presenting my last report.
The old fire escape stationed for a considerable time at St. Judes Church, Hunslet,
has been removed, and remade by the firemen at the fire station, and is now abso
lutely a new one, and will be placed shortly in some advantageous position.
The following are a few of the most serious cases of deaths resulting from fires
during the year: December 9,1890, at Messrs. Dixon & Gaunts mill, Wortley, a girl
burnt to death at a fire; January 1,1891, a disastrous calamity occurred at a school
room in New Wortley, resulting in the death of 11 victims and disfigurement of
others.
OFFICIAL REPORT.
Superintendent Baker, in his report to the chief constable, says: At 7:26 p. m. I

received information that a fire had broken out at Wortley Parish Church, Lower
Wortley road. On arriving there with the tender, fire escape, and brigade, I found
that an entertainment and bazaar were being held. In the school were several
children who were dressed in cotton wool, and each carried a small Chinese lamp,
which was lighted by means of a candle. It appears that some of the lamps caught
fire and set fire to the childrens dresses. About 15 children were soon all in flames.
Several attendants rendered assistance, but the whole of the children were very severely
burned. Before the flames were extinguished doctors had been called in, and they,
with the assistance of several of the attendants, dressed the childrens bums in the
schoolroom. I at once arranged to convey on the tender four of the worst cases to
the infirmary, taking care of them. Before starting they were well wrapped up in
rugs and blankets and they were held in the arms of firemen. I then gave orders
for tho ambulance to be sent for. I at once proceeded with the four children to
the infirmary. Afterwards I drove with the new tender, which was more suitable
for the purpose of conveying the children to tho infirmary. On my arrival the am
bulance was just starting off to the infirmary with more children. From inquiries I
found that several children who were burnt had been conveyed to their homes and
attended to by doctors, one of whom lived in Oldfield lane. The ambulance again
arrived and took two other children to the infirmary. Two men were severely burnt
in trying to save the children. I conveyed the men and other children on the tender
to the infirmary. Very little damage was done to the property in the school, which
is insured. I left Inspector Ledgard and a section of police in charge, a there was
a large congregation of people in the neighborhood of the school.
February 8, a woman burnt to death, caused by the upsetting of a paraffin lamp.
June 22, a man burnt to death at Lane Side Mills, Morley.
1.59
Total........................
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
17
17
20
1
1
2
200
200
250
250
250
250
250
250
250
250
400
250
250
300
250
250
250
250
250
250
250
250
400
250
250
300
250
250
250
1
1
2
6
2
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
4
4
250
250
11
1,800
1 ,0 0 0
Yards of hose.
30
Instock.
11
250
300
250
300
1 ,0 0 0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1,850 4,050
250
300
250
300
Hose carts.
Tenders.
Steamers.
5 1,800
Ladders.
2
1
1
1
1
Hand pumps.
Jumping sheets.
00
o
H
Total number at
each station.
Standpipes.
Number o f ynr<ls o f
hose carried with each
machine.
Branch pipes.
Chief fiire station, Park

street - -- -- - . . . . . . . . . . . .
Police stations:
A rm le y ......................
Bramley . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Beest<>n . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapeltow n. . . . . . . . . .
Fine A rt Gallery.. . . .
flult.. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hnslet road . . . . . . . . .
K olbeck.. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Kirkstall.....................
Kirkstall road. . . . . . . .
Millgarth street.. . . . .
Marsh Lane.. . . . . . . . .
Meadow Lane.. . . . . . .
Municipal offices . . . . .
New W ortley. . . . . . . .
Sheepcar. . . . . . . . . . . .
Town TTn.11 . . . . . . . . . . .
Upper W ortley...
Woodhouse . . . . . . . . . .
York road. . . . . . . . . . . .
Tenders.
escapes.
j Fire
Stations.
Steamers.
Leeds Borough fire "brigade.List of stations where assistance can be rendered in case of
fire, showing the apparatus kept at each.
5,000 1,850 9,900
2
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
2
14
2
2
4
4
2
4
4
4
4
4
4
1
1
2
2
10
1
1
1
39
87
....
5
1
4
2
2
Number offires that have been attended, with origin, also number of times called out byfalse
alarms; and showing the estimated value of property at risk, andproperty destroyed for
the year ending September 29,1891.
160

Number of fires that have been attended, with origin} etc.Continued,
Damage.
Insurance.
Total number of fires attended.
0
I n e a c h police
division of the
borough.
Classification.
A.
M ills.....................................
Warehouses........................ .
S hops.................................. .
Dwelling-houses.................
Theaters, concert halls, e tc .
Outhouses, etc......................
42
Total.
Estimated value of
Estimated value of
Estimated value of
Estimated value o f
19
53
84
9
7
property
property
property
property
1<>4
B.
C.
45
25
70
107
44
22
63
74
9
46
25
70
107
11
213
D.
11
114
34
65
266
destroyed in the borough................................................................ 24,454

destroyed out of the borough........................................................
300
at risk in the borough..................................................................... 1,005,400
at risk out of the borough.............................................................
5,000
Chemical extincteurs, which have proved very efficient at the outbreak of fires at
tended by the borough brigade, are provided for several out-stations, but more are
required to supply all.
The sickness of the force for the year has been 3,338 days, of which 396 were caused
by iiyuries received when on duty.
The following variations have taken place in the force :

Superannuated.................................................................................
Deceased..........................................................................................
Dismissed.............................................................- ...........................
Resigned...........................................................................................
2
3
18
Total........................................................................................ 29
The conduct of the force has been extremely good, and the men have worked well;
but owing to the great want of additional strength it is impossible to perform it as
this committee, the public, and I could wish.
The Government inspector, captain, the honorable C. G. Legge, made his annual
inspection of the force, including offices, cells, clothing, etc., on April 15 last, and
appeared well satisfied with all he witnessed, as a result of which the Government
certificate, certifying as to the efficiency of the force, was read at the watch commit
tee meeting holden on Friday, the 23d of this month.
In conclusion, 1 beg to thank this committee and thc~public in general for the kind
assistance rendered to all members of this force at all times.
I have the honor to remain, gentlemen, your most humble and obedient servant,
F r e d T. W e b b ,
Chief Constable.
18. The water supply, which is provided for the general uses of the
borough, is dealt with through a system of reservoirs and water mains
by the force of gravitation, aided by pumps. It is, or may in emer
gency be, supplemented for purposes of extinguishing fire by draughts
from the river Aire and from the Leeds and Liverpool, and the Aire
and Calder canals, which all run within the limits of the borough. In
quantity the supply is practically without limit.
161
10. As regards provision by law to investigate causes of fire, and to

provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime,
it may be noted that the fire department in Leeds is part and parcel of
the police organization. Any case of the kind may be thoroughly
looked into and prosecution instituted by way of indictment.
20. No incendiary fires have been known during the year, except two
supposed.
21. Concerning regulations for the storage and sale of explosives, etc.,
see the explosive act, 1875.*
22. Accompanying this list in pamphlet form, marked 0, is an extract
from acts of parliament in force within the borough of Leeds, relating
to streets and buildings, etc.
F. H. W lGFALL,
C0U8Ul.
Leeds, January 26 1892.

L E IT H A N D E D IN B U R G .
RE PO RT B Y CONSUL W A L LA C E BRUCE , OF L E IT H .
1. Name of places: Edinburgh, the chief city of the county of same

name, and the capital city of Scotland; Leith, the port of Edinburgh
and the surrounding district. These are practically one great city, the
streets and buildings being so conjoined, but they are two distinct
corporations or municipalities.
2. Population: Edinburgh, 264,787j Leith, 69,956; total, 334,743.
3. Area of city limits : Edinburgh, 6,166 acres, or about 9 square
miles. [This area includes public gardens and recreation grounds
extending to 1,171 acres, or about I f square miles.] Leith, including
the neighboring fishing station and port of Newhaven, about 2,000 acres,
or a little over 3 square miles.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings : There are very few brick
buildings compared with those of stone. There is not one brick build
ing to a thousand stone buildings in Edinburgh or Leith. Nearly all
arc of gray sandstone, of which there is abundance in the district.
The city authorities assure me that the number of buildings has never
been estimated and can not be given, even approximately, for either
Edinburgh or Leitli.
5. Number of wooden buildings: There are no wooden buildiugs.
6. Number of alarms : None of the apparatus designated alarms
used in some cities are in use either in Edinburgh or Leith. The sys
tem of calling assistance in cases of fires is by telegraph or telephone
* See supplement for explosive acts,
t Fully covered by other reports.
146a ------ 11
162
from the nearest fire station or police station to contiguous stations and
to tlie head office.
7.
Number of fires in brick or stone buildings : The total number of
fires in and about Edinburgh during the past four years is shown as
follows:
Number o f fires.
Tear ending May 15

1888 .......................................................................
1889 .......................................................................
1890 .......................................................................
1891.......................................................................
Within
city
bounds.
Beyond
city
bounds.
273
261
250
29
11
8
Only
foul
chim
neys.
91
95
91
72
Merely
alarms.
47
54
75
73
Total
number
of calls.
417
417
427
449
The accompanying reports on the Edinburgh fire-engine establish

ment for the years 1888 to 1891 contain a great amount of useful infor
mation on the subject, but no distinction is observed between fires in
brick and fires in stone buildings, and the Edinburgh fire master informe
me that such particulars are not obtainable.
The fire master of Leith informs me that he keeps no such record of
fires as is done by the Edinburgh fire master. The fires are few, not
averaging more than 40 per annum during the last ten years. Only
about 1 per cent, of the Leith fires continue to next building. Fires
are almost always confined to the flat or building in which they origi
nate. The fire master cannot state the proportion of fires in brick or
stone buildings.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings: There are no frame buildings.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires: The Edinburgh
fire master and the Leith fire master both assure me that they never get
such information as is wanted in this question, and the managers and
secretaries and agents of insurance companies whom I have consulted
tell me that the value of property involved in the fires could not pos
sibly be estimated in the aggregate.
10. Total loss thereon : The Edinburgh and Leith fire masters and the
insurance companies say that there is no means of answering this ques
tion. The details on this point are very deficient.
11. Total insurance thereon: The only particulars as to insurance
which have been supplied me will be found in Table 2 of the Edinburgh
fire masters report for the year 1891, herewith transmitted, which shows
the total number of fires that have occurred within the city of Edin
burgh each year ended May 15 from 1877 to 1891 j also the proportions
insured, uninsured, and unknown of those fires. The total insurance
thereon I am informed by competent authorities can not be ascer
tained.
12. Total insurance loss thereon: The losses are not reported as far
as can be ascertained.
163
IN POEEIGN COUNTRIES.
13. Number of fires confined to the floor in which they originated:

Almost all the fires are confined to the floor in which they originated.
14. Number of fires confined to the building in which they originated :
The majority of the fires are confined to the building in which they
originated.
13. Number of fires extending to adjoining property: Yery rare.
Number can not be ascertained.
property : So far as Edinburgh, the chief center of population in this
district, is concerned the most complete information obtainable on
questions 7 to 16 (excepting numbers 9,10,11, and 12, as to the value
of property involved and the loss thereon) will be found in the accom
panying reports of the fire master, Oapt. Wilkins, for the years 1888,
1889, 1890, and 1891 (to May 15 each year).
17. The Edinburgh fire department consists of one chief fire station,
situated in the center of the town, with the 13 branch stations distrib
uted throughout the city. Tables number 4 and 5 of the accompany
ing fire masters report give a list of stations and description of the
apparatus kept at each of them. There are 46 men in all, consisting of
a fire master, assistant fire master, and others of various rank (vide
Table 6). Of the said 46 men, 36 are on the permanent staff and 10 on
the auxiliary.
The fire department of Leith consists of one chief fire station, situated
in a central thoroughfare in Leith, and one substation in Newhaven,
with efficient apparatus in each. There are a chief fire master and as
sistant (paid officers) and 32 auxiliaries.
The following report for the year ended May 15,1891, contains valu
able statistics:
F ir e B r ig a d e ,
Chief Office, High Street, Edinburgh, August, 1891.

The total number of calls during the year has been 449. Of these, 73 were alarms
merely, 72 proved to be foul chimneys, 296 were fires within the city bounds, and 8
wore fires beyond the city bounds.
Of the 296 fires which occurred within the city, 4 were extinguished by means of
steam fire engines, street hydrants, and firemen ; 75 by means of street hydrants and
firemen ; 67 by firemen using the brigade hand pumps; 117 by firemen using buckets
of water only; and the remaining 33 fires by persons on the spot before the arrival
of the fire brigade.
Of the 8 fires which occurred beyond the city bounds, the city was reimbursed for
the attendance of engines and firemen.
Of the 296 fires which occurred within the oity, 3 resulted in serious damage to
property. These occurred in the premises at Caledonian Railway station, Lothian
road; St. Marys Cathedral,Broughton street; Ballantyne, Hanson & Co., printers,
Cauaewayside.
During the past year the fire escape has been turned out on various occasions.
Though fortunately not required to save endangered persons, it has rendered good
service by affording ready access for the hose being speedily run up to the roof of
buildings to discharge the water direct upon the burning material.
In addition to utilizing the lamp-pillars to indicate the position of the various
164
hydrants in the city, we have this year still further improved this useful system by
indicating on each plate the size of tho pipe tho hydrant is attached to. This will
enable the firemen to learn the number and various sizes of pipes passing through
cach street.
The calls to fires for the year ended May 15,1891, show an increase of 22 over those
of last year, but tho proportion of serious to slight losses by fire is still very favora
ble.
Of tho 449 calls received the brigade was turned out on 69 days, twice; 39 days,
three times ; 11 days, four times ; 2 days, five times. The remaining were single calls
per day.
G e n e r a l S u m m a r y o f S t a t i o n , S p e c i a l , a n d o t h e r O u t s i d e D u t ie s , d o n e b t
t u b M e m b e r s o f t h e F ir e E s t a b l is h m e n t , d u r in g t h e Y e a r e n d e d M a t
15, 1891.
The number of firemen employed on the several station duties is 12 by day and 9
by night, making a total of 21 men in every twenty-four hours.
The men have attended 739 special duties in theaters and other places of amuse
ment in the city, on an average of four hours each special duty, making a total of
2,956 hours during the year, for which the city was reimbursed to the extent of
119 7a. 6d.
They have also whitewashed, painted, and cleaned the following stations during
the year: Chief station, High street, including stables; Eose street station; West
Port station; St. Leonards station; Torphichen street station; Stockbridge station;
St. James street station ; Causewayside station; Canongate station.
In addition to the above work and duties, they have maintained and repaired the
street hydrants, engines, hose, and all appliances belonging to this department.
The firemen have been engaged doing the above work and duties on an average
of ton and a half hours per day, of seven days per week.
Leave of absence granted to firemen.There are three firemen on leave during the six
working days of each week, as follows : One week there are two men on seventeen
hours leave, and one man on seven hours leave each day, and every other week
there is one man on seventeen hours leave, one man on twelve hours leave, and one
man on seven hours leave each day. Each Sunday is divided into three parts, viz:
Forenoon, afternoon, and evening, and a many men a the service will permit are
allowed leave of absence alternately on an average of four hours each man.
In addition to the above the men are granted one weeks leave annually, during
which time the daily leave is discontinued.
I annex a tabular statement (see Table IX) showing that during the last nineteen
years, with the exception of 1872-73, the annual cost of the fire-engine establishment
has been under a half-penny per pound rate. It may be mentioned that during the
hist fifteen yearsin which time the brigade ha been completely reorganized, and
many improvements introduced, as well as nearly three times the number of fire
stations maintained, and three times the number of fires attended annuallythe in
dividual ratepayers of the city pay less now for the maintenance of the fire brigade
than they did nineteen years ago. This, I hope, will be accepted a a satisfactory
condition for the brigade to occupy.
The promptness in turning out the brigade and its speedy arrival at tho scene of
action during the last few years ha reduced caes of serious conflagration within the
city almost to a minimum.
The men have been regularly drilled and exercised in their various duties as fire*
men during the year (see Table VII), and I have great pleasure in bearing testimony
to the general good conduct and to the anxious and willing manner in which each
man has discharged his duty.
The condition of the brigade with regard to discipline and general efficiency is
also very satisfactory.
165
It affords me much pleasure in testifying to the valuable assistance and cooperation

of the police force, as well as the officials and officers of the Edinburgh and district
water trust, the ga commissioners, and the public generally.
In conclusion, I beg respectfully to avail myself of this opportunity to express my
sincere thanks to your lordship, the magistrates, and members of the town council,
and more especially to the gentlemen of the plans and works committee, who have
special charge of the fire brigade, for their earnest cooperation in all matters tend*
ing to the success of the department.
I have the honor to be, my lord and gentlemen, your obedient servant,
S a m u e l B . W il k in s ,
Fire Master and Chief of Brigade.
E d in b u r g h F ir e E n g in e E s t a b l is h m e n t .
T a b l e I . Number of fires
that have been attended, alphabetically arranged according to

description of premises in which they occurred; with origin, extent of damage, how extin
guished, alarms, by whomgiven, etc., during the year ending May 15,1891.
Supposed causes of fire.
Description of premises in which fires

occurred.
*
s
I*
*8
A
sitM r lg!9
- e<so
A
O
Arated water manufacturer................

A g en te.....................................................
Bakers and confectioners......................
Booksellers, stationers, and printers. - Brewers and distillers...........................
B utchers.................................................
Cabinetmakers, join ers, and builders...
Chemists and druggists........................
Church and public T>uildings................
China merchants....................................
Dairy keepers.........................................
Dressmakers, drapers, and woolen mer
chants ...................................................
Dwelling houses......................................
Exhibition...............................................
Farm steading.........................................
Fires in streets and grass banks...........
General dealers.......................................
Grocers and spirit merchants................
Hotels and restaurants..........................
Hairdressers...........................................
Opticians.................................................
Painters...................................................
Paper,flour,and sawmills.....................
Rubber w ork s.........................................
Rag and paper merchants......................
Railway offices and sheds......................
Smiths, ironmongers, and ironfounders
Stables and stack y a rd s........................
Tailors, clothiers, and hatters................
Tanners and leather merchants............
Tobacconists..........................................
Watchmakers and jew elers...................
II > 3.1
.3 fc
II
5<S
44
Within the city...

Without the city.
43
72
16
14
Total.
43
72
16
14
22
166

I.Number of fires that have been attended, etc.Continued.
Time o f dis
covery.
B atch ers..................................................
Cabinetmakers, joiners, and builders---Chemists and dru ggists..........................
Church and public bu ildings___ . . . . . . .
China merchants.....................................
Dairy keepers........................... - ...............
chants ....................................................
Dwelling houses.......... .
Exhibition................................................
Farm steading..........................................
Fires in streets and grass banks............
General dealers.........................................
Grocers and spirit merchants. . . . . . . . . . .
Hotels and restaurants................. .........
Hairdressers................. ..........................
Opticians .........................- ......................
Painters...................................... .
Paper, flour, and saw m ills......................
Rubber works..........................................
Ray and paper merchants........................
Railway olhces and sheds........................
Smiths, ironmongers, and ironfounders..
Stables and stacS y ards...................... .
Tailors, clothiers, and hatters.................
Tanners and leather merchants..............
Tobacconists.........................
Watchmakers and jew elers....................
1
1
2
Police, inmates, and

other persons.
Buckets and firemen.
I
CQ
Hand pumps and fire

men.
and
Between
Between
Bakers and confectioners........................
Booksellers, stationers, and printers----
Engine, mains,
firemen.
6 p. m. and
a. m.
6 a. m. and
p.m.
6
Description o f premises in which fires

occurred.
How extinguished.
Mains and firemen.
T a b le
7
4
4
8
2
1
1
13
i
i
12
2
2
6
1
12
4
5
3
3
3
1
1
2
2
129
7
50
52
11
6
1
9
3
7
5
11
109
1
10
1
1
1
1
15
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
4
3
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
2
W ithin the city .................... .

Without the c it y .....................................
204
5
237
3
T ota l................................................
209
240
1
2
75
2
1
3
2
1
2
3
1
2
1
67
117
33
1
75
67
117
34
167
T able I.Number of fire that have been attended, etc.Continued.
1
8
Booksellers, stationers, and printers.......

Breweries and distilleries.................
Butchers.....................................................
Cabinetmakers Joiners, and builders___
Chemists and druggists............................
Church and public buildings . . . . . . . . . . . .
China merchants......................................
Dairy keepers.............................................
chants.......................................................
Dwelling houses................. .....................
E xhibition.................................. ..............
Farm steading...........................................
Fires in streets and grass b a n k s............
General dealers............................. .
Grocers and spirit merchants.. . . . . . . . . . .
Hotels and restaurants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hairdressers............................... .
( )ptioians................................... ................
Painters.......................................................
Paper, Hour, and saw m ills ............ .........
Rubber works............................................
lias and paper merchants....... ................
Kailway ofheos and sh eds........................
Smiths, ironmongers, and ironfonndors..
Stables and stack y a rd s...........................
Tailors, clothiers, and hatters...................
Tanners and leather merchants................
Tobacconists...................................... .
'Watchmakers and jewelers . . . . . . . . . . __
"Within the city . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
W ithout the c ity .......................................
7 ....
4
1
13
1
11
3
4
50
1
2
10
1
1
1
1
21
1
35
9
7
126
13
6
110
2
3
123
13
15 ___
15
5
1
8
2
13
6
1
1
2
2
1
1
8
1
"T
3
1
1
1
1
2
1
32
3
1
2
5
2
1
2
1
67
76
3
2
76
5
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
3
2
1
2
2
2
5
1
1
203 I 106
I
227
18
299 | 196
233
20
6
1
22
1
0
6
1
22
1
24
6
9
238
15
9
238
15
3
15
4
18
15
4
18
10
1
2
2
10
1
2
2
4
3
3
1
1
1
1
2
24
1
* i*
3
2
67
18
6
1
Total.................................................. 161
13
153
3
1
12
1
2
2
1
1
2
9
9
1
1
12
4
5
1
1
3
4
5
3
Total number of
fires, foul chim
neys, and alarms
attended.
1
1
9
7
5
Total number of
fires, foul chim
neys, and alarms
attended.
Without the city.
A rated water manufacturer.........- -r___
Strangers.
Police.
Slight.
Serious.
Insured.
Not insured.
Description o f promises in which fires

occurred.
Telephone
change.
ex
Alarms, by
whom given.
Within the city.
Damages.
Insurance.
1
1
10
6
3
1
1
10
6
7
3
3
7
3
3
441
441
441
449
168
II. Number of calls that have been attended, alphabetically arranged according
%o their supposed origin; showing time of discovery; how extinguished; insurance; dam
age; alarmsj by whom giveny during the last fifteen years ending May 15, 1891.
T a b le
Origin.
00
pa
Period.
a
s
fco.2 -5.2
*, .9
W
>'
ft r

<1 n
o
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
Total
Ph
86
100
91
95
91
72
11
122 460 411
18
Period.
10
16
12
16
Time of
discovery.
165
4: 58
How extinguished.
MS
ci tJD
00

i|
5
- I e
11
8
81 i596 jl, 065 138
Origin.
C
.Ic
33
45
4
32 I 3
28 I 5
48 10
61
9
93 10
65 : 9
31 1 12
17
i.
*s
si
00 (3
10
15, 1870, to May 15,1877.

15, 1877, to May 15,1878.
15, 1878, to May 15,1879.
15, 187, to May 15,1880.
15, 1880, to May 15,1881.
15, 1881, to May 15,1882.
15, 1882, to May 15,1883.
15, 1883, to May 15,1884.
15, 1884, to May 15,1885.
15, 1885, to May 15,1886.
15, 1886, to May 15,1887.
15, 1887, to May 15,1888.
15, 1888, to May 15,1889.
15, 1889, to May 15,1890.
15, 1890, to May 15,1891.
O
-M
rd
P to
00 92
2
&
B
| 8
|l
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
15, 1876, to
15, 1877, to
15, 1878, to
15, 1879, to
15, 1880, to
15, 1881, to
15, 1882, to
15, 1883, to
15, 1884, to
15, 1885, to
15, 1886, to
15, 1887, to
15, 1888, to
15, 1889, to
15, 1890, to
Total.
May 15,1877.
May 15,1878.
May 15,1879.
May 15,1880.
May 15,1881.
May 15,1882.
May 15,1883.
May 15,1884.
May 15,1885.
May 15,1886.
May 15,1887.
May 15,1888.
May 15,1889.
May 15,1890.
May 15,1891.
67
88
86
60
81
55
91
70
71
63
76
68
59
81
94
11
1, 111
84
98
112
114
144
172
147
123
172
197
224
194
189
185
204
107
149
167
152
195
184
208
213
205
218
232
223
228
242
237
36
50
80
68
94
65
77
82
84
107
106
98
76
77
67
35
47
44
58
66
79
98
77
70
95
86
19
35
22
11
17
5
19
24
14
91
20
21
87
117
24
25
33
2,359 2,960 109 788 1,167 1,151
297
111
169
T ab le 11. Number o f calls that have been attended, etc.Continued.
Insurance.
Alarms, by
whom given.
Damage.
Total number of
fires, foul chim
neys, and alarms
attended.
Period.
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
May
15, 1876, to May 15,1877.

15, 1877, to May 15,1878.
15, 1878, to May 15,1879.
15, 1879, to May 15,1880.
15, 1880, to May 15,1881.
15, 1881, to May 15,1882.
15, 1882, to May 15,1883.
15, 1883, to May 15,1884.
15, 1884, to May 15,1885.
15, 1885, to May 15,1886.
15, 1886, to Mav 15,1887.
15, 1887, to May 15,1888.
15, 1888, to May 15,1889.
15, 1889, to May 15,1890.
15, 1890, to May 15,1891.
Total
51
71
155
127
154
146
166
158
152
170
170
190
154
149
153
51
56
76
85
51
57
50
67
2,166
786
30
38
37
49
35
66
49
87
23
7
118
175
214
180
23
14
202
233
231
194
204
227
186
243
273
264
335
350
345
328
369
410
451
411
410
416
441
191
247
279
266
339
356
355
336
377
415
456
417
417
427
449
2 , 662 2 ,537
5,232
5,327
133
122
162
153
22:5
1C>8
34
31
37
38
57
62
76
246
230
240
276
292
27C
261
257
293
220
588
3,483
20
22
181
191
165
200
187
179
207
198
196
58
125
117
113
171
175
164
171
170
220
III. Monthly summary of fires, showing the number o f calls received in each month,
number o f accidents to members o f the fire brigade, and number o f persons who lost their
lives by fire fo r the year ended May 15, 1891.
T a b le
Fires in chimneys,
and alarms.
Months from J une 15,

1890, to May 15,1891.
Jane 15,1890............
July 15,1890.............
August 15,1890.......
September 15,1890..
October 15,1890.......
November 15,1890...
December 15,1890...
January 15,1891.......
February 15,1891 - . .
March 15,1891.........
A pril 15, 1891...........
May 15,1891.............
Total.
Fires.
Total
number
Buildings
Total. Buildings
Total
o
f
calls in
Total
and
aud
Foul
each
fires
fires
contents contents
month.
within
without
chimneya. Alarms.
seriously slightly the city. the city.
damaged. damaged.
10
6
8
11
11
16
15
25
20
11
13
16
36
28
30
28
24
45
27
29
25
26
36
39
56
41
42
42
41
~145
~296
"449
17
13
32
21
20
21
170
FIBE AND BUILDING BEGULATIONS

T able III. Monthly summary of fires, etc.Continued.
Time o f discovery.
Months from June 15,

1800, to May 15,1801.
Day
between
6 a. m. and
6 p.m.
Juno 15 1890.... . . .
July 15 1890..............
August 15 1890
September 15, 1890...
October 15,1890. . . .
November 15,1890....
December 15,1890....
January 15,1891......
February 15,1891....
March l, 1891..........
April 15 1891............
May 15,1891..............
T ota l...............
Alarms, by whom given. Accidents

to members Number
of the fire of lives Total.
Stran Telebrigade
lost.
gers. phone.
while on
duty.
Night
between Police.
6 p. m. and
d a. m.
29
22
12
8
14
16
17
17
14
19
8
22
20
13
12
10
21
19
28
34
22
30
13
16
15
14
15
19
25
29
17
13
9
19
19
15
19
21
22
11
27
20
20
21
206
243
197
16
3
2
1
1
1
8
20
22
16
234
18
1
1
Margaret Milne, 30 Rintoul Place, aged 80 years, was burned to death on February 17, 1891, through
spark from fire.
T able IV.List of stations and description of apparatus kept, as on May 15,1891.
Chief fire station, High street... 1

Fire stations :
2
Bose street
........
3
W est Port
.......
4
St Leonards street .
Torphichen street. . . . . . . . . . . 5
6
Stockbridge
....................
St James street . . . . . . . . . 7
8
Canong ate
Boroughmuirhead. . . . . . . . . . . 9
London Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Tynecastle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Causeway sid e. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
13
Albert street
..........
Colt bridge ...................... 14
Total for 1891......................
14
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
14
800
800
cart canvas
hose.
carts canvas
hoe.
Hand
Hose
3q
M an u al e n g in e
leather hose.
00
Manual engine can

vas hose.
W
Pi
Steam
I
<
80
engine can
vas hose.
Number o f hose in feet car

ried in each machine.
Hand hose carts.
of station.
1 Number
Stations, and where located.
\Number of fire acap<

H a n d -w ork ed, 8 inch stroke, 7-inch
pump.
Hand-worked curriricle, 8 -in. stroke,
5-in. pump.
Engines.
1 ,2 0 0
240
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
800
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
24 1,400 1,600
240
480
600
1 ,2 0 0
7,200
171
rt-
e
GQ
S ta n d p ip e s ,
open.
Branch pipes
or directors.
Scaling l a d
ders.
Canvas water
buckets.
Number o f appliances at each

station.
17
16
24
2
2
2
2
2
10
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Feet.
Chief fire station, High street 1 1,040
Fire stations :
2
Hose street............ .
240
3
West P o r t ......................
St. Leonards street....... 4
Torphichen s tre e t......... 5
Stock b r id g e ................... 6
St. J ames street............ 7
8
Canongate............ .
9
Boroug hmuirhead..........
London Hoad....... .
10
T ynecastle.................... 11
Causeway side.. . . . . . . . . . 12
240
Albert street . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Coltbridge................. .
14
Feet.
4,200
Feet.
8,640
600
600
600
840
600
600
2 ,0 0 0
2 ,0 0 0
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
840
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Total for 1891.............. 14 1,520
1 2 ,2 0 0
17,120
84
T a b l e V . Actual strength
Leather.
Total length.
Hose.
Canvas.
Number of station.
T able IV.~List o f stations and description of apparatus kept, etc.Continued.
1
1
1
1
1
i
2
14
49
I<0H
fc
r
1
s
11
l l
3
15
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
4
4
4
47
85
4
4
6
2,253
of the "brigade, and number of appliances belonging thereto,

as on May 15,1891.
Number o f officers and men
at each station.
Chief office, High street....... ............................................

Hose street............................. .............................................................
W est P o r t ...................................................................................... .
St. Leonards street.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torphichen street.................................................................. ...........
Stock bridge..........................................................................................
St. James street.......................................................................
Canongate..........................................................................................
Boroughmuirhead....... ................................................... .................
London K oad.......................................................................................
Tynecastle.......... ................................................................................
Causewayside....... .................................................................. ...........
T o ta l..........................................................................................
Num
Total num
ber of
A uxil
ber of
station. Perma
iary
nent
permanent
staff.
staff. and auxil
iary staff.
1
2
3
4
5
20
1
1
1
20
2
2
5
2
2
2
10
11
12
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
12
86
10
7
8
3
3
1
5
3
3
3
1
1
1
2
46
Engines:
Manual engine, 8-inch, stroke, 7-inch pum p................... ......... ............ .
4
Hand-worked curricle, 8-inch stroke, 5-inch pump....................................
1
Steam.................... ............................ .......................... ....................... .
2
Hose carts:
Drawn by one horse.......................................... ........................................
3
Drawn by hand..........................................................................................
13
Total number of fire escapes and hose ladders.................................................
2
Total number of hand pumps..........................................................................
24
Hose:
Leather.................................................................................. feet.. 1,520
Canvas..................... ..................................................... ......... ...... d o .. 12,200
Total length of hose........................................................ ...................... do .. 17,120
172
Total number o f
Standpipes............................................................................ ...................
Branch pipes.............................................................................................
Water buckets...........................................................................................
Respirators................................................................................................
Scaling ladders..........................................................................................
Horses........................................................................................................
Authorized number of horses...........................................................................
Fire cocks and hydrants in the c ity ................................................................
48
49
85
2
47
5
5
2,253
Table VI.Number and rank, showing the strength of the fire brigade attached to each
station, as at May 15,1891.
Firemaster
.....................
Assistant firemaster. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreman
..................
Steam engineers...........................
First-class firemen . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second-class fireu*n . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coachman....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Auxiliary firemen........................
1
1
1
1
6
Total at each, station.........
20
*S
00
OS
O
<y
Causewayside.
London Road.
Canon gate.
Borough m u irhead.
St. James street.
StockLridgo.
T o r p liic h e n
street.
S t . Leonards
street.
West Port.
j Rose street.
C hief station,
High street.
Fire stations.
i
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
10
20
1
10
46
T able VII.Shovoing the number of times the members of the fire brigade have been
drilled and instructed in the use of the various appliances belonging to thefire establish
ment, from May 15,1890, to May 15,1891.
Steam fire engine....................................... ......................................................

Manual engine...................................................................................................
Hand hose cart............................................................ ....................................
Hose with standpipe and hydrant................................................................. .
Fire escape and life belts...................................................................................
Scaling ladders..................................................................................................
Jumping sheets......................................................................................... .......
Hydrants...........................................................................................................
47
17
15
27
29
5
5
129
Total number of drills during the year...................................................
274
Note.This does not include test calls at the various stations.
173
T a b le
VIII. Length of completed year& set`vice o f each member o f the fire brigade on
May 15,1891.
Permanent staff.
No.
Auxiliary staff.
Years.
Firemaster.........................................
Assistant firemaster.........................
Foreman..............................................
Engineer...........................................
D o..............................................
Fireman, first class...........................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
Firemen, second class........................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
Under one year........................ .........
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
Total.........................................
36
15
36
30
Firemen......... .
D o ..............................................
D o ..............................................
D o..............................................
D o.......... .
D o .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
D o . . . . ....... .
D o..............................................
D o..............................................
12
10
39
26
13
10
3
4
2
3
5
3
4
No.
9
7
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Total.....................................
Tears.
34
32
20
17
14
18
11
10
10
5
3
2
1
IX. Annual comparative table of the expense of the fire-engine establishment for
nineteen years, ending May 15, 1891, showing the equalization of rate per pound on pro
ductive city rental in the decimal part o f a penny; also the number of fire stations main
tained and number o f calls attended each year.
T a b le
Tear ended May 15
1873 ..........................................................
1874..........................................................
1875 ..........................................................
1876..........................................................
1877 ..........................................................
1878 ........................................................
1879 ..........................................................
1880 ..........................................................
1881..........................................................
1882..........................................................
1883.........................................................
1884.........................................................
1885 ..........................................................
1886..........................................................
1887 ........................................................
1888 ..........................................................
1889 ..........................................................
1890 ........................................................
1891..........................................................
Cost o f
Total ex
mainte Number of Number
pro nance
per
pense of fire Annual
of calls
ductive city
stations for
establishdecimal
each
rental.
ment.
part of a maintained. year.
penny rate.
&
2,665
2,092
2,275
2,313
2,414
2,583
2, 493
2,241
2,457
2,594
2,875
3,404
3,359
3,322
3,663
3,590
3,508
3,624
3,757
9. d.
16 2
2 1
14 3
3 2
8 7
11 9
19 3
12 0
3 6
11
9
8
5
10
6
12
18
3
7
1,074, 500
1,107,500
1.187.000
1,229, 000
1.276.000
1.338.000
1.396.000
1.500.000
1.538.000
1.567.000
1.594.000
6
1,650, 000
1
1.675.000
8
1.700.000
1.725.000
1.749.000
3
1.778.000
4
1.822.000
1,840,000
3
0.595
0.453
0.422
0.451
0.459
0.463
0.428
0.358
0.383
0.397
0.432
0.495
0.481
0.469
0.496
0.493
0.474
0.477
0.490
5
5
5
5
6
6
7
9
9
9
9
11
11
11
12
12
13
14
14
115
153
149
172
191
247
279
266
3H9
356
355
336
377
415
456
417
417
427
449
N ote.Eire masters : R. C. Williams from May 4.5, 1873, to 1877; S. B. Wilkins from May 15,1877, to
date of report.
174
T a b l e X . Annual
comparative table of the number of calls that have been attended dur
ing the last nineteen years, and average cost for extinguishing and attending the same;
also showing the proportion of serious to slight fires and number of lives lost and res
cued during the last fifteen years.
r*>
9
<
H
r3
s *
|S|
Period.
Number o f lives
lost and rescued.
Rescued
by fire Res Num Annual ex
men cued ber of penditure.
with fire by lives
escapes other lost.
or lad means
ders.
>*
S >
H
H ay 15, 1872 to May
May 15, 1873 to May
May 15, 1874 to May
May 15, 1875 to May
May 15, 1876 to May
May 15, 1877 to May
May 15, 1878 to May
May 15, 1879 to May
May 15, 1880 to May
May 15, 1881 to May
May 15, 1882 to May
May 15, 1883 to May
May 15, 1884 to May
May 15, 1885 to May
May 15, 1886 to May
May 15, 1887 to May
May 15, 1888 to May
May 15, 1889 to May
May 15, 1890 to May
15.1873
15.1874
15.1875
15.1876
15.1877
15.1878
15.1879
15.1880
15.1881
15.1882
15.1883
15.1884
15.1885
15.1886
15.1887
15.1888
15.1889
15.1890
15.1891
115
153
149
172
191
247
279
266
339
356
355
336
377
415
456
417
417
427
449
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
<*>
(*)10
111
167
208
178
219
196
236
13
2
1
Nil.
Nil.
<*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
I*)
<*>
(*>
(*)
(*)
(*)
12
2
2
1
2
222
1
1
240
272
274
273
254
250
296
1
1
3
6
4
3
2,665
2. 092
275
2,313
2,414
2, 583
2,493
2,241
2, 457
2,549
2, 875
3,404
3, 359
3, 322
3, 563
3,590
3, 508
3, 624
3, 757
Average
cost of each
turn out.
8. d.
16 2
14 3
3 2
8 7
11 9
19 3
12 0
3 6
11 11
9 6
8 6
5 1
10 8
6
12
18
3
7
9
7
3
4
3i
23
13
15
13
12
8 d*
3 7
33 5
5 5*
8 11
12 9|
10 9 2J
8 18 9
8 8 6
7 4 l
7 5 9
8 1 11
10 2 7
8 18 2
8 0 1J
7 16 3
8 12
8 8 3
8 9 9
8 7 4
* No record.
T a b le
XI.Annual comparative table of the expense of the fire-engine establishment for

the nineteen years ending May 15, 1891.
Pay to firemen.
Tear ended
May 1 5 -
1873
1874
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
1880
1881
1882
1883
1884
1885
1886
1887
1888
1889
1890
1891
Salaries to
officers. Permanent
payFor fires.
434
434
443
484
468
360
410
410
410
459
460
460
460
460
460
460
460
460
460
*. d.
16 0
16 0
360
402
11 0
408
4 4
410
2 10
449
0 0
862
0 0 1,003
0 0 1,015
0 0 1,271
16 6 1,507
0 0 1,689
0 0 1,872
0 0 2,133
0 0 1,971
0 0 2,089
0 0 2,134
0
0
0
8. d.
12
0
0
0
5
13
15
14
15
17
18
10
0
0
0
0
0
6
0
0
6
1
6
1
17 4
0 5
14 9
19 0
0 2 ,1 0 1 11 10
0 2,114 15 6
9 2,190 3 3
495
605
638
701
390
470
252
91
31
43
46
32
41
35
40
32
30
57
64
*. d.
0
9
10
10
4
2
0
6
6
6
6
6
4 9
3
11
6
0
16 6
13 3
17 0
12 9
1
2
14
3
16
6
6
6
0
0
Contingent pay.
For exer
Assistants Precaution
ary
at fires.
cise.
turns out.
s. d.
8 14 6
7 0 6
33 17 0
21 12 0
14 3 0
17 8 0
3 18 6
' 6i6" 6'

1 10 0
3 12 0
14 0
0 10 6
2 6 6
8. d.
5 2 0
10 14 0
10 16 6
14 18 0
5 5 0
5 17 4
5 8 0
4 13 0
3 0 0
3 6 0
1 10 0
1 4 0
17 0
20
28
13
13
37
8. d
8 0
0
16 0
14 0
18 0
21 16 0
19 6 0
6 10 0
Total
contingent
pay.
529
651
697
751
447
515
280
102
34
46
48
33
43
39
41
8. d.
4 6
4
0
14
10
3
17
14
10
6
6
17
7
4
8
3:* 6
31 5
59 9
64 16
175
T a b le
XI. Annual comparative table of the expense of the fire-engine establishment for
the nineteen years ending May 15,1891Continued.
Year ended May 15
1873
1874
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
1880
1881
1882
1883
1884
1885
1880
1887
1888
1889
1890
1891
Tear ended May 15
1873
1874
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
1880
1881
1882
1883
1884
1885
1886
1887
1888
1889
1890
1891
Total pay
to firemen.
889
1,053
1,105
1,161
896
1, 377
1,284
1,118
1, 306
1, 554
1,7:58
1, 906
2, 637
2, 470
2,131
2,168
2,132
2.174
2,254
Refresh
ments and
coach hire.
. d.
16 6
4 0
34
37
56
55
9
13
8. d.
10 5
1
18 1
15 11
19 1
19 9
2 16 11
0 18 8
0 4
3 17
2 12
14 6
15 6
17 4
12 3
8 3
6
3
5
7
4
5
3
5
16
5
19
4
0
0 2
4
4
2 3
1 0
0 3
6
10
0
Horsing engines to fires.

lose, and ap
paratus.
1,142
301
324
230
554
127
224
195
152
142
166
29:*
208
164
160
198
148
166
164
8. d.
7
12
12
4
16
7
7 !
13 4
5 10
10
12
2
10
6 11
19 3
11 3
16 8
4 8
16 4
12 5
18 5
10 9
Proportion
Fire cocks, Miscellane o f general
ind repairs ous: Rent expenses of
o f offices,
thereon.
manage
etc.
ment.
301
167
277
519
219
422
357
177
242
8. d.
12
8
5
4 9
12 11
18 4
9 6
14 11
10 3
7 0
210 9 9
227 5 7
341 13 6
284 6 6
218 19 4
265 8 9
284 14 8
234 0 1
296 14 8
231 11 5
88
8. d.
13 3
278
12
100 0
89 10
319
181
177
106
316
271
261
410
416
352
407
355
370
393
444
*. d.
1
1
11
10
2 2
5 4
10 1
6 10
3 0
1 10
6 5
14 9
8 5
12 10
12 3
35
64
15
84
17
4
16
147
136
141
180
183
157
149
124
142
160
174
2,910
3,166
3, 787
3,946
3, 585
3,782
3,841
3,719
3,907
4,008
...
4
15 2
3 11
7 10
4 7
14 10
12 10
18 9
11 11
0 10
4 11
4 6
9
8
15
2
2
Total cost.
102 11
........
In the city.
8. d.
7 0
15 0
25 7
47 10
36 19
13 18
27 10
10 13
25 3
19 1
31 8
41 9
2,959
2,371
2, 354
2,655
2,497
2 , 628
2, 598
2,255
5
3
13
8
6
8
11
In the
country.
8. d.
18 6
11
6
0
0
6
11
2
121 8 10
158 2 0
200 2 9
192 15 6
144 6
124 16
138 0
75 15
106 14
196 17 7
224 16 9
212 10
210
9
283
7 251
2
0
7
7 4
3 8
11 10
3 6
6 5
67
98
47
113
29
148
140
144
90
132
168
195
214
8. d.
17 9
7 0
3 0
18 0
3 6
8
18
5
15
1
18
1
1
0
6
6
11
10
10
6
207 10
249 19
231 11
245 3
278 16
7
9
220
1
10
11
Less
receipts
Net expense
for special of fire-engine
establish
services
and for old
ment.
metal sold.
9
7
213 15 4
237 7 11
15
14
3
18
15
16
4
15
9 9
3
16
14
5
7
. d.
32 10 9
33 18 6
31 14 0
29 10 0
294
279
78
342
83
44
104
13
209
315
290
383
586
262
218
251
2 1
1 11
12 5
12 3
9 0
2
2 ,6 6 6 11
6
0
0
0
0
6
0
0
8
0
6
6
0
0
0
0
6
0
Total.
a. d.
2 4
0
0
8
7
9 3
3 8
17 4
10
10
8
6
0
1
2
4
5
9
1H
0
10
5
4
*.
2,665 16
2,092 2
2,275 14
2,313 3
2. 414 8
2,583 11
2,493 19
2,241 12
2,457 3
2,594 11
2,875 9
3,404 8
3,359 5
3,322 10
3,563 6
3, 590 12
3,508 18
2,624 3
3,757 7
d.
2
1
3
2
7
9
3
0
6
11 *
6
6
1
8
7
3
4
3*
N o t e . Fire masters : R. C. Williams from May 15, 1873, to 1877 ; S. B. W ilkins from May 15,1877, to
dale o f report.
18. The water-supply system is that of water-main pipes laid through

out all tlie streets in the city of E din bu rgh and in Leith. P ire plugs are
connected with those mains at convenient intervals, and are suited to
any demand likely to be made for extinguishing a conflagration. Plates
are placed on lamp pillars to indicate the positions of the various hy
drants in the city, and this year this useful system has been still fur
ther improved by indicating on each plate the size of the pipe the
hydrant is attached to. This will enable the firemen to learn the num
ber and various sizes of pipes passing through each street. The water
supply is provided by gravitation in those mains from reservoirs located
among the Pentland and Moorfoot Hills, a few miles south from Edin
burgh. The capabilities of those works in ordinary seasons is about
176
16,000,000 gallons of water per day, The quantity of water actually

supplied at present is about 15,300,000 gallons per day, being equal to
about 40 gallons per head per day to the present population for all pur
poses, which includes the domestic supply for dwelling houses, shops
and offices, and the supply for shipping, sanitary, and trade purposes,
and for extinguishing fires.
19. The criminal investigation department of the police makes an
inquiry into every case of fire. The chief constable thereafter presents
his report on the case, and the procurator fiscal, whoas representing
the publicprosecutes, if there appears grounds for suspicion of willful
fire-raising against any person.
20. No incendiary fires occurred in Edinburgh during the year end
ing May 15,1891. During the fifteen years ending May 15,1891, only
five fires from incendiarism have been reported, one occurring in each
of the years 1881, 1882, 1886,1888, and 1890. Incendiary fires in Leith
have been of even more rare occurrence.
21. All the regulations relative to inflammable oils, explosives, and
fireworks, are fully set forth in the Guide to the Explosives Act, 1875,
containing a copy of said explosive act; also inflammable oils.
22. The law regulating building construction, etc., in Edinburgh, is
fully shown in the book inclosed herewith, entitled, Guide to the Pro
cedure of the Dean of Guilds Court of Edinburgh, which includes
Proceedings and Eegulations of the Edinburgh Dean of Guild Court,
and Building Eules and Regulations, etc. The regulations observed
in Leith are briefly set forth in a small pamphlet likewise inclosed
herewith, entitled Eegulations Governing Building Operations in the
burgh of Leith.
W allace B kuce,
Consul.
Edinburgh, February 10, 1892.
[Inclosure in Consul Bruces report.]
REGULATIONS GOVERNING BUILDING OPERATIONS IN THE BURGH OF

LEITH.
The provost and magistrates of the Burgh of Leith hereby give notice that
I. No building of any kind shall be allowed to be erected or altered within the
burgh, unless plans thereof have previously been submitted to, and approved of by,
the magistrates, as the dean of guild authority within the burgh.
II. While reserving entire their right to dispose of each application on its own
merits, they will be guided by tho following rules :
(1 ) In cases where a building, which has originally had no sunk area, is proposed
to be altered or taken down and rebuilt, the main front wall must not encroach on
the line of the pavement.
(2) In these cases, and in order to improve the architectural aj pearance, the dress
ings of the shop or street flat may be brought out from the face of the main front
177
wall 3 inches at the l)ae, and 2inches for pilasters or other dressings, in streets
where the pavement is 6 feet broad at least (no more than 2inches at the base, and
l inches for pilasters or other dressings, being allowed in streets where the pave
ment is less than 6 feet broad), and 12 inches for cornices from the line of pilasters,
the under part of the cornices being at least 8 feet above the pavement; and the
windows or other openings in the flats above the shop or street flat may have archi
traves and cornices or other dressings, provided the cornices over them do not exceed
12 inches in projection from the lino of wall.
(3) Where any building already projects to the extent above-mentioned, or to a
greater extent, or where a building may.hereafter be altered in conformity with the
immediately preceding rule, no additional projection of such building shall be al
lowed.
(4) In all cases where permission is given to make projections from the line of the
main front wall, such permission shall be held as not conferring upon the proprietor
a right of property in the space or spaces occupied by such projections, or in the
space or spaces above, or under, or between such projections, or even a servitude over
the same; and where a building having projections on the shop flat is taken down
and rebuilt, the new main front wall must not be brought out in any part of it be
yond the line of the old wall, and in particular, without prejudice to the general
rule, that part of the main front wall which is above tho shop or street flat must not
to any extent whatever be brought out or projected.
(5) In cases where buildings are proposed to be erected without a sunk area in
front, on sites not previously built on, no part of the front wall shall encroach on the
line of the pavement, with these exceptionsthat there may be cornices to the shop
or street flat, and architraves, dressings, and cornices for the windows and other
openings of the upper flats, as specified in the rule 2 .
(6 ) Wherever, in erecting or altering any building having an irregular line of
front, it is proposed to straighten tlie line, an accurate plan must be lodged with the
application to the magistrates, setting forth the present and proposed line of front
and the number of superficial feet proposed to be taken and given up respectively.
(7) No gratings, hatches, or trapdoors whatever shall be allowed on any footpath
or foot pavement, in any streetpublic or privateor road, beyond the face of the
front wall, nor any cellars, unless where the parties shall have special right to the
same.
(8 ) In cases where it is proposed that a building having, or having had originally,
a sunk area in front, shall be altered or taken down and rebuilt, no projections of
any kind whatever shall be allowed where tho titles prohibit such, and in cases
where the titles do not prohibit such, no projection either for comice or otherwise
shall extend beyond the inner face of the original front area wall, excepting a step
which may be substituted for the cope of the original front area wall.
(9) In the erection or alteration of warehouses, lofts, and other stores, arrange
ments should be made for hoising and loading or unloading goods inside the prem
ises, as this will not be permitted in the street.
TTT- That where any alteration or improvement may be proposed to be made on
any tenement on which an alteration or improvement has been made at a former
period, in conformity with the foregoing rules or otherwise, power is reserved to
deal with such case as the circumstances at the time may render desirable, and for
that purpose, if necessary, to prevent the former projections being replaced; and in
all cases where the public interest demands it, power is reserved to resume posses
sion of the spaces which may have been allowed to be temporarily occupied in terms
Of the foregoing rules.
IV. That the following shall be the by-laws and regulations for the disposal of
business coming before the magistrates in their dean of guild jurisdiction.
By order
W. H. Couper, Clerk.
Leith, March 15, 1877.
146a ------ 12
178
L IV E R P O O L .
REPORT B Y CONSUL SHERMAN .*
1. Name of city, Liverpool.

2. Population in 1891, 517,951.
5. Number of wooden buildings, not known.
C. Number of alarms, 225.
7 and 8. No returns, but about five-sixths of the fires occurred in
brick or stone buildings.
. 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13. No statistics recorded.
14, 15, and 16. No returns as to these, but about three-fourtlis of the
fires were confined to the buildings in which they originated.
17. Fire department : 1 superintendent, 2 inspectors, 3 subinspectors,
1 sergeant, 249 constables (240 of these constables also perform ordi
nary police duties).
4
Steam en"inos........
2
Manual engines. . . . . . . . .
2
Horse liose reels.. . . . . . . .
2
Hand reels.......................
Length of hose in yards.. 6,216
9
Standpipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suet ion pipes.. . . . . . . . . . .
24
Brunch p ipes...................
60
39
Hvdrant pipes.................
Ladder lire escapee.........
1
2
Telescopic, lire escapes a .
1
Steamers tender..............
Hand pumps....................
10
Canvas buckets...............
11
2
1
528
271
322
276
4
3
2
1
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
2 C2
1
2
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
Saltlioue Dock.
Brunswick Dock.
| Essex street.
Olive street.
1
1
; Seel s t r e e t , off
j
JJerry street.
5 *
3
o
Prescot s t r e e t ,
Low Hill.
11
Rose Hill.
o
P
Athol street.
Sandon Graving
Dock.
: Princes
D ock ,
1 North End.
i
Engines, reels, etc.
Central
station.
Hatton Garden.
Table giving the various fir e stations within the city and the number o f engines, reels, etc
attached to each .
442
3
4
3
263
434
306
235
264
2
1
2
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
2
4
3
3
2
2
1
3
3
1
2
1
2
1
2
ln addition to tin* (ire escapes at the central fire station, there are six other telescopic fire escapee
distributed throughout the city.
# Year 1890.
179
Steam engines.................
Manual engines................
Horse hose reels..............
Hand reels........................
Length of hose in yards..
Standpipes........... .
Snction p ipes............
Branch p ip es...................
Hydrant pipes.................
Ladder fire escapes..........
Telescopic lire escapes*
Steamers tender...........
Hand p u m p s...................
Canvas buckets................
Kingsley Eoad.
W estminster Eoad.
te
.s
Toxteth Dock.
IW
Langton Dock.
Warren street.
Hill.
Brownlow
Breck Eoad.
Derby Eoad.
Battery street.
Jordan street.
Engines, reels, etc.
Chisenhale street.
Table giving the various fire stations within the dty, etc.Continued.
1
1
283
274
265
729
3
4
477
330
3<K5
400
1
3
2
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
2
9
8
1
1
2
2
4
3
3
2
2
1
1
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
200
1
2
2
435
554
3
3
4
4
4
2
1
1
2
1
2
1
2
164
1
2
2
1
N. B.All the plant at the Langton Dock station is the property of the Mersey clock and harbor
board.
18. System of water supply for fire purposes and the capacity of sup
ply, gravitation, river, and canal.
19. There are no provisions of law for the investigation into the
causes of fires, but suspected arson or malicious fires are dealt with
under the criminal law.
20. Number of incendiary fires in 1890,1.
21. Explosives can not be stored in any building unless licensed for
the purpose. Tho extracts annexed will explain the conditions govern
ing the storage and sale of these.
And bo it enacted that it shall not bo lawful for any merchandise heroin mentioned
to bo received into any warehouse, building, or placo othor than a fireproof ware
house or cellar, or vault, entirely covered with an arching, as hereinbefore required
for a collar or fireproof warehouse, and having doors and frames or jambs and shut
ters and shutter frames, as required for a fireproof warehouse, or in a room on the
ground floor, with the ceiling thereof lined with sheet iron, and approved of for the
time being by the committee for the preservation of property from fire, and having
such doors, door frames, or jambs, and shutters and shutter frames as aforesaid, and
not having any collar or vault under the same, unless such cellar or vault be covered
with an arching, as hereinbefore required for a cellar or vault in a firoproof ware
house, or in some detached building or place approved for tlio time being by tli said
committee. Irritant spirits and preparations thereof, oil of any kind (j>alrn or cocoanut oil excepted), turpentine, rosin, tar, pitch, naphtha, varnish, fireworks, matches,
brimstone, mineral acids, and all chemicals of an inflammable nature. (Soc. 26,6
and 7 Vic., Ch. 109.)
For the purposes of this act the term petroleum includes any rock oil, Rangoon
oil, Burmah oil, oil made from petroleum, coal schist, shale, peat, or other bitumi
nous substances, and any products of petroleum, or any of the above-mentioned oils.
(34 and 35 Viet., Ch. 105, sec. 3.)
Every harbor authority shall frame and submit for confirmation to the board of
trade, by-laws for regulating the place or places at which ships carrying petroleum
to which this act applies are to be moored in the harbor over which such authority
ha jurisdiction and are to land their cargo, and for regulating the time and mode
180
of, and the precautions to be taken on, sucli landing. The harbor authority shall
publish the by-laws so framed with a notice of the intention of such authority to
apply for the confirmation thereof. The board of trade may confirm such by-laws
with or without any omission, addition, or alteration, or may disallow the same.
Every such by-law when confirmed shall be published by the harbor authority, and
may bo from time to time altered or repealed by a by-law made in like manner. By
laws under this section shall be published in such manner as the board of trade may
from time to time direct. (34 and 35 Viet., Ch. 105, sec. 4.)
Where any petroleum to which this act applies() is kept any place during the
seven days next that it has been imported; or ( 6) is sent or conveyed by land or
water between any two places in the United Kingdom; or (e) is sold or exposed for
salethe vessel contaiuiug such petroleum shall have attached thereto a label in
conspicuous characters, stating the description of the petroleum, with the addition
of the words highly inflammable, and with this addition: () In the case of a vessel
kept, of the name and address of the consignee or owner; ( 6) in the case of a vessel
sent or conveyed, of the name and address of the sender ; (o) in the case of a vessel
sold or exposed for sale, the name and address of the vendor. (34 and 35 Viet., Ch.
105, sec. 5.)
The following bodies shall respectively be the local authority to grant licenses
under this act in the districts herein named :
(1) In the city of London, except as hereafter in this section mentioned, the court
of the lord mayor and aldermen of the city.
(2) In the metropolis (that is, in places for the time being within the jurisdiction
of the metropolitan board of works, under the metropolitan management act 1855),
except tho city of London, and except as hereafter in this section mentioned, the
metropolitan board of works.
(3) In any borough [in England or Ireland, except as hereafter in this section men
tioned, tho mayor, aldermen, and burgesses acting by the council.
(4) In any place in England or Ireland, except as hereafter in this section men
tioned, within the jurisdiction of any trustees or improvement commissioners ap
pointed under the provisions of any local or general act of Parliament, and not being
a borough or comprising any part of a borough, the trustees or commissioners.
(5) In any place in England (excopt as hereafter in this section mentioned) within
the jurisdiction of a local board constituted under the local government act, 1858,
and not being any of tho districts before mentioned or comprising any part of any
such district, the local board;
(6 ) In any borough in Scotland (except as hereafter in this section mentioned), the
town council;
(7) In any place in Scotland (except as hereafter in this section mentioned) within
the jurisdiction of police commissioners, or trustees exercising the functions of police
commissioners under any general or local act, and not being a borough comprising
any part of a borough, the police commissioners or trustees ;
(8) In any harbor within the jurisdiction of an harbor authority whether consti
tuted or not within the jurisdiction of any local authority before in this section men
tioned, the harbor authority, to the exclusion of any other authority ;
(9) In any place in which there is no local authority, as before in this section de
fined, in England or Ireland, the justices in any petty session assembled, and in
Scotland any two or more justices of the peace for the county sitting as judges in the
justices court. (34 and 35 Viet., ch. 105, sec. 8 .)
Licenses in pursuance of this act shall be valid if signed by two or more persons
constituted a local authority or executed in any other way in which other licenses,
if any, granted by such authority are executed. Licenses may be granted for a lim
ited time and may be subject to renewal or not in such manner as the local authority
think necessary. There may be annexed to any such licenses such conditions as to
the mode of storage, as the nature and situation in which, and the nature of the
181
goods with which petroleum, to which this act applies, is to be stored; the facilities
for the testing of such petroleum from time to time; the mode of carrying such pe>
troleum within the district of the licensing authority, and generally as to the safe
keeping of such petroleum as may seem expedient to the local authority. (34 and 35
Viet., ch. 105, sec. 9.)
With respect to the hawking of petroleum the following shall be observed:
(1) The amount of petroleum conveyed at one time in any carriage shall not ex
ceed 20 gallons.
(2) The petroleum shall be conveyed in a closed vessel so constructed as to be free
from leakage.
(3) The carriage in which the vessels containing petroleum are conveyed shall be
o ventilated a to prevent any evaporation from the petroleum mixing with the air
in or abont the carriage in such proportion as to produce or be liable to produce an
explosive mixture.
(4) Any Are or light or any article of an explosive or highly inflammable nature
shall not be brought into or dangerously near to the carriage in which the vessels
containing the petroleum are conveyed.
(5) Tho carriage in which tho petroleum is conveyed shall be so constructed or
fitted that the petroleum can not escape therefrom in tlie liquid form.
(6) Proper caro shall be taken to prevent any petroleum escaping into any part of
a honee or building, or of the cartilage thereof, or into a train or sewer ;
(7) The petroleum shall be stored in some premises licensed for the keeping of
petroleum, in accordance with the license for such premises, both overnight and also
when the petroleum is not in course of being hawked ;
(8) All due precautions shall be taken for the prevention of accidents by fire or ex
plosion, and for preventing unauthorized persons having access to the vessels con
taining the petroleum ; and every person concerned in hawking the petroleum shall
abstain from any act whatever which tends to cause fire or explosion, and is not
reasonably necessary for the purpose of hawking :
(9) Any article or substance of an explosive or inflammable nature other than pe
troleum, nor any article liable to cause or communicate fire or explosion, shall be in
the carriage while such carriage is being used for the purpose of hawking petroleum.
(44 and 45 Viet., ch. 67.)
22. The principal points of the law regulating building construction,

heating, lighting, etc., are herewith given.
T h o s . H . Sh e r m a n ,
Consul.
Liverpool, March 30, 1892.
[Inclosure in Consul Sherman s report.]
LIVERPOOL SALVAGE CORPS.REPORT OF COMMITTEE FOR 1890.

The committee have to submit their statement of accounts and balance sheet for
the year 1890, duly audited.
The pension fund now amounts to 3,998 2. Id., consisting of 2,000 Metropolitan
District Railway 4 per cent guaranteed stock, 500 Forth Bridge Railway Company
4 per cent guaranteed stock, and 1,394 Id. on deposit in the bank.
There has been a large increase in the number of fires attended during the year
the total being 565 a compared with 489 for the previous year. The number cans-
182
ing considerable damage is likewise greatly in excess of the average of the past five
years.
The committee have great pleasure in reporting the continued zeal and efficiency
of the officers and men of the corps during the past year.
J. K . R u m f o r d , Chairman.
R. C. Y e l l a n d , Chief Officer.
L i v e r p o o l , January 20,1891.
Fires in TAverpool, BirTcenhead, and suburbs, from January 1 to December SI, 1890.
[Fire, 565; false alarms and chimneys on fire, 13.]
Dam
aged.
Dam
aged.
Trade or profes
sion.
Academy (d a n c
ing).
Bacon curer..........
Bagnio..................
D o ..................
D o .................
Baker a n d flour
dealer.
D o ................. .
D o ..................
D o ..................
D o ..................
D o ..................
D o ..................
B a n k ....................
Basketmaker___
Blacksmith..........
Blockm aker........
B o o t an d shoe
maker.
D o ................. .
D o ..................
D o ................. .
D o .................
D o.
Brewery..............
D o ..................
Builder and con
tractor.
D o ................. .
D o ..................
Do..........
Builder, ship.
D o ..........
D o ..........
Butcher
D o ..
Cabinet maker.
D o ..............
D o ..............
D o ..............
D o ................. .
Car proprietor
C a r r i e r s 9 ware
house.
Supposed cause o f
fires.
Trade or profes
sion.
Supposed cause o f
fire.
Gaslight, w in d o w
curtain coming in
contact with.
Light thrown down.
Flue, defect in.
Paraffin lamp, upset
ting.
Smoking tobacco.
Flue, defect in.
Carriers wharf
Certifi ed quay shed
Unknown.
D o n key engine,
spark from.
F n c t i o n o f ir o n
bands.
M at c h e s , t r u c k
wheel passing over.
Unknown.
Incendiarism.
Gas, explosion of.

Hearth, defect in.
Hot alies.
Light thrown down.
Oven, heat from.
Unknown.
Fire, spark from.
Paraffin lamp, upset
ting.
Hot ashes.
Do.
Gas, escape of.
Gas, explosion of.
Light thrown down.
Lighted candle.
Lighted taper, look
ing for escape o f
gas with.
Paraffin lamp, e x
plosion of.
Flue, defect in.
Flue, heat from.
C h i m n e y , spark
from.
Hot ashes.
Matches, children
playing with.
Slaking lime.
Furnaces, heat from.
Hot ashes.
Spontaneous c o m
bustion.
Fire, spark from.
M o v a b le
gas
bracket.
Doubtful.
Hot ashes.
Light thrown down.
Paraffinlamp, upset
ting.
Stove, heat from.
Light thrown down.
Smoking tobacco.
Unknown.
Do.
Do.
D o..................
Certified transit
shed.
Certified w a r e
house.
D o................. .
D o..................
D o................. .
D o................. .
Chandler, tallow..
D o................. .
D o................. .
D o.................
D o................. .
Chapel................. .
Chemist (w h ole
sale).
Chip potato dealer.
Church................
Club......................
Do............
Coal dealer. . .
Cocoa rooms..
D o............
D o............
Coffee roaster.
Confectioner..
D o..............
Do..............
D o..............
Cotton d ea l e r s
(damaged).
D o.................
D o.................
D o.................
Cow keeper.........
D o.................
Do.................
Distiller, tar.
Dock quays .
Do..........
Fire, children play

ing with.
F r i c t io n o f i r o n
bands.
Hearth, defect in.
Smoking tobacco.
Unknown.
Fumigation.
Light thrown down*
Lighted candle.
Lighting gas.
Unknown.
Light thrown down.
Friction of machin
ery.
Fat boiling over.
Light thrown down.
Gaslight, w i n d o w
curtain coming in
contact with.
Unknown.
Flue, defect in.
Flues, defect in.
Light thrown down.
Stove, heat from.
Chicory, heat from.
Fire, children play
ing with.
Gas, escape of.
Lights thrown down.
Unknown.
Fire left in cotton.
Kiln, defect in.
Kiln, overheat of.
Matches trod upon.
Chimney, spark from.
Gas, explosion of.
M o v a b le
ga
bracket.
Lighted lamp, vapor
coming in contact
with.
D onkey e n g in e s ,
sparks from.
Hot ahe.
183
Fires in Liverpool, Birkenhead, and suburbs, etc.Continued.
Dock quays..........
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
Drapers ................
1
1
Hydraulic pump
ing station.
Iron founder.........
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
Joiners. . . . . . . . . . .
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
2
1
2
1
1
1
Emigration depot.
Engineer*_______
D o ...................
Farm (Rtahlf>s) - --
....
?!
Lace dealer. . . . . . .
Laundrv....... .
D o...................
Lithographer.......
Loan office............
1
1
1
1
1
Lodging house-----
1
1
1
1
D o ...................
B
3
1
D o ................... 1
Firewood dealer.. 1 . . . .
D o ................... . . . .
Flat (canal barge).
Fried fish shop ... l
Furniture dealer.. l
D o ................... l
Gas-fitter..............
Glass decorator.. .
l ....
l
Glass and china

dealer.
D o ...................
Glazier.................
Goods in transit..
D o ...................
l
l
l ::::
l ....
D o ...................
D o ...................
D o ...................
D o ...................
Grocer..................
D o ...................
D o ...................
l
l
l
Grocer (green)___
D o ...................
D o ...................
l
l
l
Hardware dealer..
Hatter...................
Hay and s t r a w
dealer.
H osier. . . . . . . . . . . .
l
l
l
j
l
Do.
Friction o f machin
ery.
Airing linen.
Ligh ts thrown down.
Fire, children play
ing with.
Matches, c h ild re n
playing with.
Lights thrown down.
Matches, c h ild r e n
playing with.
Sp o n t aneous com
mistion.
Unknown.
Fire, spark from.
Unknown.
Stove, heat from.
Fat boiling over.
Flue, defect in.
M o v a b le g a sbrackets.
Light thrown down.
Paraffin lamp upset
ting.
from.
Lighting gas.
Airing lmen.
Concussion.
F r i c t i o n o f iron
bands.
Lights thrown down.
Locomotive, s p a r k
from.
Smoking tobacco.
Unknown.
Flue, dwfect in.
Light thrown down.
M at clie s falling ofi
shelves.
Hearth, defect in.
Light thrown down.
Lighted candle, look
ing for escape o f
gas with.
Gas, explosion of.
Lighted taper.
Unknown.
from adjoining.
Light thrown down.
l
Gas, explosion of.
l
Hearth, defect in.
l * . . . Light thrown down.
Slightly.
Light thrown down.

Limekiln, overheat
of.
Lights thrown down.

Lighted candle.
Lighted match, look
ing for escape of
gas with.
Lighting gas.
D o...................
D o ...................
Druggist (whole
sale).
Dyer and cleaner..
H o s p i t a l (blue
coat).
H otel.....................
D o ...................
D o ...................
Trade or profes
sion.
Smoking tobacco.
Unknown.
1
1
D o ...................
Supposed cause of
fires.
1
1
D o...................
D o...................
Farm (stacks).......
D o ...................
Dam.
aged.
1
1
1
1
D o...................
D o...................
Manufacturers of :
Beef wine_____
Clog sole, etc
Confection ery
Cordial..............
In k .....................
M attress..........
Mineral water..
Paint and color.
Pianoforte.........
1
1
1
1
1
1
R o p e ....... .
T obacco............
Waterproofs----
1
1
1
1
2
Merchants:
Leather . . . . . . .
Oil ...................
Paper s to ck ----
1
1
1
Sack and b a g ...

D o....... .
Timber . . . . . . .
1
1
2
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
Millers :
C om . . . . . . . . . . . .
D o...................
D o...................
2
1
D o...................
D o ...................
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
Outfitter.. . . . . . . . .
D o ...................
Supposed cause o f
fires.
Gaslight, sack com

ing in'contact with.
. . . . Boiler, heat from.
Furnace, spark from.
Lighted candle.
Lighted to r c h , o i l
coming in contact
with.
Fires, sparks from.
Hearth, defect in.
Lights thrown down.
Paraffin lamp upset
ting.
Gas, escape of.
Fire, spark from.
. . . . Hot ashes.
Heal th, defect in.
Fire, children play
ing with.
Airin linen.
Flue, defect in.
Gas, escape of.
Smoking tobacco.
Unknown.
Do.
Do.
Flue, defect in.
Fire, spark from.
Light thrown down.
Boiler, heat from.
Flue, heat from.
Heating apparatus,
explosion of.
Lighting gas.
1
Unknown.
Fire, goods coming in
contact with.
. . . . Chimney, spark from.
Fire, spark from.
Spontaneous c o m
bustion.
1
1
1
Marine store dealer

D o...................
D o...................
Shudes, e t c .......
M illiners..............
Mission room.......
Offices. . . . . . . . . . . .
Considerably.
Considerably.
Trade or profes
sion.
Slightly.
Dam
aged.
Fire, spark from.

Furnace, overheat of.
: : : : Spontaneous c o m
bustion.
. . . . Lighted candle.
Unknown.
Matches, c h il d r e n
playing with.
Smoliing tobacco.
Stovepipe, heat from.
Unknown.
Boilers, heat from.

Kiln, overheat of.
Stive dust, explosion
of.
1
Unknown.
Lights thrown down.
2
Hearth, defect in.
1
1
Fire, children play
ing with.
1
Fire, spark from.
1
Gas, escape of.
1
Gas pipe, defeet in.
1
Hearth, defect in.
Hot ashes.
4
2 . . . . Lights thrown down
Unown.
1
Fire, spark from.
Unknown.
1 T
2
1
1
184

Fires in Liverpool, BirTcenltead, and suburbs, etc Continued.
Dam
aged.
Trade or profes
sion.
Paint dealer.
Pawnbrokers----D o..................
Photographer
D o................. .
P ic t u r e -f r a m e
maker.
Plaster modeller.
P lu m b e r a n d
painter.
Do.................
Poulterers..........
Printers..............
i
i
i
i
i
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
i
i
*>
)
7
1
>
4
0
17
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
1
1
10
1
1
1
1
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
6
1
22
Do.
Do.
Do.
18
1
3
1
1
Do.................
Do.................
12
Do.................
Do.................
Do.................
Do.................
39
D o.................
D o.................
Do * ..............
Provision dealer.
7
1
6
Do.
Do.........
Refiner, oil............
R ef ormat ory
school.
1
1
1
3
g
Dam
aged.
Supposed cause of
fires.
Trade or profes
sion.
55
Matches, weight fall1
Liglits thrown down.

Movable gas bracket.
Flue, defect in.
Light thrown down.
Drying lire wood.
Unknown.
Fire, spark from.
Restaurant. . . . . . .
D o...................
Roman Catholic
Presbytery.
S a m p le r o o m
(cotton).
Do...................
Do...................
Schools.................
D o...................
Shii) (sailing).......
Do...................
Ship (steam).........
D o...................
Light thrown down.

Do.
l)o.
Airing linen.
Burning shavings.
D o...................
Chimneys on lire.
Do...................
Chimneys, s p a r k s
Do...................
from.
Do...................
1 Doubtful.
Do...................
Fire, children play
ing with.
D o...................
Fire, sparks from.
D o...................
Fire grate, delect in.
D o..................
D o...................
Fireplace, defect in.
Flues, defect in.
D o...................
Flues. heat. from.
D o...................
___! Fmniinition.
Ships mi t h ............
Gas, explosion of.
Ship-store dealer..
Gaslit ter w o r k in g
Shipwright..........
with lighted candle.
Gaslights, w in d o w
Slater and plas
blinds and curtains
terer.
coming in contact Small-ware dealer.
with.
D o...................
Hearths, defect in.
D o...................
Hot iron.
--- Lights thrown down.
Lighted candles.
D o...................
: : : : Lighted c a n d le s ,
window curtains
D o...................
coming in contact
with.
Stables .................
Lighted matches.
Lighted taper.
D o...................
Lighting fire with
benzoline.
D o...................
Lighting fire with
D o...................
D o...................
petroleum.
Matches, c h i l d r e n
Do...................
playing with.
Do...................
Pain ters *4b urning
D o...................
o ff lamp.
Para flip lamps, ex
D o...................
plosion of.
Stationer..............
Paraffin lamps, heat
from.
.... Paraffin lamps, up Stationer (whole
setting.
sale.)
Smoking tobacco.
Stevedore..............
Stove, heat from.
Studio (artist)___
D o...................
Unknown.
: : : : Gaslight, w i n d o w
curtain coming in T ailor...................
contact with.
D o...................
Lights thrown down.
Do...................
Fire, children play ! Theater.................
ing with.
Theater (scenery
.... Smoking tobacco.
stores).
Light thrown down.
D o...................
Gaslight, w in d o w
Tobacconist.........
curtain coming in
D o...................
contact with.
D o...................
*Totally destroyed.
1
1
Hot ashes.
Light thrown down.
Lighted candle.
1
1
1
1
Supposed cause of
fires.
....
Do.
Lighted taper.
Unknown.
Hearths, detect in.
Light thrown down.
:... Smoking tobacco.
Stove, heat from.
G
Boilers, heat from.
Friction of ir o n
bands.
1
Friction of iron dogs.
1
Funnel, heat from.
1
Hot ashes.
1
Hot rivets.
1
Kerosene lamp up
setting.
2
Lights thrown down.
Ilited match.
2
<>il lamps psetting.
5
Smoking tobacco.
1
Stovepij>o, heat from.
2
Unknown.
1
Fire left burning.
1 : : : : Light thrown down.
1
Chimney, s p a r k
from.
1 .... Light thrown down.
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
i
1
1
1
1
2
1
i
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
Flue, defcct in.

Light thrown down.
Lighted candle, win
dow curtain com
ing in contact with.
Matches, c h i ld r e n
playing with.
Parain lamps up
setting.
Chimney, s p a r k
from.
Fire, children play*
ing with.
Fire, spark from.
Flue, defect in.
Gas, escape of.
Light thrown down.
Lighted candle.
Matches, c h i l d r e n
playing with.
Smoking tobacco.
Lighted paper, look
ing for escape of
gas with.
S p on tan eou s com
bustion.
Doubtful.
Boiling solution.
Chimney, s p a r k
from.
Gas, explosion of.
Lights thrown down.
Unknown.
Do.
C h im n e y , s p a r k
from.
Light thrown down.
Gas, explosion of.
Light thrown down.
Lighted candle.
185
Fires in Liverpool, Birlcenhcad, and suburbs, etc.Continued.
Tobacconist..........
Undertaker..........
Unoccupied houses
D o...................
j) o ...........
D o...................
D o...................
U noocupicd offi ce..
D o ...................
Unoccupied sh op .
Unoccupied work
shop.
V ic tu a le r , l i
censed.
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
Trade or profes
sion.
Paraffin lamp upsetting.

1
Cli im n o y , s p a r k
from.
7 __ Fire, children play
ing with.
1
Flue, defect in.
1
Hot ashes.
I h l thrown down.
2
1 . . . . Smoking tobacco.
Clutches.
1
Matches, c h ild r e n
1
playing with.
Fire, children play
1
ing with.
Do.
1
; V ic tu a le r , l i
j
censed.
!
Slightly.
Supposed cause of
fires.
Boiler, heat from.
1
1
2
Chimney on firo.
Flue blocked up.
Ous, escape of.
---
Slightly.
Considerably.
Trade or profes
sion.
D o ...................
D o...................
D o ...................
D o...................
D o...................
D o...................
j
D o...................
D o...................
Waste land (rub
bish).
Wheelwrights___
D o...................
| Considerably.
Dam
aged.
Dam
aged.
Supposed cause
fires.
of
Gaslights, w in d o w
blinds and c u r
tains coming in
contact with.
1 ___ Hearth, defect in.
1 __ Hot. ashes.
4
Light s thrown down.
1
Lighted candle.
1 __ Lighted match,spirit
vapor coming in
(ontact with.
1
M ovable gas
bracket.
1 __ Smoking tobacco.
1 . . . . Unknown.
1 __ Firo, children play
ing with.
2 __ Boilers, heat from.
1
Unknown.
2
T o ta l.......... we
38
Summary of supposed causes of fires.

10 Friction of
Iron bands.................................
5
13
Iron dogs...................................
1
1
Machinery.................................
2
1
2
1 Fumigation......................................
Funnel, heat from............................
1
3 Furnaces :
Heat from...................................
2
13
Overheat o f ...............................
1
1
Spark
from.................................
1
1
4 Gas:
Escape o f ................................... 8
3
Explosion o f ..............................
8
1
Movable brackets...................... 4
2
Gasfitter working with 1ighted candle
1
Gaslight :
23
Sack coming in contact with . . .
1
1
Window blinds and curtains com1
in contact w ith ..... ......... ..
14
2 Gas pipe, defect in...........................
1
30 Gas stove, movable........................... 1
1 Hearths, defects in ........................... 17
1 Heating apparatus, explosion o f . . . .
1
Hot ashes......................................... 16
Flue:
Blocked u p ...............................
1 Hot iron...........................................
1
1
Defects in................................... 32 Hot rivets...............................
Heat from...................................
3 Incendiarism....................................
1
Airing linen......................................
Boilers, lieat from............................
Boiling solut ion...............................
Burning shavings............................
Chicory, heat from..........................
Chimneys :
On lire........................................
Sparks from...............................
Sparks from adjoining...............
Concussion........................................
Donkey engines, sparks from ..........
Doubtful...........................................
Drying firewood...............................
Fat boiling over...............................
Fire:
Children playing with...............
Goods coming in contact with..
Left burning..............................
Left in cotton............................
Sparks from...............................
Grate, defect in .........................
Place, defect i n .........................
186

Summary of supposed causes of firesContinued.
Kiln:
Defect in....................................
Overheat o f ...............................
Lamp, kerosene, upsetting.............
Lamps :
Oil, upsetting............................
Paraffin, explosion of................
Parafiin, heat from....................
Paraffin, upsetting....................
Lights thrown down........................
Lighted candles...............................
Looking for escape of gas with .
Window curtains coming in con
tact w ith ...............................
Lighted
Lamp, vapor, coming in contact
w ith ..........................................
Matches.....................................
Matches, looking for escape of
gas with.................................
Matches, spirit vapor coming in
contact w ith ..........................
Paper, looking for escape of gas
with.......................................
Tapers.......................................
Tapers, looking for escape of gas
w ith..........................................
LightedContinued.
Torch, oil coming in contact with 1
1
1
3 Lighting fire with benzoline...........
1
1 Lighting fire with petroleum..........
Lighting gas....................................
4
1
2 Limekiln, overheat o f .....................
1
5 Lime slaking....................................
1
1 Locomotive, sparks from ................
47 Matches........................................... 2
87 Matches, children playing with....... 22
2
28 Matches, falling off shelves.............
1
1 Matches, trod upon..........................
Matches, truck wheel passing over..
1
1
2 Matches, weight falling upon..........
Oven, heat from...............................
1
Painters burning-off lamp.............
1
1 Smoking tobacco............................. 30
6
4 Spontaneous combustion................
Stive dust, explosion o f ..................
1
1 Stoves, heat from ............................ 5
2
Stovepipes, heat from .....................
1 Unknown......................................... 51
1
3
Total..................................... 565
False alarms and chimneys on fire .. 13
678
LIVERPOOL BUILDING REGULATIONS.
R e g u l a t io n s
#
and
Sch edu les.
XLIV. (1) All buildings hereafter to be built or rebuilt shall be built and rebuilt
according to tho regulations in this act contained ; and the outer walls, party-walls,
and separate side or end walls shall be built according to the Schedule A to this act
annexed, and in compliance therewith ; and the mortar and other materials to be
used in the building shall be of the quality and description in this act mentioned.
(2) No joist or beam in any floor of any building shall be of less dimensions than
are expressed in the Schedule B to this act annexed, according to the lengths or
bearing thereof; nor shall the spars or rafters in any roof be of less strength or greatef
boaring than is specified in the said Sclicdulo B, nor shall any pans or purlins in any
roof be of less dimensions, according to the bearing thereof, or more apart, than are
specified in the said Schedule B.
F
o u n d a t io n s
and
o o t in g s .
XLVI. The foundation of every now house shall belaid at such level as is provided
by this act, and under such regulations as the council order. Penalty, 5, and 4.
per day, or less.
XLVII. (1) Every new wall, pier, and chimney of any building shall rest upon
proper footings of brick, or stone, or concrete, or upon level rock, or upon a suffi-
187
cient arch, beam, lintel, or other suitable support resting upon proper walls or piers,
and such footings shall be in all respects in accordance with the regulations as to
footings contained in Schedule C to this act.
(2) If such footings are of brick or stone, they shall stand on solid ground, or on a
layer of good, hard, solid, damp-proof concrete at least as thick and as broad as the
footings, or on some other solid and sufficient substructure as a foundation.
R e g u l a t io n s
as
to
o o t in g s .
XLYIH. (I) Footings shall have in the lowest and widest part thereof a continuons
projection beyond the face of each side or end of the wall, pier, or chimney, to an
extent not less than one-half of the thickness of the wall, pier, or chimney as its
base, unless an adjoining wall or the ground of another owner interferes, in which
case the projection of the footings and of the foundations may be omitted where that
wall or ground adjoins.
(2) The height from the bottom of the footings to the base of the wall, pier, or
chimney shall be not less than two-thirds of the thickness of such wall, pier, or chim
ney at its base.
(3) If footings are of brick, the bricks used therein shall be whole bricks, prop
erly laid and bonded, and set in mortar or cement such as in this act specified for
walls; and any diminution in the projection of the footings shall be by offsets at the
rate of not more than 2inches in each course.
(4) If footings are of stone, the stones used therein shall be of suitable size and
shape, and shall be solidly laid with a level surface to receive the base of the wall
or pier.
(5) If footings are of concrete, such concrete shall be of the quality in this act
specified for walls.
D
a m p -p r o o f
C ourses.
XLIX. (1) Every now wall in the basement story or the ground story of any public
building or domestic building shall have a damp-proof course of asphalt, or of
slates laid in cement, or of sheet lead, or of other durable material impervious to
moisture, extending throughout the length and breadth of such wall at or near the
level of the base thereof.
(2) Such damp-proof course, or another similar damp-proof course, shall extend
throughout tho length and breadth of such wall, at a height of at least 4 inches
above the surface of tho external ground adjoining such wall.
(3) Provided that in the case of a wall having a continuous vertical cavity formed
in the thickness thereof, such last-mentioned damp-proof course shall not be required.
L
evel
of
F loors
of
D w e l l in g
houses.
L. (1) Whenever any house is rebuilt, the level of tho lowest floop of such house
shall be raised sufficiently to allow of tho construction of such a drain as is hereinbe
fore provided in the case of houses to be built after the passing of this act ; and for
that purpose the levels shall be taken and determined under the direction of the
council.
(2) Provided always that the level of the ground floor of every house shall in no
case be less than 6 inches above the level of the footway or road adjoining such house,
whether there is a cellar to such house or not. (L. S. A., 1846, sec.85.)
C o n s t r u c t io n
of
a l i .s , e t c .
LI. (1) Every part of every wall, pier, and cliimnoy of any new building, and
every new part of every wall, pier, and chimney of any old building, shall be con
structed of () good, sound, well-burnt bricks, tiles, or terra cotta; or of (6) good,
sound, suitable building stone; or of (c) good, hard, solid, damp-proof concrete; or of
188
(d) goo<l, sound, cast or malleable iron ; or of (e) other hard and incombustible ma
terials.
(2) The bricks, tiles, terra cotta, and stones used in the construction of every such
wall, pier, or chimney, or new part thereof as aforesaid, shall be properly bonded and
solidly put together with () good mortar, well compounded of not less than one part
of good, fresli-burnt lime and not more than three parts of clean, sharp sand or other
like and suitable material; or with (fc) cement such as good Portland cement or other
cement of approved quality; or with (c) cement such as good Portland cement mixed
with clean, sharp sand and in the proportion of not more than four parts of sand to
one part of cement.
(3) The concrete used in the construction of every such wall, pier, or chimney, or
now part, thereof as aforesaid shall be well compounded of good cement such as good
Portland cement and () clean gravel; or (fc) good,hard,broken stone; or (c) good,
hard, broken bricks; or (d) other like and suitable materials; and the ingredients
shall be of such quality and in such proportion to each other as shall be satisfactory
to the building surveyor; and the whole of the concrete shall be mixed, laid, set, and
compacted to the satisfaction of the building surveyor.
(4) Tho cast or malleable iron used in the construction of every such wall, pier, or
chimney, or new part thereof as aforesaid, shall be of good quality, without flaw or
defect, and shall be of sufficient strength.
(5) Every story-post, column, standard, stanchion, beam, girder, breastsummer, joist,
or other member forming or being part of any such wall or pier as aforesaid, shall be
firmly and truly laid on a sufficient foundation, rest, seat, or bearing, and shall bo
securely iixed and attached to the other members of the structure in a workmanlike
manner; and tho whole of the work shall be done to tho satisfaction of the building
surveyor.
(6) Provided that any partition or internal wall not used or intended to be used to
support any floor or roof may be constructed of wooden quartering or studding filled
in with brickwork or covered with boards, or with laths and plaster, in the manner now
usually adopted, or may be constructed in any other manner satisfactory to the
building surveyor.
(7) Provided also that notwithstanding anything in this section contained the
materials to be used in any party wall or separate side wall shall be no other than
those which are prescribed by the L. B. A., 1842, or by any other act for the time
being in force in the city, for party walls and separate side walls.
E xtern al W alls.
WOOD IN EXTERNAL WALLS.
L. (1) No wood or timber shall be used, placed, or bmlt in or about any exter
nal wall or pier of any new building, or in any new part of any external wall or
pier of any old building, except () such internal woodwork or timber as the build
ing surveyor may deem necessary in and for wall plates, pole plates, bond timbers,
lintels, plugs, nogs, door frames, window frames, and internal casings, fittings or
finishings, or in and for the ends of joists, partition heads, purlins, trusses, beams,
girders, and breastsummers; and except (fc) such additional and external woodwork
as the corporation on written application being made to them may allow to be placed
or fixed against or in tho external face of such wall or pier; and except (c) such addi
tional and external woodwork as the building surveyor may deem reasonable or
necessary in and for the casing of any jamb, pilaster, cornice, or other portion of
any bay window, or of the front of any shop for the sale of goods by retail and be
ing in tho ground story of any building; and except (d) such wood or timber as is
necessary in and for any breastsummer or girder spanning any opening exceeding 6
feet in length in any external wall of any building.
(2) No such wood or timber or woodwork shall extend into any such wall or pier
189
to a greater distance than 4inches without the permission of the bnilding surveyor;
provided, that nothing in this section contained shall prevent or limit the opera
tion of the provisions of thi act with respect to the hold or bearing of beams on
walls or piers.
(3) Every such wall plate, bond timber, lintel, door frame or window frame shall
be situate, placed, or fixed at a distance of at least 4inches from the external face
of such wall or pier.
(4) Provided, that any frame of a loophole or pitching hole, and any frame of a
loading door, and any frame of a door or window of any shop for the sale of goods
by retail and being in the ground story of any building, and any frame of a stable
door opening outwards into a private yard or passage, may be situate, placed or
fixed in line with the external face of any such wall or pier as aforesaid.
OPENINGS IN EXTERNAL WALLS.
LIII. (1) Whenever any external wall of any building is constructed of brick or
stone or concrete, it shall not be lawful without the written consent of the corpora
tion (except a hereinafter mentioned) to make or leave in such wall in any story
any opening or openings which, taken singly or.together, exceed in length five-sixths
of the total length of such wall in such story.
(2) The length of the remaining solid portions forming one-sixth of tho length of
such wall may, nevertheless, without such consent as aforesaid, be still further
reduced if the thickness of such portions is proportionately increased over and above
the thickness specified for such wall in Schedule A to this act, so that the horizontal
sectional area of sucli portions be not diminished; but such increase of thickness
shall in no case be reckoned to a greater extent than one-half of the thickness speci
fied in such schedule.
(3) Whenever any opening is made or left in or at any external comer or angle of
two such walls, making with each other an internal angle of not more than 135, then
the brick or stone piers or iron pillars which are nearest to such external comer or
angle shall not be at a greater distance therefrom than 4 feet without the written
consent of the corporation.
(4) In every case such piers or pillars shall be of such size and strength and shall
be constructed or fixed in such manner as is satisfactory to the building surveyor.
(5) Any consent under this section may be given by the corporation, subject to
such terms and conditions as they may deem expedient.
LIY. Whenever any opening is made or left in any such external wall as afore
said the wall or portion of wall over such opening shall be supported in accordance
with the following regulations :
(1) Length of opening, not exceeding 6 feet; means of supporting wall over open
ing, an arch of brick or stone, or a lintel of iron or stone.
(2) Length of opening, 6 to 10 feet; means of supporting wall over opening, an
arch of brick or stone; or a beam, girder, or breastsummer of wood; or a beam,
girder, breastsummer of wood trussed or flitched with iron; or a beam, girder, or
breastsummer of iron.
(3) Length of opening, 10 to 15 feet; means of supporting wall over opening, an
arch of brick or stone ; or a beam, girder, or breastsummer of wood, with iron story
poets not more than 10 feet apart ; or a beam, girder, or breastsummer of wood trussed
or flitched with iron; or a beam, girder, or breastsummer of iron.
(4) Length of opening, exceeding 15 feet ; means of supporting wall over opening,
a beam, girder, or breastsummer of wood, with iron story posts not more than 10
feet apart ; or a beam, girder, or breastsummer of wood trussed or flitched with iron,
with iron story posts not more than 15 feet apart ; or a beam, girder, or breastsummer
of iron.
190
N o t e . Every such arch must he sufficient and properly constructed; every

such story post must he sufficient; and every such beam, girder, or breastsummer
must be of sufficient strength.
(5) Provided that where the wall to be supported over an opening exceeding 10
feet in width is not an external wall of any building, but only a fence, parapet, or
balustrade wall, then such beam, girder, or breastsummer of wood aforesaid need
not be partly supported by iron story posts as aforesaid.
(6) Every arch, lintol, beam, girder, or breastsummer, and the external wall or
portion thereof over the same, shall be and shall be constructed, placed, and sup
ported to the satisfaction of the building surveyor.
(7) In every case in which any such wall shall not be so supported to the satisfac
tion of the building surveyor, such wall shall be considered as having been built
contrary to the foregoing regulations.
RECESSES IN EXTERNAL WALLS.
LV. No recess shall be made or left in any external wall of any now building, or
in any now part of any such wall of any old building, unless such recess is in ac
cordance with the regulations with respect to recesses contained in Schedule C to
this act.
r e g u l a t io n s a s t o
re cesse s.
LYI. (1) The portion of an external wall forming the back of a recess shall be at
leat 9 inches in thickness.
(2) If the joists of any floor or the timbers of the roof are inserted or laid in or
upon any external wall, any recess in such wall shall be entirely covered by a suf
ficient arch or lintel, or by properly constructed corbelling, in each case at the level
of at least 1 foot below the underside of such floor or the spring of the roof.
(3) The sides of the recess shall be at least 18 inches distant from any other recess
and from the inner face of any adjoining return wall.
(4) In each story the area of all the recesses having backs of less thickuoss than
that specified in Schedule A of this act for tlie external wall in which the recesses
are made, shall not exceed one-half of the area of the whole face of such wall in such
story, including the recesses.
B o n d in g
op
alls.
LXIV. Every new wall and pier, and every new part of every old wall and pier,
when constructed of brick, stone, or concrete, and built at an angle with an adjoin
ing wall to which it may lawfully be attached, shall be properly bonded and incor
porated therewith.
B e a m s . St o r t -P o st s,
etc.
LXV. (1) Each end of every beam, girder, or breastsummer supporting any wall,
pier, chimney, floor, roof, or other part of any new building, or supporting any new
wall, pier, chimney, floor, roof, or other new part of any old building, shall have, in
addition to its hold or bearing upon any wall not more than 9 inches in thickness, a
hold or bearing of at least 4inches in the direction of its length on a sufficient pier
or corbel of brick or stone, or on a sufficient iron story-post, iron standard, stanchion,
or bracket, resting truly upon a solid and sufficient foundation.
(2) Each end of every such beam, girder, or breastsummer resting upon any wall
or pier shall e borne by a pad or template of stone, iron, terra cotta, or vitrified
stoneware, of sufficient length and thickness extending into at least half the thick
ness of such wall or pier, and to the satisfaction of the building surveyor.
191
(3) Every nch beam, girder, or breastsummer shall he of sufficient strength, and
shall be of equal breadth with the wall or pier which rests upon it, and shall be con
structed, placed, and fixed to tho satisfaction of the building surveyor.
(4) Every story-post column, pier, corbel, standard, stanchion, or bracket placed
or used in support of any such beam, girder, or breastsummer, or in support of any
wall, pier, or chimney, shall bo of sufficient strength, and shall be placcd and fixed
to the satisfaction of the building surveyor.
(5) Every iron story-post or column and every iron standard or stanchion placed
or used in support of any such beam, girder, or breastsummer, or in support of any
wall, pier, or chimney, shall have proper iron caps and bases truly fitted, and the
bases shall rest upon a solid and sufficient foundation.
F ir k p l a c e s
and
C h im
ney
F lues.
LXYI. (1) Every fireplace opening or chimney opening in a domestic building %

shall have a sufficient hearth or horizontal slab of durable and incombustible mate
rial, at tho level of tho floor, extending throughout the length and depth of such
opening and to a distance of at least 18 inches boyoiul the face of the chimney breast
and at least six inches beyond each side of the opening of the chimney piece.
(2) Every such hearth shall be laid upon a bed of mortar, concrete, brick, or other
compact and incombustible material, having a depth of at least 6 inches below the
upper surface of the hearth, and in no case shall the hearth be supported or rest on
wood or timber.
LXVII. Every bakers oven and every smiths or other tradesmans or artificers
furnace whatsoever shall have, as j)art of such oven or furnace or otherwise, a pro
tecting wall of not less than 9 inches in thickness between tho fire of the oven or
furnace and the separate side wall, party wall, or outer wall of the building in
which such oven or furnace is; and such protecting wall shall be so constructed and
of such height, depth, and breadth above, below, and beyond the oven or furnace
as is satisfactory to the surveyor.
LXVIII. No flue or fireplace shall be nearer than 4| inches to the center or mid
dle of the thickness of any party wall, nor shall any girder, beam, trimmer, joist,
bearer, or other timber be laid in a wall nearer than 9 inches to any chimney open
ing, back, or flue; nor shall any timber be laid underneath tho jambs or opening in
any chimney breast to support tho same, but tho same, if requiring to be supported,
shall bo supported by iron or stone, according to the directions of the surveyor, and
in no case shall the same be supported by or rest upon timber.
LXIX. (1) All withs and partitions between any chimney or flue shall be of brick
or stone, and at least equal to one-half a brick in thickness ; and every breast-back
and with or partition of any chimney or flue shall be built of sound materials and
tho joints of the work well filled in with good mortar or cement and rendered or stuc
coed within.
(2) Every chimney or flue in any wall, or of greater length than 4 feet out of the
wall, not being a circular chimnoy or flue 12 inches in diameter, shall be in evory
section of tho same not less than 14 inches by 9 inches.
(3) No chimney or flue shall be constructed with any angle therein which shall be
less obtuse than an angle of 120 except as is hereinafter excepted ; and every salient
or projecting angle in any chimney or flue shall be rounded off 4 inches at the least.
*
*
*
R oofs .
LXXIY. () Every flat, gutter, and roof of every building, and (b) every turret
dormer, and lantern light or other similar building placed in or on the flat or roof of
any building, and (c) evory outer part of every flat, gutter, roof, turret, dormer, and
lantern light or other similar erection, in or on any building now built, which at any
192
time hereafter is uncovered, shall be covered or renewed with slate, tile, glass, cop
per, lead, tin, zinc, or artificial stone or stucco or other incombustible material; ex
cept suc*li woodwork as may be necessary for the doors, door frames, windows, and
window frames of such dormers, turrets, lantern lights or other similar building.
C h im n e y Sh a f t s .
LXXV. (1) No chimney shaft of any building, already built or hereafter to be built,
shall exceed the, height of 4 feet above the outside of tho roof of such building (meas
uring upwards from the center of the chimney, immediately above tho roof), unless
it is (a) secured l>y sufficient iron stays of such strength and dimensions and fixed in
such manner as are approved by the surveyor, or (fc) built with another chimney
shaft, back to back, of such height, strength, and dimensions as are approved by the
surveyor.
(2) No such chimney shaft shall be of less dimensions than 2 feet (in thickness) in
any one side thereof, unless back to back with another shaft in manner aforesaid.
(3) Provided that these provisions shall not extend to (a) the chimney shaft of any
detached building, standing at a distance of not less than 18 feet from any pubHo
street, or to (fc) the chimney shaft of any steam engine or manufactory; but such
chimney shafts shall be erected of such strength and dimensions and in such manner
as are satisfactory to the surveyor.
Party W
alls.
LXXVIII. (1) In cases where buildings are erected in some parts thereof over
publie or private ways, roads, or passages, and tho walls dividing the separate prop
erties or buildings over such ways, roads, or passages, with tho chimney breasts or
flues, are not arched under or supported by brick or stone, but rest upon wood, then
wrhen any such buildings are taken down and rebuilt, tho said dividing walls and
chimney breasts and flues (if any) in such dividing w*alls shall be arched under
with good sound brick or stone arches not less than one brick length, or 8 inches
in thickness, or shall be supported with stone or iron supports of sufficient strength,
and according to directions given by the surveyor.
(2) All such brick or stone arches, or stone or iron supports shall be supported
from the foundations by walls not of less thickness than required by schedule (A)
for outer walls.
(3) In no case shall any such dividing walls or chimney breasts and flues (if any)
in such dividing walls rest upon or be supported by timber. (L. B. A., 1842, sec. 84.)
LXXIX. (1) No person shall cut into any party wall, except as hereinafter speci
fied, that is to say, (a) not deeper than 4| inches for any breastsummer, beam-end, or
story-post; or (fc) not deeper than the center thereof, for the purpose of inserting
or laying in tho front or back wall of any building newly erected or altered, or for
the purpose of building in any stone or iron steps or landings, or for tho purpose of
inserting wood trimmers, joists, or bearers for each flight of wood stairs, or for the
purpose of building in stone corbels for the support of any chimney, or for tho pur
pose of laying therein stone or brick trusses or bearers to support the ends of any
joist, beam, or trimming joists, the same being done to the satisfaction of the sur
veyor.
(2) Every person who cuts into any party wall for any of the purposes aforesaid
shall immediately makegood and repair tho same to tho satisfaction of the surveyor,
and all the spaces on every side of any timber so inserted in any party waU shall be
well filled up with good brick or stone and mortar or cement.
(3) No party wall shall be cut for any of the aforesaid purposes, if such cutting
will endanger the said wall or displace any of the timbers, chimneys, or flues or in
ternal finishings of the adjoining building.
193
(4) In case of buildings belonging to the same person, or by agreement between

the proper parties interested, one breastsummer or beam may be allowed to extend
over two shop fronts immediately adjoining each other.
(5) Penalty, 20 or less.
LXXX. (1) No opening shall be cut or made through any party wall for any pur
pose whatever other than and except for communication from one building to an
other, with the consent of all parties interested, and shall in no case exceed 6 feet in
width or such height as shall be approved of by the surveyor.*
(2) If the buildings are warehouses, or either of them is a warehouse for the de
posit of merchandise, and not kept as a shop in which the ale of goods by retail is
carried on, such openings shall be properly secured with iron doors and frames.
(3) Penalty, 20 or less.
LXXXI. Before beginning to cut into or through any party wall, one clear days
notice in writing shall be given to or left at the surveyors office (in like manner as
in the case of a new building.) Penalty 5 or less.
Party W
alls and
Se p a r a t e S id e W
alls.
LXXXII. Where any party wall is sound and conformable to this act, every person
requiring a party wall of a [greater thickness] than the one existing, shall, unless
he can agree with the owner of the adjoining building to rebuild such party walls,
build a separate side wall against the same, as herein directed for separate side
walls.
LXXXIII. (1) Where, by want of agreement between the parties interested or
otherwise, a party wall can not be the division wall between the side of any build
ing and any other building, then each building to be erected shall have a separate
side wall of the thickness specified in schedule A.
(2) Provided, that after the building of any such separate side wall, the same
shall in no case be considered as, or made to form a part of, a party wall upon the
erection of any adjoining building at any time afterwards, unless the same i of suffi
cient thickness for such party wall according to the provisions herein contained,
and has not any timbers inserted in it other than are herein allowed to be inserted
in party walls, and the party interested therein consents to the same being used as
such party wall.
LXXXIY. If between two buildings two walls have been erected, which together
may be of the thickness of the party wall required by this act, or be deemed by the
surveyor to be such party wall, and if the owner or occupier or any builder or other
person, in evasion of this act, afterwards takes down or causes to be taken down one
of the said walls, or any part thereof, so that the division wall between the said
buildings is not conformable to the provisions of this act, every person so offending
shall for every such offense forfeit and pay a sum not exceeding 100, and shall also
rebuild such wall according to the provisions of this act.
LXXXY. (1) Every party wall shall be of the thickness specified in schedule A.*
(2) Every party wall and separate side wall shall be built of good, sound, wellburnt bricks, or good, sound stone, properly bonded and set in good mortar or
cement., except such woodwork as may be necessary for the ends of girders, beams,
trimming joists or breastsummers.
(3) The ends of any girder, beam, trimming joist or other timber shall not be
nearer than 4 inches to the ends of any other such timber inserted on the other
side of any such wall.
(4) All separate side walls shall be well and closely lined up to the under sides of
the slates upon the roof of the building.
* Two adjacent houses with an opening in a party wall have been held to be one
building for the purposes of the building regulations of the metropolitan building
act. Ashby v. Woodthorpe.
146a ------ 13
194
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS.
LXXXVL Every party-wall and separate side wall of any new bnilding, and
every new party wall and separate side wall of any old t uilding, shall be carried
up to tlie roof of such building throughout the entire length of such wall, and shall
be well and closely lined up to the under side of the slates or other covering of such
roof, or shall be carried up above such roof.
D a n g e r o u s St r u c t u r e s ,
XCIX. (1) Whenever any building or structure, or any part thereof, or anything
thereon or attached thereto or projecting therefrom, or any ground, is deemed by the
building surveyor to be in a state or position whereby danger to any person is or
may be occasioned, such surveyor shall give notice under his hand to the owner or
occupier of such building, structure, or ground, or to both or either of them, re
quiring such owner or occupier forthwith to effectually fence, guard, take down,
remove, repair or secure the same to the satisfaction of such surveyor.
(2) In case the work of fencing, guarding, taking down, removing, repairing, or
securing such building or other structure, or such part thereof, or such thing thereon
or attached thereto or projecting therefrom, or such ground, is not begun within
forty-eight hours after the service of such notice as aforesaid, or is not completed
to the satisfaction of such surveyor's soon as the nature of the case admits, it shall
be lawful for such surveyor to give information thereof to any justice, who shall
thereupon issue his summons, requiring such owner or occupier, or both or either of
them, to appear before a court of summary jurisdiction.
(3) In case it appears to the court that immediate danger to any person from such
building or other structure or part thereof or thing thereon, as aforesaid, or such
ground is to be apprehended, tlie court shall make an order authorizing such sur
veyor to cause such building or other structure or part thereof or thing thereon, a
aforesaid, or such ground to be forthwith effectually fenced, guarded, taken down,
removed, repaired, or secured.
(4) In case it appears to the court that danger to any person is to be apprehended,
but that such danger is not immediate, the court shall make an order on such owner
or occupier or both or either of them, requiring him or them to cause such building or
other structure, or j)art thereof or thing thereon, as aforesaid, or such ground to be
effectually fenced, guarded, taken down, removed, repaired, or secured to the satis
faction of such surveyor, witliin a period to be prescribed in such order.
(5) In case such order is not obeyed within the period prescribed therein, any and
every person (whether one or more) on whom such order has been made shall be
liable to a penalty not exceeding 10 for every day during which such order has
not been obeyed after the end of tho period prescribed therein.
(6) The building surveyor may, at any time after the end of the period prescribed
in such order, cause such building or other structure or part thereof or thing thereon,
as aforesaid, or such ground to be effectually fenced, guarded, taken down, re
moved, repaired, or secured, as required by such order; and the person or persons on
whom such order has been made shall, in addition to such penalty, pay all the costs,
charges and expenses attendant on the fencing, guarding, taking down, removing,
repairing or securing of such building or other structure or part thereof or thing
thereon, as aforesaid, or such ground.
(7) If the owner or occupier of any building or other structure or ground which
the building surveyor has deemed to be in a dangerous state or position can not be
found, or does not appear after service of notice and summons, as hereinbefore pro
vided, it shall be lawful for the court having cognizance of the matter to make an
order authorizing such surveyor to cause such building or other structure or part
thereof or thing thereon, as aforesaid, or such ground to be forthwith effectually
fenced, guarded, taken down, removed, repaired, or secured; and the costs, charges,
and expenses thereof shall be paid by such owner or occupier a aforesaid*
195
C. Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing provisions of this act, it shall he

lawful for tho building surveyor, without previous notice to any person and without
any order of any court or justice, in any case where immediate danger to any person
is apprehended by him, to take such prompt and reasonable measures as he deems
expedient for the prevention of injury to any person, by effectually fencing, guard
ing, taking down, removing, repairing, or securing any dangerous building or other
structure, or part thereof, or anything attached thereto or projecting therefrom, or
any ground, whereby in his opinion immediate danger to any person is occasioned;
and all the costs, charges, and expenses attendant thereon shall be paid by the owner
of such building or other structure or such ground.
Cl. Where a dangerous building or structure is taken down or removed by the
corporation under the powers of this act, the corporation may sell the materials
thereof, or part of them, and shall apply the proceeds of the sale in or towards pay
ment of the costs and expenses incurred by them in relation to such building or
structure, restoring on demand the surplus (if any) to the owner of such building or
structure.
CII. Whenever large numbers of persons are likely to assemble on occasion of any
public procession, open-air meeting, or other like occasion, every building or plat
form or other structure or part thereof let or used, or intended to be let or used, for
the purpose of affording sitting or standing accommodations for a number of persons
shall be safely constructed or secured to the satisfaction of the building surveyor;
and unless it is so constructed or secured, the sections of this act whereof the re
spective marginal notes are protection from dangerous structures ; power of surveyor
to act in cases of immediate danger; power to sell materials of dangerous structures;
shall be applicable to such building, platform, or other structure, and may be put in
force accordingly.
CIII. (1) On any representation to the building surveyor that danger to any per
son exists or is likely to arise, by reason of the excessive quantity or weight of the
goods or materials placed on any floor in any warehouse or building, such surveyor
may enter and inspect tho premises, and may, if he considers the representation well
founded, give notice under his hand to the occupier of such building, or to the owner
of such goods or materials, requiring him to reduce the quantity or weight of such
goods or materials, or to secure such floor or other portion of such building, to the
satisfaction of such surveyor, within a period of forty-eight hours after the service
of such notice.
(2)
In case the quantity or weight of such goods or materials aforesaid is not so
reduced, or such floor or other portion of such building is not so secured, within the
period aforesaid, the sections of this act whereof the respective marginal notes are
protection from dangerous structures ; power of surveyor to act in cases of imme
diate danger; power to sell materials of dangerous structures; shall be applicable
to such floor or other portion of such building, and may be put in force accordingly.
CIV. Whenever default is made by the owner of any building or lands in the exe
cution of any work by or by virtue of this act required to be executed by him, the oc
cupier of such building or lands may, with the approval of the corporation, cause such
work to be executed, and the expense thereof shall bo repaid to the occupier by the
owner, and the occupier may deduct the amount of such expense ot of the rent
from time to time becoming due from him to the owner.
196
LONDON.
REPORT B Y CONSUL-GENERAL N EW .*
1. Name of place, The County of London. This comprises the

area thus defined by the local government act, 1888, formerly under the
control of The Metropolitan Board of Works.
2. Population, 4,231,431, as given by the census of 1801.
3. Area of city limits, 75,462 acres in county of London. The county
of London embraces the city of Londona relatively small proportion
with all the surrounding and adjoining business, manufacturing, and
residential quarters, together with those adjacent places, originally
separate townships or villages, which, through the growth of London,
have been absorbed or brought under its influence by contiguity or
parochial connection.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 557,134, as given by the cen
sus of 1891.
5. Number of wooden buildings, none. As an endangering feature,
wooden buildings are practically nonexistent; there may be out offices
in yards or gardens in some of the outlying parishes, but they are in
significant in size, and few in number. Under the existing laws (q. v.)
temporary structures (not dwellings) may, under stringent conditions
and circumstances of exceptional necessity, be built of wood in isolated
places. The comparative scarcity and the high value of timber have
operated against the adoption of frame buildings, and legislation (so
far back as 1666) has encouraged or enforced the use of brick or stone
in repair and replacement, with the result that few, if any, timber struc
tures now survive.
6. Number of alarms, 4,164. The chief officers report thus classifies
the alarms or calls: False, 1,029; chimney alarms, 243; actual fires,
2,892; total, 4,164.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 2,892.
9. No record exists as to the total value of property involved in the
fires. In explanation of this anomaly it may be stated, firstly, as re
gards the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, that it is a Government organ
ization entirely independent of and having no relations whatever with
the fire-insurance companies, except (a) the obligation to furnish each
one, daily, with a printed return of the fires occurring in the previous
twenty-four hours, giving a brief statement of the kind of property
burnt or damagednot the valueand (if declared by the occupier)
the name of the insuring companynot the amount insured, together
with other details (see specimen, Appendix 0) * * * and (b) the
right to tax each company towards its support by an assessment of
35 for every 1,000,000 insured by it on property in the metropolitan
* In the preparation of this report I have been materially aided by Mr. E. Cozens*
Smith, the secretary of the Imperial Insurance Company, limited, of this city.[J.
C. N.
197
area (i. e., now tlie county of London). The fire-insurance companies
have no voice in the management of the brigade and no representation
in respect of their taxation. The before-mentioned tax yielded in 1891
27,516, which shows that the total sum insured by the whole number
of companies in the county of London was 786,189,640.
Secondly, as regards the insurance companies, all the fire offices
(with one or two unimportant exceptions) act in concert as u the fire
offices committee, a voluntary and private association formed to insure
uniformity of practice, and, in regard to the more important classes of
risk, of rates also. These associated fire offices maintain among them
selves a u salvage corps, formed under a permissive clause of the act
of 1866, constituting the fire brigade. But this corps has no public
status and no legal powers beyond a right of entry into premises where
a fire has happened; and after the brigade has withdrawn, its officers
take possession for the protection of insured property, and it is sup
ported by a graduated fixed annual contribution by each company,
supplemented by an assessment based on the hourage of services ren
dered in respect of each fire, charged to the company or companies
insuring the property.
The salvage corps has no statistical bureau, and although in the
course of its operations it gains knowledge generally of the sum in
sured, and frequently of the amount of loss paid, this information is
not recorded, the conservatism and the jealousy of each other prompt
ing the companies to suppress any publication of these results.
10. Total loss thereon unascertainable. See answer to No. 9.
11. Total insurance thereon unascertainable.
12. Total insurance loss thereon unascertainable. No record kept,
vide 9.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 2,699.
2,883, being 184 extending beyond floor in which they originated to
entire building.
16. Number of conflagrations, i. <?., fires extending beyond adjoining
property, 3.
17. Fire department. The fire department consists of 47 land steam
fire engines, 95 land manual fire engines, 9 steam fire engines on barges,
8 steam tugs, 105 hose carts and reels, 35- miles of hose, 9 long fire
ladders, 9 ladder vans, 215 fire escapes, and a full complement of trucks,
vans, wagons, barges, and skiffs, for transport on land and water of
men, appliances, and material; 707 firemen of all ranks, 115 various (73
coachmen, 17 pilots, 25 probationers), 133 horses. Additional horses
are supplied by outside contractors, who keep an agreed number always
available.
In addition to the Government brigade above described, there ar
some 8 volunteer brigades (3 steam and 5 manual), mostly of perfect
198
efficiency, located at various points in the suburbs (within the county

of London) and maintained by the voluntary subscriptions of the resi
dents and property owners.
18. Water supply. The general supply furnished by the eight chief
water companies from their respective reservoirs, yielding an aggre
gate daily delivery of 133,000,000 gallons, which is, by means of hy
drants and standpipes of universal gauge, everywhere accessible to the
brigade engines and hose reels, at a pressure sufficient in many localities
for fire-extinction service withoutthe use of engines. The river Thames,
the various docks, and the numerous canals also afford a comparatively
inexhaustible supply in their respective vicinities. For 1800 the quan
tity of water used for fire extinction purposes was estimated by the chief
of brigade at 20,000,000 gallons, of which 8,000,000 was derived from the
river, various docks and canals, and the remainder from the street
pipes.
19. No provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire and to
provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime,
except withiu the precincts of the city of London. The police author
ities have power to initiate prosecutions for incendiarism before a mag
istrate, and if a committal is obtained, a public prosecution generally
follows.
A general power for coroners to investigate cause of fires existed in
remote times, but it was not reenacted by Magna Charta, since the
granting of which it has been actually illegal ; although acting on tra
ditionary belief coroners have occasionally held inquests on fires down
to recent times. Acting on this knowledge Government introduced a
bill in 1873 to revive tbe coroners power, but it failed to become law,
and consequently (with the undermentioned exception) no inquiry is
ever held as to the cause of fire within the city of Loudon. A later at
tempt was made to revive the ancient custom and resulted in the act
of 1888 (Appendix D), under which the city coroner is invested with
authority to hold inquests (and pronounce verdicts) upon the requisi
tion of certain public functionaries. But the act is already a dead let
ter, inquests are infrequent, and when held productive of no result.
In cases where incendiarism is obviously perpetrated for the purpose
of fraud, or human life has been lost or endangered thereby, the offender
is generally prosecuted at the instance of and by the police authorities.
20. No incendiary fires reported. The chief officer of the fire brigade
reports in 189Lsix fires as u doubtfula euphonism intended to convey
the belief that the fire was intentional, but for the reasons given sub
No. 19 no prosecutions ensued.
21. The storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks are gov
erned by a general act, entitled the explosives act, 1875,* which, sup
plemented by various orders in councilorders of secretary of state
*8ee supplement.
199
and the u explosive substances act, 1883,* provide very full and prac
tical regulations, which are duly enforced, for the storage, manufacture,
and trade in explosives of every description and mineral oils and
their products. An additional measure intending to cope with the
dangers attending the most recent developments in the manufacture
and use of hydrocarbons, and entitled the inflammable liquids bill,
is being promoted by Government, and will probably become law at an
early date.
22. The laws regulating building construction, heating, lighting, etc.,
comprise the metropolitan building act 1855; the metropolis man
agement and building acts amendment act, 1878; the metropolis man
agement and building acts amendment act, 1882. *
A movement is on foot to consolidate and amend the foregoing by a
general measure, and legislation in that direction will shortly be at
tempted.
J oh n 0 . N ew ,
Consul-General.
London February 26 1892.
LONDON FIRES AND FIRE BRIGADE.

M e t r o p o lit a n F ir e B r ig a d e ,
Headquarters, Southwark, SJE., January 1, 1892.
The F i r e
B r i g a d e C o m m it t e e , L o n d o n C o u n t y C o u n c i l ,
Spring Gardens, SW.

Gentlem en
: I have the honor to present the following report of the London fires
of 1891:
The number of calls for fires, or supposed fires, received during the year has been
4,164. Of these 1,029 were false alarms, 243 proved to be only chimney alarms, and
2,892 were calls for fires, of which 193 resulted in serious damage and 2,699 in slight
damage.
These figures only refer to regular calls for fires, or supposed fires, involving the
turning out of firemen, fire engines, fire escapes, horses, coachmen, and pilots. They
do not include trifling damages by fires which were not sufficiently important to re
quire the attendance of firemen; neither do they include the ordinary calls for chim
neys on fire, which are separately accounted for further on.
The fires of 1891, compared with those of 1890, show an increase of 337 ; or, com
pared with the average of the past ten years, an inorease of 691.
* See supplement.
200
FIRE ANT) BUILDING REGULATIONS
The following table gives the result both in actual numbers and percentages:
Number of fires.
Year.
Serious. Slight.
1866..............................................................................
1867.............................................................................
1868.............................................................................
1869.............................................................................
1870.............................................................................
1871..............................................................................
1872.............................................................................
1873..............................................................................
1874..............................................................................
1875..............................................................................
1876..............................................................................
1877..............................................................................
1878..............................................................................
1879.............................................................................
1880.............................................................................
1881.............................................................................
1882.............................................................................
1883..............................................................................
1884..............................................................................
1885..............................................................................
1886..............................................................................
1887..............................................................................
1888..............................................................................
1889..............................................................................
1890..............................................................................
1891..............................................................................
326
245
235
199
276
207
Percentages.
Total.
Serious. ! Slight, Total.
1 ,0 1 2
1,338
1. 397
1,152
1,433
1 ,6 6 8
1,572
1, 373
1,946
1, 670
1,635
1,842
1,494
1,374
1,548
1,382
1,419
1,573
1,529
1,366
1,466
1. 632
1,533
1, 374
1,659
1,489
1,559
1,718
1,871
1,709
1,991
1,824
1,926
1 ,762
2,144
1,960
2, 289
2,095
2,11C 2,270
1,998 jj 2,149
2,363
2,188
1, 988
1,867
2, 338
2,185
2,555
2,402
2,892
2,699
120
166
154
163
166
159
170
159
162
167
164
184
194
160
151
175
121
153
153
193
25
18
14
13
14
75
82
87
86
89
92
89
90
89
89
90
90
91
91
92
91
91
91
93
93
93
94
93
94
93
7.5
6.7
92.5
93.3
11
8
11
10
11
11
10
10
9
9
8
9
9
9
7
7
7
6
7
6
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
86
300
1
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
Average for ten years.

1881 to 1890 ................................................................
1891..............................................................................
162
193
2,039 j 2 ,2 0 1
2,699
2, 892
100
100
The number of fires in the metropolis in which life has been seriously endangered
during the year 1891 has been 192, and the number of these in which life has been
lost has been 47.
The number of persons whose lives have been seriously endangered by fire is 268;
of these 207 were saved, and 61 lost their lives. Of the 61 lost 31 were taken out
alive, but died afterwards in hospitals or elsewhere, and 30 were suffocated or burned
to death.
The following is a list of the firemen who have been commended for special merit
in saving life during the year 1891 :
Hank.
Date.
Engineer........................... ...................
Second-class fireman............................
Fourth-class fireman...........................
.........d o ...................................................
April 18 . . . . . . . Engineer..........................................
Fourth-class fireman.............................
.........d o ...................................................
.........d o ...................................................
May 2 3 ............ ........ d o ....................................................
August 1 ......... E ngineer...............................................
First-class fireman................................
January
10
Rame.
John F. D an e.....................................
John Sm ith............... .......................
Samuel Al>l)<>t....................................
Samuel M avstone.........- ........ ..........
Robert Stock w e ll....... ......................
William C o x .......................................
Frederick H. Garlick ........................
Wm. C.Mansfield.............................
George W\ l>yne*................................
Frederick Stickland...........................
John Foster.........................................
Lives
saved.
I
f
}
\
5
o
2
1
n
2
*G. ^W. Byne has also received a medal.
The number of calls for chimney fires has been 1,651. Of these 518 proved to be
false alarms and 1,133 were for chimneys on fire. In these cases there was no at
tendance of engines, but only of firemen with hand pumps.
The number of journeys made by the fixe engines and hose vans of the brigade has
201
en 32,795, and the total distance run has been 65,800 miles. These figures do not
include hose carts and escapes, which are run by hand.
The quantity of water used for extinguishing fires in the metropolis during the
year has been nearly 19,000,000 gallons, or about 84,000 tons, Of this quantity about
one-third of the whole was taken from the river, canals, and docks, and the remain
der from the street pipes.
During the year there have been 5 cases of short supply of water, 8 of late attend
ance of turncocks, and 3 of no attendance, making altogether 16 cases in which the
water arrangements were unsatisfactory.
As long as the supply of water is intermittent in some parts of the metropolis dif
ficulties must occasionally arise, but each year the area under constant service is in
creasing, and the cases in which the water arrangements are unsatisfactory show a
proportionate decrease.
The services rendered by the metrop olitan police and the city police have, as usual,
been invaluable. The assistance of the salvage corps has also on all occasions been
most heartily accorded.
The strength of the brigade is as follows :
Land fire engine stations...............................
55
Floating or river stations.............................
4
Hose cart stations...........................................
51
Fire escape stations....................................... 179
Steam fire engines on barges........................
9
47
Land steam fire engines................................
6 -inch manual fire engines.............................
78
XJnder 6 -inch manual fire engines...............
17
Miles of h o s e .................................................
35
Hose carts and r e e ls...................................... 105
Steam tugs.......................................................
8
B arges.............................................................
13
Skiffs...............................................................
12
Fire escapes................................................... 215
Long fire ladders............................................
9
Ladder v a n s ............ ......................................
9
Ladder t ru ck s ................................................
2
Trolley for ladders.........................................
1
Trolleys for engines.......................................
2
Hose and coal vans..........................................

13
Wagons for street duties................................
6
8
Street stations.................................................
Watch boxe s ..................................................... 132
Firemen, including chief officer, superintend
ents, and all ranks....................................... *706
Men under instruction....................................
25
17
P ilots................................................................
Coachmen..........................................................
73
Horses.............................................................. 133
Telephones between fire stations...................
73
Alarm circuits round fire stations, with 502
call p o in ts.....................................................
55
Telephones to police stations..........................
21
Telegraphs to public and other buildings.- 8
Telephones to public and other buildings...
55
Bell-ringing fire alarms to public and other
bu ildin gs....................................................... 14
*The post o f second officer is at present vacant.
The number of firemen employed on the several watches kept np throughout the
metropolis is at present 125 by day and 325 by night, making a total of 450 in every
twenty-four hours. The average number of men available for general work at fires
by night is 320.
The number of accidents to members of the brigade recorded during 1891 is, as
usual, heavy ; but this is invariably the case when the work is well done.
There have been during the year 395 cases of ordinary illness and 109 injuries,
making a total of 504 cases, of which many were serious, and 6 resulted in death.
Particulars of the accidents are as follows :
Nature of accidents.
Bums and scald s................................
Contusions...........................................
Injuries to feet and le g s.....................
Injuries to back, chest, hips, and ribs
Injuries to hands and arms................
Injuries to head and fa c e ...................
dum
ber.
Nature o f accidents.
Num
ber.
Injuries to eyes...........................................
Injuries internal.........................................
Incised, lacerated, and punctured wounds
Spiains and strains....................................
T o ta l...................................................
109
The total number of calls during the year, inclnding those for actual fires, sup
posed fires, chimney fires, and supposed chimney fires, has been 6,815, being nearly
19 a day, all of which have been attended by firemen with suitable appliances.
202
Of the 1,029 false alarms received during the year, 450 have been malicious calls
sent through the fire-alarm call posts. These malicious alarms constitute a serious
public danger, as they cause engines and escapes to be away from their stations at
times when they may be required for actual fires. Unfortunately the persons who
give the false alarms are very seldom detected in the act, there having been only 15
arrested during last year. Particulars of the 15 cases will be found on page 28.
The total number of attendances with engines at fires, or supposed fires, has been
9,945.
In addition to attending fires, the brigade has kept 164,250 watches of twelve
hours each, has made 35,922 hydrant inspections, and 84,662 fire-plug tablet inspec
tions, has maintained all the machinery and appliances of the establishment in work
ing order, written many thousand reports and letters, and carried on a variety of
other work.
The year 1891 has been especially marked by the increase in the scale of pay of
foremen, engineers, and the four classes of firemon, and by the reduction from thirty
to twenty-eiglit years of tho period of service entitling to full pension, which boons
were granted by the council in the month of June.
As many of the senior officers and firemen, with periods of service ranging from
twenty-eight to thirty years, have availed themselves of the opportunity thus af
forded them, the number of retirements during the year has been exceptionally
large.
Capt. Sir Eyre M. Shaw, K. C. B., having completed thirty years service, has re
tired from the position of chief officer on the full pension of his rank.
The post of second officer, rendered vacant by my promotion, ha not been filled
up. With this exception, the brigade is at its fall strength.
The number of men who have been taken on and trained during the year is 102.
The work of all the members of the brigade has been exceptionally heavy during
the past year, but it has been cheerfully and willingly done, and will, I trust, meet
with the approbation of the council.
The discipline of the brigade at the present time is in all respects satisfactory.
I have the honor to be, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
J. S e x t o n S im o n d s ,
Chief Officer, M. F. B.
Total.
Sliglitly
( damaged.
Trades.
Seriously 1
damaged., j
List of fires which took place in London during the year 1891.
Ganses.
A rtists................. ........
Asylums . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Auctioneers.................
Bakers ..........................
33
34
2
1
2
1
Bakers,b iscu it. . . . . . . .

B anks............... ...........
Barges............... .
Barracks...................
Bedstead m akers.........
Beershop keepers.........
Booksellers,
binders,
and stationers.
2
8
24
24
j
Defect in flue, 1 ; clothes falling on gas stove, 1.
ji Unknown, 1 .
Fire on hearth, 1 ; vapor of spirit coming in contact with
flame, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Airiug linen, 2; tar boiling over, 1; candle, 1; fine blocked
up, 1 ; defect in flue, 2 ; lbnl flue, 2 ; defect in flue adjoin
ing, 2 ; overheat of furnace, 2 ; swinging gas bracket,
2 ; escape of gas, 1 ; curtains coming in contact with
gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes. 2 ; curtains coming in contact
with spirit lamp, 1 ; light thrown down, 3 ; overheat of
oven, 1 ; smoking tobacco, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 ; spark
from furnace, 2 ; unknown, .
Spontaneous ignition, 1 ; unliown, 1 .
Candle, 1 ; overheat of furnace flue, 1 ; light thrown down,
1 ; unknown, 1.
Hot rivets. 1 ; overheat o f stove, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Defect in flue, 1 ; escape of gas, 1 ; gaslight, 1 ; spirit
lamp upset, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Unknown, 2.
Candle, 2 ; swinging gas bracket, 1 ; light thrown down,
1 j stove improperly set, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Candle, 2; detect in flue, 4; overheat of furnace flue, 1 ;
escape of gas, 1 ; goods coming in contact with gas
light, 3; hot ashes, 1; spirit lamp, 1; spirit lamp upset,
1 flight thrown down, 2 ; spark fromfire, 3 ; unknown, 5.
203
List of fives which took place in London during the year 1891Continued.
X <D
Trades.
3 &D
Causes.
o a
Bono m erchants.........
Boot and shoe makers
Unknown. 2 .
Tar boiling over, 1; candle, 1: defect in fine, 2; swing
ing gas bracket, 1 ; escape o f gas, 3 : explosion of gas,
1 ; window blinds coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ;
goods falling on gaslight, 1 ; overheat o f gaslight, 2 ;
spirit lamp exploding, 1; spirit lamp upset, 3; light
thrown down, 6 ; light thrown from street, 2 ; spark
from fire, 5 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 16.
Spirit lamp, 1 ; unknown, 4.
Bottle merchants and

dealers.
Brass finishers...........
B rewers........................
Brush makers
Builders.........
Butchers
14
Butchers, p ork ..
Cab proprietors.
Cabinet makers.
Cane workers..............
Card and c a r d b o a r d
manufacturers.
Carpenters and work
ers in wood (not cab
inetmakers).
Carriers.......................
Carvers and gilders . . .
Chair-makers..........
Chandlers................
Charcoal-maker.
Cheesemongers..
Chemists (including all

places in which are
laboratories for chem
ical purposes).
China, glass, and earth
en ware dealers.
Chocolate manufactur
ers.
Churches and chapels..
Coaoh-builders.
Coal and coke m e r
chants.
Cocoanut-fiber manu
facturers.
Coffeehouses.................
Coffee-roaters.
C olleges...........
13
15
Spirit lamp upset, 1 .

Overheat o f boiler, 1 ; letting off fireworks, 1; foul flue
1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; overheat o f kiln, 2 ; explosion of malt
(lust, 1 ; spontaneous ignition, 1; unknown, 3.
Bleaching bristles, 1 ; candle, 2; unknown, 1.
Tar boiling over, 1 ; candle, 2; children playing with lucifers, 1 ; overheat o f flue adjoining, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ;
light thrown down, 2 ; lime slaking, 1 ; spark from fire,
5 ; stove improperly set, 1 ; overheat or stove, 1 ; un
known, 18.
Fat boiling over, 1 ; tar boiling over, 1 ; candle, 1 ; escape
o f gas, 1 ; overheat o f gaslight, 1 ; seeking for escape of
gas with a light, 1 ; light thrown down, 1 ; lime slaking,
1 ; overheat of smokenole, 1 ; smoking tobacco, 1 ; spark
from fire, 2; unknown, 3.
Swinging gas bracket, 1 : overheat o f smoke hole, 1.
Defect in flue adjoining, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Overheat o f boiler, 1 ; defect in flue. 1 ; hot ashes, 1 : light
thrown down, 3 ; spark from firo, 8 ; overheat o f drying
stove, 1 ; overheat o f stove, 1 ; unknown, 16.
Overheat o f furnace flue, 1.
Varnish boiling over, 1; unknown, 2.
Overheat of boiler, 1 : varnish boiling over, 1 ; defect in

flue, 1; overheat o f furnace, 1; Uglit thrown down, 5;
spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 7.
Light thrown down, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 8 .
Unknown. 2 .
Defect in flue, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 : unknown, 1 .
Candle, 1 : children playing with lucifers, 1; letting off
fireworks, 1 : defect in flue, 1 ; defect in flue adjoining,
2 ; fumigating, 1 ; swinging gas bracket, 1 ; escape o f
gas, 2 ; spirit lamp, 2 : spirit lamp exploding, 1 ; light
thrown own,3; lucifers, 1 ; spark from fire, 2 ; spirit
stove upset, 1 ; vapor of spirit coming in contact with
flame, 1 ; unknown, 10 .
Unknown, 1.
Candle, 1; defect in flue ac|joining, 1; escape o f gas, 2;
window blinds coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; dec
orations coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; overheat
o f gaslight, 1 ; light thrown down, 2 ; light thrown from
street, 1 ; unknown, 4.
% 16 Brimstone boiling over, 1; spirit boiling over, 1 ; tar boil
ing over, 1 ; explosion o f chemicals, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ;
ether coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes, 2 ;
light thrown down, 1 ; overheat o f drying stove, 1 ;
vapor o f spirit coming in contact with flame. 2 : un
known, 4
Candle, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 1; light thrown
down. 2 ; light thrown from street, 1 ; overheat of stove
pipe, 1; unknown 4.
Unknown, 2 .
Airing linen, 1 ; overheat o f copper, 1 ; defect in flue ad
joining, 1 ; seeking for an escape of gas with a light, 1 ;
spirit lamp, 1 ; overheat o f gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Swinging gas bracket, 1; light thrown down, 1 ; un
known, 2 .
Overheat o f boiler, 1 ; tar boiling over, 2; spirit lamp, 1;
spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Unknown, 1.
Airing linen, 1; candle, 5; defect in flue, 2; fumigating,
1 ; swinging gas bracket, 1 ; escape of gas, 1 ; hot ashes,
1 ; spirit lamp exploding, 1 ; light thrown down, 1 ; spark
from copper tire, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 2 ; overneat
of spirit stove, 1 ; doubtful, 2 ; unknown, 8 .
Defect in flue, 1 ; unknown, L
Hot ashes,).
204

TA&t of fires winch took place in London during the year 1891Continued.
Trades.
Color and white-lead

manufacturers.
Confectioners and pastry-cooks.
l
29
Contractors.
Cooperative stores - -.
Coopers.................... .
Cork manufacturers .
Com dealers.............
Costumers....................
Cow-keepers.................
Curriers and leather
sellers.
Dairym en................... .
Distillers.
Docks
Drapers ..
Druggists, wholesale.
D y e rs.........................
Electricians
Electro gilders a n d
platers.
Engravers..
Exhibitions.
Factors.......
JTancy-box makers
Fancy repositories.
Farming stock.......
Farriers.......................
Feather manufacturers
Fellmongers.................
Firewood dealers........
Fish cur ers................. .
Fishmongers...............
H ook manufacturers.
Floor cloth and kamp
tulicon manufacturers
Florists....................
Florists (artificial) .
Flour m ills.............
Founders.................
Unknown, 1 .
32
Airing linen, 1 ; sugar boiling over, 1 ; candle, 1 ; defect

in flue, 1 ; swinging gas bra<et, 1 ; gas lighting, 2 ; cur
tains coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; dcorations
coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; spirit lamp upset,
2 ; overheat of oven, 1 ; overheat of drying stove, 1 ;
spirit stove, 1 ; overheat of spirit stove, 1 ; unknown, 17.
Overheat- of furnace flue adjoining, 2 ; light thrown down,
1 ; unknown, 1 .
Light thrown down, 1 .
Friction of machinery, 1 ; unknown, 4.
Spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 4.
Airing linen, 1; candle, 1; letting off fireworks, 1 ; defect
in flue adjoining, 1 ; friction of machinery, 1 ; hot ashes,
1 ; light tlirown down, 2 ; stove improperly set, 1 ; un
known, 10 .
Lucifers, 1 .
Gas-fitters at work, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Overheat of boiler, 1 ; flue blocked up, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Airing linen, 1 ; fat boiling over, 1 ; candle, 3; children
playing with lucifers, 1 ; letting off fireworks, 1 ; flue
blocked up, 1 ; spirit lamp exploding, 1 ; light thrown
dow n,l; smoking tobacco, 1 ; unknown, 8 .
Dealers in unredeemed
pledges.
Dentist........................
Embroiderers..............
Enamelers ................. .
Engineers and machin
ists.
Causes.
CS
60 5
i SJ
28
Defect in copper flue, 1 ; vapor o f spirit coming in con

tact with flame, 1 .
Spirit coming in contact with flame, 1.
Lnknown, 1 .
Candle, 1 ; children playing with lucifers, 1 ; overheat of
electric wire, 1 ; swinging gas bracket, 1 ; escape of gas,
1 ; gas lighting, 1 ; curtains coming in contact with gas
light, 2 ; goods coming in contact with gaslight, 6 ;
spirit lamp upset, 1 ; light thrown down, 3 ; spark from
fire, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 10 .
Hot ashes, 1 .
Spontaneous ignition, 1 ; vapors of spirit coming in
contact with flame, 1 .
Seeking for an escape of gas with light, 1 ; hot ashes, 1;
tar pot upsetting, 1 .
Overheat o f gas stove, 1; flexible gas tubing, 1 ; hot
ashes, 1 ; vapor o f spirit coming in contact with
flame, 1 .
Unknown, 1.
Unknown, 1.
Overheat of boiler, 1 ; rubber solution boiling over. 1;
candle, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ; overheat of flue, 1 ; defect
in flue adjoining, 1 ; defect in copper flue, 1 ; swing
ing gas bracket, 1 ; escape of gas, 1 ; flexible gas tub
ing, 2; hot ashes, 4; light thrown down, 2; smoking
tobacco, 1 ; s p a from fire, 1 ; spark from forge, 1 ;
spark from furnace, 1 ; gas stove, 1 ; stove improperly
set, 1 ; unknown, 11 .
Swinging gas bracket, 1; hot ashes, 1; unknown, 2.
Unknown, 1.
Overheat of boiler, 2 ; flue blocked up, 1 ; gas-fitters at
work, 1 ; light thrown down, 1 ; unknown, 4 .
Unknown, 2.
Escape of gas, 1; goods coming in contact with gaslight,
1 ; light tlirown down, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 .
Escape of gas, 3; light thrown down, 10; spark from
locomotive, 2 ; unknown, 16.
Spark from fire, 1.
Delect in flue adjoining, 1 ; unknown, L
Overheat of drying stove, 1.
Light thrown down, 1; unknown, 3.
Unknown, 1.
Candle, 1; children playing with lucifers, 1 ; defect in
flue, 1 ; spirit lamp, : light thrown down, 1 ; spark
from candle, 1 ; spark from fire, 2 ; unknown, 2 .
Friction o f machinery, 1.
Unknown, 2.
Candle, 1 ; overheat of furnace flue, 1.
Defect in flue, 2 ; unknown, 1 .
Unknown, 1 .
Unknown, 2.
IN FOKEIGN COUNTRIES.
205
List of fire which took j)Iacc in London during the year 1891Continued.
Trades.
o <
=
2
*S2
c
3
Foreign and f:uicy goods

(importers of).
Fried-fish shops.
Furniture makers and
dealers.
18
Furriers and skinners.

Gas-fitters................... .
Gas works....................
Glass manufacturers ..
Granaries......................
Greengrocers and fruit
erers.
Grocers.
Haberdashers................
Hairdresser.................
Hatters.
Hay and straw salesmen
Herbalists................
H osiers.
Hospitals.
Hotels (including club
houses).
13
House decorators........
India rubber and gutta
percha manufactur
ers and dealers.
Ink makers (printing)
Iron merchants............
Ironmongers.................
Children playing with fire, 1; spirit lamp upset, 1;

light throw down, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 ; overheat o f
drying stove, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Fat boiling over, 1; defect in flue, 1 ; foul flue, 1; defect
in furnace flue, 1 ; swinging gas bracket, 1 ; light
thrown down, 1 ; unknown, 4.
Tar boiling over, 1; swinging gasbracket, 1; window
blinds coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; goods com
ing in contact with gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit
lamp, 1; spirit lamp upset, 2; light thrown down, 3;
smoking tobacco, 1 ; unknown, 9.
Hot ashes, 2 ; light thrown down, 1 ; overheat of drying
stove, 1; unknown, 5.
Escape o f gas, 1; light thrown down, 1; spark from
forge, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Spark from furnace, 1.
Vapor o f 8])irit coming in contact with flame.
Overheat of kiln, 1.
Candle, 2; defect in flue, 4; swinging gas bracket, 1;
spirit lamp, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 3; light thrown
down, 7; spark from fire, 2 ; overheat o f gas stove, 1 ;
overheat o f stove adjoining, 1; unknown, 23.
44 Candle, 2; flue blocked up, 1 ; defect in flue, 1; escape
o f gas, 3; gaslight, 1; window curtains coming in
contact with gaslight, 2 ; goods coming in contact with
gaslight, 1 ; sj)irit lamp, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 3 ; light
thrown down, 3; spark from fire, 1; unknown, 25.
Spark from fire, 1.
Escape o f gas, 1; spirit lamp upset, 2; spark from fire,
2: overheat of gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 4.
11 Timber in iluo, 1 ; goods coming in contact with gas
light, 1 ; decorations coming in contact with gaslight,
1: stove improperly set, 1; unknown, 7.
Unknown, 1.
Children playing with lucifers, 1; escape o f gas, 1; un
known, 1 .
Swinging gas bracket, 1; window blinds coming in con
tact with gaslight, 1 ; goods falling on gaslight, 1 ;
light thrown down, 1; unknown, 3.
W ax boiling over, 1 : clothes coming in contact with
fire, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ; swinging gas bracket, 1 ; un
known, 1 .
13 Defect in flue, 2; foul flue, 1 ; escape of gas, 1; hot ashes,
1 ; spirit lamp, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; stove im
properly set, 3; overheat- of stove, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Tar boiling over, 1; unknown, 3.
Unknown, 3.
Unknown, 1.
Overheat o f furnace flue, 1.
Overheat of flue adjoining, 1; stove improperly set, 1;
unknown, 8 .
Unknown, 1.
Defect- in flue adjoining, 1 ; seeking for an escape of gaa
with light, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 1 ;
light thrown down, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Hot ashes, 1.
Spirit lamp, 1.
Candle, 2 : overheat o f gaslight, 1 ; light thrown down,
3 ; lucifers, 1 ; unknown, 5.
19 Airing linen, 2 ; overheat o f boiler, 1 ; tar boiling over, 1 ;
spirit lamp exploding, 2 ; light thrown down, 1 ; over
heat o f drying stove, 2 ; overheat of stovepipe, 1 ; un
known, 9.
Hot ashes, 1 ; light thrown down, 2 ; unknown, 1.
Japanners.
Jewelers ..
Jewelry*case makers.
Lamp manufacturers
Lamp and oil merchants
Laundries.....................
Lead and glass mer

chants.
Leather bag manufac
turers.
Leather merchants___
Lot out in tenements
Linen manufacturers ..
L odgings.......................
Cause.
447
4
3
451
Light thrown down, 1; stove improperly set, 1; un

known, 4.
Hot ashes, 1 ; light thrown down, 1; unknown, 2.
Explosion o f gas. 1 ; unknown, 2.
Airing lin<*n, 14; fat boiling over, 1; tar boiling over, 1 ;
candle, 35: children playin with fire, 23; children
plaving with lucifers, 29; clothes coming in contact
w'ith fire, 1 ; letting off fireworks, 1 ; defect in flue, 14;
foul flue, 5; timber in flue, 1 ; defect in flue adjoining,
6 ; overheat o f flue adjoining, 2 ; defect in copper flue,
1; overheat o f copper flue, 2; swinging gas bracket 5;
206

List of fires which took jplace in London dun Ig the year 1891Continued.
tf8
Trades.
Causes.
02r
Looking glass and pic

ture frame makers.
10
11
Lucifer match-makers
Machine rulers...........
Mantle-makers...........
Marine store dealers

Market gardeners.......
Mast and block makers
Mat m akers...............
Milliners and dress
makers.
Mineral water manu
facturers.
Modellers.................... .
Music lialls..................
Necktie and cravat
Wax boiling over, 1.

Burning rubbish, 1 ; unknown, 1.
Unknown, 1 .
milkers.
News agents.................
Nurserymen.
Offices..........
Oil and colormen
Oil refiners................. .
Opticians and philo
sophical instrument
makers.
Packing case-maker -.
Painters, glaziers, and
plumbers.
Paint manufacturers ..
Paper-makers..............
Paper merchants........
Paper stain ers.............
Pawnbrokers...............
Pen manufacturers---Pencil manufacturers..
Perfumers....................
Pewterers....................
Photographers..............
Pianoforte-makers.......
Picture dealers............
Portmanteau makers..
Poulterers....................
P rinters........................
escape o f gas, 2 ; curtains and window blinds coming

in contact with gaslight. 4 ; seeking for an escape of
gas with light, 1 ; hot ashes, 4 ; intoxication, 1 ; spirit
lamp, 3 ; curtains and window blinds coming in con
tact with spirit lamp, 9; spirit lamp exploding, 19;
spirit lamp upset, 104; light thrown down, 25; lucifers,
3; smoking tobacco, 3 ; spark from fire, 44; spark from
flue adjoining. 1 ; stove improperly set, 5 ; overheat o f
stove, 1 ; overheat o f spirit stove, 1 ; spirit stove, 1 ;
doubtful, 1 ; unknown, 78.
Children playing with lucifers, 1 ; swinging gas bracket,
1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; light thrown down, 2 ; spark from
firo, 1 ; unknown, 5.
Unknown, 1 .
Spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 2.
Curtains and window blinds coming in contact with gas
light , 2 ; goods coming in contact with gaslight, 2 ;
spirit lamp, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 1 ; light thrown down,
3 ; light thrown from street, 1 ; unknown, 2.
Spark from lire, 1 ; spontaneous ignition, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Burning rubbish, 1 .
Defect m copper flue, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Unknown, 1 .
Foul flue, 1 ; curtains coming in contact with gaslight,
2 ; goods coming in contact with gaslight, 2 ; goods
falling on gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes, 3 ; spirit lamp, 1 ; light
thrown down, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Spark from fire, 1.
36
Swinging gas bracket, 1 ; seeking for an escape of ga

witli a light, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 1 ; light thrown
down, 2 ; spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Spirit lamp. 1 .
Defect in flue. 2 ; escape o f gas, 2 ; window blind coming
in contact with gaslight, 1 ; defect in hearth, 1 ; fire on
hearth, 1; hot ashes, 4; light thrown down, 5; light
thrown from street, 1 ; plunibers|at work, 1 ; spark from
flue, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; stove improperly set,
1; unknown. 14.
Oil boiling over, 1 ; tar boiling over, 1 ; varnish boiling
over, 1 ; candle, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ; defect in flue ad
joining, 1 ; swinging gas bracket, 2 ; escape of gas, 1 ;
gaslignting, 1 ; goods coming in contact with gaslight,
2 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit lamp, 1 ; spirit lamp exploding,
1 ; spirit lamp upset, 2 ; light thrown down, 5 ; lucifers,
2 ; spark from lire, 2 ; vapor o f spirit coming in con
tact with flame, 1; unknown, 9.
Oil boiling over, 1 ; spontaneous ignition, 1 ; unknown, 1
Light thrown down, 2 ; unknown, 2 .
Seeking for an escape of gas with a light, 1 ; hot ashes,
1; unknown, 2 .
Varnish boiling over, 1; spirit lamp upset, 1; light
thrown down, 3 ; unknown, 2.
Unknown, I.
Hot ashes, 1 ; spark from furnace, 1.
Explosion of gas, 1 ; unknown. 2.
Resin boiling over, 1; unknown, 1.
Hot ashes, 1 ; curtains coming in contact with gaslight,
1; goods coming in contact with gaslight, 1; un
known, 1.
Light thrown down, 1.
Unknown, 1.
Unknown, 2.
Light thrown down, 1; overheat of stovepipe, 1.
Spirit boiling over, 1 ; portable gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Hot ashes, 1; unknown, 1.
Light thrown down, 1.
Candle. 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Light thrown down, 1; overheat o f smoke hole, 1.
Overheat of boiler, 1; fat boiling over, 1; wax boiling
over, 1 ; candle, 1 ; overheat of furnace, 1 ; escape or
gas, 1 ; hot ashes, 2 ; light thrown down, 8 ; spark from
fire, 2 ; spaik from furnace, 1; unknown, 17.
207
List of fires which took place in London during the year 1891Continued.
k/d
Trades.
y
Private -
II3 3
15
53j:
703
Causes.
1o
H
718
Provi on merchants ..
Public, buildings (not
theaters).
Rag merchants .
R ailw ays.........
Refreshment room.
18
Refuges.
Rope line and twine
merchants.
Rug manufacturers---Sack and bag makers ..
Saddle ana harness
makers.
Sawm ills...................
Schools..........................
Escape of gas, 1.
Unknown, 1 .
Stove improperly set, 1 ; overheat o f stove,l ; unknown, 1.
Overheat o f boiler, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; unknown, 4.
Escape of gas, 1; hot ashes, 1; spirit lamp, 1; light
thrown down, 2 ; lime slaking, 1 ; overheat o f oven, 1 ;
spark from flue, 1 ; overheat or gas stove, 1 ; unknown,2 .
Smoking tobacco, 1 ; overheat of stove, 1.
Overheat o f boiler, 2 ; hot rivet, 1 ; unknown, 6 .
Overheat o f boiler, 1 ; spark from locomotive, 1 .
Unknown, 1.
Unknown, 3.
Gasfitters at work, 1 ; light thrown down, 1 ; unknown, 1.
Ships.............................
Ships (steam)................
Shipbuilders.................
Ship chandlers..............
Shirt and collar makers
Shop fitters...................
S w in g in g gas b r a c k e t ,!; s p ir it lam p, 1 ; v a p o r o f s p ir it

coming in contact with spirit lam p, 1 .
S h o w m e n ...........................
Spirit lain]) upset. 1; light thrown from street, 1; spark

from fire, 1 ; overheat of steam pipe, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Candle, 1 ; children playing with tire, 1 ; hot ashes, 1.
Candle, 4 ; escape o f gas, 1 ; light thrown down, 2 ; light
thrown from street, 1 ; smoking tobaoco, 1 ; overheat o f
stove, 1 ; unknown, 16.
Unknown, 4.
Swinging gas-bracket.l ; window curtains coming in con
tact witli spirit lamp, 1 ; unknown, 1 .
Spirit lamp upset, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; unknown,1.
Silk mercers.................
Soot merchants.
Stables ..............
Stationers (wholesale) .
Stay and corset makers.
Stone and marble ma
sons.
Surgeons......................
Surgical instrument
makers.
Airing bedding, 5 ; airing linen, 33 ; fat boiling over, 2; oil

ooiling over,l, spirit boiling over,l ; tar boiling over, 1 1 ;
wax boiling over, 2; candle, 64: children playing with
fire, 11 ; children playing with lucifers, 21 ; overheat of
copper, 1 ; clothes coining in contact with fire,4; spirit
upsetting on fire,l ; explosion of fire works, 1 ; letting off
fire-works. 3; flue blocked un, 3; defect in flue, 39; foul
Hue. 6 ; overheat of flue, 1 ; defect- in flue adjoining, 2 2 ;
foul flue adjoining, 5; defect in copper flue, 2; fumigat
ing^; swinging ghs bracket,24; escape of gas. 19; explo
sion o f gas, 3; gaslight, 1; gaslighiing, 3; curtain and
window blinds coming in contact with gaslight, 13;
goods coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; overneat of
gaslight, 2 ; seeking for an escape of gas with light, 115
defect in hearth, 3; timber under hearth, 1 ; hot ashes,
32; spirit lamp, 14 ; window blinds and curtains com
ing in contact with spirit, lamp, 7; spirit lamp explod
ing, 18; spirit lamp upset, 6 6 ; lighting, 1 ; light thrown
down, 44 ; lime-slakiiig, 1; lucifers,6 ; plumbers at work,
1; smoking tobacco, 4; spark from candle, 3; spark
from copper fire, 2; spark from fire, 42; spark from flue
adjoining, 2 ; overheat, o f gas stove, 3 ; stove improperly
set, 15 ; overheat o f stove, 4; overheat of spirit stove, 1;
tar upsetting on lire, 1 ; doubtful, 3; unknown, 121 .
Swinging gas bracket, 1 ; seeking for an escape of gas
with light, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; sj>ir it lamp, 1 ; light thrown
down, 1 ; overheat of drying stove. 1 ; unknown, 4.
Overheat of boiler, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ; foul flue, 1 ; over
heat o f flue adjoining, 1 ; escape of gas, 2 ; overheat of
gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes, 2 ; light thrown down, 1 ; light
thrown from street, 1 ; lime-slaking, 1 ; spark from fur
nace, 1 ; unknown. 5.
Light thrown down. 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Candle, 1 ; friction, 1 ; hot ashes, 2 ; light thrown down,
2 ; spark from fire,l; spark from locomotive, 1 ; un
known, 8 .
Eat. boiling over, 1 ; defect in fine, 2 ; overheat o f flue, 1 ;
escape of gas, 1 ; explosion o f gas, 1 ; gas lighting, 1 ;
light thrown down, 3 ; smoking tobacco, 1 ; spark from
fire, 1 ; unknown, 6 .
Defect in flue, 1 ; foul flue adjoining, 1; hot ashes, 1;
spark from furnace, 1 ; stove improperly s e t,l; un
known, 1 ,
Unknown, 1 .
11
Defect in flue, 2 ; defect, in flue adjoining, 1 ; hot ashes, i ;

li lit thrown down. 1 : stove improperly set,l; vapor
of spirit coming in contact with flames, 1 ; unknown, 4 .
Unknown, 1.
208

List of fires which look place in London during the year 1891Continued.
Trades.
Tailors, clothiers, and

outfitters.
S
2 fc
Causes.
tcS
I xn
42
43
Tallow chandlers....... .
Tanners......................
Tea dealers................. .
Tea dealers (wholesale)
Tent-makers................
Timber merchants----Tinmen, braziers, and
smiths.
Tobacco and cigar man
ufacturers.
Tobacconists.............. .
Tobacco-pipe makers
Toy makers and dealers
Trimming manufactur
ers and sellers.
Turners........................
Umbrella and parasol
makers.
Under repair and build
ing.
Unoccupied.
Hot ashes, 1 ; light thrown down, 2 ; unknown, 3.

Light thrown d.own, 2 ; unknown, 1 .
48
49
Upholsterers
Varnish-makers.......
Veterinary surgeons.
Victuallers...............
Wagons on the road ...

Walking and umbrella
stick makers.
W ardrobe dealers........
Warehouses.
Waste-paper dealers..
Watch and clock mak
ers.
W aterworks...
W aterproofers Wharnnfi
ager.
Airing linen, 1; flue blocked up, 1; defect in flue, 3;

swinging gas bracket, 1 ; escape o f gas, 1 ; explosion of
gas, 1 ; gaslighting, 1 ; goods coming in contact with
gaslight, 2 ; goods falling on gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes, 2 ;
spirit lamp, 1 ; curtains coming in contact with spirit
lamp, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 1 ; light thrown down, 6 ;
lucifers, 1; spark from fire, 2; unknown, 17.
Unknown, 1.
Do.
Light thrown down, 1 ; overheat of oven, 1 ; unknown, 1.
Unknown, 2 .
Unknown, 1 .
Tar boiling over, 1 ; candle, 1 ; light thrown down, 2 ; lime
slaked by rain, 2; unknown, 4.
Goods coming in contact with gaslight, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ;
light thrown down, 1 ; overheat of drying stove, 2 ;
overheat of stovepipe, 1 ; unknown, 2 .
Light thrown down, 1 ; spark from locomotive, 1; un
known, 4.
Children playing with lucifers, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ; gas
light, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit lamp exploding, 1 ; light
thrown down, 2 ; smoking tobacco, 1 ; spark from fire,
1 ; spark from copper fire, 1 ; overheat of drying stove,
1; unknown, 17.
Overheat of drying stove, 1.
Delect in flue adjoining, 1 ; spark from fire, 1 ; unknown,1 .
Escape of gas, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 3.
21
26
Overheat of boiler, 1 ; tar boiling over, 1 ; children play

ing with fire, 1 ; defect in flue, 1 ; escape of gas, 1 ; hot
ashes, 1; light thrown down, 3; lime slaked by rain,
5; lime slaking, 2 ; spark from fire, 6 ; gas stove, 2 ; stove
improperly set, 1 ; overheat of stove, 1 ; unknown, 7.
Tar boiling over, 1; children playing with fire, 2; chil
dren playing with lucifers, 1 ; foul ilue, 2; defect in
flue adjoining, 1 ; seeking for an escape of gas with
light, 1 ; defect in hearth, 1 ; hot ashes, 3 ; light thrown
down, 14; light thrown from street,!; lime slaking,
1 ; spark from fire, 1 ; spark from flue, 1 ; unknown, 19.
Defect in flue, 1 ; defect in flue adjoining, 1 ; swinging
gas bracket, 1 ; goods coming in contact with gaslight,
1 : spark from fire, 1 ; unknown, 4.
Oil boiling over, 1 ; resin boiling over, 1 .
Candle, 1 ; light thrown down, 1.
Fat boiling over, 1; burning rubbish, 1; candle, 4; chil
dren playing with lucifers, 2 ; overheat of cooking ap
paratus,!; flue blocked up, 1 ; defect in flue, 3; foul
flue, 1 ; overheat of flue, 1 ; defect in flue adjoining, 1 ;
swinging gas bracket, 5; escape of gas, 9; explosion o f
gas, 1 ; curtains and window blinds coming in contact
with gaslight, 2 ; overheat of gaslight. 2 ; seeking for
an escape o f gas with light, 2 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit lamp
upset, 1 ; light thrown down, 14; light thrown from
street, 1 ; overheat of oven, 1 ; smoking tobacco, 1 ;
si>ark from fire, 2 ; spark from flue adjoining, 1 ; porta
ble gas stove, 1 ; stove improperly set, 3 ; vapor of spirit
coming in contact with flame, 5; unknown, 14.
Spirit lamp,1 ; lucifers,1 ; smoking tobacco, 1 ; unknown,4.
Spark from flue, 1 ; unknown, 2.
Tar boiling over, 1; swinging gas bracket, 1; goods fall
ing on gaslight, 1 ; spirit lamp exploding, 1 ; spirit lamp
upsot. 3 ; light thrown down, 3 ; spark from candle,
1 ; unknown, 2 .
Overheat of furnace flue, 1 ; goods coming in contact with
gaslight, 2 ; hot ashes. 1 ; hot iron, 1 ; light thrown
down, 2 ; lucifers, 1 ; spark from fire, 2 ; gas stove, 1 ;
unknown, 15.
Letting off fireworks, 1; light thrown down, 1; spark
from fire, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Candle. 1; escape of gas, 1; light thrown dow n,l; va
por of spirit coming in contact with flame, 1 ; un*
Known, 2 .
Overheat of steam pipe.
Hot ashes, 1 ; unknown, 2.
Pitch boiling over, 1; friction, 1; light thrown down, 1)
spark from fire, 1; unknown, L
209
Total.
Trades.
Slightly
damaged.
Seriously
damaged.
List of fires tchich took place in London during the year 1891Continued.
Causes.
W heelwrights..............
10
Window-blind makers.
Wine and spirit mer
chants.
1
8
W ire-drawers..............
Workhouses.................
193
False alarms.................
Chimney alarms..........
2, 699
2, 892
1,029
143
T ota l...................
Candle, 1 ; overheat of furnace flue, 1 ; hot ashes, 1 ; spirit

lamp exploding, 1 ; spirit lamp upset, 1 ; light thrown
d ow n,l; unknown, 4.
Unknown, 1 .
Defect in flue adjoining, 1 ; curtains coming in contact
with gaslight, 1 ; defect in hearth, 1 ; hot aes, 1 ; light
thrown down, 1 ; overheat of gas stove, 1 ; unknown, 3.
Hot ashes, 1 ; defect in furnace flue, 1.
Overheat of furnace flue, 1 j overheat of drying stove, l j
unknown, 1 .
1,172
4,064
J.
S e x t o n S im o n d s ,
Chief Officer, M. F B.
List of causes of fires in London for the year 1891.

Cause.
A irin g b e d d in g ...................................
A irin g lin e n .........................................
Bleaching b r is t le s ..............................
Boiler, overheat, o f . ...........................
B oiling over, fat, oil, pitch, tar, etc B oiling over, r e s in ...............................
B oiling over, spirit...............................
Boiling over, s u g a r . ........................ .
B oiling over, v a r n is h ........-..............
B oiling over, w a x .................................
Burning ru bbish................................. .
Candle...................- ................................
Chemicals, explosion o f ......................
Children playing w ith fir e ............... .
Children playing w ith lu cifers.........
Cooking apparatus, overheat o f -----Copper, overheat o f .............................
E lectric wires, overheat o f ................
Fire, clothes com ing in contact with
Firo, spirit upsetting o n ....................
Fire, tar upsetting on ........................ .
Fireworks, explosion o f ....................
Fireworks, letting o f f ..........................
Flue, blocked u p ...................................
Flue, defect i n ......................................
Flue, f o u l ...............................................
Flue, overheat o f .................................
Flue, tim ber i n ................................... .
F lue adjoining, defect i n ...................
F lue adjoining, fo u l............................
Flue adjoining, overheat o f ...............
Flue, copper, defect in ........................ .
Flue, copper, overheat o f ...................
Flue, furnace, defect in ......................
Flue, furnace, overheat o f .................
F lue furnace adj'oining, overheat o f
F r ic t io n ................................................
Friction o f m achinery........................
F um igating............................................
Furnace, overheat o f ..........................
Gas bracket, s w in g in g ......................
Gas-burner, p orta ble..........................
Gas, escape o f .......................................
Gas, explosion o f.................................
Gas-fitters at w o r k ..............................
146A------ 14
4
59
16
43
4
5
3
150
39
62
1
2
1
6
1
1
1
9
10
102
22
4
2
46
6
5
7
Gaslight..........................................................
Gas lighting...................................................
Gaslight, curtains or window blinds coming
in contact w it h ..........................................
Gaslight, decorations coming in contact with
Gaslight, ether coming in contact witli.......
Gaslight, goods coming in contact w ith ----Gaslight, goods falling on.............................
Gaslight, overheat of.....................................
Gas, seeking for an escape of, with light . . .
Gas stove........................................................
Gas stove, clothing falling o n ......................
Gas stove, overheat of....................................
Gas stove, portable.........................................
Gas tubing, flexible.......................................
Hearth, defect in ............................................
Hearth, fire o n ...............................................
Hearth, timber under....................................
Hot ashes........................................................
Hot iro n ..........................................................
Hot riv e ts ......................................................
Intoxication...................................................
Kiln, overheat o f............................................
Lamp, sp irit...................................................
Lamp, spirit, curtains or window blinds
coming in contact w ith .............................
Lamp, spirit, exploding................................
Lamp, spirit, upset.........................................
Lightning......................................................
Light thrown down.......................................
Light thrown from street.............................
Lime slaked by ra in .....................................
Lime, slaking ...............................................
Lucifers..........................................................
Malt dust, explosion o f..................................
Oven, overheat o f ..........................................
Plumbers, at w o rk .........................................
Smoke hole, overheat o f ................................
Smoking tobacco............................................
Spark from candle.........................................
Spark from copper fire..................................
Spark from copper flue..................................
Spark from drying stove..............................
Spark from fir e ..............................................
Spark from flue..............................................
4
9
37
2
1
27
5
11
22
4
1
16
3
6
2
1
104
1
2
1
3
38
19
46
206
266
10
7
8
17
5
2
3
18
5
4
2
16o
210

List of causes of fires f or the year 1S91Continued.
Cause.
Cause.
Stovepipe, overheat o f .................................

Stove, s p ir it .................................... .
Stove, spirit, exploding.................................
Stove,spirit,overheat o f .................. . . . . . . .
Tar pot upsetting............ ........................... Yapor of spirit coming iu contact with flame
Spark from flu adjoining---Spark from fo rg e ...................

Spark from furnace...............
Spark from locomotive..........
Spontaneous ignition............
Steam pipe, overheat o f .........
Stove improperly set..............
Stove, overheat o f...................
Stove, adjoining, overheat o f .
Stove, drying, overheat o f----
Unknown___. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
No.
5
2
1
3
1
18
88
T o ta l.................................................... 2,892
J.
S e x t o n S im o n d s ,
Chief Officery M. F. B.
N E W C A S T L E -U P O N -T Y N E .
REPORT B T CONSUL METOALF*
1. Name of place, city and county of Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

3. Area of city limit, 5,371 acres.
4. All the principal buildings are stone-fronted.
6. Number of alarms, 293 (not including chimney fires).
9,10,11,12. No records are kept as to total value of property in
volved in the fires, total loss thereon, total insurance thereon, or total
insurance loss thereon.
13. Fires confined to floors in which they originated, 123.
14. Fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 138, being
15 fires extending beyond floor of origin.
15. No fires extended to adjoining property.
16. No conflagrations, t. e., fires, extended beyond adjoining property.
17. The fire department consists of 1 chief station and 6 branch sta
tions with 2 steam fire engines, 2 tenders, 1 manual, 1 curricle engine,
5 hose carts, 3 telescopic escapes, 1 superintendent, 1 chief fireman,
and 40 firemen.
18. The system of water supply for fire purposes is gravitation.
19. The capacity of the supply is from 30 to 33 inches.
20. The provision made by law to investigate causes of fire and to
provide for the prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or
crime is the common law of the land.
21. No incendiary fires reported.
22. For storage and sale of explosives and fireworks persons have
to hold a license.
H orace W . M e t c a l f , Consul.
U nited States C onsulate ,
Newcastle-wpon- Tyne, March 10, 1892.

Year 1890.
211
S H E F F IE L D .
RETORT B Y CONSUL FOLSOM.*
1. Name of city, Sheffield.

7. Fires in brick or stone buildings, 95.
9. No record is kept of the total value of property involved in the
fires.
10. Total loss thereon, 9,236 ($44,947).
11. Total insurance thereon, 48,678 ($236,891.49).
12. Total insurance loss thereon, 8,942 ($43,516.24).
13. Fires confined to floor in which they originated, 76.
14. Fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 94, being 18
extending beyond the floor in which they originated to entire building.
35. Fires extending to adjoining property, 1.
16. Conflagrations, i. <?., fires, extending beyond adjoining property,
none.
17. The fire department consists of 1 superintendent and 21 men.
18. Water supply. A number of dams and reservoirs in the surrounding hills, which furnish the town with its water supply. The natural
pressure furnishes a good head of water in the business part of the town,
which is augmented by the use of fire engines when necessary. Pres
ent capacity of supply, 3,684,500,000 gallons.
19. The law makes no provision for investigating the causes of fire,
except incendiarism be suspected, when the police authorities investi
gate with a view to the prosecution of the offender, the same as in deal
ing with any other criminal offense.
21. Local licenses are issued for the storage and sale of oil under the
petroleum acts of 1871 and 1879, copies of which licenses are trans
mitted herewith.
The regulations for the storage and sale of explosives and fireworks
are governed by the explosives act, 1875, summaries of which are
also transmitted. Under this act all persons dealing in explosives or
fireworks are annually registered and their premises frequently in
spected by the local inspector. All stores for gunpowder, explosives,
and small firework factories are also annually licensed by the local au
thorities. Factories for gunpowder and other explosives, and maga
zines are licensed and inspected by the Imperial Government.
SHEFFIELD PETROLEUM LICENSE.
We, the mayor, aldormen, and burgesses of the borough of Sheffield, a place sub
ject to the provisions of the municipal corporations act, 1882, being by the council
* Year 1890.
212
of the said borough the local authority within the said borough to grant licenses
under sections 7, 8, and 9 of the act passed in the thirty-fourth and thirty-iifth years
of the reign of her present Majesty Queen Victoria, chapter 105, entitled An act
for the safe-keeping of petroleum and other substances of a like nature, having duly
received an application under the said last-mentioned act from -----------------, of
--------, within the said borough, for permission to keep petroleum, as interpreted
by the third section of the said act, do hereby, in accordance with the powers con
ferred upon us by the said acts, license the said----------------- to keep petroleum, in
a certain house and premises, or building, situate-------- within the said borough,
from the day of the date hereof until the 30th day of September, 18, subject to
the following regulations and conditions, namely:
(1) That the quantity to be kept shall not exceed 40 gallons.
(2) That no petroleum be kept in the shop where it is vended except in separate
vessels securely stopped, each vessel to contain not more than a pint; the aggregate
quantity to be kept in such shop not to exceed three gallons.
(3) That with the above exception all petroleum shall be kept () in a cellar or
outbuilding on the said premises, which shall be accessible in the daytime without
the necessity for a light, and shall be pumped or dra wn off by a pipe into the shop
where it is vended. Such cellar or outbuilding shall be sufficiently ventilated, and
no fire or artificial light shall be allowed therein ; or (ft) in an open yard or detached
warehouse on the said premises (under the sole control of the licensee), to which the
purchasers vessels may be taken to be filled.
(4) That the petroleum shall be kept in strong drums, cisterns, or tanks of iron or
other metal, and tho inlet and outlet pipes or other openings, if not closed with
screw plug or other air-tight stopper, shall be protected with fine wire gauze to
prevent the transmission of flame to the contents thereof. Gasoline or other very
light petroleum spirit shall be kept and sold in strong metallic vessels, with screw
stoppers, thoroughly air-tight.
(5) That the filling of any fixed cistern, tank, or other receptacle for storing pe
troleum shall be conducted with every reasonable precaution against fire or explo
sion, or of spilling the petroleum in the shop, cellar, or other place where such
filling is carried on ; and no fire or artificial light shall be allowed either in tlio
cellar or outbuilding containing the cistern or vessel being filled, or in the shop or
other place where the cask or other vessel from which it is filled shall be placed,
and the filling shall take place at least two hours before sunset.
(6) That the petroleum be not stored in the same room, cellar, or warehouse with
lucifer matches, gunpowder, or fireworks.
(7) That the petroleum be not sold after sunset.
(8) That all due precautions shall be taken for the prevention of accidents by fire
or explosion, and for preventing unauthorized persons having access to the vessels
containing petroleum.
(9) That the petroleum shall not be hawked, sold, or exposed for sale upon any
highway, street, public thoroughfare, or public place within the borough.
Given under the corporate common seal of the said borough this----- day o f ---------,
18.
SHEFFIELD SPECIAL PETROLEUM LICENSE.

We, the mayor, aldermen, and burgesses of the borough of Sheffield, a place sub
ject to the provisions of the municipal corporations act, 1882, being by the council
of the said borough the local authority within the said borough to grant licenses
under sections 7, 8, and 9 of the act passed in the thirty-fourth and thirty-fifth years
of the reign of her present Majesty Queen Victoria, chapter 105, intituled An act
for the safe-keeping of petroleum and other substances of a like nature,7 having duly
213
received an application under the said last-mentioned act from-------o f -------to keep petroleum as interpreted by the third section of the said act, do hereby, in
accordance with the powers conferred upon us by the said act, license the said---------------to keep at a certain place, namely, at a certain---------within the said borough
from the day of the date hereof until the 30th day of September, 18, a quantity of
petroleum not exceeding--------, subject to the provisions of the said act.
Given under the corporate common seal of the said borough this----- day o f-------- ,
18.
[Explosives act, 1875, 38 Viet. c. 17.J

Su m m a r y
No. V . P r e m i s e s R e g is t e r e d
for
G unpow der o n ly,
p r i n c i p a l p o in t s t o b e a t t e n d e d t o i n p r e m is e s r e g i s t e r e d f o r g u n p o w d e r
ONLY.
(1) That the premises are occupied only by the person in whose name they are
registered.
(2) That if occupied by another person such occupation is in conformity with
section 29.
(3) That the registration is annually renewed.
(4) That no other building or place occupied by the same occupier, and separately
registered (or licensed) for keeping explosive, adjoins the premises under inspection.
(5) That no explosive it kept on the premises other than gunpowder.
[By section 44 the gunpowder may be kept made up into cartridges or charges for
cannon or blasting, not containing their own means of ignition, as if it were not so
made up. Safety fuse and percussion caps may also be kept, because no registration
or license is required for the keeping of these. (Sec. 50.) For definition of safety
fuse, see O. in C. 1. A percussion cap does not include a detonator (O. in C. 1).
It will be observed that the bnilding must be exclusively appropriated to the keep
ing of gunpowder, consequently a place of storage for other articles would not sat
isfy the requirements. The quantity of safety fuse and percussion caps is not lim
ited, nor is any particular place of keeping the same prescribed. Sec. 50.]
(6) If the explosive is kept (a) in a substantially constructed building exclusively
appropriated for the purpose and detached from a dwelling house, or in a fire proof
safe outside a dwelling house and detached therefrom, and at a safe distance from
any highway, street, public thoroughfare, or public place, that the amount of gun
powder (whether in or out of cartridges as above mentioned) do not at any onetime
exceed 200 pounds; (6) inside a fireproof safe placed in a dwelling house, or placed
in any building other than as last aforesaid, that the amount do not at any one time
exceed 100 pounds; (c) not in a fireproof safe, but inside a dwelling house or build
ing, other than as mentioned under (), that the amount do not at any one time ex
ceed 50 pounds.
(7) That no gunpowder (whether in or out of cartridges for cannon or blasting)
is kept otherwise than in one or more of tlie modes aforesaid.
[This provision does not control the keeping of safety fuse or percussion caps.]
(8) That the aggregate amount of gunpowder (in or out of cartridges for cannon
or blasting) kept on the premises in all the various modes does not in any case exceed
200 pomids.
[This is exclusive of any percussion caps and safety fuse, the keeping of which
is not limited. Sec. 50.]
(9) That every such building as is mentioned above under 6 (), and every fire
proof safe is free from exposed iron or steel in the interior thereof.
(10) That no article of an explosive or highly inflammable nature is kept in a fire
214
proof safe with gunpowder, or dangerously near to any gunpower, whether con
tained in a lireproof safe or not.
[This provision would extend to prevent the keeping of percussion caps with or
dangerously near the gunpowder.]
(11) That all gunpowder exceeding 1 pound in amount is kept in a substantial
case, bag, canister, or other receptacle made and closed so as to prevent tho gun
powder from escaping.
[Percussion caps and safety fuse when publicly exposed for sale or sold come un
der the provisions relating to packing applicable to those explosives (O. in C. 9) ;
but they are not required to be kept (as other explosives are) in any particular sort
of package.]
(12) If a room is used in connection with the premises for the filling of smallarm cartridges under section 46 : () that the use of such room is duly notified to
the local authority ; and (6) that there is not present in such room more than 5
pounds of gunpowder not made into safety cartridges; and (c) that no work
unconnected with the manufacture of small-arm cartridges is carried on at the same
time as the filling of cartridges; and (d) that no fire or artificial light is in the
room while any filling of cartridges is going on, except a light (if any) of such con
struction, position, or character as not to cause any danger by fire or explosion.
[A person registering for gunpowder only would not be entitled to use a room for
filling small-arm cartridges to keep. To keep small-arm cartridges, his premises
should be registered for mixed explosives. For definition of safety cartridges
see section 108. If the powder is in any other cartridges than safety cartridges, it
must be included in the 5 pounds ; and it should be borne in mind, with regard to
safety cartridge cases, that these do not become safety cartridges until they have
reached the stage of manufacture at which they are so closed (by wadding or other
wise) as to prevent communicated oxplosion.]
(13) That all duo precautions are taken by the occupier of the premises, and by
every person employed in or about the same, to () prevent accidents by fire or ex
plosion in the same; and (b) prevent unauthorized persons having access to the gun
powder on the premises; and (c) prevent any act from being committed which tends
to cause fire or explosion and which is not reasonably nccessary for the purpose of
the work on the premises.
[In the case of a room in connection with the registered premises, these provisions
would extend thereto.]
(14) That if any accident by explosion or fire causing loss of life or personal in
jury should occur in or about or in connection with the premises, it is duly reported.
[Explosives Act, 1875, 38 Viet., o. 17.]
N. B.By order in Council No. 7 (a) of April 20, 1883, no explosive other than
(1) gunpowder, (2) safety cartridges made with gunpowder, (3) cartridges or charges
for cannon or blasting made with gunpowder and not containing their own means
of ignition, (4) percussion caps, (5) safety fuse for blasting, (6) fireworks, can be
kept except in pursuance of an annual certificate to be granted by the chief officer
of police of the district.
Su m m ary
No. VI.P r e m i s e s
R e g is t e r e d f o r M ix e d E x p l o s iv e s .
PRINCIPAL POINTS TO BE ATTENDED TO IN PREMISES REGISTERED FOR MIXED EX

PLOSIVES.*
(1)
The premises must be occupied only by the person in whose name they axe
registered (except a under 2, below).
215
(2) If occupied by another person such occupation mnst be in conformity with

section 29 (applied by section 39).
(3) The registration must be annually renewed.
(4) All buildings and places adjoining each other and occupied together are to be
deemed to be the same premises, and must accordingly be included in one registra
tion.
[Thus a trader occupying two adjoining houses could not claim to register them
separately, nor can he claim a separate registration for his shop, dwelling house, and
garden if they adjoin one another. But a trader having distinct and separate places
of business may register each of them separately.]
(5) There may not be kept on the premises any () explosive of the fifth (fulmi
nate) class ; or (6) explosive which is not for tho time being either authorized (by
license or continuing certificate) to be manufactured for general sale, or authorized
(by statute or importation license) to be imported for general sale.
[For definition of fulminate see O. in C. 1. Certain explosives can not be lawfully
imported without an importation license ; other explosives are authorized by the
statute to be imported without any such license. See sec. 40 (9) and O. in C. 10.]
(6) All explosive on the premises must be kept in one or other or both of the fol
lowing modes, viz :
Mode A., that is to say()in a building substantially constructed of brick, stone,
or concrete; or (b) in an excavation formed in solid rock or earth or mine refuse not
liable to ignition, not opening into, from, or out of any such mine, quarry, tunnel, or
underground place as is in use for the carrying on of any work or for the employment
of any person ; or (c) in the case only of gunpowder and ammunition of the second divi
sion of class 6 made with gunpowder, in a fireproof safe, detached from any dwelling
house, situated at a safe distance from any highway, street, public thoroughfare, or
public place, made and closed so as to prevent unauthorized persons having access
thereto, and to secure it from danger from without, and exclusively appropriated to
keeping explosive.
[A fireproof safe may not be used for keeping any explosive other than gunpowder
and ammunition of the second division of class 6, made with gunpowder (O. in C. 7,
part 1, 2 (2.) )]
Mode B., that is to say, in a receptacle (whether or nota fireproof safe) exclusively
appropriated to keeping explosive and placed inside a dwelling house, or inside any
such building as it is not itself qualified for the keeping of explosive in Mode A.
[See remark next above, from which it follows that a fireproof safe may not be
used as a receptacle for any explosive other than gunpowder and ammunition of the
second division of class 6 made with gunpowder.]
(7.) Every such building, excavation, or firoproof safe as is mentioned above,
under Mode A, and every receptacle under Mode B, must be, (a) free from exposed
iron or steel in the interior thereof (except where no explosive other than ammunition
of the first division of the 6th class is kept), and (b) free from grit and clean in the
interior thereof; and (c) where any explosive is kept which is liable to be danger
ously affected by water, due precautions must be taken to exclude water from the
interior of such building, excavation, fireproof safe, or receptacle.
[(.) There is a special exemption from the obligation to exclude iron, etc., where
no explosive other than ammunition of the first division of class 6 is kept. In all
other cases, the nails, fastenings, hinges, and metal work in the interior should be
of copper, brass, zinc, or covered iron; the interior of iron safes should be kept well
painted or lacquered, (c.) This is specially applicable in tho case of dynamite,
lithofracteur, or other explosive of the first division of the 3d (nitro-compound)
class, which tends to give out nitro-glycerine under the influence of water.)
* The expression mixed explosives includes all explosives, whether with or with
out gunpowder. O. in C. 7.
216
(8) The amount of explosive on the premises at any one time must not exceed
!
I f only gunpowder, 1 small-an nitro-compound,2i I f fireworks4

and ammunition of tho first division of class only are kept.
64 are kept.
In
Modo A .
In
In
In
Mode B. Mode A. Mode B.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
50
(or 100 lbs. if all
the gunpowder
bekept in a fire
proof safe),
or,
or,
in lieu of each
In lieu o f each
pound of gun
pound of gun
powder not so
powder not so
kept, Ib. of
kept, Ib. of
small-arm nitro
small-arm n icompound ;*
tro-compouiid,2
to an amount
And, i7i addition,
n o t exceeding
Explosive 3 con- ]
in all 25 lbs. of
tained in ammu
such ni t ronition of t h e ^500
compound.
first division of
And, in addition,
class 6
J
Explosive 3 con-]
tained in am
munition of the > 500
first division of
class 6
J
Gunpowder1. . .
200
200
0
00
1
1
u
s
In any other case.5
In
In
Mode A. Mode B.
lbs.
lbs.
50 Explosives of all]
sorts (inclusive
o f gunpowder)
other than am60*
munition of the
first division of
class 6
J
And. in addition,
>>
Explosive c o n -A
tained in am
munition of the > 500

CO
first division of 1
class 6
J
1
%
156
1
Where tho word gunpowder ** is used it may bo construed to include cartridges and charges for
cannon or blasting not containing tli<*ir own means of ignition (sec. 44).
* Small-arm nitro-compound is defined in O. in C. 7 (b) as Sehultzo gunpowder, E. C. sporting
powder, E. C. rifle powder, or other nitro-compound adapted and intended exclusively for uso in car
tridges for small arms only.
8 It will be observed that tho ammunition of the first division of class 6 is not confined to such
ammunition made up with gunpowder, but may contain any explosive.
4 For definition or u ammunition of tho first division of class 6 , and fireworks, see O. inC. 1.
5 11 In any other case, that is to say, if there be kept on the premises anv explosive other than (a)
gunpowder and small arm nitro-compund and ammunition o f the first division of class 6 ; or, \b)
fireworks; or if tho groups (a) and (6 ) be kept together, then the quantities in this column have to
be observed in lieu of those in the two preceding columns, tho object being while not absolutely pro
hibiting the keeping o f a variety of explosives on the samo premises, to penalize and so discourage
such keeping.
6 It will l) observed that the advantage o f a fireproof safe for gunpowder is lost in this case, be
cause directly mixed explosives are kept the maximum limit for explosive of all sorts (inclusive of
gunpowder) becomes lowered to that assigned for mixed explosives.
Provided tliat the aggregate amount kept on the premises in both modes together
may not in any case exceed the maximum amount which may be kept in Mode A.
(9) If two or more explosives are kept on the premises, they must be separated
from each other l>y an intervening partition of such substance and character or by
such intervening space as will effectually prevent explosion or fire in the one com
municating with the other.
This rule is, however, subject to the following qualifications: (1) Explosives
of Classi (gunpowder), class 2 (nitrate mixture), class 3 (nitro-compound), class 4
(chlorate mixture), safety fuse, and such of the various explosives of the second
division of the sixth (ammunition) class as do not contain any exposed iron or steel,
may be kept with each other without any intervening partition or space. (2) Ex
plosives of the first division of tho sixth (ammunition) class may be kept with each
other without any intervening partition or space. (3) Explosives of the second divi
sion of the sixth (ammunition) class which contains exposed iron or steel may be
kept with each other without any intervening partition or space. (4) Explosives of
the third division of the sixth (ammunition) class may be kept with each other
without any intervening partition or space. (5) Explosives of the seventh (fire
work) class may be kept with each other without any intervening partition or
space.
[The object of this rule is to prevent explosives which would be mutually danger
ous from being kept together. Thus, it would be highly dangerous to keep detona
217
tors or cartridges containing tlieir own m<nns of ignition together with dynamite or
gunpowder. The exceptions relax the rule in favor of certain groups of explosives
which are not mutually dangerous, or only so in a vory modified degree. Thus,
there can be no danger in keeping safety cartridges and caps together (see group
(2) ), or ammunition not containing its own means of ignition, and free from ex
posed iron, with gunpowder or dynamite (see group (1) ).]
(10) No article of an explosive or highly inflammable nature, or any article liable
to cause fire or explosion, may be kept dangerously near to any explosive, or to any
building, excavation, fireproof safe, or receptacle containing the same.
[It will be observed that this provision goes beyond that set forth in the case of
premises for gunpowdor only, a an article liable to cause fire or explosion is added.
This is because articles not in themselves explosive or inflammable might be dan
gerous to some mixed explosives, e. g., certain acids would be highly dangerous to
dynamite or gun cotton, or detonators. The building, excavation, and fireproof safe
hero referred to are those named under Mode A., and tho receptacle is that named
under Mode B.]
(11) All explosive of the first division of the sixth (ammunition) class and of the
second division of the seventh (firework) class exceeding 5 pounds in amount ; and
any other explosive exceeding 1 pound in amount must be kept in a substantial bag,
canister, or other case made and closed so as to prevent any explosive from escaping.
[It is hardly necessary to remark that this bag or case is extra to and independent
of the receptacle in which the explosive maybe deposited. The efi'ect of this
provision is to render it illegal to open on the premises any package containing more
than 1 pound of gunpowder or any explosive other than () ammunition of tho first
division of class 6, and (ft) manufactured fireworks, or a package containing more
than 5 pounds of the explosives () or (ft), so as to expose the explosive contained
therein.]
(13) If a room is used in connection with the premises for tho filling of smallarm cartridges under section 46, then, (a) tho use of such room must be duly notified
to the local authority; and (ft) there may not be present in such room more than 5
pounds of explosive not made into safety cartridges; and (c) no work unconnected
with the manufacture of small-arm cartridges may be carried on at the same time as
the filling of cartridges; and (d) no fire or artificial light may be in the room while
any filling of cartridges is going on, except a light (if any) of such construction,
position, or character as not to cause any danger of fire or explosion.
[A trader whose business necessitates his dealing in small quantities should accordingly procure his explosive from the mannfacturers ready made up in such units a
may best meet his requirements. It is to be clearly understood that it is not open
to him to open a package containing more than the amount of explosive specified,
and parcel it out. For definition of safety cartridges, see section 108. If the pow
der is in any other cartridges than safety cartridges, it must be included in the 5
pounds ; and it should be borne in mind, with regard to safety cartridge cases, that
these do not become safety cartridges until they have reached the stage of manu
facture at which they are so closed (by wadding or otherwise) as to prevent com
municated explosion.]
(14) All due precautions are required to be taken by tho occupier of the premises,
and by every person employed in or about the same, to () prevent accidents by fire
or explosion in the same ; and (ft) prevent unauthorized persons having access to the
explosive on the premises ; and (c) prevent any act from being committed which
tends to cause fire or explosion and which is not reasonably necessary for the pur
pose of the work in tho premises.
[In the case of a room in connection with the registered premises, these proviion
would extend thereto.]
1Thus, the building cir receptacle should be kept locked.
218
(15) If any accident by exploion or fire causing loss of life or personal injury
should occur in or about or in connection with the premises, it is to be duly reported
forthwith to the Secretary of State.
[It will be remarked that no repot t is required to be made of any accident which
() is not an accident by fire or explosion or (6) does not cause loss of life or personal
jury.]
SALE OF EXPLOSIVES.
For the regulations as to explosive exposed for sale or sold, see summary No. vu,
MSale of Explosive.
N. B.The trader who has to convey explosive or cause the same to be conveyed
should also inform himself as to the law relating to the packing of explosive for con
veyance (Sec. 33, and O. of S. No. 3), and as to the regulations affecting the convey
ance of explosive on roads (O. of S. of S. No. 4), on railways (Railway By-laws'*, on
canals (Canal By-laws), and in harbors (Harbor By-laws).
A printed copy of the only regulations as to building construction, heating, light
ing, etc., in Sheffield, is forwarded with this report.
B e n j a m in F o lso m ,
United States Consul.

Sheffield, February 11,1892.
[Inclosure in Consul Folsoms report.]
SHEFFIELD BUILDING REGULATIONS.

WITH RESPECT TO THE STRUCTURE OF WALLS, FOUNDATIONS, ROOFS, AND CTTIMNEY8
OF NEW BUILDINGS FOR SECURING STABILITY AND TIIE PREVENTION OF FIRES, AND
FOR PURPOSES OF HEALTH.
A person who shall erect a now building shall not construct any foundation of
snch bnilding upon any site which shall have been filled up with any material im
pregnated with fecal matter or impregnated with any animal, vegetable, or offen
sive matter, or upon which any such matter may have boen deposited, unless and
until such matter shall have been properly removed, by excavation or otherwise,
from such site.
Every person who shall erect a new domestic building shall cause the whole
ground surface or site of such bnilding to bo properly covered with a layer of good
cement concrete, rammed solid, at least 6 inches thick, in every case in which the
dampness of the soil or the ground surface shall, in the opinion of tho surveyor, render
this precaution necessary.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall, except in cases as are herein
after specified, cause such building to be inclosed with walls constructed of good
bricks, stone, or other hard and incombustible materials, properly bonded and
solidly put together :
() With good mortar compounded of good lime and clean, sharp sand, or other
suitable material ; or
(b) With good cement ; or
(o) With good cement mixed with clean, sharp sand.
Provided always
() That where a new building intended for use as a dwelling house shall bo dis
tant not less than 15 feet from any adjoining building not being in the same curtilage,
the person erecting such new building may construct its external walls of timber
framing, and in accordance with the following regulations, that i to say :
219
(1) The timber framing shall be properly put together, and the spaces between
the timbers shall be filled in completely with brickwork.
(2) A thickness of at least 4 inches of brickwork shall be placed at the back of
every portion of timber, and shall be properly bonded to the brickwork, filling the
spaces between the timbers ; and
(6) Where a new building forms or is intended to form part of a block of new
buildings which shall be intended for use as dwelling houses, and shall not exceed
three in number, and each of which shall be distant not less than 15 feet from any
adjoining building not being in the samo curtilage, and not forming part of the same
block, the person erecting such new building may construct its external walls of
timber framing, subject to compliance with the following conditions, that is to say:
(1) The several buildings shall be separated by party walls, each of which shall
be constructed in accordance with tho requirements of the by-laws in that behalf,
and shall project at least 1 inch in front of any timber framing in any adjoining
external wall.
(2) The timber framing shall bo properly put together, and the spaces between
the timbers shall be filled in completely with brickwork.
(3) A thickness of at least 4 inches of brickwork shall be placed at the back of
every portion of timber, and shall be properly bonded to the brickwork, filling the
spaces between the timbers.
Provided further, that such person may construct any external wall of such
building as a hollow wall, if such wall be constructed in accordance with the fol
lowing rules :
(1) The inner and outer parts of the wall shall be separated by a cavity which
shall throughout be of a width not excooding 3 inches.
(2) The inner and outer parts of the wall shall be securely tied together with
suitable bonding ties of adequate strength, formed o f galvanized iron, or iron tarred
and sanded, or of glazed stoneware. Such tics shall be placed at distances apart
not exceeding 3 feet horizontally and 18 inches vertically.
(3) The thickness of each part of the wall shall throughout be not less than 4
inches.
(4) The aggregate thickness of the two parts, excluding the width of the cavity,
shall throughout be not less than the minimum thickness prescribed by tho by-law
in that behalf for an external wall of tho same height and length, and belonging to
the same class of building as that to which the hollow wall belongs.
(5) All woodwork which may bo intended to form the head of a door frame or win
dow frame, a lintel or other similar structure, and may be inserted in the wall so as
to project into or extend across the intervening cavity, shall be covered throughout
on the upper side thereof with a layer of sheet lead, or other suitable material im
pervious to moisture, in such a manner as effectually to protect such woodwork
from any moisture that may enter the cavity.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct every cross wall
which, in pursuance of the by-law in that behalf, may, as a return wall, bo deemed
a means of determining the length of any external wall or party wall of such build,
ing, of good bricks, stone, or other hard and incombustible materials properly
bonded and solidly put together
() With goud mortar, compounded of good lime and clean sharp sand or other
suitable material; or
(6) With good cement; or
(c) With good cemont mixed with clean sharp sand.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any wall of such
building so that any part of such wall, not being a projection intended solely for
the purposes of architectural ornament oi properly constructed corbel, shall over
hang any part beneath it.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every wall of such build
220
ing which may be built at an angle with another wall to be properly bonded there
with.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct every wall of such
bnilding so as to rest upon proper footings.
He shall cause tho projection s>t the widest part of the footings of every wall on
each side of such wall to be at least equal to one-half of the thickness of such wall
at its base, unless an adjoining wall or adjoining property interferes, in which case
the projection may be omitted where that wall or that property adjoins.
He shall also cause the diminution of the footings to bo in regular offsets or in one
offset at the top of the footings, and he shall cause the height from the bottom of the
footings to the base of the wall to be at least equal to two-thirds of the thickness of
the wall at its base.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the footings of every wall
of such building to rest on tho solid ground or upon a sufficient thickness of good
concrete or upon some solid and sufficient substructure as a foundation.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause, except as is hereinafter
provided, every wall of such building to have a proper damp course of sheet lead,
asphalt, or slate laid in cement, or of other durable material impervious to moist
ure beneath the level of the lowest timbers and at a height of not less that 6 inches
above tho surface of the ground adjoining such wall.
Provided always, that where any part of the floor of the lower story of such
building shall be intended to be below the surface of the ground immediately ad
joining the exterior of such story, and so that the ground shall be in contact with
the exterior of such wall, he shall cause such story to bo inclosed with double walls,
having an intervening cavity between such walls of a width of 2inches and extend
ing from the base of such walls to a height of 6 inches above the surface of the
ground immediately adjoining the exterior of such story.
He shall cause such walls to be properly tied together with suitable and sufficient
tiers of iron, tarred and sanded, galvanized iron, vitrified stoneware, or other suit
able materials inserted at distances apart not exceeding 3 feet horizontally and 18
inches vertically. He shall also cause a proper damp course of sheet lead, asphalt,
or slate, laid in cement or other durable material impervious to moisture, to be in
serted in every such double wall at tho base of such wall and likewise at the level
of the top of the cavity.
For the purposes of the by-laws with respect to the structure of walls of new
buildings, the measurement of height of stories and of height and length of walls
shall be determined by the following rules :
The height of stories shall be measured as follows : () The height of a topmost
story shall be measured from the upper surface of the floor up to the level of the
underside of the tie of the roof or other covering, or, if there is no tie, then up to
the level of half the vertical height of the rafters or other support of tho roof.
() The height of every story, other than a topmost story, shall be measured
from the level of the upper surface of tlie floor of the story up to tho level of the
upper surface of the floor of the story next above it.
(2) The height of a wall shall be measured from the top of the footings to the
highest part of the wall, or in the case of a gable, to half tho height of the gable.
(3) Walls shall be deemed to be divided into distinct lengths by return walls. The
length of a wall shall be measured from the center of one return wall to the center
of another, provided that tho return walls are external walls, party walls, or cross
walls, of the thickness prescribed by the by-laws, and are bonded into the walls so
deemed to be divided.
A wall shall not, for the purpose of this rule, be deemed a cross wall unless it i
carried up to the top of the topmost story, and unless in each story the aggregate
extent of the vertical faces or elevations of ail the recesses and that of all the open
ings therein, taken together, shall not exceed one-half of the vertical face or eleva*
tion of the wall in such story.
221
Every person who shall erect a new domestic building shall construct every ex
ternal wall and every party wall of such building in accordance with the following
rules, and in every case the thickness prescribed shall be the minimum thickness of
which any such wall may be constructed, and the several rules shall apply only to
walls built of good bricks, not less than 9 inches long, or of suitable stone or other
blocks of hard and incombustible substance, the beds or courses being horizontal.
() Where the wall does not exceed 25 feet in height its thickness shall be as fol
lows :
If tho wall does not exceed 30 feet in length, it shall be 9 inches thick for its whole
height.
If the wall exceeds 30 feet in length, it shall be 13 inches thick below the top
most story and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height.
(ft) where the wall exceeds 25 feet but does not exceed 30 feet in height and does
not exceed 35 feet in length, it shall be 13 inches thick below the topmost two
stories and 9 inchos thick for tho rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 35 feet in length, it shall be 13inches thick below the topmost
tory and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height.
(c) Where the wall exceeds 30 feet but does not exceed 40 feet in height, its thick
ness shall be as follows :
If the wall does not exceed 35 feet in length, it shall be 13 inches thick below the
topmost two stories and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 35 feet in length, it shall be 18 inches thick for the height of
one story, then 13 inches thick for the rest of its height below the topmost story,
and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height.
(d) Where a wall exceeds 40 feet but does not exceed 50 feet in height, its thickness
shall bo as follows:
If tho wall docs not exceed 30 feet in length, it shall be 13inches thick below the
topmost story and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 30 feet but does not exceed 45 feet in length, it shall be 18
inches thick for the height of one story, then 13 inches thick for the rest of its
height below the topmost story, and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height.
If tho wall exceeds 45 feet in length, it shall be 22 inches thick for tho height of
one story, then 18 inches thick for the height of tho next story, and then 13 inches
thick for the rest of its height.
(e) Where tho wall exceeds 50 feet but does not exceed 60 feet in height, its thick
ness shall bo as follows :
If the wall does not exceed 30 feet in length, it shall be 18 inches thick for the
height of one story and 13 inchos thick for tho rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 30 foot but does not exceed 5 >feet in length, it shall be 18 inches
thick for the height of two storios and then 13 inches thick for the rest of its
height.
If tho wall exceeds 50 feet in length, it shall be 22 inches thick for the height of
one story, then 18 inches thick for the height of the next two stories, and then 13
inclies thick for the rest of its height.
( ) Where the wall exceeds 60 feet but does not oxceod 70 feet in height, its thick
If tho wall does not exceed 40 feet in length, it shall be 18 inches thick for the
height of two stories and then 13 inches thick for tho rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 40 feet but does not exceed 55 feet in length, it shall bo 22 inchos
thick for the height of one story, then 18 inches thick for the height of the next two
stories, and then 13inches thick for the rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 55 feet in length, it shall bo increased in thickness in each of
the stories below the uppermost two stories by 4iuches (subject to the provision
hereinafter contained respecting distribution in piers).
(ff) Where the wall exceeds 70 leet but does not exccod 80 feet in height, its thick
222
If the wall does not ex<eed 45 feet in length, it shall be 22 inches thick for the
height of one story, then 18 inches thick for the height of the next three stories, and
l< inches thick for the rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 45 feet in length, it shall be increased in thickness in each of
the stories below the uppermost two stories by 4inches (subject to the provision
(A) Where the wall exceeds 80 feet but does not exceed 90 feet in height, its thick
ness shall be as follows:
If the wall does not exceed, 45 feet in length, it shall be 26 inches thick for the
height of one story, then 22 inches thick for the height of tho next story, then 18
inches thick for the height of the next three stories, and then 13 inches thick for
the rest of its height.
(i)
Where the wall exceeds 90 feet but does not exceed 100 feet in height, its thick
If tho wall does not exceed 45 feet in length, it shall be 26 inches thick for the
height of one story, then 22 inches thick for the height of the next two stories, then
18 inches thick for the height of the next three stories, and then 13inches thick for
the rest of its height.
(j) If any story exceeds in height sixteen times the thickness prescribed for its
walls, the thickness of each external wall and of each party wall throughout that
story shall be increased to one-sixteenth part of the height of the story, and the
thickness of each external wall and of each party wall below that story shall be pro
portionately increased, subject to the provison hereinafter contained respecting dis
tribution in piers.
(&) Every external wall and every party wall of any story which exceeds 11 feet
in height shall be not less than l inches in thickness.
(I) Where, by any of the foregoing rules relating to the thickness of external walls
and party walls of domestic buildings, an increase of thickness is required in the
case of a wall exceeding 60 feet in height and 45 feet in length, or in the case of a
story exceeding in height sixteen times the thickness prescribed for its walls, or in
the case of a wall below that story, the increased thickness may be confined to piers
properly distributed of which the collective widths amount to one-fourth part of the
length of the wall. The width of the piers may nevertheless be reduced if the proection is proportionately increased, the horizontal sectional area not being dimin
ished; but the projection of any such pier shall in no case exceed one-third of its
width.
Every person who shall erect a new public building or a new building of the ware
house class shall construct every external wall and every party wall of such building
in accordance with the following rules, and in every case the thickness prescribed
shall be the minimum thickness of which any such wall may be constructed, and
the several rules shall apply only to walls built of good bricks, not less than 9 inches
long, or of suitable stone or other blocks of hard and incombustible substance, the
beds or courses being horizontal.
() Where the wall does not exceed 25 feet in height (whatever is its length) it
shall be 13 inches thick at its base.
(6) Where the wall exceeds 25 feet, but does not exceed 30 feet in height, it shall
l>e at its base of the thickness following:
I f the wall does not exceed 45 feet in length it shall be 13inches thick at its base
If the wall exceeds 45 feet in length it shall be 18 inches thick at its base.
223
be at its base of the thickness following :
I f the wall does not exceed 35 feet in length it shall be 13inches thick at its base.
If the wall exceeds 35 feet, but does not exceed 45 feet in length, it shall be 18 inches
thick at its base.
(d) Where the wall exceeds 40 feot, but does not exceed 50 feet in height, it shall
If the wall does not exceed 30 feet in length it shall be 18 inches thick at its base.
If the wall exceeds 30 feet, but does not exceed 45 feet in length, it shall be 22 inches
thick at its base.
() Where the wall exceeds 50 feet, but does not exceed 60 feet in height, it shall
If the wall does not exceed 45 feot in length it shall be 22 inches thick at its base.
() Where the wall exceeds 60 feet, but does not exceed 70 feet in height, it shall
If the wall does not exceed 45 feet in length it shall bo 22 inches thick at its base.
If tho wall exceeds 45 feet in length it shall be increased in thickness from the
base up to within 16 feet, from'the top of the wall by 4 inches, subject to the pro
vision hereinafter contained respecting distribution in piers.
(g) Where the wall exceeds 70 feet, but does not oxcee<l 80 feet in height, it shall
be at its base of the thickness following:
If the wall exceeds 45 feet in length it shall be increased in thickness from the
base up to within 16 feet from tho top of the wall by 4 inches, subject to the pro
vision hereinafter contained respecting distribution in piors.
(A) Where the wall exceeds 80 feet, but does not exceed 90 foot in height, it shall be
at its baso of the thickness following :
If the wall exceeds 45 feet in length it shall be increased in thickness from the
base up to within 16 feet from the top of the wall by 4 inches, subject to the pro
I f the wall exceeds 45 feet in length it shall be increased in thickness from the
base up to within 16 feet from the top of the wall by 4 inches, subject to tho pro
(J ) The thickness of tho wall at the top and for 16 foot below tho top shall be
13inches and the intermediate parts of tho wall between the baso and 16 feot below the top shall be built solid throughout the spaco between straight linos drawn
on eoli side of the wall and joining tlie thickness at the baso to tho thickness at 16
feet below the top. Nevertheless, in walls not exceeding 30 feet in height tho walls
of the topmost story may be 9 inches thick, provided the height of that story does
not exceed 10 feet.
(&) If any story exceeds in height 14 times the thickness prescribed for its walls
the thickness of each extomal wall and of each party wall throughout that story
shall be increased to one-fourteenth part of the height of the story, and the thickness of each external wall and of each party wall below that story shall be propor
tionately increased, subject to the provision hereinafter contained respecting dis
tribution in piers.
() Every external wall and eyery party wall of any story which exceeds 10 feet
in height shall be not less than 13 inches in thickness.
224
(m) Where l>y any of tho foregoing rules relating to tho thickness of external
walls and party walls of public buildings or buildings of tho warehouse class an in
crease of thickness is required in tho case of a wall exceeding 60 feet in height and
45 feet in length, or in the case of a story exceeding in height 14 times the thickness
prescribed for its walls, or in the case of a Avail below that story, the increased
thickness may be confined to piers properly distributed, of which the collective
width amounts to one-fourth part of the length of the wall. The width of the piers
may nevertheless be reduced if the projection is proportionately increased, the hori
zontal sectional area not being diminished; but the projection of any such pier shall
in no case exceed one-third of its width.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct, in accordance with
the following rules, every cross-Avall, which, in pursuance of the by-law in that be
half, may, as a return wall, be deemed a means of determining the length of any
external wall or party wall of such building ; and in every case the thickness pre
scribed shall be the minimum thickness of which any such wall may be constructed ;
and the several rules shall apply only to walls built of good bricks, not less than 9
inches long, or suitable stone or other blocks of hard and incombustible substance,
the beds or courses being horizontal.
The thickness of every such cross-wall shall be at least two-thirds of the thickness
prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for an external wall or party wall of che
same height and length and belonging to the same class of building as that to which
such cross-wall belongs, but shall in no case be less than 9 inches.
But if such cross-wall supports a superincumbent external wall, tho whole of such
cross-wall shall be of the thickness prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for an
external wall or a party wall of tho samo height and length and belonging to the
same class of building as that to which such cross-wall belongs.
Every person who shall erect a now building and shall construct any external wall,
party wall, or cross wall of such building of any material other than good bricks not
less than 8inches long, or suitablo stone or other blocks of hard and incombustible
substance, the beds or courses being horizontal, shall comply with the following
rules with respect to the thickness of such wall :
() Where a wall is built of stone or clunches of bricks, or other burnt or vitrified
material, the beds or courses not being horizontal, or of flintwork, the thickness
of such wall shall be one-third greater than that prescribed by the by-law in that
behalf for a wall built of bricks but in other respects of the same description, height,
and length and belonging to the same class of building.
( b) A wall built of other suitable material, or of a combination of brickwork and
flintwork in which the proportion of brickwork is equal to at least one-fifth of the
entire content of the wall and is properly distributed in piers and horizontal courses,
or of half-timber work, shall be deemed to be of sufficient thickness if constructed of
the thickness prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for a wall built of bricks, but
in othor respects of the same description, height, and length, and belonging to the
same class of building.
Every person who shall erect a new building and shall leave in any stoiy or stories
of such building an extent of opening in any external wall which shall be greater
than ono-half of the whole extent of the vertical face or elevation of tho wall or
walls of the story or stories in which the opening is left shall construct
() Sufficient piers of brickwork or other sufficient supports of incombustible ma
terial so disposed as to carry the superstructure ; and
() A sufficient pier or piers or other sufficient supports of that description at tho
comer or angle of any streets on which the building abuts ; or
(o) Such a pier or other support in each wall within 3 feet of the comer or angle
of the street.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every party wall of such
building to be carried up at least as high as the under side of the elates or other
225
covering of the roof of uch building. He shall also oanse the elates or other cover
ing of the roof to be properly and solidly bedded in mortar or cement on the top of
such wall.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every wall of such build,
ing, when carried up above any roof, flat, or gutter, so a to form a parapet, to be
properly coped or otherwise protected, in order to prevent water from running down
the sides of suoh parapet or soaking into any wall.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any party wall of suoh
building so that any opening shall be made or left in such wall.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not make any recess in any external
wall or party wall of such building
(a) Unless the back of such recess be at least 9 inches thick;
(b) Unless a sufficient arch be turned in every story over every such recess ;
(o)
Unless in each story the aggregate extent of recesses having backs of less thiokne than the thickness prescribed by any byelaw in that behalf for the wall in
which such recesses are made do not exceed one-half of the extent of the vertical
superfices of such wall;
(d) Unless the side of any such recess nearest to the inner face of any return ex
ternal wall is distant at the least 13 inches therefrom.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not make in any wall of such build
ing any chase which shall be wider than 14 inches or more than 4 inches deep from
the face of such wall, or shall leave less than 9 inches in thickness at the back or
opposite side thereof, or which shall be within 13 inches from any other chase, or
within 7 feet from any other chase on the same side of such wall, or within 13
nche from any return wall.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not place in any party wall of suoh
building any bond timber, or any wood plate, or block.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not place the end of any wooden
reastsummer, beam, or joist in any party wall of such building unless the end of
such breastsummer, beam, or joist be at least 4 inches distant from the center line
of such party wall.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every girder to be borne
by a sufficient template of stone, or iron, of the full breadth of the girder.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every breastsummer to
have a bearing in the direction of its length of 4 inches at least at each end, on a
sufficient pier of brick or stone, or on a story post of timber or iron fixed on a solid
foundation, in addition to its bearing on any party wall ; and
He shall also, if necessary, cause such breastsummer to have such other story posts,
iron columns, stanchions, or piers of brick or stone on a solid foundation under the
same as may be sufficient to carry the superstructure.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the open space inside any
partition wall of such building or between the joists in any wall of such building
to be stopped with brickwork, concrete, pugging, or other incombustible material
at every floor and oeiling.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall, except in such case as is here
inafter provided, cause every chimney of suoh building to be built on solid founda
tions and with footings similar to the footings of the wall against which such chim
ney is built, and to be properly bonded into such wall.
Provided, nevertheless, that such person may cause any chimney of such building
to be built on sufficient corbels of brick, stone, or other hard and incombustibl<natrial, if the work so corbeled out does not project from the wall more than the
thickness of the wall measured immediately below the corbel.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the inside of every flue of
uch building to be properly rendered or pargeted as such flue is carried up, unless
the whole flue shall be lined with fireproof piping of stoneware at least 1 inoh thick,
146a ------ 15
226
and unless the spandril angles shall be filled in solid with brickwork or other in
combustible material.
Such person shall also cause the back or outside of such flue, which shall not be
constructed so as to form part of the outer face of an external wall, to be properly
rendered in every case where the brickwork of which such back or outside may b
constructed is less than 9 inches thick.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every flue in such build
ing which may be intended lor use in connection with any furnace, cockle, steam
boiler, or close-lire, constructed for any purpose of trade, business, or manufacture,
or which may be intended for use in connection with any cooking range or cooking
apparatus of such building when occupied as a hotel, tavern, or eating house, to be
surrounded with brickwork at least 9 inches thick for a distance of 10 feet at the
least in height from the floor on which such furnace, cockle, steam boiler, close-fire,
cooking range, or cooking apparatus may be constructed or placed.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause a sufficient arch of brick
or stone or a sufficient bar of wrought-iron to be built over the opening of every
chimney of such building to support the breast of such chimney ; and if the breast
projects more than 4inches from the face of the wall, and tho jamb on either side
is of less width than 13 inches, he shall cause the abutments to be tied in by a bar
or bars of wrought iron of sufficient strength, 18 inches longer than the opening,
turned up and down at tho ends, and built into the jambs on each side.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the jambs of every chimney
of such building to be at least 9 inches wide on each side of the opening of each
chimney.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the breast of every chim
ney of such building and the brickwork or stonework surrounding every smoke flue
and every copper flue of such building to be at least 4 inches in thickness.
Every person who shall erect a now building shall cause the back of any chimney
opening in a party wall of any room which may be constructed for occupation as a
kitchen to be at least 9 inches thick to the height of at least 6 feet above such
chimney opening, and he shall cause such thickness to be continued at the back of
tho flue.
Such person shall cause the back of every other chimney opening in such building,
from the hearth up to the height of 12 inches above such opening, to be at least 4
inches thick if such opening be in an external wall, and 9 inches thick if such open
ing be elsewhere than in an external wall.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the upper side of every
flue of such building, when the course of such flue makes with the horizon an angle
of less than 45, to be at least 9 inches in thickness.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct every arch, upon
which any flue may be carried, so that such arch shall be effectually supported by
means of a bar or bars of wrought iron of adequate strength.
He shall cause every such bar, to the extent of 4 inches, to be securely built or
pinned into the wall at each end thereof.
He shall provide, for every 9 inches of the width of the soffit of such arch, one, at
the least, of such bars as a means of support for such arch.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every chimney shaft or
smoke flue of such building to be carried up in brickwork or stonework all around,
at least 4 inches thick to a height of not less than 3 feet above the roof, flat, or
gutter adjoining thereto, measured at the highest point in the line of junction with
ucli roof, flat, or gutter.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not cause the brickwork or stone
work of any chimney shaft of such building, other than a chimney shaft of the fur
nace of any steam engine, brewery, distillery, or manufactory, to be built higher
above the roof, flat, or gutter adjoining such chimney shaft, measured from the
227
highest point in the line of junction with such roof, flat, or gutter, than a height
equal to six times the least width of each chimney shaft at the level of such highest
point, unless such chimney shaft shall be built with and bonded to another chimney
shaft not in the same line with such first-mentioned chimney shaft, or shall be other
wise made secure.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not place any iron holdfast or other
metal fastening nearer than 2 inches to tho inside of any flue or chimney opening in
such building.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not place any timber or woodwork
() In any wall or chimney breast of such building nearer than 9 inches to the
inside of any flue or chimnoy opening;
() Under any chimney opening of such building within 15 inches from the upper
surface of the back hearth thereof.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not drive any wooden plug into any
wall or chimney breast of such building nearer than 6 inches to the inside of any flue
or chimney opening.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the face of the brickwork
or stonework about any flue or chimney opening of such building, where such face
is at a distance of less than 2 inches from any timber or woodwork, and where the
substance of such brickwork or stonework is less than 6 inches thick, to be properly
rendered.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not construct any chimney or flue of
such building so as to make or leave in such chimney or flue any opening for the in
sertion of any ventilating valve, or for any other purpose, unless such opening be at
least 9 inches distant from any timber or other combustible substance.
A person who shall erect a new building shall not fix in such building any pipe for
the purpose of conveying smoke or other products of combustion, unless such pipe
be so fixed at the distance of 9 inches at the least from any combustible substance.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the flat and roof of such
building, and every turret, dormer, lantern light, skylight, or other erection placed
on the flat or roof of such building to be externally covered with slates, tiles, metal,
or other incombustible materials, except as regards any door, door frame, window
or window frame of any such turret, dormer, lantern light, skylight, or other ereo.
tion.
He shall also cause every gutter, shoot, or trough in connection with the roof of
uoh building to be constructed of or covered with incombustible materials.
G IB R A L T A R .
REPORT BY CONSUL SPRAGUE.
I have the honor to submit tho following replies to the interrogatories contained
in the oiroular issued by the Department o f State, dated Washington, the 1st instant,
referring to fire statistics in 1890, and to building construction in foreign countries:

1. Gibraltar, a British possession, in the south of Spain.
2. Its population consists of 25,755 souls, 1890 belonging to the civil population,
and 5,896 military.
3. The acreage, including the north front, outside the gates of the fortress, is about
1,266 acres, of which 21 acres (public property) are reserved as garden ground.
Although the coast line from the northern to the southern extremity of the rook
is nearly 3 miles long, the strip of land in occupation is nowhere more than about
one-quarter of a mile wide.
4. There are about 1,500 buildings, both brick nd stone.
5. There are no wooden buildings in the town; but at the north front, outside the
gates o f the fortress, wooden huts exist for the accommodation of detachments of
228
troops during the seasons for musketry and target practice; also, a sawmill and a
manufactory for making artificial ice.
6. Four alarms of fire, of trifling account.
7. No fires, properly so called.
8. None.
9. Value did not exceed 5,000 sterling.
10. Did not exceed 150 sterling.
11. About 5,000 sterling.
12. 150 sterling.
13. Four.
14. Four.
15. None.
16. None.
17. There is a fire brigade constantly kept on duty, which consists of a superin
tendent (an officer attached to the staff), one sergeant, two corporals, and nine pri
vates; besides, one company of every regiment garrisoned here is told off on the alarm
of fire being given; also, a detachment of the Royal Engineers, whose commanding
officer has full control over the whole movements.
18. The water supply is drawn from the wells at the north front, outside of the
gates of the fortress, where it is inexhaustible, but of indifferent quality, being un
fit for domestic use, and only suited for flushing purposes.
The water is pumped up by steam machinery into two tanks situated on high and
convenient positions on the rock, which can contain 600,000 gallons of water, which
are easily distributed throughout the town and garrison by mains laid down, and
also made available in case of a fire by means of hydrants placed all over the streets
and near public buildings and military establishments, at about 100 feet distant from
each other.
19. None; but the insurance companies can prosecute when any well-founded sus
picion might be entertained.
20. None during 1890.
21. Petroleum is not allowed to be in any one house or store in any quantity over
three cases, containing together 30 gallons; fireworks or any kind of explosives are
strictly prohibited from entering the town or garrison.
22. No special laws exist thereon beyond what is contained in the sanitary com
missioners order in council.
H o k a t i o J . S p k a g u e , Consul.
U n it e d St a t e s C o n s u l a t e ,
Gibraltar, December 9,1891m
SUPPLEMENT.
SUPPLEM ENT.
BRITISH EXPLOSIVES LAWS.
[Transmitted by Consul-General New, of London.]
EXPLOSIVE ACT OF 1875.

Part
I.L a w
R e l a t in g t o G u n p o w d e r .
GENERAL LAW AS TO MANUFACTURE AND KEEPING OF GUNPOWDER.
4. The manufacture of gunpowder shall not, nor shall any process of such manu
facture, he carried on except at a factory for gunpowder either lawfully existing or
licensed for the same under this act.
Provided that nothing in this section shall apply to the making of a small quantity
of gunpowder for the purpose of chemical experiment, and not for practical use or
for sale.
If any person manufactures gunpowder or carries on any process of such manu
facture at any place at which he is not allowed by this section so to do, he shall be
deemed to manufacture gunpowder at an unauthorized place.
Where gunpowder is manufactured at an unauthorized place
(1) All or any part of the gunpowder or the ingredients of gunpowder which
may be found either in or about such place, or in the possession or under
the control of any person convicted under this section, may be forfeited;
and
(2) The person so manufacturing shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 100
a day for every day during which he so manufactures.
5. Gunpowder shall not be kept at any place except as follows; that is to say,
(1) Except in the factory (either lawfully existing or licensed for the same under
this act) in which it is manufactured ; or
(2) Except in a magazine or store for gunpowder either lawfully existing or
licensed under this act for keeping gunpowder ; or
(3) Except in premises registered under this act for keeping gunpowder.
Provided that this section shall not apply
(1) To a person keeping for his private use, and not for sale, gunpowder to an
amount not exceeding, on the same premises, 30 pounds ; or
(2) To the keeping of any gunpowder by a carrier or other person for the pur
pose of conveyance, when the same is being conveyed or kept in accord
ance with the provisions of this act with respect to the conveyance of
gunpowder.
Any gunpowder kept in any place other than as above in this section mentioned
shall be deemed to be kept in an unauthorized place.
Where any gunpowder is kept in an unauthorized place
(1) All or any part of the gunpowder found in such place may be forfeited; and
(2) The occupier of such place, and also the owner of, or other person guilty of
keeping the gunpowder, shall each be liable to a penalty not exceeding 2
shillings for every pound of gunpowder so kept.
231
232
FIEE AND BUILDING RGULATIONS IN FOIGN COUNTRIES.

l ic e n s in g o f f a c t o r ie s a n d m a g a z in e s f o r g u n p o w d e r .
' & A new factory or magazine for gunpowder shall not be established except on the
site and in the manner specified in a license for the same granted under this act.
An applicant for such a license shall submit to the secretary of state the draft of a
license accompanied by a plan (drawn to scale) of the proposed factory or magazine,
and the site thereof (which plan shall be deemed to form part of and to be in this act
included in the expression the license ).
The draft license shall contain the terms which the applicant proposes to have in
serted in the license, and shall specify such of the following matters as are applicable ;
namely,
() The boundaries of the land forming the site of the factory or magazine and
either any belt of land surrounding the site which is to be kept clear, and
the buildings and works from which it is to be kept clear, or the distances
to be maintained between the factory or magazine, or any part thereof,
and other buildings and works ; and
(b) The situation, character, and construction of all the mounds, buildings, and
works on or connected with the factory or magazine, and the distances
thereof from each other ; and
(o) The nature of the processes to be carried on in the factory and in each part
thereof, and the place at which each process of the manufacture, and each
description of work connected with the factory or magazine, is to be car
ried on, and the places in the factory or magazine at which gunpowder
and any ingredients of gunpowder, and any articles liable to spontaneous
ignition, or inflammable or otherwise dangerous, are to be kept ; and
(d) The amount of gunpowder and of ingredients thereof wholly or partly mixed
to be allowed at the same time in any building or machine or any process
of the manufacture or within a limited distance from such building or
machine, having regard to the situation and construction of such building,
and to the distance thereof from any other building or any works; and
() The situation, in the case of a factory, of each factory magazine, and in the
case of another magazine, of each building forming part of such magazine
in which gunpowder is to be kept, and the maximum amount of gunpow
der to be kept in each factory magazine, and in each such building as afore
said; and
() The maximum number of persons to be employed in each building in the
factory; and
(ff) Any special terms which the applicant may propose by reason of any special
circumstances arising from the locality, the situation or construction of
any buildings or works, or the nature of any process, or otherwise.
The secretary of state, after examination of the proposal, may reject the applica
tion altogether or may approve of the draft license, with or without modification or
addition, and grant to the applicant permission to apply to the local authority for
their assent to the establishment of the factory or magazine on the proposed site.
7. The local authority, upon application being made for their assent to the estab
lishment of a new factory or magazine on the proposed site, shall cause notice to be
published by the applicant in manner directed by this act of the application and of
the time and place at which they will be prepared to hear the applicant, and any
persons objecting to such establishment who have not less than seven clear days
before the day of hearing sent to the clerk of the local authority and to the applicant
notice of their intention to appear and object, with their name,
n<calling,
and a short statement of the grounds of their objection.
Upon the hearing of the application, or any adjournment thereof, the local au
thority may dissent altogether from the establishment of such new factory or maga
zine on the proposed site, or assent thereto, either absolutely or on any conditions
requiring additional restrictions or prcautions.
SUPPLEMENT BRITISH EXPLOSIVE LAWS.
233
Where the site of the proposed factory or magazine is situate within or within 1
mile of the limits of the jurisdiction of any urban sanitary authority, or of any har
bor authority, the applicant shall serve on such authority, if they are not the local
authority, notice of the application and of the time and place of hearing fixed by the
local authority.
The said notices shall he publised and served by the applicant not less than one
month before the hearing.
The local authority shall fix the time and place of hearing as soon as practicable
after application made to them, and the time so fixed shall be as soon as practicable
after the expiration of the said month from the publication and service of the notices
by the applicant, and their final decision shall be given as soon as practicable after
the expiration of the said month.
The place so fixed shall be situate within the jurisdiction of the local authority,
or within a convenient distance of the limits of that jurisdiction.
The costs of any objections which the local authority may deem to be frivolous
shall be ascertained by an order made by the local authority, and shall be a debt due
from the objector to the applicant, of which such order shall be conclusive evidence.
Where the site of the proposed factory or magazine is situate partly within the
jurisdiction one looul authority, and partly within the jurisdiction of another, the
assent of booh local authorities shall be applied for in manner provided by this act.
8. If on the hearing of the application for the establishment of a factory or mag
azine the local authority assent thereto either absolutely or on conditions submitted
to by the applicant, the applicant shall be entitled to the license applied for in ac
cordance with the draft approved by the secretary of state, with the addition (if
the assent was on conditions) of the additional restrictions and precautions required
by those conditions.
If the local authority assent on any conditions not submitted to by the applicant,
or dissent, the applioant may appeal to the secretary of state, giving notice of such
appeal to the local authority, and requiring them to state in writing their reasons
for such conditions or dissent; and the secretary of state, after considering the
reasons (if any) so stated, and after such inquiry, local or other, as he may think
necessary, may, if the local authority dissented, refuse the license, or may in either
case grant the license applied for in accordance with the draft license either as
previously approved by him, or with such modifications and additions as he may
consider required to meet the reasons (if any) so stated by the local authority.
The secretary of etate when satisfied that the factory or magazine is sufficiently
completed according to the license to justify the use thereof, shall confirm the license,
but until so confirmed the license shall not come into force.
The land forming the site bounded as described in the license shall, with every
mound, building, and work thereon for whatever purpose, be deemed, for the pur
poses of this act, to be the factory or magazine referred to in the license.
REGULATION OF FACTORIES AND MAGAZINES FOB GUNPOWDER.
9. In every gunpowder factory and magazine

(1) The factory or magazine, or any part thereof, shall not be used for any pur
pose not in accordance with the license; and
(2) The terme of the license shall be duly observed, and the manufacture or
keeping or any process in or work connected with the manufacture or
keeping of gunpowder shall not be carried on except in accordance with
those terms; and
(3) The factory or magazine and every part thereof shall be maintained in ac
cordance with the license; and any material alteration in the factory or
magazine by enlarging or adding to tho site, or by externally enlarging or
adding to any building, or by altering any mound otherwise than by en
largement, or by making any new work, shall not be made except in pur
suance of an amending license granted under this act.
234
FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
In the event of any breach (by any act or default) of this section in any factory
or magazine,
() All or any part of the gunpowder or ingredients thereof in respect to which,
or being in any building or machine in respect to which, the offense was
committed, may be forfeited; and
(b) The occupier shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding in the case of the
first offense 50, and in the case of a second or any subsequent offense
100, and in addition 50 for every day during which suoh breach con
tinues.
The occupier of a factory shall not be deemed guilty of a breach of this section
for using in a case of emergency, or temporarily, one building or part of a building
in which any process of the manufacture is, under tho terms of the license, carried
on, for another process of the manufacture, if he do not carry on in such building or
part more than one process at the same time, and if the quantity of gunpowder or
ingredients thereof in such building or part do not exceed the quantity allowed to
be therein, or any less quantity allowed to be in the building or part of a building
in which such other process is usually carried on ; and if upon such use being con
tinued after the lapse of twenty-eight days from the first beginning of such use he
send notice of such use to a government inspector, and the government inspector do
not require the discontinuance of such use.
10. In every gunpowder factory and magazine the following general rules shall be
observed:
(1) In a factory every factory magazine, and in any other magazine every build
ing in which gunpowder is kept shall be used only for the keeping of
gunpowder and receptacles for or tools or implements for works connected
with the keeping of such gunpowder ; and
(2) The interior of every building in which any process of the manufacture is
carried on, or in which gunpowder or any ingredients thereof, either mixed
or partially mixed, are kept, or in the coursc of manufacture are liable to
be (in this act referred to as a danger building), and the benches, shelves,
and fittings in such building (other than machinery), shall be so con
structed or so lined or covered as to prevent the exposure of any iron or
steel in such manner, and the detaching of any grit, iron, steel, or similar
substance in such manner as to come into contact with the gunpowder or
ingredients thereof in such building, and such interior, benches, shelves,
and fittings shall, so far as is reasonably practicable, be kept free from
grit and otherwise clean ; and
(3) Every factory magazine and expense magazine in a factory, and every dan
ger building in a magazine, shall have attached thereto a sufficient light
ning conductor, unless, by reason of the construction by excavation or the
position of such magazine or building, or otherwise, the secretary of state
considers a conductor unnecessary, and every danger building in a fac
tory shall, if so required by tho secretary of state, have attached thereto
a sufficient lightning conductor; and
(4) Charcoal, whether ground or otherwise, and oiled cotton, oiled rags, and
oiled waste, and any articles whatever liable to spontaneous ignition, shall
not be taken into any danger building, except for the purpose of imme
diate supply and work or immediate use in such building, and upon the
cessation of such work or use shall be forthwith removed ; and
t_o) Before repairs are done to or in any room or in other part of a danger build
ing, that room or part shall, so far as practicable, be cleaned by the re
moval of all gunpowder, and wholly or partly mixed ingredients thereof,
and the thorough washing out of such room or part ; and such room or
part of the building after being so cleaned shall not be deemed to be a*
danger building within the meaning of these rules until gunpowder or the
wholly or partly mixed ingredients thereof are again taken into it j and
235
(6) There shall be constantly kept affixed in every danger building, either out
side or inside, in such manner as to be easily read, a statement of the
quantities of gunpowder or ingredients allowed to be in the building, and
a copy of these rules, and of any other part of this act required by the
secretary of state to be affixed, and of suoh part of the license and special
rules made under this act as apply to the building; and with the addition,
in a factory, of the name of the building, or words indicating the purpose
for which it is used; and
(7) All tools and implements used in any repairs to or in a danger building shall
be made only of wood or copper or brass or some soft metal or material,
or shall be covered with some safe and suitable material ; and
(8) Due provision shall be made, by the use of suitable working clothes without
pockets, suitable shoes, searching, and otherwise, or by some of such
means, for preventing the introduction into any danger building of fire,
lucifer matches, or any substance or article likely to cause explosion or
fire, and for preventing the introduction of any iron, steel, or grit into any
part of a danger building where it would be likely to come into contact
with gunpowder or the wholly or partly mixed ingredients thereof; but
this rule shall not prevent the introduction of an artificial light of such
construction, position, or character as not to cause any danger of fire or
explosion; and
(9) No person shall smoke in any part of the factory or magazine, except in such
part (if any) as may be allowed by the special rules; and
(10) Any carriage, boat, or other receptacle in which gunpowder, or the wholly
or partly mixed ingredients thereof, are conveyed from one building to
another in a factory or magazine, or from any such building to any place
outside of such factory or magazine, shall be constructed without any ex
posed iron or steel in the interior thereof, and shall contain only tho gun
powder and ingredients, and shall be closed or otherwise properly covcred
over; and the gunpowder and ingredients shall be so conveyed with all
due diligence, and with such precautions and in such manner as will suffi
ciently guard against any accidental ignition ; and
(11) A person under the age of 16 years shall not be employed in or enter any
danger building, except in the presence and under the supervision of some
grown-up person; and
(12) In a factory the ingredients in course of manufacture into gunpowder shall
be removed with all due diligence from each working building so soon as
the process connected with those ingredients which is carried on in such
building is completed, and all finished gunpowder shall, with all due dili
gence, either be removed to a factory magazine or sent away immediately
from the factory ; and suoh ingredients and gunpowder shall be loaded
and unloaded with all due diligence; and
(13) In a factory all ingredients to be made or mixed into gunpowder shall, be
fore being so made or mixed, be carefully sifted, for the purpose of re
moving therefrom, so far as practicable, all dangerous foreign matter.
The secretary of state may, from time to time, by order, make, and when made
rescind and alter, such modifications in the foregoing general rules as may appear to
him to be necessary for adapting the same to floating magazines, and such modifica
tions shall have effect as if they were contained in this section.
In the event of any breach (by any act or default) of the general rules in any
factory or magazine
() All or any part of the gunpowder or ingredients thereof in respect to which,
or being in any building or machine in respect to which the offense was
oommitted, may be forfeited; and
236
FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
(6)
The occupier shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 10, and in addition
(in the case of a second offense) 10 for every day during "which such
breach continues.
,
11. Every occupier of a gunpowder factory or magazine shall, with the sanction
of the secretary of state, make special rules for the regulation of the persons man
aging or employed in or about such factory or magazine, with &view to secure the
observance of this act therein, and the safety and proper discipline of the said per
sons and the safety of the public.
There may be annexed to any breach of special rules made in pursuance of this
section such penalties, not exceeding 40 shillings for each offense, a may be deemed
just.
The occupier may, and if required by the secretary of state shall, with the sanc
tion of the secretary of state, repeal, alter, or add to any special rules made in pur
suance of this section.
If an occupier is required by the secretary of state to make, repeal, alter, or add
to any rules under this section, and fail, within three months after such requisition,
to comply therewith to the satisfaction of the secretary of state, the secretary of
state may make, repeal, alter, or add to the special rules, and anything so done by
the secretary of state shall have effect as if done by the occupier with the sanction
of the secretary of state.
If the occupier feel agrieved by any such requisition, or by anything so done by
the secretary of state, he may, after receiving such requisition or notice of the same
being so done, require the matter to be referred to arbitration in manner provided
by this act.
SUPPLEMENTAL AS TO FACTORIES AND MAGAZINES FOR GUNPOWDER.
12. Where the occupier of any gunpowder factory or magazine desires that any
alteration should be made in the terms of his license, or any material alteration
made in the factory or magazine by enlarging or adding to the site or by externally
enlarging or adding to any building, or by altering any mound otherwise than by
enlargement, or by making any new work, he may apply for an amending license.
I f he satisfy the secretary of state that the alteration may be properly permitted,
having regard to the safety of the persons employed in the factory or magazine, and
will not materially either increase the danger to the public from fire or explosion,
or diminish the distance of any danger building in the factory or magazine from
any building or work outside and in the neighborhood of the factory or magazine,
or increase the amount of gunpowder allowed to be kept in the factory magazine, or
in any building in the magazine, the secretary of state may gTant the amending
license of his own authority, but, save as aforesaid, the provisions of this act with
respect to the application for and grant of a new license shall apply to such amend
ing license.
13. A gunpowder factory or magazine license shall not be avoided by any change
in the occupier of the factory or magazine ; but notice of the name, address, and
.lling of the new occupier shall be sent to the secretary of state within three
months after the change, and in default such new occupier shall be liable to a penalty
not exceeding 20 shillings for every week during which such default continues.
A factory or magazine license shall be determined by a discontinuance of the busi
ness carried on in pursuance of any such license if such discontinuance continues
for a period of two years or more, or if the factory or magazine is used for any pur
pose not authorized by the license.
Provided that if the occupier sends to the secretary of state, and publishes in man
ner directed by the secretary of state, a notice to the effect that the right to the fac
tory or magazine license is not intended to be surrendered, the license shall not be
determined until after the expiration of five years after the first discontinuance of
the business, whether the factory or magazine has or has not been used for any pur
pose not authorized by the license.
237
APPLICATION OF ACT TO EXISTING FACTORIES AND MAGAZINES FOB GUNPOWDER.
14. A factory or magazine for gunpowder used at the time of the passing of this
act shall not he deemed to be a lawfully existing factory or magazine within the
meaning of this act unless the occupier thereof apply for and obtain in manner pro
vided by this act a certificate (in this act referred to as a continuing certificate) in
respect of such factory or magazine.
The occupier desirous of obtaining such certificate shall, before the expiration of
three months after the commencement of this act, send to the secretary of state an
application for such certificate, stating his name, address, and calling, and the situ
ation of his factory or magazine, and accompanied with such particulars respecting
the factory or magazine and the site thereof, and the mounds, buildings, and works
thereon or connected therewith, and such copies of any plans in the possession of
the occupier, as the secretary of state may deem necessary for enabling him to make
out the certificate.
The secretary of state upon receiving such application shall grant the continuing
certificate for the factory or magazine to which the application relates, and shall in
sert therein, by reference to a plan (which shall be deemed part of the certificate) or
otherwise, such particulars as he may consider sufficient to identify the factory or
magazine and indicate the site and all the existing mounds, buildings, and works
thereon or connected therewith; the plan so referred to may be either the plan sent
by the occupier or such other plan as the secretary of state may cause to be made
for the purpose.
The continuing certificate shall specify the maximum amount of gunpowder to be
kept if the certificate is for a factory in each factory magazine, or in all the factory
magazines of the factory, and if for a magazine in each building in the magazine,
or in all the buildings of the magazine, and the amount so specified, where the
nn.yininm amount so to be kept is at the passing of this act limited by any act or by
license or otherwise, shall be that amount, and where there is no such limitation,
shall be the maximum amount which the factory magazine, or all the factory maga
zines of the factory, or the building or all the buildings of the magazine, was or
were capable of holding on the 1st day of January, 1875.
The regulations in Part 1 of the first schedule of this act shall be deemed to form
part of the terms of a continuing certificate for a factory.
The land farming the site bounded as described in the certificate shall, with every
mound, building, and work thereon, for whatever purpose, be deemed, for the pur
pose of this act, to be the factory or magazine referred to in the certificate.
Where a license has been obtained before the 25th day of February, 1875, for a
factory or magazine for gunpowder, and such factory or magazine has not been com
pleted before the passing of this act, such factory or magazine shall be deemed to be,
for the purposes of this sotion, a factory or magazine for gunpowder used at the
time of the passing of this act: Provided that
(1) The particulars to be stated in the continuing certificate shall, as regards
such mounds, buildings, and works as are not completed at the date o f
the certificate, relate to the same as designed on the commencement of the

construction of the factory or magazine; and
(2) The maximum amount of gunpowder to be specified in the continuing cer
tificate as being allowed to be kept in any building shall, subject to the
provisions of any act or license, be the maximum amount which such
building was designed on the commencement of the building thereof to
hold, or such less amount as it is completed for holding at the time of the
passing of this act.
For the purposes of this act, a continuing certificate shall (save as otherwise expresly provided) be deemed, to be a license, and the factory or magazine, as the case
238
PIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
may be, mentioned therein to be a factory or magazine licensed under this act, and
the provisions of this act shall be construed accordingly : Provided that
(1) It shall not be necessary in any case to apply for the assent of the local au
thority to an amending license for an alteration in the terms of such cer
tificate, or for an alteration in the factory or magazine ; and
(2) Such factory or magazine, if the certificate is determined by the discon'
tinuance of the business carried on therein, shall cease to be deemed an
existing factory or magazine.
The occupier of any lawfully existing factory or magazine may, until the expira
tion of the time within which he is required by this section to send to the secretary
of state an application for a continuing certificate, and if he has sent such an appli
cation as is required by this section may, until he obtains such certificate, carry on
his business in such factory or magazine in like manner as if this act had not passed.
CONSUMERS STORES FOB GUNPOWDER LICENSING AND REGULATION OF STORES.
15. Any person may apply for a license for a gunpowder store to the local author
ity at the time and place appointed by such authority, stating his name, address,
and calling, the proposed site and construction of the store and the amount of gun
powder he proposes to store therein; and the local authority shall, as soon as prac
ticable, if the proposed site, construction of the store, and amount of gunpowder are
in accordance with the order in council hereinafter mentioned, grant to the appli
cant, on payment of such fee, not exceeding 5 shillings, as may be fixed by that
authority, the license applied for.
16. Her majesty may, from time to time, by order in council made on the recom
mendation of the secretary of state
(1) Regulate the construction and materials and fittings of gunpowder stores;
and
(2) Prescribe the buildings and works from which gunpowder stores are to be
separated, and the distances by which they are to be separated; and
(3) Prescribe the maximum amount of gunpowder, not exceeding 2 tons, to be
kept in stores, graduated according to their construction and situation and
their distance from the said buildings and works.
Provided, That an order under this section shall not require the removal of any
building lawfully in use at the date of the making of such order.
17. In every gunpowder store the following general rules shall be observed; that
is to say,
(1) The provisions of an order in council relating to stores, so far as they apply
to such store, shall be duly observed:
(2) There shall not be at the same time in the store an amount of gunpowder
exceeding the amount specified in the license ; and
(3) The store shall be used only for the keeping of gunpowder, and receptacles
for, or tools, or implements for work connected with the keeping of such
gunpowder; and
(4) The interior of the store, and the benches, shelves, and fittings therein, shall
be so constructed or so lined or covered as to prevent the exposure of any
iron or steel, and the detaching of any grit, iron, steel, or similar sub
stance, in such manner as to come into contact with the gunpowder, and
such interior, benches, shelves, and fittings shall, so far as is reasonably
practicable, be kept free from grit, and otherwise clean; and
(5) The store shall have attached thereto a sufficient lighting conductor, unless
it is made by excavation or is licensed for less than one thousand pounds
of gunpowder; and
(6) Before repairs are done to or in any part of a store, the store shall, so far as
practicable, be cleaned by the removal of all gunpowder and the thorough
SUPPLEMENT----BRITISH EXPLOSIVE LAWS.
239
washing out of the store ; and after such cleaning, these rules shall cease
to apply to the store until gunpowder is again taken there ; and
(7) Except after such cleaning, all tools and implements used in or in any re
pairs to the store shall be made only of wood, copper, or brass, or some
soft metal or material, or shall be covered with some safe and suitable
material; and
(8) Due provision shall be made, by the use of suitable working clothes without
pockets, suitable shoes, searching, and otherwise, or by some of such
means, for preventing the introduction into the store of fire, lucifer
matches, or any substance or article likely to cause explosion or fire, or
any iron, steel, or grit; but this rule shall not prevent the introduction of
an artificial light of such construction, position, or character as not to
cause any danger of fire or explosion ; and
(9) No person shall smoke in any part of tho store; and
(10) A person under the age of 16 years shall not be employed in or enter the
store, except in the presence and under the supervision of some grown
up person.
In the event of any breach (by any act or default) of the general rules in any
store
() All or any part of the gunpowder in respect to which or being in the store
when the offense was committed may bo forfeited ; and
() Tho occupier shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 10, and in addition
(in the case of a second offense) 10 for every day during which such
breach continues.
18. A store license shall be valid only for the person named in it, and shall an
nually, unless the circumstances have so changed that the grant of a now license
would not be authorized by this act, on application by post or otherwise, and pay
ment of such fee, not exceeding 1 shilling, as may bo from timo to timo fixed by the
local authority, be renewed by that authority, by indorsement or otherwise, for that
year, and unless so renewed shall expire.
Store licenses shall be in the form from time to time directed by the secretary of
state.
19. Every occupier of a gunpowder store may, with the sanction of tho secretary
o f state, make, and when made, may, with the like sanction, repeal, alter, or add to,
special rules for the regulation of the persons managing or employed in or about such
store, with a view to secure the observance of this act therein, and the safoty and
proper discipline of the said persons and the safety of tho public.
There may be annexed to any breach of special rules made in pursuance of this
section such penalties, not exceeding 40 shillings for each offense, as may be deemed
just.
APPLICATION OF ACT TO EXISTING STORES FOR GUNPOWDER.
20. Any magazine established without a license from a local authority in pnrsnance of the gunpowder act, 1860, or of any enactment repealed by that act, for the
use of any mine, quarry, colliery, or factory of safety fuses, and in uso at tho pass
ing of this act, is in this act referred to as an existing gunpowder store.
An existing gunpowder store shall not require a continuing certificate as a maga
zine from the secretary of state, but shall require a continuing certificate from the
local authority, and if such certificate is not applied for and obtained in manner pro
vided by this act, shall not be deemed to bo a lawfully existing store.
The occupier of the store desirous of obtaining a continuing certificate shall, before
the expiration of three months after the commencement of this act, send an applica
tion for such certificate to the local authority, stating his name, address, and call
ing, and the situation and construction of the store, and accompanicd by such par
ticulars respecting the store a may be necessary to enable the local authority to
make out the certificate.
240
The local authority upon receiving such application shall, a oon a practicable,
on payment of such fee, not exceeding half a crown, a may be fixed by that author
ity, grant the continuing certificate, inserting therein such particulars a appear to
them to be sufficient to identify the store, and inserting the maximum amount of
gunpowder which the store is to be limited to hold, and such amount shall be the
m.iTimnm amount which the store was capable of holding on the 1st day of January,
1875, or such less amount as is limited by the regulations below in thi section
mentioned.
The regulations in Part 2 of the first schedule to this act shall apply to every store
to which a continuing certificate is granted, as if they were contained in an order in
council under thi act relating to tore.
For the purposes of thi act a continuing certificate for a store shall, save as other
wise expressly provided, be deemed to be a license, and the store a store licensed
under this act, and the provisions of this act shall be construed accordingly : Pro
vided, That
(1) The store shall not be enlarged, or added to, or so altered as to be of a le
secure construction, and any breach of this proviso shall be deemed to be
a breach of the general rules relating to stores ; and
(2) The continuing certificate shall not be limited in duration, but if the business
carried on in the store is discontinued, and either such discontinuance con
tinues for a period of twelve months or more, or the store is used for an
other purpose, such store hall ceae to be deemed an existing gunpowder
tore.
Nothing in thi section shall prevent the obtaining for any existing gunpowder
tore of a license from the local authority under thi act, a in the case of a new
store, and a store for which such license is obtained shall, whether a continuing
certificate ha or has not been previously obtained for the same, ceae to be deemed
an existing gunpowder store.
The occupier of an existing gunpowder store may, until the expiration of the time
within which he is required by this section to send to the local authority an appli
cation for a continuing certificate, and if he ha sent such an application as is re
quired by this section may, until the expiration of six months after the expiration
of the said time, or any earlier date at which he obtains such certificate, carry on his
business in such tore in like manner as if this act had not paed.
BETAIL DEALING WITH GUNPOWDER REGISTRATION AND REGULATION OF REGIS
TERED PREMISES.
21. A person desirous of registering with the local authority any premises for the
keeping of gunpowder shall register his name and calling and the said promisee (in
this act referred to as his registered premises) in such manner and on payment of
each fee, not exceeding 1 shilling, a may be directed by the local authority.
Such registration shall be valid only for the person registered, and shall be an
nually renewed by sending by post or otherwise notice of such renewal to the local
authority, together with such fee, not exceeding 1 shilling, as may be fixed by that
authority.
22. The following general rules shall be observed with respect to registered prem
ises:
(1) The gunpowder shall be kept in a house or building, or in a fireproof safe,
uch safe, if not within a house or building, to be at a safe distance from
any highway, street, public thoroughfare, or public place; and
(2) The amount of gunpowder on the same registered premises shall not, () if
it is kept in a substantially constructed building exclusively appropriated
for the purpose and detached from a dwelling house, or in a fireproof
afe outside a dwelling house, and detached therefrom, and at a safe dis
tance from any highway, street, publio thoroughfare, or publio place,
241
exceed 200 pounds; and (b) if it i kept inside a dwelling house, or in any
building other than as last aforesaid, exceed 50 pounds, unless it is kept
in a fireproof safe within such house or building, in which case the amount
shall not exceed 100 pounds ; and
(3) An article or substance of an explosive or highly inflammable nature
not be kept in a fireproof safe with the gunpowder, and in every case
shall be kept at a safe distance from the gunpowder or the safe containing
the same; and
(4) Neither the building exclusively appropriated for the purpose of keeping
the gunpowder nor the fireproof safe shall have any exposed iron or steel
in the interior thereof; and
(5) All gunpowder exceeding 1 pound in amount shall be kept in a substantial
case, bag, canister, or other receptacle, made and closed so as to prevent
the gunpowder from escaping.
In the event of any breach (by any act or default) of such general rules in any
registered premises
(a) All or any part of the gunpowder in respect to which, or being in any house,
building, place, safe, or receptacle in respect to which the offense was
committed may be forfeited ; and
(b) The occupier shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 2 shillings for every
pound of gunpowder in respect of which or being on the premises in which
the offense was committed.
SUPPLEMENTAL PROVISIONS.
23. The occupier of every factory, magazine, store, and registered premises for
gunpowder, and every person employed in or about the same, shall take all duo pre
caution for the prevention of accidents by fire or explosion in the same, and for pre
venting unauthorized persons having access to the factory, magazine, or store, or to
the gunpowder therein or in the registered promises, and shall abstain from any act
whatever which tends to cause firo or explosion and is not reasonably necessary for
the purpose of the work in such factory, magazine, store, or premises.
Any breach (by any act or default) of this section in any factory, magazine, store,
or registered premises shall be deemed to be a breach of the general rules applying
thereto.
24. Where any provision of this act limits the quantity of gunpowder or ingre
dients of gunpowder to be allowed in any building at any one time, all gunpowder
and ingredients within the radius of 20 yards from the building and in course either
of removal from the building or of removal to the building for the supply and work
thereof, shall be deemed to be in the building : Provided, That if, while the gun
powder or ingredients so in course of removal are within the radius, every machine
and manufacturing process in the building is wholly stopped, there may, in addition
to the quantity so allowed as aforesaid to be in the building, be within the radius a
further quantity of gunpowder and ingredients so in course of removal as aforesaid,
not exceeding the quantity specified in that behalf in the license, or in the case of an
existing building in a lawfully existing factory for gunpowder 10 hundredweight, or
any less quantity so allowed as aforesaid to be in the building.
Where any provision of this act limits the quantity of gunpowder or ingredients
of gunpowder to be allowed in any machine at any one time, but does not limit the
quantity to be in the building containing such machine, the foregoing provisions of
this section shall apply, so far as circumstances admit, as if such machine were a
building.
Where the quantity allowed to be in any building is limited to what is required
for the immediate supply and work of such building, or by words not specifying the
exact quantity, a Government inspector who considers that the quantity in any
uch building is in excess may, after hearing the explanation of the occupier, re*
146A------ 16
242
quire the occupier to diminish such quantity to the maximum named in the requisi
tion.
The occupier, if he feel aggrieved by such requisition, may require the matter to
be referred to arbitration in manner provided by this act.
The exact quantity to be allowed in such building shall be determined by the req
uisition, or if the matter is referred to arbitration, by the award.
25. An occupier authorized by this act to require any matter to be referred to ar
bitration may, within one month after receiving the requisition, notice, or document
relating to the matter to be so referred, send an objection thereto to the secretary of
state; and if the cause of such objection is not, within one month after such objec
tion is received by the secretary of state, removed by the secretary of state waiving
or varying the said requisition, notice, document, or matter, or otherwise (which the
secretary of state is hereby authorized to do), such occupier may, by notice sent
within seven days after the expiration of the said month to the secretary of state,
require the matter to be referred to arbitration, and the date of the receipt by the
secretary of state of the last-mentioned notice shall be deemed to be the date of the
reference.
Arbitrations under this act shall be conducted in manner provided by the second
schedule to this act.
26. There shall be payable in respect of licenses and continuing certificates granted
by the secretary of state such fees as may be from time to time fixed by him with
the consent of the treasury, not exceeding the fees in the third schedule to this act,
and if no lee is fixed the fees mentioned in the said schedule.
Such fees shall be taken and paid into the receipt of Her Majesty exchequer in
such manner as the treasury may from time to time direct, and shall be carried to
the consolidated fund.
The secretary'of state may also require any applicant for a new license to pay
such sum as the secretary of state may think reasonable for expenses incurred upon
any inquiry made by order of the secretary of state with respect to the grant of such
license.
When the local authority do not fix any fee which they are authorized by this act
to fix, the fee payable shall be the maximum fee which such authority are author
ized to fix.
The fees payable to the local authority in respect of any license, certificate, or
otherwise in pursuance of this act, shall, where the clerk of the local authority is not
wholly paid by fees, be carried to the credit of the local rate, or otherwise disposed
of as such local authority may direct, and where such clerk is wholly paid by fees,
shall, unless the local authority otherwise direct, be paid to such clerk.
27. For the purposes of the provisions of this act with respect to the manufacture
and keeping of gunpowder, all buildings and places adjoining each other and occu
pied together shall be deemed to be the same factory, magazine, store, or premises,
and shall accordingly be included in one license or one registration.
28. The local authority shall cause registers of all store licenses granted by and of
all premises registered with them under this act to be kept in such form and with
uch particulars as they may direct.
The local authority shall, when so required by the secretary of state, send to him
within the time fixed by such requisition, a copy of suoli register or any part there
of, and in default the clerk of such authority, and also the authority if they are in
fault, shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 1 for every day during which such
default continues.
A ratepayer within the area of the local authority, and a licensee or person regis
tered under this act, upon payment of a fee of 1 shilling, and a Government in
spector, and an officer appointed by any local authority for the purposes of this act,
and an officer of police, without payment, shall be entitled at all reasonable times
to inspect and take copies of or extracts from any register kept in pursuance of tlii
243
section ; and the clerk of the local authority and every other person who fails to
allow such inspection or taking copies of or extracts from the same, or demands any
unauthorized fee therefor, shall he liable to a penalty not exceeding 1 pound for
each offense.
29. If the occupier of a store or registered premises dies or becomes bankrupt, or
has his affairs liquidated by arrangement, or becomes mentally incapable or other
wise disabled, the person carrying on the business of such occupier shall not be
liable to any penalty or forfeiture under this act for carrying on the business and
acting under the license or registration during such reasonable time as may be nec
essary to allow him to obtain a store license from or to register with the local
authority, so that he otherwise conform with the provisions of this act.
SALE OF GUNPOW DER.
30. Gunpowder shall not be hawked, sold, or exposed for sale upon any highway,
street, public thoroughfare, or public place.
If any gunpowder is hawked, sold, or exposed for sale in contravention of this
section
(1) The person hawking, selling, or exposing for sale the same, shall be liable
to a penalty not exceeding 40 shillings ; and
(2) All or any part of the gunpowder which is so hawked or exposed for sale,
or is found in the possession of any person convicted under this section,
may be forfeited.
31. Gunpowder shall not be sold to any child apparently under the age of 13
years ; and any person selling gunpowder in contravention of this section shall be
liable to a penalty not exceeding 5.
32. All gunpowder exceeding 1 pound in weight, when publicly exposed for sale
or sold, shall be in a substantial case, bag, canister, or other receptacle made and
closed so as to prevent the gunpowder from escaping, and (except when the same is
sold to any person employed by or on the property occupied by the vendor for im
mediate use in the service of the vendor or on such property), the outermost recep
tacle containing such gunpowder shall have affixed the word gunpowder in con
spicuous characters by means of a brand or securely attached label or other mark.
If any gunpowder is sold or exposed for sale in contravention of this section
(1) The person selling or exposing for sale the same shall be liable to a penalty
not exceeding 40 shillings ; and
(2) All or any part of the gunpowder so exposed for sale may be forfeited.
CONVEYANCE OF GUNPOWDER.
33. The following general rules shall be observed with respect to the packing of
gunpowder for conveyance :
(1) The gunpowder, if not exceeding 5 pounds in amount, shall be contained in
a substantial case, bag, canister, or other receptacle, made and closed so
as to prevent the gunpowder from escaping ; and
(2) The gunpowder, if exceeding 5 pounds in amount, shall be contained either
in a single package or a double package. A single package shall be a box,
barrel, or case of such strength, construction, and character as may be for
the time being approved by tho Government inspector as being of such
strength, construction, and character that it will not be broken or acci
dentally opened, or become defective or insecure whilst being conveyed
and will not allow the gunpowder to escape. If the gunpowder is packed
in a double package tho inner package shall be a substantial case, bag,
canister, or other receptacle made and closed so as to prevent the gun
powder from escaping, and the outer package shall be a box, barrel, or
case of wood or metal or other solid material, and shall be of such strength,
244
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOEEIGN COUNTRIES.
construction, and character that it 'will not be broken or accidentally

opened, or become defective or insecure whilst being conveyed, and will
not allow the gunpowder to escape ; and
(3) The interior of every package, whether single or double, shall be kept free
from grit and otherwise clean; and
(4) Every package, whether single or double, when actually used for the pack
age of gunpowder, shall not be used for any other purpose; and
(5) There shall not be any iron or steel in the construction of any such single
package or inner or outer package, unless the same is effectually covered
with tin, zinc, or other material ; and
(6) The amount of gunpowder in any single package, or if there is a double
package in any one outer package, shall not exceed 100 pounds, except
with the consent of and under conditions approved by a Government in
spector; and
(7) On the outermost package there shall be affixed the word gunpowder in
conspicuous characters by means of a brand or securely attached label or
other mark.
In the event of any breach (by any act or default) of any general rule in this sec,
tion, the gunpowder in respect of which the breach is committed may be forfeitedand the person guilty of such breach shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 20.
The secretary of state may from time to time make, and when made, repeal, alter,
and add to, rules for the purpose of rescinding, altering, or adding to the general
rules contained in this section, and the rules so made by the secretary of state shall
have tho same effect as if they were enacted in thi section.
34.
Every harbor authority shall, with the sanction of the Board of Trade, make
by-laws for regulating the conveyance, loading, and unloading of gunpowder with
in the jurisdiction of the said authority, and in particular fur declaring or regulat
ing all or any of the following matters within the jurisdiction of the said authority,
namely :
(1) Determining the notice to be given by ships and boats conveying, loading,
or unloading gunpowder a merchandise within the said jurisdiction;
and
(2) Eegulating the navigation and place of mooring of such ships and boats ; and
(3) Eegulating, subject to the general rules with respect to packing in this act
contained, the mode of stowing and keeping gunpowder on board any such
ship or boat, and of giving notice by brands, labels, or otherwise, of the
nature of the package containing the gunpowder ; and
(4) Eegulating the description, construction, fitting up, and licensing of the
ships, boats, or carriages to be used for the conveyance of gunpowder, and
the licensing and dress of the persons having charge thereof; and
(5) Prohibiting or subjecting to conditions and restrictions the conveyance of
gunpowder with any explosive or any articles or substances, or in passen
ger ships, boats, trains, or carriages ; and
(6) Prohibiting, in cases where the loading or unloading of gunpowder within
the jurisdiction of such authority appears to be specially dangerous to the
public, such loading or unloading, and fixing the places and times at which
the gunpowder is to be loaded or unloaded, and the quantity to be loaded
or unloaded or conveyed at one time or in one ship, boat, or carriage; and
(7) Eegulating the mode of and the precautions to be observed in conveying any
gunpowder, and in the loading or unloading any ship, boat, or carriage
conveying gunpowder as merchandise, and the time during which gun
powder may be kept during such conveyance, loading, or unloading ; and
(8) Fixing the times at which lights or fires are to be allowed or not allowed on
board such ships or boats, as before mentioned, or at which a constable or
officer of the harbor authority i to be on board them; and
245
(9) Providing for the publication and supply of copies of the by-laws; and
(10) Enforcing tlio observance of this act both by their own servants and agents
and also by other persons when within the said jurisdiction; and
(11) Generally for protecting, whether by means similar to those above men
tioned or not, persons and property from danger.
The penalties to be annexed to any breach or attempt to oommit any breach of any
such by-laws may be all or any of the following penalties, and may be imposed on
such persons and graduated in such manner as may be deemed just, according to the
gravity of the offense, and according as it may be a first or second or other subse
quent offense, that is to say, pecuniary penalties not exceeding 20 for each offense,
and 10 for each day during which the offense continues, and forfeiture of all or any
part of the gunpowder in respect of which, or found in the ship, boat, or carriage in
respect of which, the breach of by-law has taken place.
In the event of any breach of a by-law under this section in the case of any ship,
boat, carriage, or gunpowder, whether there has or has not been any conviction for
such breach, it shall be lawful for the harbor master, or other officer named in the
by-laws, or any person acting under the orders of the harbor authority, to cause such
ship, boat, carriage, or gunpowder, at the expense of the owner thereof, to be re
moved to such place or otherwise dealt with in such manner as may be in conformity
with the by-laws, and all expenses incurred in such removal may be recovered in the
same manner as a penalty under this section, and any person resisting such harbor
master or officer or other person in such removal shall be liable to the same penalties
as a person is liable to for obstructing the harbor master in the execution of his duty.
On any part of the coast of the United Kingdom or in any tidal water for which
there is no harbor authority, the board of trade may, if they think it expedient, make
by-laws under this section for that part or water as if it wore a harbor and they were
the harbor authority, and such by-laws shall be deemed to have been made by a
harbor authority with the sanction of tho board of trade ; and they may by such by
laws define the area within which such by-laws are to bo observed, and the authori
ties and officers by whom such by-laws are to be enforced and carried into effect
within such area, and every such authority and officer shall, for the purposes of this
act other than making by-laws or assenting to a site for a new factory or magazine,
have theame power within the said area as a harbor authority and an officer of a
harbor authority have respectively under this act in a harbor.
35. Every railway company and every canal company over whose railway or canal
any gunpowder is carried, or intended to be carried, shall, with the sanction of the
board of trade, make by-laws for regulating the conveyance, loading, and unloading
of such gunpowder on the railway or canal of the company making the by-laws, and
in particular for declaring and regulating all or any of the following matters in the
case of such railway or canal; that is to say
(1) Determining the notice to be given of the intention to send gunpowder for
conveyance as merchandise on the railway or canal; and
(2) Regulating, subject to the general rules with respect to packing in this act
contained, the mode of stowing and keeping gunpowder for conveyance
and of giving notice by brands, labels, or otherwise, of the nature of the
package containing the gunpowder; and
(3) Regulating the description and construction of carriages, ships, or boats to
bo used in the conveyance of gunpowder ; and
gunpowder with any explosive, or with any articles or substances, or in
passenger trains, carriages, ships, or boats; and
(5) Fixing the places and times at which the gunpowder is to be loaded or un
loaded, and the quantity to be loaded or unloaded or conveyed at one
time, or in one carriage, ship, or boat ; and
() Determining the precautions to be observed in conveying gunpowder, and
in loading and unloading the carriages, ships, and boats used in such con-
246
veyance, and the time daring which the gunpowder may he kept during
such conveyance, loading, and unloading; and
(7) Providing for the publication and supply of copie of the by-laws ; and
(8) Enforcing the observance of this act both by their servants and agents and
also by other persons when on the canal or railway of such company ; and
(9) Generally for protecting, whether by means similar to those above mentioned
or not, persons and property from danger.
Such by-laws, when confirmed by the board of trade, shall apply to the railway,
canal, agents, and servants of the company making the same, and to the persons
using such railway or canal, or the premises connected therewith and occupied by
or under the control of such company.
The penalties to be annexed to any breach or attempt to commit any breach of any
such by-laws may be all or any of the following penalties, and may be imposed on
such persons and graduated in such manner as may be deemed just, according to the
gravity of the offense, and according as it maybe a first, second, or other subsequent
offense, that is to say, pecuniary penalties not exceeding 20 for each offense, and
10 for each day during which the offense continues, and forfeiture of all or any
part of tho gunpowder in respect of which, or being in the carriage, ship, or boat,
or train of carriages, ships, or boats in respect of which, the breach of by-law has
taken place.
36. The occupier of every wharf or dock on or in which gunpowder is loaded or
unloaded (if such loading or unloading is not otherwise subject to any by-laws under
this act) may, and if so required by the secretary of state shall, from time to time,
with the sanction of the secretary of state, make by-laws for regulating the loading
and unloading of gunpowder on or in such wharf or dock, and in particular for de
claring or regulating all or any of the matters which can be declared or regulated
in li case of any wharf or dock within the j uris<liction of a harbor authority by
by-laws made by such authority in pursuance of this act.
The penalties to be annexed to any breach, or attempt to commit any breach, of
any such by-laws may be all or any of the following penalties, and may be imposed
on such persons and graduated in such manner as may be deemed just, according to
the gravity of the offense, and according as it may be a first or second or other sub
sequent offense, that is to say, pecuniary penalties not exceeding 20 for each of
fense, and 10 for each day during which the offense continues, and forfeiture of all
or any part of the gunpowder in respect of which, or found on the wharf or in the
dock or part of the wharf or dock in respect of which, the breach of by-law has taken
place.
Any by-laws made in pursuance of this section may, and if required by the secre
tary of state shall, be rescinded, altered, or added to by by-laws made by the occu
pier, with ths sanction of the secretary of state.
If an occupier is required by the secretary of state to make by-laws under this sec
tion for any matter, and fail within three months after such requisition to comply
therewith to the satisfaction of the secretary of state, the secretary of state may
make such by-laws, which shall have effect as if made by the occupier with the sanc
tion of the secretary of state.
Where, by reason of a wharf being a public wharf or otherwise, there is no occu
pier thereof, or the occupier thereof is unknown, the secretary of state may make
by-laws with respect to such wharf in like manner as *if the occupier had failed to
comply with his requisition: Provided, That where such wharf abuts on any harbor,
canal, or railway, the harbor authority or canal or railway company shall have the
same power, and, if so required by the secretary of state, shall be under the same
obligation to make by-laws under this section for such wharf as if they were the oc
cupiers thereof.
37. The secretary of state may from time to time make, and when made, rescind,
alter, or add to, by-laws for regulating the conveyance, loading, and unloading of
247
gunpowder in any case in which by-laws made under any other provision of this act
do not apply, and in particular for declaring or regulating all or any of the follow
ing matters; that is to say
(1) Eegulating the description and construction of carriages to be used in the
conveyance of gunpowder as merchandise; and
gunpowder with an explosive, or with any article or substances, or in
passenger carriages ; and
(3) Fixing the places and times at which the gunpowder i to be loaded or un
loaded, and the quantity to be loaded or unloaded or conveyed at one time
or in one carriage; and
(4) Determining the precautions to be observed in conveying gunpowder, and in
loading and unloading the carriages used in such conveyance, and the time during
which the gunpowder may be kept during such conveyance, loading and unloading ;
and
(5) Providing for the publication and supply of copies of the by-laws ; and
(6) Generally, for protecting, whether by means similar to those above-mentioned
or not, persons or property from danger; and
(7) Adapting, on good cause being shown, the by-laws in force under this section
to the circumstances of any particular locality.
The penalties to be annexed to any breach, or attempt to commit any breach of
any such by-laws, may be all or any of the following penalties, and may be imposed
on such persons and graduated in such manner as may be deemed just, according to
the gravity of the offense, and according a it may be a first, second, or other subsequent offense; that is to say, pecuniary penalties not exceeding 20 for each offense,
and 10 for each day during which the breach continues, and forfeiture of all or any
part of the gunpowder in respect of which, or being in the carriage in respect of
which, the breach of by-law has taken place.
For the purpose of any mode of conveyance which is not a conveyance by land this
section shall be construed as if ship and boat were included in the term carriage.
38. Any recommendation to Her Majesty in council, any general rules with respect
to packing, and any by-laws which is or are proposed to be made under this act by
a secretary of state or the board of trade shall, before being so made, be published in
such manner a the secretary of state or the board of trade, as the case may be, may
direct as being in his or their opinion sufficient for giving information thereof to all
local authorities, corporations, and persons interested.
The by-laws framed by any railway company, canal company, or harbor authority
under this act shall, before being sanctioned by the board of trade, be published in
such manner as may be directed by the board of trade, with a notice of the intention
of such company or authority to apply for the confirmation thereof, and may be
sanctioned by the board of trade with or without any omission, addition, or altera
tion, or may be disallowed.
Every such by-law may be from time to time added to, altered, or rescinded by a
by-law made in like manner and with the like sanction as the original by-law.
The secretary of state or the board of trade, as the case may be, shall receive and
consider any objections or suggestions made by any local authority, corporation, or
persons interested with respect to any recommendation, general rules, or by-lawe
publihed in pursuance of this section, and may, if it seem fit, amend such recom
mendation, general rules, or by-laws with a view of meeting such objections or sug
gestions without again publishing the same.
Pabt
II.L a w
K e l a t in g
to
O t h e r E x p l o s iv e s .
APPLICATION OF PART I TO OTHER EXPLOSIVES.
39. Subject to the provisions hereafter in this part of this act contained. Part 1
of this act, relating to gunpowder, shall apply to every other description of explosive
248
in like manner as if those provisions were herein reenacted with the substitution of
that description of explosive for gunpowder.
40. The following modifications and additions shall be made in and to part 1 of
hia act as applied to explosives other than gunpowder:
(1) The draft license for a factory or magazine submitted by an applicant to the
secretary of state shall specify such particulars as the secretary of state
may require; and
(2) The prescribed general rules shall be substituted for the general rules in part
1 of this act relating to factories, magazines, stores, and registered premises
respectively ; but no such general rule shall require the removal of any
building or work in use at the date of the order in council by which such
rule is made;
(3) The secretary of state may from time to time alter the general rules relating
to packing contained in part 1 of this act for the purpose of adapting the
same to the packing of any explosive other than gunpowder; and
(4) For the maximum amount limited by part 1 of this act to be kept for private
use and not for sale, or in a store, and for the minimum amount limited by
part 1 of this act to be exposed for sale or sold otherwise than in a sub
stantial case, box, canister, or other receptacle as herein mentioned, there
shall be substituted in the case of explosives other than gunpowder the
following amounts; namely, () Where such explosive consiste of safety
cartridges made with gunpowder, an amount containing not more than five
times the maximum or minimum amount of gunpowder, as the case may
be, above-mentioned ; and (6) In the case of any other explosive, the pre
scribed amount; and
(5) Two or more descriptions of explosives shall not be kept in the same store or
registered premises, except such descriptions as may be prescribed in that
behalf; and, when so kept, shall be kept subject to the prescribed condi
tions and restrictions ; and
(6) Where any explosive, other than gunpowder, is allowed to be kept in the
same store or registered premises with gunpowder, the maximum amount
of gunpowder to be kept therein shall be the prescribed amount in lieu
of the amount fixed by part 1 of this act ; and
(7) Where any explosive, other than gunpowder, is allowed to be kept in the
same magazine, store, or registered premises with gunpowder, the pre
scribed general rule shall be observed instead of the general rules in part
1 of this act; and
(8) There shall be on the outermost package containing the explosive in lieu of
the word * gunpowder the name of the explosive, with the addition of the
word explosive; and if such name is materially false tho person selling
or exposing for sale such explosive, and also the owner of the explosive,
shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 50;
(9) With respect to the importation from any plaoe out of the United Kingdom
of either dynamite or gun-cotton, or any explosive (other than gunpowder,
cartridges made with gunpowder, percussion caps, fireworks, and any pre
scribed explosive), the following provisions shall have effect ; that is to say,
(a) The owner and master of any ship having on board any such explosive
shall not permit the same to be unloaded and delivered to any person who
does not hold a license to import the same (in this act called an impor
tation license) from the secretary of state, and any transshipment shall for
the purpose of this section be deemed to be delivery; and (b) The secre
tary of state may grant an importation license for any such explosives, and
may annex thereto any prohibitions and restrictions with respect to the
composition and quality of the explosive, and the unloading, landing, de
livery, and conveyance thereof and each further provisions and restrio-
249
tions as he may think fit, for the protection of the public from danger;
and (c) The license shall be of such duration as the secretary of state may
fix, and shall be available only for the person named in the license; and
(<i) In event of any breach by any act or default of the provisions of this
section with respect to the importation of an explosive, or of the provi
sions of any importation license, all or any part of the explosive with re
spect to which such breach is committed, or being in any ship or boat in
connection with which such breach is committed, may be forfeited, and the
owner and master of such ship or boat, and the licensee or person to whom
the explosive is delivered, shall each be liable to a penalty not exceeding
100, and to a further penalty not exceeding 2 shillings for every pound of
such explosive ; and () The commissioners of customs and their officers
shall have the same power with respect to any such explosive, and the ship
containing the same, as they have for the time being with respect to any
article on the importation of which restrictions are for the time being im
posed by the law relating to the customs, and the ship containing the
same, and the enactments for the time being in force relating to the cus
toms or any such article or ship shall apply accordingly.
41. Nothing in this act shall apply to the tilling or conveying, for private use and
not for sale, of any safety cartridges to the amount allowed by this act to be kept for
private use.
42. Section 29 of the passengers act, 1855, and sections 23 to 27, both inclusive, of the
merchant shipping act, 1873, shall apply to every explosive within the meaning of
this aet in like manner as they apply to gunpowder.
SPECIALLY DANGEROUS EXPLOSIVES.
43. Notwithstanding anything in this act, Her Majesty from time to time, by order
in council, may prohibit, either absolutely or except in pursuance of a license of the
secretary of state under this act, or may subject to conditions or restrictions the
manufacture, keeping, importation from any place out of the United Kingdom, con
veyance, and sale, or any of them, of any explosive which is of so dangerous a char
acter that, in the judgment of Her Majesty, it is expedient for the public safety to
make such order :
Provided, That such order shall not absolutely prohibit anything which may be
lawfully done in pursuance of any continuing certificate under this act.
Any explosive manufactured or kept in contravention of any such order shall be
deemed to be manufactured or kept, as the case may be, in an unauthorized place.
Any explosive conveyed in contravention of any such order shall be deemed to
be conveyed in contravention of a by-law made under this act with respect to the
conveyance of explosives.
If any explosive is imported or sold in contravention of any such order
(1) All or any part of such explosive may be forfeited; and
(2) The owner or master of the ship in which it was imported shall be liable to
a penalty not exceeding 10 shillings for every pound of such explosive
brought in the ship ; and
(3) The person to whom it was delivered and the person selling the same shall
be liable to a penalty not exceeding 10 shillings for every pound of such
explosive delivered or sold or found in his possession.
The commissioners of customs and their officers shall have tho same power with
respect to any such explosive, and the ship containing the same, as they have for
the time being with respect to any article prohibited to be imported by the law re
lating to the customs, and the ship containing the same, and the enactments for the
time being in force relating to the customs and any such article or ship shall apply
accordingly.
250

PROVISIONS IN FAVOR OF CERTAIN MANUFACTURERS AND DEALERS.
44. The occupier of a factory for any explosive shall not be required by this act
to take out a factory license lor making up on such factory the explosive made
thereon into cartridges or charges for cannon or blasting not containing within
themselves their own means of ignition.
The occupier of any magazine, store, or registered premises for keeping any ex
plosive may keep that explosive when made up into such cartridges or charges as
above in this section mentioned, as if it were not so mado up, and the provisions of
this act with respect to the keeping of any explosive shall apply to the keeping of
that explosive when made up into the said cartridges or charges in like manner as
if the explosive were not so made up.
45. The occupier of a factory for any explosive who manufactures a new explosive
or new form of explosive similar to the one specified in his license shall not be
deemed to have manufactured tho same in an unauthorized place if he manufactured
the same on a small scale, and exclusively for the purpose of trial and not for sale,
and he send notice of the same, as soon as he has manufactured it, to the secretary
of state, and if he observe the provisions of this act, so far as they are applicable.
46. The occupier of a magazine, store, or registered premises for any explosive shall
not be required by this act to take out a factory license by reason that in connection
with such magazine, store, or premises he fills for sale or otherwise any cartridge
for small arms with the said explosive, so that he observe the following regulations,
namely:
(1) There shall not be in the room in which such filling is being carried on more
than 5 pounds of gunpowder, or the prescribed amount of any other ex
plosive, except it is made up into safety cartridges ; and
(2) Any work unconnected with the making of the cartridges shall not be car
ried on in the room while such filling is being carried on ; and
(S) There shall not be in the room while such filling in being carried on any fire
nor any artificial light, except a light of such construction, position, or
character as not to cause any danger of fire or explosion ; and
(4) In the case of a magazine or store, the room in which the filling is carried
on shall be detached from the magazine or store, but in the immediate
neighborhood thereof, and at such a distance therefrom as may be specified
in the case of a magazine by the license, and in case of a store by an order
in council relating to stores; and
(5) The occupier shall give notice in the case of a magazine to the secretary of
state, and in the case of a store or registered premises to the local au
thority, that he intends to carry on such filling of cartridges as is allowed
by this section.
Provided, That this section shall not, except with the consent of the secretary of
state, apply to any magazine or store for which a continuing certificate has been
obtained under this act, which consent the secretary of state, if satisfied that the
filling of cartridges in accordance with this section ought (due regard being had to
the safety of the public) to be allowed, may grant either absolutely or upon such
conditions as he may, under the special circumstances of the case, think expedient
to secure the safety of the public.
The regulations in this section and any conditions so made by the secretary of
state as last aforesaid shall be deemed to be general rules under this act relating to
the magazine, store, and registered premises respectively, and the breach of them
shall be punished accordingly.
47. The occupier of any magazine or store for any explosive shall not be required
by this act to take out a factory license by reason that, in connection with such
magazine or store, he, by filling cartridges, making charges, drying, sifting, fitting,
or otherwise, adapts or prepares the said explosive for use exclusively in his mine or
251
quarry, or in some excavation or work carried on by him or nnder hie control, so that
he observe the following regulations, viz :
(1) There shall not be in the workshop in which such adaptation or preparation
is carried on more than 100 pounds of gunpowder or the prescribed amount
of any other explosive; and
(2) Any work unconnected with such adaptation or preparation shall not be
carried on in the said worship while such adaptation or preparation is
being carried on; and
(3) The said workshop shall be detached from the magazine or store, hot in the
immediate neighborhood thereof, and at such distance therefrom as may
be specified, in the case of a magazine by the license, and in the case of a
store by an order in council relating to stores ; and
(4) An explosive of one description shall not bo converted into an explosive of
another description, and shall not be unmade or resolved into its ingredi
ents; and
(5) The occupier shall give notice in the case of a magazine to the secretary of
state, and in the case of a store to the local authority, that he intends to
carry on such adaptation or preparation as is allowed by this section.
Provided, That this section shall not, except with the consent of the secretary of
state, apply to any magazine or store for which a continuing certificate has been
obtained under this act, which consent the secretary of state, if satisfied that the
adaptation or preparation in accordance with this section ought (due regard being
had to the safety of the public) to be allowed, may grant either absolutely or upon
such conditions as he may, under the special circumstances of the case, think expe
dient to secure the safety of tho public.
The regulations in this section, and any conditions so made by the secretary of
state as last aforesaid, shall be deemed to be general rules under this act relating to
the magazine and store respectively, and the breach of them shall be punished accord
ingly.
The following general rules shall apply as if the said workshop were a danger
building, that is to say, if the adaptation or preparation carried on is of gunpowder
only, tho general rules with respect to a factory in part 1 of this act, and in any other
case the prescribed general rules ; and the breach of such general rules shall be fur
nished in like manner as the breach of general rules with respect to a factory.
48. A firework factory shall not be deemed to be a small firework factory for the
purpose of this act if there is upon the same factory at the same time
() More than 100 pounds of any explosive other than manufactured fireworke
and colored fires and stars; or
() More than 500 pounds of manufactured fireworks either finished or partly
finished; or
(c) More than 25 pounds of colored fires or stars not made up into manufactured
fireworks.
The occupier of a small firework factory shall not be required to obtain a license
under part 1 of this act for such factory if he has obtained a license from the local
authority under this part of this act.
A person having such license from the local authority who manufactures an explo
sive (other than nitroglycerine or any prescribed explosive) for the purpose only of
the manufacture of colored fires or a manufactured firework in accordance with this
act, and does not sell the same except in the form of colored fires packed in the
manner required by this act, or of a manufactured firework, shall not be deemed to
manufacture an explosive in an unathorizod place.
49. Any person may apply for a small firework factory license to the local authority
at the time and place appointed by such authority, stating his name, address, and
calling, and the proposed site and construction of the factory, and the amount and
description of explosive he proposes to have therein, and in any building therein;
252
PIKE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
and the local authority shall, as soon as practicable, if the proposed site, construc
tion of the factory, and amount of explosive is in accordance with the order in coun
cil regulating small firework factories, grant to the applicant, on payment of such
fee, not exceeding 5 shillings, as may be fixed by that authority, the license applied
for.
The powers of this act of making orders in council with respect to stores and of
prescribing general rules with respect to stores shall extend to making orders in
council and prescribing general rules with respect to small firework factories and
the buildings thereon ; and any breach (by any act or default) of any such general
rule shall involve the same penalties and forfeitures as a breach of a general rule
relatiug to stores.
A small firework factory license shall be valid only for the person named in it, and
the provisions of this act with respect to the renewal, expiration, and form of store
licenses, and fees for such renewal, and to special rales for the regulation of persons
managing or employed in or about stores, shall apply in like manner as if they were
herein enacted, and in terms made applicable to small firework factory licenses and
small firework factories respectively.
50. A person shall not be required by this act to take out a license or to register
any premises for the keeping of percussion caps, or safety-fuzes for blasting, or fogsignals kept by any railway company for use on the railway of such company, or any
prescribed explosive.
It shall not be obligatory on any harbor authority, railway company, canal com
pany, or occupier of a wharf to make any by-laws with respect to the conveyance,
loading, or unloading of any explosives to which this section applies.
It shall be lawful for Her Majesty, by order in council, to exempt any explosive
to which this section applies, or any description thereof, from any other of the pro
visions of this act, or to declare that a license shall be required for the keeping of
any explosive to which this section applies, or any description thereof, or that by
laws shall be made with respect to the loading, unloading, and conveyance thereof.
EXISTING FACTORIES, MAGAZINES, AND STORES.
51. In any continuing certificate for a lawfully existing factory or magazine for
any explosive other than gunpowder, the regulations set out in the first schedule to
this act shall not form part of the terms of such certificate, but in lieu thereof the
secretary of state shall insert in the certificate as the terms thereof
(1) If the factory or magazine is for dynamite or any substance having nitro
glycerine as one of its component parte or ingredients, the conditions con
tained in the existing license, with such modifications (if any) as the sec
retary of state may think necessary in order to bring the same into
conformity with this act, and also any limitation of time for the expiration
of the license contained in the existing license, and also the existing power
of the secretary of state to revoke the license; and
(2) In any other case, such terms as the secretary of state may think expedient,
having regard to the conditions (if any) contained in the license under
which the factory or magazine is established; and such terms shall include
any limitation of time contained in such license, but shall not require the
removal of any lawfully existing building or work.
If a new license under this act is obtained for keeping in an existing gunpowder
store any explosive other than gunpowder, the continuing certificate of such store
shall be determined, and the store shall cease to be deemed to be an existing gun
powder store within the meaning of this act.
52. Where the license of a factory or magazine for any explosive other than gun
powder will expire within twelve months after the commencement of this act, the
occupier of such factory or magazine shall not require a continuing certificate under
this act, but until such license expires shall he entitled to use such factory or maga
253
zine in like manner a if thi act had not passed, without prejudice nevertheless to
any application by him for a license under this act for such factory or magazine, but
after a license under this act is obtained for the same, or after the expiration of the
old license, uch factory or magazine shall not be deemed to be a lawfully existing
factory or magazine within the meaning of this act.
The occupier of any magazine licensed at the time of the passing of this act by a
general magazine license under the nitro-glycerine act, 1869, shall not require a con
tinuing certificate under this act, but until the expiration of six months after the
commencement of this act shall be entitled to use such magazine in like manner a
if this act had not passed, without prejudice nevertheless to a license under this act
being obtained for the same; but after a license under this act is obtained for the
same, or after the expiration of the said six months, such license shall determine,
and such magazine shall not be deemed to be a lawfully existing magazine or store
within the meaning of this act.
The holder of any importation license under the nitro-glycerii act, 1869, shall,
until the expiration of six months after the commencement of this act, be entitled
to act under uch license in like manner as if this act had not passed, without pre
judice nevertheless to any application by him for an importation license under thi
act; but after such license under this act is obtained, or after the expiration of the
said six months, uch existing license shall determine.
P a r t I I I . A d m i n i s t r a t i o n o f L a w .
GOVERNMENT SUPERVISION INSPECTION.
53. Tho secretary of state may from time to time by order appoint any fit per
sons to be inspectors for the purposes of this act, and assign them their duties, and
award them such salaries as the commissioners of Her Majesty's treasury may ap
prove, and remove such inspectors, and any such inspector is referred to in this act
as a government inspector.
Every order appointing an inspector shall be published in the London Gazette.
54. Any person who practices or acts, or is a partner with any person who prac
tices or acts, as a manufacturer, torer, carrier, importer, or exporter of or trader or
dealer in an explosive, or holds any patent connected with an explosive, or is other
wise directly or indirectly engaged or interested in any such manufacture, storage,
conveyance, importation, exportation, trade, dealing, or patent, shall not act as an
inspector under this act.
55. A Government inspector shall have power to make such examination and in
quiry as may be necessary to ascertain whether this act is complied with; and for
that purpose
(1) He may enter, inspect, and examine any factory, magazine, or store of any
explosive, and every part thereof, at all times by day and night, but so as
not to unnecessarily impede or obstruct the work in such factory, maga
zine, or store, and may make inquiries as to tlie observance o f tliis net and
all matters and things relating to the safety of the public or of the persons
employed in or about such factory, magazine, or store ; and
(2) He may enter, inspect, and examine any premises registered under this act,
and every part thereof, in which any explosive is kept, or is reasonably
supposed by him to be kept, at all reasonable times by day ; and
(3) He may require tho occupier of any factory, magazine, store, or premie
which he is entitled, under this section, to enter, or a person employed by
uch occupier therein, to give him samples of any explosive or ingredients of
an explosive therein, or of any substance therein, and the keeping of
which is restricted or regulated by this act, or of any substance therein
which the inspector believe to be an explosive, or such ingredients or
ubtanoes.
254
The ooonpier of every such factory, magazine, store, and registered premises, hie
agents and servants, shall fnmish the means reqi ired by the inspector as necessary
for every such entry, inspection, examination, and inquiry.
Any person who fails to permit a government inspector to enter, inspect, examine,
or make inquiries in pursuance of this section, or to comply with any requisition of
such inspector in pursuance of this section, or who in any manner obstructs such
inspector in the execution of his duties under this act, shall be liable to a penalty
not exceeding 100 for each offense.
56. If in any matter (which is not provided for by any express provision of this
act) an inspecter find any factory, magazine, or store for an explosive, or any part
thereof, or any thing or practice therein or connected therewith, to be unnecessarily
dangerous or defective, so as in his opinion to tend to endanger the public safety or
the bodily safety of any person, such inspector may require the occupier of such
factory, magazine, or store to remedy the same.
Where the occupier objects to comply with the requisition he may require the
matter to be referred to arbitration in manner provided by this act.
No person shall be precluded by any contract from doing such acts as may be
necessary to comply with a requisition or award under this section; and no person
shall be liable under any contract to any penalty or forfeiture for doing those acts
if he gave notice of such contract to the inspector at or before the time at which the
inspector made the requisition or to the arbitrators before the award was made.
If the occupier fail to comply with the requisition or award within twenty days
after the expiration of the time for requiring the matter to be referred to arbitration,
if there is no reference to arbitration, or if there is such a reference after the date
of the award, he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 20 for every day during
which he so fails to comply.
Provided, That tho court, if satisfied that the occupier has taken active measures
for complying with the requisition or award, but has not, with reasonable diligence,
been able to complete the works, may adjourn any proceedings taken before them
for punishing such failure, and if the works are completed within a reasonable time
in the opinion of the court, no penalty shall be inflicted.
57. A report of the proceedings under this act shall be made annually to the sec
retary of state, by such inspectors and in such manner and form as may be directed
by him, and shall be laid before both Houses of Parliament.
58. Tho board of trade may from time to time, by order, direct
() Any person acting under the board as an inspector of railways to inquire
into the observance of this act by any railway company or canal company,
and generally to act with respect to any railway or canal as an inspector
under this act ; or
(6) Any person acting under the board as an inspector or otherwise for the pur
poses of the merchant shipping act, 1854, or tho acts amending the same,
to inquire into the observance of this act in any harbor or in the case of
any ship, and generally to act in such harbor aiJ. with respect to ships a
an inspector under this act.
The board of trade may revoke any such order; and each such inspector shall,
while such order is in force, have for that purpose the same powers and authorities a
he has under the acts in pursuance of which he was originally appointed inspector,
tor, and also the powers and authorities of a government inspector under this act.
59. Where a magazine or store is established for the purpose of any mine subject
to the coal mines regulation act, 1872, or the metalliferous mines regulation act, 1872,
by the owner (as defined by such act) of the mine, the secretary of state may from
time to time by order direct an inspector under either of those acts to act with re
spect to such magazine or store as a government inspector under this act, and may
revoke any such order ; and such inspector shall, while such order is in force, have
for that purpose the same powers and authorities as he has under the said acts, and
also the powers and authorities of a government inspector under this act.
255
60. A copy of any license confirmed by the secretary of state under this act, and
of any special rules under this act, certified by a government inspector, shall be
evidence of such license and special rules, respectively, and of the fact of such li
cense having been duly granted and confirmed and such special rules duly estab
lished under this act.
61. A government inspector, and any other person authorized by him for the pur
pose, may keep and convey any sample taken for the purposes of this act by or by
authority of each inspector, so that the amount of it do not exceed what is reason
ably necessary for the purpose of enabling such inspector to perform his duties
under this act, and be kept and carried with all due precautions to prevent accident ;
and such inspector or person shall not be liable to any penalty, punishment, or for
feiture under this or any other act for keeping or conveying such sample.
62. The salaries of the government inspectors, and the expenses incurred by the
secretary of state or the government inspectors in carrying this act into execution,
shall be defrayed out of moneys provided by Parliament.
ACCIDENTS.
63. Whenever there occurs any accident by explosion or fire in or about or in con
nection with any factory, magazine, or store, or any accident by explosion or by fire
causing loss of life or personal injury in or about or in connection with any regis
tered premises, the occupier of such factory, magazine, store, or premises shall forth
with send or cause to be sent notice of such accident and of the loss of life or per
sonal injury (if any) occasioned thereby to the secretary of state. A notice of any
accident of which notice is sent in pursuance of this section to a government
iilpector need not be sent to any inspector or subinspector of factories or any in
spector of mines.
Where in, about, or in connection with any carriage, ship, or boat, either convey
ing an explosive, or on or from which an explosive is being loaded or unloaded, there
occurs any accident by explosion or by fire causing loss of life or personal injury, or
if the amount of explosive conveyed or being so loaded or so unloaded exceeds in
the case of gunpowder half a ton, and in the case of any other explosive the pre
scribed amount, any accident by explosion or by fire, the owner or master of such
carriage, ship, or boat, and the owner of the explosive conveyed therein or being
loaded or unloaded therefrom, or one of them, shall forthwith send or cause to be
sent notice of such accident, and of the loss of life or personal injury, if any, occa
sioned thereby, to the secretary of state.
Every such occupier, owner, or master as aforesaid who fails to comply with this
section shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 20.
64. Where an accident by explosion or fire has occurred in, and wholly or partly
destroyed a factory magazine, or any magazine or store, the factory magazine, mag
azine, or store shall not be reconstructed, and any further supply of an explosive
shall not be put therein, except with the permission of the secretary of state ; and
any explosive put therein in contravention of this section shall be deemed to be
kept in an unauthorized place, and the offense may be punished accordingly:
Provided, That this enactment shall not prevent the reconstruction of a factory
magazine in any lawfully existing factory upon such site in the factory, and with
such precautions as may seem reasonable to the secretary of state, due regard being
had to the working of the factory as well as to the safety of the public and of the
persons employed therein.
Where an accident by explosion or fire in a factory has wholly or partly destroyed
any building of such factory as to which a government inspector has previously to
the accident sent to the occupier a notice that the building is unduly near to some
building or work outside the factory, such building shall be reconstructed only
upon such site in the factory and with snob precautions a may seem reasonable to
the secretary of state, due regard being had to the working of the factory as well
a to the safety of the publio and of the persons employed therein.
256
Where an accident by explosion or by fire in a factory has wholly or partly de

stroyed two or more buildings in such factory, not more than one of such buildings
shall be reconstructed except with the permision of the secretary of state : Pro
vided, That this enactment shall not apply to any buildings in a lawfully existing
factory, if either, both, or all such buildings are incorporated mills, or if as regards
any other buildings a government inspector has not previously to the accident sent
to the occupier a notice that such buildings are unduly near to each other.
Where a building is constructed on a different site in pursuance to this section,
the secretary of state shall cause the necessary alterations to be made in the license,
and such alterations shall be deemed part of the license.
The reconstruction of any building in contravention of this section shall be
deemed to be a breach of the terms of the license, and shall be punished accordingly.
65. With respect to coroners inquests on the bodies of persons whose death may
have been caused by the explosion of any explosive or by any accident in connection
with an explosive, the following provisions shall have effect :
(1) Where a coroner holds an inquest upon a body of any person whose death
may have been caused by any accident of which notice i required by this
act to be given to the secretary o f state, or by the explosion of any ex
plosive, the coroner shall adjourn such inquest unless a government in
spector, or some person on behalf of the secretary of state, is present to
watch the proceedings.
(2) The coroner, at least four days before holding the adjourned inquest, shall
send to the secretary of state notice in writing of the time and place of
holding the adjourned inquest.
(3) The coroner, before the adjournment, may take evidence to identify th
body, and may order the interment thereof.
(4) If an explosion or accident has not occasioned the death of more than one
person, and the coronor has sent to the secretary of state notice of the
time and place of holding the inquest not less than forty-eight hours be
fore the time of holding the same, it shall not be imperative on him to ad
journ such inquest in pursuance of this section, if the majority of the jury
think it unnecessary to adjourn.
(5) A Government inspector or person employed on behalf of the secretary of
state shall be at liberty at any such inquest to examine any witness, sub
ject nevertheless to the order of the coronor on points of law :
(6) Where evidence is given at an inquest at which no Government inspector or
person employed on behalf of the secretary of state is present, of any neg
lect as having caused or contributed to the explosion or accident, or of
any defect in or about or in connection with any factory, magazine, store,
or registered premises, or any carriage, ship, or boat carrying an explosive,
appearing to the coroner or jury to require a remedy, the coroner shall
send to the secretary of state notice in writing of such neglect or defect.
66. The secretary of state may direct an inquiry to be made by a Government in
spector into the cause of any accident which is caused by an explosion or fire, either
in connection with any explosive, or of which notice is required by thin act to be
given to the secretary of state, and where it appears to the secretary of state, either
before or after the commencement of any such inquiry, that a more formal investi
gation of the accident, and of the causes thereof, and of the circumstances attending
the same, is expedient, the secretary of state may by order direct such investigation
to be held, and with respect to such inquiry and investigation the following pro
visions shall have effect:
(1) The secretary of state may, by the same or any subsequent order, appoint
any person or persons possessing legal or special knowledge to assist the
Government inspector in holding the formal investigation, or may direct the
county court j udge,stipendiary magistrate, metropolitan police magistrate,
SUPPLEMENT----BRITISH EXPLOSIVE LAWS.
(2)
(S)
(4)
(5)
(6)
257
or other person or persons named in the same or any subsequent order, to

hold tho same with the assistance of a Government inspector or any other
assessor or assessors named in the order:
The persons holding any such formal investigation (in this section referred
to as the court) shall hold the same in open court in such manner and un
der such conditions as they may think most effectual for ascertaining the
causes and circumstances of the accident, and enabling them to make the
report in this section mentioned:
The court shall have for the purpose of such investigation all the powers of
a court of summary jurisdiction when acting as a court in hearing infor
mations for offenses against this act, and all the powers of a Government
inspector under this act, and in addition the following powers, namely :
() They may enter and inspect any place or building, the entry or inspec
tion whereof appears to them requisite for the said purpose ; (b) They may
by summons under their hands require the attendance of all such persons
a they think fit to call before them and examine for the said purpose, and
may for such purpose require answers or returns to such inquiries a they
think fit to make; (c) They may require the production of all books,
papers, and documents which they consider important for the said pur
pose; (d) They may administer an oath, and require any person ex
amined to make and sign a declaration of the truth of the statements made
by him in his examination ; (e) Persons attending as witnesses before the
court shall be allowed such expenses as would be allowed to witnesses at
tending before a court of record; and in case of dispute as to the amount
to be allowed, the same shall be referred by the court to a master of one of
the superior courts, who, on request under the hands of the members of
the court, shall ascertain and certify the proper amount of such expense ;
The Government inspector making an inquiry into any accident and the
court holding an investigation of any accident under this section shall
make a report to the secretary of state, stating the causes of the accident
and all the circumstances attending the same, and any observations thereon
or on the evidence or on any matters arising out of the inquiry or investi
gation which he or they think right to make to the secretary of state, and
the secretary of state shall cause every such report to be made public in
such manner as he thinks expedient ;
All expenses incurred in and about an inquiry or investigation under thi
section shall be deemed to be part of the expenses of the secretary of state
in carrying this act into execution; and
Any person who, without reasonable excuse (proof whereof shall lie on him),
either fails, after having had the expenses (if any) to which he i entitled
tendered to him, to comply with any summons or requisition of a court
holding an investigation under this act, or prevents or impedes such court
in the execution of their duty, shall for every such offense incur a penalty
not exceeding 10, and in the case of a failure to comply with a requisi
tion for making any return or producing any document, not exceeding 10
during every day that such failure continue.
LOCAL SUPERVISION. DEFINITION AND POWERS OF LOCAL AUTHORITY.
67. The local authority, for the purpoe of this act, shall be
(1) In the city of London, except as hereafter in this section mentioned, the
court of the lord mayor and aldermen of the said city; and
(2) In the metropolis (that i, in places for the time being within the jurisdic
tion of the metropolitan board of works under the metropolis manage
ment act, 1855), except the city of London, and except a hereafter in thi
ection mentioned, the metropolitan board of works; and
146a ------ 17
258
FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOEEIGN COUNTRIES.
(3) In any borough in England which is not assessed to the county late of any
county by the justices of such county, except as hereafter in this section
mentioned, tho mayor, aldermen, and burgesses acting by the council; and
(4) In any harbor within the jurisdiction of a harbor authority, whether
situate or not withiu the jurisdiction of any local authority before in this
section mentioned, the harbor authority, to the exclusion of any other
local authority; and
(5) In any place in which there is no local authority, as before in this section de
fined, the justices in petty sessions assembled.
68. The council of any borough which is assessed to te county rate of any county
by the justices of such county and tho commissioners of any improvement district
may by order of a secretary of state made upon the application of such council or
commissioners, and published in the London Gazette, bo declared to be a local au
thority for the purposes of this act, and thereupon shall become a local authority
accordingly for such part of their borough or district as is not included in any har
bour, to the exclusion of the justices in petty sessions.
69. It shall be the duty of every local authority to carry into effect within their
jurisdiction the powers vested in them under this act.
Any officer authorized by the local authority may, on producing, if demanded,
either a copy of his authority purporting to be certified by the clerk or some mem
ber of the local authority, or some other sufficient evidence of liis authority, re
quire the occupier of any store (not being subject to the inspection under this act of
any inspector of mines) or any registered premises, or any small firework factory, to
show him every or any place and all or any of the receptacles in which any explo
sive or ingredient of an explosive, or any substance the keeping of which is re
stricted or regulated by this act, that is in lii possession is kept, and to give him
samples of such explosive, ingredient, or substence, or of any substance which the
officer believes to be an explosive or such ingredient or substance.
Any occupier of a store or registered premises or a small firework factory who re
fuses to comply with any such requisition of an officer of the local authority, or to
give him such assistance as lie may require for the purpose of this section, or who
wilfully obstructs the local authority, or any officer of the local authority, in the
execution of this act, shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 20.
70. All expenses incurred by any local authority in carrying into effect the execu
tion of this act, including the salary and expenses of any officer directed by them to
act under this act, shall be paid out of the local rate. The local rate shall for the
purposes of this act mean as follows ; that is to say,
In the city of London the consolidated rate ;
In the metropolis (exclusive of the city of London) the consolidated rate as
levied in the metropolis exclusive of the city of London, and without any
demand on such city ;
In a borough the borough fund or borough rate;
In a harbor any moneys, fund, or rate applicable or leviable by the harbor au
thority for any harbor purposes ;
In any place where the justices in petty sessions are the local authority the
county rate ; and
In an improvement district any fund, moneys, or rate applicable or leviable by
the improvement commissioners for any purposes of improvement within
their district;
And the local rate or any increase of the local rate may, notwithstanding any
limitation in any act, be levied for the purposes of this act.
POWER OF LOCAL AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE CARRIAGES AND MAGAZINES.
71. Every harbor authority and canal company shall, in addition to any other
powers they may have for the like purpose, have power to provide carriages, ships,
259
and boats for the conveyance, loading, or unloading of an explosive within the juris
diction of such authority or company, and may charge a reasonable sum fixed by
a y-law under this act for the use of such carriage, ship, or boat.
72. Where any local authority other than justices in petty sessions satisfy the
secretary of state that the erection of a magazine by such authority, either within
or without their jurisdiction, for the keeping of any explosive, would conduce to
the safety of the public within their jurisdiction, and would not be injurious to any
harbor or urban sanitary district out of their jurisdiction, the secretary of state
may grant a license under this act for such magazine.
Where the magazine is without the jurisdiction of the local authority erecting the
same, the assent of the local authority within whose jurisdiction the site is situate
to such site shall be applied for in manner provided by this act, and when the maga
zine is within the said jurisdiction, notice of the application to the secretary of state
for the license shall be given in like manner as notice of the intention to apply for
the assent of the local authority to a site is required by this act to be given.
The local authority may, for the purpose of any such license, acquire any land or
right over land, or appropriate any land or right belonging to them, and acquire or
build a magazine, and may maintain and manage such magazine, and may charge
for the use by persons of any such magazine such reasonable sums as they may from
time to time, with the approval of the secretary of state, fix.
Such sums shall be applied in aid of the local rate, and the expenses incurred for
the purposes of this section may be defrayed out of the local rate, and the local
authority may borrow on the security of the local rate the amount required for the
purpose of acquiring any land or right over land, or acquiring or building a maga
zine iu pursuance of this section.
Any such loan shall be made with the approval, in the case of a council, of the
treasury, and in the case of improvement commissioners, of the local government
board, and in the case of a harbor authority, of the board of trade.
For the purpose of such borrowing the clauses of the commissioners clauses
act, 1847, with respect to the mortgages to be executed by the commissioners, shall
be incorporated with thi act, and in the construction of those clauses for the pur
pose of this act, this act shall be deemed to be the special act, and the local author
ity which is borrowing shall be deemed to be the commissioners.
For the purpose of the purchase of any land or right over land for the purpose of
T> section, the lands clauses consolidation act, 1845, and the acts amending
the same (except so much as relates to the purchase of land otherwise than by
agreement), shall be incorporated with this section, and in construing those acts for
the purposes of this section the special act shall be construed to mean this act, and
the promoters of the undertaking shall be construed to mean the local authority,
and land shall be construed to include any right over land.
Where any offense under this act is committed in or about any magazine erected
in pursuance of this section, such offense may be prosecuted and tried, and the pen
alty and forfeiture therefor recovered either the county or place in which the
magazine is situate, or in any adjoining county or place.
GENERAI. POWER OF SEARCH.
73. Where any of the following officersnamely, any Government inspector or

any constable or any officer of the local authority, if such constable or officer is
specially authorized either (a) by a warrant of a justice (which warrant such justice
may grant upon reasonable ground being assigned on oath), or (b) (where it appears
to a superintendent or other officer of police of equal or superior rank, or to a Gov
ernment inspector, that the case is one of emergency and that the delay in obtaining
a warrant would be likely to endanger life) by a written order from such superin
tendent, officer, or inspectorlias reasonable cause to believe that any offense has
been or is being committed with respect to on explosive in any place (whether a
260
building or not, or a carriage, boat, or ship), or that any explosive is in any such
place in contravention of this act, or that the provisions of this act are not duly
observed in any such place, such officer may, on producing, if demanded, in the case
of a Government inspector a copy of his appointment, and in the case of any other
officer his authority, enter at any time, and if needs be by force, and as well on
Sunday as on other days, the said place, and every part thereof, and examine the
same, and search for explosives therein, and take samples of any explosive and in
gredient of an explosive therein, and any substance reasonably supposed to be an
explosive, or such ingredient which may be found therein.
Any person who, by himself or by others, fails to admit into any place occupied
by or under the control of such person any officer demanding to enter in pursuance
of this section, or in any way obstructs such officer in the execution of his duty
under this section, shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 50, and shall also be
liable to forfeit all explosives, and ingredients thereof, which are at the time of the
offence in his possession or under his control at tbe said place.
Where a constable or officer of the local authority specially authorized by written
authority other than a warrant of a justice of the peace, enters and searches as above
provided, a special report in writing of every act done by such constable or officer
in pursuance of that authority, and of the grounds on which it is done, shall be
forthwith sent by the person by whom or under whose authority it was done to the
secretary of state.
74.
Where any of the following officers, namely, any Government inspector, or any
constable, or any officer of the local authority, has reasonable cause to believe that any
explosive or ingredient of an explosive or substance found by him is liable to be for
feited under this act, he may seize and detain the same until some court of summary
jurisdiction has determined whether the same is or is not so liable to be forfeited,
and with respect thereto the following provisions shall have effect:
(1) The officer seizing may either require the occupier of the place in which it
was seized (whether a building or not, or a carriage, boat, or ship) to de
tain the same in such place or in any place under tho control of such occu
pier, or may remove it in such manner and to such place as will in his
opinion least endanger the public safety, and there detain it, and may,
where the matter appears to him to be urgent and fraught with serious
public danger, and he is a Government inspector, or is authorized by an
order from a Government inspector or a justice of the peace, or from a
superintendent or other officer of police of equal or superior rank, cause
the same to be destroyed or otherwise rendered harmless ; but before de
stroying or rendering harmless the same he shall take and keep a sample
thereof, and shall, if required, give a portion of the sample to the person
owning the explosive, or having the same under his control at the time of
the seizure; and any such occupier who, by himself or by others, fails to
keep the same when he is required in pursuance of this section to detain
it, and any such occupier or other person who, except with the authority
of the officer seizing the same, or of a Government inspector, or in case of
emergency for the purpose of preventing explosion or fire, removes, alters,
or in any way tampers or deals with the same while so detained, shall be
liable to a penalty not exceeding 50, and shall also be liable to forfeit
all explosives, and ingredients thereof, which are at the time of the offense
in his possession or under his control at the said place.
(2) The proceedings before a court of summary jurisdiction for determining
whether the same i or is not liable to forfeiture shall be commenced as
soon as practicable after the seizure; and
(3) The receptacles containing the same may be seized, detained, and removed
in like manner as the contents thereof; and
(4) The officer seizing the same may use for the purposes of the removal and de
tention thereof any ship, boat, or carriage in which the same was seized,
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and any tug, tender, engine, tackle, beasts, and accouterments belonging
to or drawing or provided for drawing such ship, boat, or carriage, and
shall pay to the owner a reasonable compensation for such use, to be de
termined, in case of dispute, by a court of summary jurisdiction, and to be
recovered in like manner as penalties under this act; and
(5) The same shall, so far as practicable, be kept and conveyed in accordance
with this act, and with all due precaution to prevent accident, bnt the
person seizing, removing, detaining, keeping, or conveying the same shall
not be liable to any penalty, punishment, or forfeiture under this or any
other act, or to any damages, for keeping or conveying the same, so that
he use all such due precautions as aforesaid; and
(6) The officer seizing the same, or dealing with the same in pursuance of this
section, shall not be liable to damages or otherwise in respect of sucli
seizure or dealing, or any act incidental to or consequential thereon, unless
it is proved that he made such seizure without reasonable cause, or that
he caused damage to the article seized by some wilful neglect or default.
75. Any of the following officers, namely, any Government inspector under this
act, any chief officer of police, and any superior officer appointed for the purposes
of this act where the justices in petty sessions are the local authority, by the court
of quarter sessions to which such justices belong, and in the case of any other local
authority by the local authority itself, may, for the purpose of ascertaining whether
the provisions of this act, with respect to the conveyance, loading, unloading, and
importation of an explosive are complied with, enter, inspect, and examine at any
time, and as well on Sundays as on other days, the wharf, carriage, ship, or boat of
any carrier or other person who conveys goods for hire, or of the occupier of any
factory, magazine, or store, or of the importer of any explosive, on or in which
wharf, carriage, ship, or boat he has reasonable cause to suppose an explosive to be
for the purpose of or in course of conveyance, but so as not to unnecessarily obstruct
the work or business of any such carrier, person, occupier, or importer.
Any such officer, if he find any offense being committed under this act in any such
wharf, carriage, ship, or boat, or on any public wharf, may seize and detain or re
move the said carriage, ship, or boat, or the explosive, in such manner and with such
precautions as appear to him to be necessary to remove any danger to the public,
and may seize and detain the said explosive, as if it were liable to forfeiture.
Any officer above mentioned in this section, and any officer of police, or officer of
the local authority who has reasonable cause to suppose that any offense against this
act is being committed in respect of any carriage (not being on a railway) or any
boat conveying, loading, or unloading any explosive, and that the case is one of
emergency, and that the delay in obtaining a warrant will be likely to endanger
life, may stop, and enter, inspect, and examine such carriage or boat, and by deten
tion or removal thereof or otherwise take such precautions as may be reasonably
necessary for removing such danger, in like manner as if such explosives were liable
to forfeiture.
Every officer shall, for the purpose of this eotion, have the same powers and be
in the same position as if he were authorized by a search warrant granted under this
act, and any person failing to admit or obstructing such officer shall be liable to the
same penalty.
76. When a Government inspector, constable, or officer of the local authority in
pursuance of this act takes amples of any explosive, or ingredient, or substance, he
shall pay for or tender payment for the same to such amount as he considers to be
the market value thereof, and the occupier of the place in which, or the owner of
the bulk from which, the sample was taken may recover any excess of the real value
over the amount so paid or tendered, and any amount so tendered, from the inspector,
constable, or officer taking the sample as a debt in the county court of the district
within which the sample was taken.
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P a r t I V . S u p p l e m e n t a l P r o v i s i o n s , L e g a l P r o c e e d i n g s , E x e m p t i o n s , a n d
D e f in it io n s .
su p p l e m e n t a l p r o v is io n s .
77. Any person who enters without permission or otherwise trespasses upon any
factory, magazine, or store, or the land immediately adjourning thereto which is oc
cupied by the occupier of such factory, magazine, or store, or on any wharf for which
by-laws are made by the occupier thereof under this act, shall for every such offense,
if not otherwise punishable, be liable to a penalty not exceeding 5, and may be
forthwith removed from such factory, magazine, store, land, or wharf, by any con
stable, or by the occupier of such factory, magazine, store, or wharf, or any agent
or servant of or other person authorized by such occupier.
A ny person other than the occupier of or person employed in or about any factory,
magazine, or store who is found committing any act which tends to cause explosion
or fire in or about such factory, magazine, or store shall be liable to a penalty not
exceeding 50.
The occupier of any such factory, magazine, store, or wharf shall post up in some
conspicuous place or places a notice or notices warning all persons of their liability
to penalties under this section; but the absence of any such notice or notices shall
not exempt a person from a penalty under this section.
78. Any person who is found committing any act for which he is liable to a pen
alty under this act, and which tends to cause explosion or fire in or about any fac
tory, magazine, store, railway, canal, harbor, or wharf, or any carriage, ship, or
boat, may be apprehended without a warrant by a constable, or an officer of the
local authority, or by the occupier of or the agent or servant of or other person au
thorized by the occupier of such factory, magazine, store, or wharf, or by any agent
or servant of or other person authorized by the railway or canal company or harbor
authority, and be removed from the place at which he is arrested, and conveyed as
soon as conveniently may be before a court of summary jurisdiction.
79. Where any person is guilty of any offense which under this act is punishable
by a pecuniary penalty only, and which, in the opinion of the court that tries the
case, was reasonably calculated to endanger the safety of or to cause serious per
sonal injury to any of the public or the persons employed in or about any factory,
magazine, store, or registered premises, or any harbor, railway, canal, wharf, ship,
boat, carriage, or place where such offense is committed, or to cause a dangerous
accident, and was committed willfully by the personal act, personal default, or per
sonal negligence of the person accused, such person shall be liable, if the court is
of opinion that a pecuniary penalty will not meet the circumstances of the case, to
imprisonment, with or without hard labor, for a period not exceeding six months.
80. If any person throw, cast, or firo any fireworks in or into any highway, street,
thoroughfare, or public place he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 5.
81. Every person who forges or counterfeits any license, certificate, document, or
plan granted or required in pursuance or for the purposes of this act, or gives or
signs any such document or plan which is to his knowledge false in any material
particular, or willfully makes use of any such forged, counterfeit, or false license,
certificate, document, or plan, shall be liable to imprisonment, with or without hard
labor, for a term not exceeding two years.
82. Every person who, without due authority, pulls down, injures, or defaces any
notice, copy of rules, or document, when affixed in pursuance of this act, or of the
special rules, shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 2.
83. Her Majesty may from time to time make orders in council for doing anything
which is in this act expressed to be authorized, directed, regulated, prescribed, or
done by order in council.
Every order in council or order of the secretary of state which purports to be
made in pursuance of this act shall be presumed to have been duly made and to be
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within the powers of this act, and no objection to the legality thereof shall be en
tertained in any legal proceeding whatever.
Every order in council made in pursuance of this act shall take effect a if it
were enacted in this act, and shall be published in the London Gazette, and shall
be laid before both houses of Parliament within one month after it is made, if Par
liament be then sitting, or if not, within one month after the commencement of the
then next session of Parliament.
Her Majesty may by order in council, and a secretary of state may by order,
from time to time revoke, add to, or alter any previous orders in council or orders
of the secretary of state, as the case may be, under this act.
84. All by-laws, notices, and documents directed by this act to be published or
advertised shall, save as otherwise provided by this act, be published in the place
which such notices and documents affect, by advertisement in some newspapers cir
culating generally in such place, or by placards or handbills, or in such manner as
the secretary of state may from time to time direct as being in his opinion suffi
cient for giving information thereof to all persons interested.
85. All orders, permissions, notices, and documents issued or given by the secre
tary of state for the purposes of this act, and all notices under this act, shall be in
writing or print, or partly in writing and partly in print, and all notices and docu
ments required by this act to be served, given, or sent by, on, or to a Government
inspector or secretary of state may be sent by post, by a prepaid letter, and if sent
by post shall be deemed to have been served, given, and received respectively at
the time when the letter containing the same would be delivered in the ordinary
course of post ; and in proving such service, giving, or sending, it shall be sufficient
to prove that the letter containing the notice was properly addressed and prepaid
and put into the post.
All notices and documents directed by or required for the purposes of this act to
be given or sent to the secretary of state shall, if sent to a Government inspector
under this act, be deemed to have been sent to the secretary of state.
All notices and documents directed by or required for the purposes of this act to
be given or sent to a local authority may be sent, by post or otherwise, to the clerk
or office of the local authority, or delivered to some person employed by them for
the purposes of this act.
86. Where any enactment refers to any power of searching for gunpowder, or to
any provisions of an act of the twelfth year of King George the Third, chapter 61, or
of any act repealed by this act relative to the search for gunpowder, such enactment
shall be deemed to refer to the provisions of this act wich respect to the search for
and seizure, detention, and removal of an explosive by a Government inspector.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
87. Where any offense under this act for which the occupier of any factory, mag
azine, store, or registered premises is liable to a penalty or forfeiture has in fact been
committed by some other person, such other person shall be liable to a penalty not
exoeeding
20.
Where such occupier is charged with an offense so committed by some other per
son, the occupier shall be exempt from any penalty and forfeiture upon proving that
he had supplied proper means and issued proper orders for the observance and used
due diligence to enforce the observance of this act, and that the offense in question
was actually committed by some other person without his connivance, and if the ac
tual offender be alive, that he has taken all practicable means in his power to pros
ecute such offender to conviction.
Where a Government inspector, or an officer of the local authority, or the local au
thority, is satisfied, before instituting a proceeding for any offense under this aot
against an occupier, that such occupier, if such proceeding were instituted against
m; would, under the foregoing provisions of his section, upon taking all practio-
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able means in his power to prosecute the actual offender to conviction, be exempt
from any penalty and forfeiture, and the occupier gives all facilities in his power for
proceeding against and convicting the person whom the inspector, officer, or local
authority believes actually to have committed the offense, the inspector, officer, or
local authority shall proceed against that person in the first instance, without first
proceeding against the occupier.
The occupier or other defendant, when charged in respect of any offense by an
other person, may, if he think fit, be sworn and examined as an ordinary witness in
the case.
Where an offense under this act for which any warehouseman, carrier, occupier of
a wharf or dock, or owner or master of any ship, boat, or carriage, is liable to a
penalty or forfeiture, has in fact been committed by some other person, this section
shall apply in like manner as if the warehouseman, carrier, occupier of a wharf or
dock, owner, or master were such an occupier as above in this section mentioned.
88. Where a carrier or owner or master of a ship or boat is prevented from com
plying with this act by the willful act, neglect, or default of the consignor or con
signee of the explosive, or other person, or by the improper refusal of the consignee
or other person to accept delivery of the explosive, such consignor, consignee, or
other person who is guilty of such willful act, neglect, default, or refusal shall be lia
ble to the same penalty to which the carrier, owner, or master is liable for a breach
of this act, and his conviction shall exempt the carrier, owner, or master from any
penalty or forfeiture under this act.
89. Where a court before whom a person is convicted of an offense against this act
has power to forfeit any explosive owned by or found in the possession or under the
control of such person, the court may, if it think it just and expedient, in lien of
forfeiting such explosive, impose upon such person, in addition to any other penalty
or punishment, a penalty not exceeding such sum as appears to the court to be the
value of the explosive so liable to be forfeited.
Where any explosive, or ingredient of an explosive, is alleged to be liable under
this act to be forfeited, any indictment, information, or complaint may be laid
against the owner of such explosive or ingredient for the purpose only of enforcing
such forfeiture, and where the owner is unknown, or can not be found, a court may
cause a notice to be advertised, stating that unless cause is shown to the contrary
at the time and place named in the notice, such explosive will be forfeited, and at
uch time and place the court, after hearing the owner or any person on his behalf
(who may be present), may order all or any part of such explosive or ingredient to
be forfeited.
90. For all the purposes of this act
(1) Any harbor, tidal water, or inland water which runs between or abuts on or
forms the boundary of the jurisdiction of two or more courts shall be
deemed to be wholly within the jurisdiction of each of such courts ; and
(2) Any tidal water not included in the foregoing descriptions, and within the
territorial jurisdiction of Her Majesty, and adjacent to or surrounding
any part of the shore of the United Kingdom, and any pier, jetty, mole,
or work extending into the same, shall be deemed to form part of the
shore to which such water or part of the sea is adjacent, or which it sur
rounds.
91. Every offense under this act may be prosecuted and every penalty under thi
act may be recovered, and all explosives and ingredients liable to be forfeited under
this act may be forfeited, either on indictment or before a court of summary j uridiotion in manner directed by the summary jurisdiction acts.
Provided, That the penalty imposed by a court of summary jurisdiction shall not
exceed 100 exclusive of coats, and exclusive of any forfeiture or penalty in lieu of
forfeiture, and the term of imprisonment imposed by any uch court shall notexoeed
one month.
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All costs and money directed to be recovered as penalties may be recovered before
a court of summary jurisdiction in manner directed by the summary jurisdiction
acts.
A court of summary jurisdiction may by order prohibit a person from doing any
act for doing which such person has twice been convicted under this act, and may
order any person disobeying such summary order to be imprisoned for any period not
exceeding six months.
92. Where a person is accused before a court of summary jurisdiction of any offense
under this act, the penalty for which offense as assigned by this act, exclusive of for
feiture, exceeds 100, the accused may, on appearing before the court of summary
jurisdiction, declare that he objects to being tried for such offense by a court of
summary jurisdiction, and thereupon the court of summary jurisdiction may deal
with the case in all respects as if the accused were charged with an indictable offense
and not an offense punishable on summary conviction, and the offense may be pros
ecuted on indictment accordingly.
93. If any party feels aggrieved by any summary order made by a court of summary
jurisdiction under this act, or by any order or conviction made by a court of sum
mary jurisdiction in determining any complaint or information under this act, by
which order or conviction the sum adjudged to be paid, including costs and includ
ing the value of any forfeiture, exceeds 20, the party so aggrieved may appeal
therefrom to quarter sessions, in manner provided with respect to an appeal to quar
ter sessions by section 110 of the act of the session of the twenty-fourth and twentyfifth years of the reign of her present Majesty, chapter 26.
94. The court of summary jurisdiction, when hearing and determining an informa
tion or complaint in respect of any offense under this act, shall be constituted either
of two or more justices of the peace in petty sessions sitting at a place appointed
for holding petty sessions, or of some magistrate or officer sitting alone or with
others at some court or other place appointed for the administration of justice, and
for the time being empowered by law to do alone any act authorized to be done by
more than one justice of the peace.
95. Where the owner or master of a ship or boat is adjudged to pay a penalty for
an offense committed with or in relation to such ship or boat, the court may, in addi
tion to any other power they may have for the purpose of compelling payment of
such penalty, direct the same to be levied by distress or arrestment and sale of the
said ship or boat and her tackle.
96. All penalties imposed in pursuance of this act by a court of summary jurisdic
tion upon the prosecution of a Government inspector shall, notwithstanding anything
in any other act, be paid into the receipt of Her Majestys exchequer in such man
ner as the Treasury may from time to time direct, and be carried to the consolidated
fund.
Any explosive or ingredient forfeited in pursuance of this act may be sold, de
stroyed, or otherwise disposed of in such manner as the court declaring the forfeiture,
or the secretary of state, may direct, and the proceeds of any such sale or disposal
shall be paid, applied, and accounted for in like manner as penalties under this act.
The receptacle containing any such explosive or ingredient may be forfeited, sold,
destroyed, or otherwise disposed of in like manner as the contents thereof.
The provisions of part 3 of this act with respect to an explosive, or ingredient of
an explosive, seized in pursuance of this act, and to the officer seizing, removing,
detaining, keeping, or conveying, or otherwise dealing with the same, shall apply
to any explosive and ingredient declared by any court to be forfeited, and to the
officer removing, detaining, keeping, conveying, selling, destroying, or otherwise
disposing of the same.
The court declaring the forfeiture, or the secretary of state, directing the sale or
other disposal of any forfeited explosive or ingredient, and the receptacles thereof,
may require the owner of such explosive or ingredient to permit the use of any ship,
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boat, or carriage containing such explosive or ingredient for the purpose of such
sale or disposal, upon payment of a reasonable compensation for the same, to be de
termined in case of dispute by a court of summary jurisdiction ; and where the ex
plosive or ingredient is directed to be destroyed, the owner and the person having
possession of such explosive or ingredient, and the owner and master of the ship,
boat, or carriage containing the same, or some or one of them, shall destroy the same
accordingly, and if the court or secretary of state so order, the ship, boat, or car
riage may be detained until the same is so destroyed ; and if the secretary of state
is satisfied that default has been made in complying with any such direction by him
or by a court, and that the detention of the ship, boat, or carriage will not secure
the safety of the public, and that it is impracticable, having regard to the safety of
the public or of the persons employed in such destruction, to effect the same without
using such ship, boat, or carriage, or otherwise dealing with such ship, boat, or car
riage in like manner as if it were a receptacle for an explosive forfeited under this
act, the secretary of state may direct such ship, boat, and carriage, or any of them,
to be, and the same may accordingly be, so used or dealt with.
EXEMPTIONS AND SAYINGS.
97. This act shall not apply

(1) To any factory, magazine, store, premises, wharf, place, or explosive under
the control of a secretary of state, the commissioners of the admiralty,
or other department of the Government, or otherwise held for the service
of the Crown, or to the manufacture, keeping, or importation of such
explosive; or
(2) To any of Her Majestys ships, boats, or carriages; or
(3) To the keeping or making up or adapting for use of any explosive issued
by or by the authority of a secretary of state for the use of any volunteer
corps or administrative regiment, or by the authority of the commission
ers of the admiralty for the use of any force under the control of those
commissioners, so far as such explosive is kept, made up, and adapted for
use in accordance with the regulations of the secretary of state or the
said commissioners, as the case may be ; or
(4) To any storehouse appointed for receiving any such explosive as last
above mentioned, in pursuance of section twenty-six of the volunteer act,
1863, and any act amending the same, or otherwise, if such storehouse is
approved by the secretary of state or the commissioners of the admiralty,
as the case may be, as a fit place for the storing of such explosive, and
is managed in accordance with the regulations of a secretary of state or
such commissioners for the management of such storehouses, or for the
management of the like storehouses appointed for the use of Her Majesty's
army or navy ; or
(5) To the conveyance of any explosive under the control of a secretary of state,
the commissioners of the admiralty, or other department of the Govern
ment, or to the conveyance of any explosive otherwise held for the service
of the Crown, when the same is being conveyed in accordance with the
regulations of a secretary of state or the commissioners of admiralty or
other department of the Government :
Provided, That every person who enters without permission or otherwise trespasses
upon any factory, magazine, or storehouse above in this section mentioned or the
land immediately adjoining thereto in the occupation of the Crown or of a secretary
of state or the commissioners of the admiralty or other department of the Govern
ment, or if it adjoin such a storehouse in the occupation of the officer or person in
whom such storehouse is vested, and any person found committing any act tending
to cause explosion or fire in or about such factory, magazine, or storehouse, shall be
liable to the like penalty, and may be removed and arrested in like manner as if this
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section had not been enacted and this act applied to such factory, magazine, or
storehouse, as above in this section mentioned.
98. This act shall not apply
(1) To the keeping of any rockets for use in any apparatus for saving life, kept
under the control of the commissioners of the admiralty of the board of
trade; or
(2) To the keeping of any explosive kept for the purpose of signaling at or
near a station on the seacoast, under the control of any general light-house
authority, as defined by the merchant shipping act, 1854.
99. Nothing in this act with respect to the keeping of gunpowder shall apply to
any vessel for the storage of gunpowder moored in the river Mersey at a place
appointed either before or after the passing of this act in pursuance of the act of
the session of the fourteenth and fifteenth years of the roign of Her present Majesty,
chapter 67, entitled An act to repeal so much of an act of the twelfth year of King
George the Third relating to the making, keeping, and carriage of gunpowder as
exempts therefrom certain gunpowder magazines and stores near Liverpool, and to
make certain temporary provisions with regard to the said magazines and stores;
nor shall anything in this act affect the powers of the commissioners of the admi
ralty or a secretary of state or the commissioners for the conservancy of the river
Mersey under the said act :
Provided, That any explosive other than gunpowder shall not be kept in suoh ves
sel except in pursuance of a license under this act.
100. Nothing in this act shall render liable to any penalty or forfeiture the owner
or master of any ship or boat, or any carrier or warehouseman, or the person having
charge of any carriage, for any act done in breach of this act, if he prove that, by
reason of stress of weather, inevitable accident, or other emergency, the doing of
such act was, under the circumstances, necessary and proper.
101. Where any gunpowder, rockets, or other explosive are on board any ship in
pusuance of the provisions of the merchant shipping act, 1854, and the acts amend
ing the same, or any order or regulation made under any of those acts, nothing in
this act shall apply to such gunpowder, rockets, or explosive, except that tho con
veyance and the keeping thereof on board the ship or elsewhere while the ship is in
harbor shall be subject to the by-laws under this act, and by-laws under this act may
be made for regulating such conveyance and keeping.
102. This act shall not, save as is herein expressly provided, exempt any person
from any action or suit in respect of any nuisance, tort, or otherwise, which might,
but for the provisions of this act, have been brought against him.
This act shall not exempt any person from any indictment or other proceeding for
a nuisance or for an offense which is indictable at common law or by any act of
Parliament other than this act, so that no person be punished twice for the same
offense.
When proceedings are taken before any court against any person in respect of any
offense under this act, which is also an offense indictable at common law or by some
act of Parliament other than this act, the court may direct that, instead of such pro
ceedings being continued, proceedings shall be taken for indicting such person at
common law or under some act of Parliament other than this act.
A continuing certificate granted under this act shall not make lawful any factory,
magazine, or store, or any part thereof which immediately before the passing of
this act was unlawful.
103. All powers given by this act shall be deemed to be in addition to and not in
derogation of any other powers conferred on any local authority by act of Parlia
ment, but the secretary of state may, on the application of any local authority, or
o f any council of a borough, or any urban sanitary authority, or on the application
of any person making, keeping, importing, exporting, or selling any exploive within
the jurisdiction of any local authority, council, or urban sanitary authority, after
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notice to uch authority, make an order for repealing, altering, or amending all or
any of the proviions of any act of Parliament, charter, or custom respecting the
manufacture, keeping, conveyance, importation, exportation, or sale of an explosive,
or the powers of such council or authority for regulating the same, or otherwise in
relation to an explosive.
Notice of the draft of every such order shall be advertised not less than one month
before the order is made, and the secretary of state shall consider all objections to
uch draft order sent to him in writing during the said month, and shall, if it seem
to him necessary, direct a local inquiry into the validity of any such objections.
Any such order shall be of no force unless confirmed by Parliament, but when so
confirmed shall have effect, with such modifications or alterations as may be therein
made by Parliament.
If, while a bill confirming any such order is pending in either House of Parliament,
a petition is presented against such order, the bill, so far as it relates to such order,
may be referred to a select committee, and the petitioner shall be allowed to appear
and oppose the same as in the case of a bill for a private act.
An order under this section may also be made for revoking or altering an order
under this section previously made and confirmed by Parliament.
DEFINITIONS.
104. Her Majesty may, by order in council, declare that any substance which appears
to Her Majesty to be specially dangerous to life or property, by reason either of it
explosive properties or of any process in the manufacture thereof being liable to
explosion, shall be deemed to be an explosive within the meaning of this act, and the
provisions of this act (subject to such exceptions, limitations, and restrictions as may
be specified in the order) shall accordingly extend to such substance in like manner
as if it were included in the term explosive in this act.
105. Any person who carries on any of the following processes, namely, the proc
ess of dividing into component parts or otherwise breaking up or unmaking any
explosive, or making fit for use any damaged explosive, or the process of remaking,
altering, or repairing any explosive, shall be subject to the provisions of this act as
if he manufactured an explosive, and the expression manufacture n shall in this act
be construed accordingly.
106. It shall be lawful for Her Majesty, from time to time, by order in council, to
define, for the purposes of this act, the composition, quality, and character of any
explosive, and to classify explosives.
Where the composition, quality, or character of any explosive has been defined
by an order in council, any article alleged to be such explosive which differs from
uch definition in composition, quality, or character, whether by reason of deteriora
tion or otherwise, shall not be deemed, for the purposes of this act, to be the explo
sive so defined.
107. In this act the expression chief officer of police means
(1) In the city of London and the liberties thereof, the commissioner of city
police; and
(2) In the metropolitan police district, the commissioner or any assistant com
missioner or any district superintendent of metropolitan police ; and
(3) Elsewhere the chief constable, or head constable, or other officer, by what
ever name called, having the chief command of the police in the police
district in reference to which such expression occurs.
The expression police district means
(1) The city of London and the liberties thereof; and
(2) The metropolitan police district ; and
(3) Any county, or liberty of a county, borough, town, place, or union, or com
bination of places maintaining a separate police force ; and all the police
under one chief constable shall be deemed to constitute one force for the
purposes of thi section.
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108. In this act, unless the context otherwise requires

The expression this act includes any license, certificate, by-law, regulation,
rule, and order granted or made in pursuance of this act.
The expression existing means existing at the passing of this act.
The expression person includes a body corporate.
The expression occupier includes any number of persons and a body corporate ;
and in the case of any manufacture or trade, includes any person carrying on
such manufacture or trade.
The expression master includes every person (except a pilot) having com
mand or charge of a ship, and in reference to any boat belonging to a ship,
means the master of the ship ; and when used in reference to any other boat,
includes every person having command or charge of such boat.
The expression magazine includes any ship or other vessel used for the pur
pose of keeping any explosive.
The expression factory magazine means a building for keeping the finished
explosive made in the factory, and includes, if such explosive is not gunpowder,
any building for keeping the partly manufactured explosive or the ingredients
of such explosive which is mentioned in that behalf in the license.
The expression store means an existing gunpowder store as defined by this
act, or a place for keeping an explosive licensed by a license granted by a
local authority under this act.
The expression secretary of state means one of Her Majestys principal secre
taries of state.
The expression warehouseman includes all persons owning or managing any
warehouse, store, wharf, or other premises in which goods are deposited.
The expression carrier includes all persons carrying goods or passengers for
hire by land or water.
The expression harbor authority means any person or body of persons, cor
porate or unincorporate, being or claiming to be proprietor or proprietors of
or intrusted with the duty or invested with the power of improving, managing,
maintaining, or regulating any harbor properly so called, whether natural or
artificial, and any port, haven, and estuary, or intrusted with the duty of
conserving, maintaining, or improving the navigation of any tidal water, and
any such harbor, port, haven, estuary, tidal water, and any wharf, dock, pier,
jetty, and work, and other area, whether land or water, over which the harbor
authority as above defined have control or exercise powers, are in the other
portions of this act included in the expression harbor.
The expression canal company means any person or body of persons, corporate
or unincorporate, being owner or lessee or owners or lessees of, or working,
or entitled to charge tolls for the use of any canal in the United Kingdom,
constructed or carried on under the powers of any act of Parliament, or in
trusted with the duty of conserving, maintaining, or improving the navigation
of any inland water, and every such canal and inland water under the control
of a canal company as above defined, and any wharf, dock, pier, jetty, and
work in or at which barges do or can ship or unship goods or passengers, and
other area, whether land or water, which belong to or are under the control
of such canal company, are in the other portions of this act included in the
expression canal .
The expression tidal water means any part of the sea or of a river within the
ebb and flow of the tides at ordinary spring tides.
The expression inland water means any canal, river, navigation, lake, or
water which is not tidal water.
The expression railway company "means any person or body o f persons, cor
porate or unincorporate, being the owner or lessee or owners or lessees of or
working any railway worked by steam or otherwise than by animal power in
270
the United Kingdom, constructed or carried on under the powers of any act
of Parliament and used for public traffic, and every building, station, wharf,
dock, and place which belong to or are under the control of a railway com
pany, are in the other portions of this act included in the expression rail
way.
The expression wharf includes any quay, landing place, siding, or other place
at which goods are landed, loaded, or unloaded.
The expression carriage includes any carriage, wagon, cart, truck, vehicle,
or other means of conveying goods or passengers by land, in whatever man
ner the same may be propelled.
The expression ship includes every description of vessel used in sea naviga
tion, whether propelled by oars or otherwise.
The expression boat means every vessel not a ship as above defined which is
used in navigation in any inland water or any harbor, whether propelled by
oars or otherwise.
The expression prescribed means prescribed by order in council.
The expression borough means any place for the time being subject to the
act of the session of the fifth and sixth years of the reign of King William
the Fourth, chapter 76, entituled an act to provide for the regulation of mu
nicipal corporations in England and Wales, and the acts amending the same.
The expression county does not include a county of a city or a county of a
town.
Every riding, division, liberty, or part of a county having a separate commis
sion of the peace and separate court of quarter sessions is for the purposes of
this act to be deemed to be a county.
The expressions urban sanitary district and urban sanitary authority
mean the districts and authorities declared to be urban sanitary districts and
authorities by the public health act, 1872 ; and any urban sanitary district
which is an improvement act district within the meaning of that act, is in
this act referred to as an improvement district; and the expression improve
ment commissioners in this act means the commissioners who are the urban
sanitary authority for such district.
The expression safety cartridges means cartridges for small arms of which
the case can be extracted from the small arm after firing, and which are so
closed a to prevent any explosion in one cartridge being communicated to
other cartridges.
The expression gunpowder act, 1866, mean the act of the session of the
twenty-third and twenty-fourth years of the reign of Her present Majesty,
chapter 139, entitled An act to amend the law concerning the making, keep
ing, and carriage of gunpowder and compositions of an explosive nature, and
concerning the manufacture, sale, and use of fireworks, and the acts amend
ing the same.
The expression summary jurisdiction acts means the act of the session of
the eleventh and twelfth years of the reign of Her present Majesty, chapter
43, entitled An act to facilitate the performance of the duties of justices
of the peace out of sessions within England and Wales with respect to sum
mary convictions and orders, and any acts amending the same.
The expression court of summary jurisdiction means any justice or justices
of the peace, metropolitan police magistrate, stipendiary or other magistrate
or officer, by whatever name called, to whomjurisdiction is given by the sum
mary jurisdiction acts or any acts therein referred to.
The expression quartr sessions includes general sessions.
271
APPLICATION OP ACT TO SCOTLAND.
This act shall apply to Scotland, with the following modifications ; that is to say,
109. In this act with respect to Scotland
(1) The expression borough means any royal burgh, and any burgh returning
or contributing to return a member to Parliament.
(2) The expression a master of one of the superior courts means the auditor
of the court of session.
(3) The expression umpire means oversman.
(4) The expression attending before a court of record means attending on
citation the court of justiciary.
(5) The expression stipendiary magistrate means a sheriff or sheriff substi
tute.
(6) The expression defendant means defender, and includes respondent.
(7) The expression chief officer of police means the chief constable, superin
tendent of police, or other officer, by whatever name called, having the
chief command of the police in any district maintaining a separate police
force.
(8) The expression chairman of quarter sessions means the sheriff of the
county.
(9) The expression misdemeanor means a crime and offense.
(10) The expression the court of summary jurisdiction means the sheriff of
the county or any one of his substitutes.
(11) This act shall be read and construed as if for the expression the lands
clauses consolidation act, 1845, wherever it occurs therein, the expres
sion the lands clauses consolidation (Scotland) act, 1845, were substi
tuted.
110. In Scotland, the local authority for the purposes of this act shall be as fol
lows:
(1) In any borough the magistrates and town conncil; and
(2) In any harbor within the jurisdiction of a harbor authority, whether situate
or not within the jurisdiction of any local authority for a borough, the
harbor authority, to the exclusion of any other local authority; and
(3) In any place other than a borough or harbor as aforesaid, the justices of the
peace for the county in which such place is situated.
111. In Scotland, the local rate for defraying the expenses of the local authorities
under this act shall be
() In any borough the police rate or assessment; and
(b) In any harbor as aforesaid any moneys, fund, or rate applicable or leviable
by the harbor authority for any harbor purpose; and
(c) In any place other than a borough or harbor a aforesaid the county general
assessment.
The rates or assessments in this subsection mentioned, or any increase of any such
rate or assessment, may, notwithstanding any limitation in any act, be levied for the
purposes of this act.
112. The police commissioners of any burgh in Scotland, not being a burgh as de
fined by this act, may, by order of a secretary of state made upon the application of
suoh commissioners and published in the Edinburgh Gazette, be declared to be a
local authority for the purposes of this act, and thereupon shall become the local
authority accordingly for such part of their burgh as is not included in any harbor,
to the exclusion of the justices of the peace for any county in which such burgh is
situated: Provided, That () on such police commissioners becoming such local au
thority, the local rate for defraying their expenses under this act shall be the police
rate or assessment of the burgh; and- (5) such rate or assessment, or any increase
thereof, may, notwithstanding any limitation in any aot, be levied for the purposes
of this act.
272
113.
In Scotland, every local authority under this act shall hare and may exercise
the same powers for the purchase and taking of lands otherwise than by agreement,
for the purpose of erecting a gunpowder magazine thereon, that any local authority
under the public health (Scotland) act, 1867, have and may exercise under the
provisions of section 90 of the said last-mentioned act.
114# In Scotland, the following provisions shall have effect:
() Where an obligation is laid by this act on any harbor authority, company,
or local authority to make or enforce any by-laws or to grant any license
or to do anything, the court of session may, upon summary application
by any corporation, harbor authority, or local authority, or party inter
ested, compel such harbor authority, company, or local authority to dis
charge such obligation;
() Every offense under this act shall be prosecuted, every penalty recovered,
and every forfeiture or order made, at the instance of the lord advocate
or of the procurator fiscal of the sheriff courts;
(o) The proceedings may be on indictment in the court of justiciary in Edin
burgh or on circuit, or in the sheriff court, or may be taken summarily in
the sheriff court under the provisions of the summary procedure act,
1864, as title lord advocate shall direct ;
(d) All costs and moneys directed to be recovered as penalties may be recovered
in the sheriff court at the instance of the procurator fiscal of that court,
under the provisions of the summary procedure act, 1864 ;
() In Scotland, all penalties imposed in pursuance of this act shall be paid to
the clerk of the court imposing them, and shall by him be accounted for
and paid to the queens and lord treasurers remembrancer, and be
carried to the consolidated fund; and the proceeds of any sales of explo
sives or of the ingredients of explosives, or of the receptacles of explosives
or their ingredients, or of any ship, boat, or carriage, forfeited and directed
to be sold, or directed to be sold and disposed of as if the same were for
feited under this act, shall be paid, accounted for, and applied in like
manner as penalties under this act :
() In Scotland, every person found liable in any penalty or costs or to pay any
money directed by this act to be recovered as a penalty, shall be liable,
in default of immediate payment, to imprisonment for a term not exceed
ing six months, or until such penalty, costs, or money shall be sooner
paid.
115.
Whereas upon that part of the estuary of the Clyde which lies below the juris
diction of the trustees of the Clyde navigation (and which part is in this section re
ferred to as the lower estuary of the Clyde) doubts have arisen as to the limits of the
several harbor authorities on that estuary, be it enacted, the board of trade may, if
they think it expedient, make by-laws under this act for the lower estuary of the
Clyde as if it were a harbor and they were the harbor authority, and such by-laws
shall be deemed to have been made by a harbor authority with the sanction of the
board of trade; and they may by such by-laws define the area within which such by
laws are to be observed, and the secretary of state shall have power to define the au
thority or authorities and officers by whom such by-laws are to be enforced and car
ried into effect within such area ; and such authority or authorities and officers shall,
for the purposes of this act, other than making by-laws or assenting to a site for a new
factory or magazine, have the same power within the said area as a harbor authority
and an officer of a harbor authority have respectively under this act in a harbor.
APPLICATION OF ACT TO IRELAND.
This act shall apply to Ireland, with the following modifications; that is to say:
116. The local authority for the purposes of this act shall be
(1) In the city of Dublin, the lord mayor, aldermen, and burgesses acting by
the town council;
273
(2) In any urban sanitary district in which the powers, jurisdictions, and au
thorities of tho grand jury of the county in which such district is situate
are vested and exercisable by the urban sanitary authority, except as
hereafter in this section mentioned, the urban sanitary authority ;
(3) In any harbor within the jurisdiction of a harbor authority, whether situate
or not within the jurisdiction of any local authority before in this section
mentioned, the harbor authority, to the exclusion of any other local au
thority ;
(4) In any place in which there is no local authority as before in Tiiwsection
defined, the justices in petty sessions assembled.
The expressions urban sanitary authority and urban sanitary district have
the same meanings respectively as in the public health (Ireland) act, 1874.
117. The urban sanitary authority of any district in Ireland which is not consti
tuted a local authority by this act may, by order of a secretary of state, made upon
the application of such authority and published in the Dublin Gazette, be declared
to be a local authority for the purposes of this act, and thereupon shall become a
local authority accordingly for such part of their district as is not included in any
harbor, to the exclusion of the justices in petty sessions.
118. All expenes incurred by any local authority in carrying into effect the execu
tion of this act in Ireland, including the salary and expenses of any officer directed
by them to act under this act, shall be paid out of the local rate. The local rate
shall, for the purposes of this act, mean as follows; that is to say:
In the city of Dublin, the borough fund or borough rate ;
In urban sanitary districts where the urban sanitary authority are the local
authority, any fund, moneys, or rate applicable or leviable by such authority
for any purposes of improvement within their district ;
In harbors, any moneys, fund, or rate applicable or leviable by the harbor au
thority for any harbor purposes ; and
In any place where the justices in petty sessions are the local authority, the
poor rates;
And the local rate or any increase of the local rate may, notwithstanding any
limitation in any act, be levied for the purposes of this act.
All expenses incurred in any petty sessions district which are by this act payable
out of poor rates shall be paid upon the written order of the local authority which
shall have incurred the same, by the treasurer of the poor-law union, or the treasurer
of the poor-law unions within which such petty sessions district is situate, according
to the terms of such order.
Where such petty sessions district is situate within two or more poor-law unions,
the local authority shall, in making such order, apportion the amount of such expenses
fairly between such unions, according to tho net annual value of the ratable prop
erty forming the parts of such petty sessions district situate within the same re
spectively.
All moneys by this act made payable by the treasurer of any poor-law union inrepeot of expenses incurred in any petty-sesions district wholly or partly within such
union by the local authority, shall be paid by him out of the funds then lying in hie
hands to the credit of the guardians of such union, and such guardians shall, in
their account with the electoral divisions of such union, debit each electoral divi
sion wholly or partly within such petty-sesions district with its proportion of the
sum so paid by the treasurer according to the net annual value for the time being of
the ratable property within suoh electoral division, and also within uch petty
essions district.
119. The register of store licenses and of registered premises to be kept by the local
authorities in Ireland shall be kept in such form and manner, and the fees for entries
to be made therein shall (subject to the limits as to fees prescribed by thi act) be
uoh a the ecretary of tate ehall from time to time approve.
146a ------ 18
274
FIRE Am) BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
120. In this act with respect to Ireland, the expression police district means
(1) The police district of Dublin metropolis; and
(2) The town of Belfast; and
(3) Elsewhere in Ireland, any district, whether city, town, or partofa county,
over which is appointed a subinspector of the royal Irish constabulary.
The expression chiefofficer ofpolice means
(1) In the police district of Dublin metropolis, the chiefcommissioner of police
forthe said district; and in liis absence the assistant commissioner ofpo
lice for the said district; and
(2) In the town of Belfast, the town inspector, and in his absence the subin
spector ofthe royal Irish constabulary acting for him; and
(3) Elsewhere inIreland, the subinspector of the royal Irish constabulary, and
inhis absence tho head constable ofsuch force acting for him.
The expression the county court judge means the judge of the civil bill conrt.
The expression borough moans any place for the time being subject to the act
of the session of the third and fourth years of the reign of Her present Majesty,
chapter 108,entitled An actforthe regulation ofmunicipal corporationsin Ireland.
The expression summary jurisdiction acts means, as regards the police district
of Dublin metropolis, the acts regulating the powers and duties of justices ofthe
peace for such district, and elsewhere in Ireland, the act of the session ofthe four
teenth and fifteenth years of the reign of Her present Majesty, chapter 93, entitled
An act to consolidate and amend the acts regulating the proceedings ofpetty ses
sions, and the duties of justices of the peace out of quarter sessions in Ireland,
and any acts amending the same.
The expression court ofsummary jurisdiction means any justice or justices of
the i>eace, or other magistrate or officer by whatever name called, to whom jurisdic
t io n is g iv e n b y th e su m m ary ju r is d ic t io n acts o r a n y a cts th erein referred to.
121. Except as by this act expressly provided, all penalties imposed under this
act in Ireland shall be applied in manner directed by the lines (Ireland) act, 1851,
and any acts amending the same.
keeal
of acts.
122. The acts specified in the fourth schedule to this act are hereby repealed from
and afterthe commencement ofthis act, and the actspecified in the fifth schedule to
tliisact ishereby repealed from and after the commencement of this act to the ex
tent in the third column of that schedule mentioned: Provided,That
(1) The enactments hereby repealed shall continue in force for the purpose of
any business or thing which any person isauthorized to carry on or do, in
like manner as ifthis act had not passed, for the time during which such
business or thing is authorized to be carried on or done; and
(2) Any rules made in pursuance ofany enactment, hereby repealed, for the pur
pose of regulating the conduct ofservants and workmen employed in any
mill, magazine, or place, shall continue in force, and the penalties under
the said enactments for a breach of such rules may be enforced, until the
expiration of three months after the grant of a continuing certificate
nnder this act to the occupier of such mill, magazine, or place, and such
further period as the secretary of state may by order direct, for the pur
pose of enabling such occupier to make special rules under this act; and
(3) This repeal shall not affect (a) the past operation of any enactment hereby
repealed, nor anything duly done or suffered under any enactment here
by repealed; or (6) any right, privilege, obligation, or liability acquired,
accrued, or incurred under any enactment hereby repealed; or (c) any
penalty, forfeiture, or punishment incurred in respect of any offense com
mitted against any enactment hereby repealed; or (d) any investigation,
legal proceeding, or remedy in respect of any such right, privilege, obli
SUPPLEMENT---- BRITISH EXPLOSIVE LAWS.
(4)
275
gation, liability, penalty, forfeiture, or punishment as aforesaid : and any

such investigation, legal proceeding, and remedy may be carried on as if
this act had not passed ; and
This repeal shall not revive any enactment, right, privilege, matter, or
thing not in force or existing at the commencement of this act.
SCHEDULES.
F irst Sch edule .
P a r t 1 . Gunpowder
factories.
REGULATIONS W H ICH A RE TO FORM PART OF TIIE TERMS OF E V E R T CONTINUING

CERTIFICATE OF A FA CTO RY FOR GUNPOW DER.
(1) The quantity of gunpowder or ingredients to be made into gunpowder to be

at one time under any single pair of millstones or rollers or runners, shall not exceed
50 pounds as respects sporting and Government powder, and 60 pounds as respects
all inferior powders ; and every incorporating mill or group of incorporating mills
shall be provided with a charge house for tho store of mill charges, properly con
structed of stone or brick, and situate at a safe and suitable distance from each in
corporating mill or group of incorporating mills.
(2) The quantity of gunpowder to be subjected to pressure at one time in any
press house shall not exceed 10 cwt.
(3) The quantity of gunpowder to be corned or granulated at one time in any
corning or granulating house shall not exceed 12 cwt.
(4) The quantity of gunpowder to be dried at one time in one stove or place used
for the drying of gunpowder shall not exceed 50 cwt.
(5) The respective quantities to be at any one time in any press house or coming
or granulating house shall not exceed twice the respective quantities hereby allowed
to be subjected to pressure and to be corned or granulated at one time ; and tli quan
tity to be at any one time in any drying house, or dusting house, shall not be more
than is necessary for the immediate supply and work of such house; a)id for the pur
poses of this provision any building used with any such press houso, corning or
granulating house, drying house, or dusting house, shall be deemed part thereof,
save only magazines constructed with stone or brick and situate 40 yards at least
from every such press house or other house as aforesaid (hereinafter distinguished
as expense magazines), and save only the stove in which the powder which had been
dried may be cooling.
(6) Every person keeping or using any mill for the making of gunpowder n
have (in addition to the expense magazines) a good and sufficient- factory magazine
or magazines, situate (unless otherwise authorized by a certificate of the secretary
of state under the gunpowder act, 1860) at least 140 yards distant l'rom the mill or
mills, and every press houso and. other house or placo used for or in tho making of
gunpowder, such magazine or magazines to be well and substantially built with
brick or stone and situate in such place as may have been lawfully used or dnlv
licensed by justices before the commencement of the gunpowder act, 1860, and not
made unlawful by that act, or may have been after the commencement of that act
duly licensed under the gunpowder act, I860.
(7) No maker of gunpowder shall keep or permit to be kept any charcoal within
20 yards of any mill or other engine for making gunpowder, or of any press house,
or drying, coming, or dusting house or other place used m or for the making of gun*
powder, or a n y magazine or storehouse thereto belonging.
276
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.

Past
2.Gunpowder stores.
BEGULATIONS W HICH ARE TO FORM PART OF THE TERMS OF E V E R Y CONTINUING CER

TIFICATE FOR A GUNPOWDER STORE.
(1) The store shall be exclusively for the use of a mine, quarry, colliery, or factory
for safety fuses.
(2) The amount of gunpowder in the store shall not exceed, if the store is well and
substantially built of brick or stone, 4,000 pounds, and in any other case 300 pounds.
(3) Where the amount of gunpowder in the store exceeds 300 pounds, such store
shall, unless otherwise authorized before the passing of this act by a certificate of
the secretary of state, be within 200 yards of the mine, quarry, colliery, or factory
for safety fuses, or one of the mines, quarries, collieries, or factories for safety fuses
for the use of which such gunpowder is kept, and not within 200 yards of any in
habited house without the consent in writing of the occupier of such house.
(4) Where such certificate has been given, the conditions on which it was given
shall be duly observed as if they were contained in this schedule.
(5) Where the amount of gunpowder does not exceed 300 pounds, the store shall
be within 200 yards of the mine, quarry, colliery, or factory for the use of which
it is erected, and unless it was erected and used for the said purpose before the
passing of the Gunpowder Act, 1860, shall not be within 200 yards from any in
habited house without the consent in writing of the occupier of such house.
(6) The store shall not be within the city of London or Westminster or within 3
miles of either of them, or within any borough or market town or 1 mile of the
same, or within 2 miles of any place or house of residence of Her Majesty, her
heirs and successors, or within 2 miles of any gunpowder magazine belonging to the
Crown, or within half a mile of any parish church.
Se c o n d Sc h e d u l e .
ARBITRATION.
With respect to arbitrations under this act, the following provisions shall have
effect,
(1) The parties to the arbitration are in this section deemed to be the occupier of
the factory, magazine, or store on the one hand and on the other the government
inspector (on behalf of the secretary of state).
(2) Each of the parties to the arbitration may, within twenty-first days after the
date of the reference, appoint an arbitrator.
(3) No person shall act a arbitrator or umpire under this act who is employed in
or in the management of or is directly or indirectly interested in the manufacture,
trade, factory, magazine, tore, business, or premises to which the arbitration re
lates, or i in any manner interested, directly or indirectly, in the matter to which
the arbitration relates.
(4) The appointment of an arbitrator under this section shall be in writing, and
notice of the appointment shall be forthwith sent to the other party to the arbitra
tion, and shall not be revoked without the consent of such other party.
(5) The death, removal, or other change in any of the parties to the arbitration
ahall not affect the proceedings under this section.
(6) If within the said twenty-one days either of the parties fail to appoint an
arbitrator, the arbitrator appointed by the other party may proceed to hear and
determine the matter in difference, and in such case the award of the single arbitra
tor hall be final.
(7) If before an award has been made any arbitrator appointed by either party die
or become incapable to act, or for fourteen days refuse or neglect to act, the party
by whom uch arbitrator was appointed may appoint eome other peron to act in hie
277
place; and if he fail to do so 'within fourteen days after notice in writing from the
other party for that purpose, the remaining arbitrator may proceed, to hear and
determine the matters in difference, and in uch case the award of such single arbi
trator shall be final.
(8) In either of the foregoing cases where an arbitrator is empowered to act singly,
upon one of the parties failing to appoint, the party so failing may, before the single
arbitrator ha actually proceeded in the arbitration, appoint an arbitrator, who
shall then act as if no failure had been made.
(9) If the arbitrators fail to make their award within twenty-one days after the
day on which the last of them was appointed or within such extended time (if any)
as may have been appointed for that purpose by both arbitrators under their hands,
the matter in difference shall be determined by the umpire appointed as hereinafter
mentioned.
(10) The arbitrators, before they enter upon the matters referred to them, shall
appoint by writing under their hands an umpire to decide on points on which they
may differ.
(11) If the umpire die or become incapable to act before he ha made his award,
or refuses to make his award within a reasonable time after the matter has been
brought within his cognizance, the persons or person who appointed such umpire
shall forthwith appoint another umpire in his place.
(12) If the arbitrators refuse or fail or for seven days after the request of either
party neglect to appoint an umpire, then on the application of either party an um
pire shall be appointed by the chairman of the quarter sessions of the peace within
the jurisdiction of which the factory, magazine, or store is situate.
(13) The decision of every umpire on the matters referred to him shall be final.
(14) If a single arbitrator fail to make his award within twenty-one days after
the day on which he was appointed, the party who appointed him may appoint
another arbitrator to act in his place.
The arbitrator and their umpire or any of them may examine the parties and their
witnesses on oath; they may also consult any counsel, engineer, or scientific person
whom they may think it expedient to consult.
(15) The payment, if any, to be made to any arbitrator or umpire for his services
shall be fixed by the secretary of tate, and together with the cost of the arbitra
tion and award shall be paid by the partios or one of them, according as the award
may direct. Such costs may be taxed by a master of one of the superior courts,
who, on the written application of either of the parties, shall ascertain and certify
the proper amount of such costs. The amount, if any, payable by the the secretary
of state shall be paid as part of the expenses of inspectors under this act. The
amount, if any, payable by any other party may in the event of nonpayment be
recovered in the same manner as penalties under this act.
T h ir d S c h e d u l e .
Maximumfees for licenses granted by the secretary of state.

Factory license :
Original................................................................................................
Amending.............................................................................................
Renewal when lo s t...............................................................................
Magazine license:
Original................................................................................................
Amending.............................................................................................
Renewal when lost................................................................................
Importation license :
First grant...........................................................................................
Renewal........................................................................................ .
minning n<rifina ---- , , ---------------------------------------------------------
s. d.
10 0 0
5 0 0
5 0
10
5
0 0
0 0
5 0
0 0
10 0
2 0 0
278

F o u r t h Sc h e d u l e .
Session and chapter.
Title.
23 and 24 Viet., c. 139... An act to amend tho law concerning the making, keeping, and carriage ot
gunpowder and compositions of an explosive nature, and concerning the
manufacture, sale, and use of fireworks.
24 and 25 Viot., o. 130... An act for amending an act passed in tho last session of Parliament to amend
the law concerning the making, keeping, and carriage of gunpowder and
compositions of an explosive nature, and concerning the manufacture, sale,
and use of fireworks.
25 and 26 Viet., o. 98___ An act for the amendment of an act of the session of the twenty-third and
twenty-fourth years of the reign of Her present Majesty, chapter 139, en
titled uAn act to amend the law concerning the making, keeping, and car
riage of gunpowder and compositions of an explosive nature, and concerning
the manufacture, sale, and use of fireworks, and of an act amending tho lastmentioned act.
29 and 30 Yict., c. 69..
An act for the amendment of the law with respect to the carriage and deposit
of dangerous goods.
32 and 33 Yict., 0.113.
An act to prohibit for a limited time the importation and to restrict and regu
late the carriage of nitro-glycerine.
F i f t h Sc h e d u l e .
Session and chapter.
Abbreviated title.
Extent of repeal.
26 and 27 Viet., c. 65.. Tho volunteer act, 1863 ... Section 26 from all exemptions contained in the
gunpowder act, 1860, inclusive, to the end of the
section.
2. PETROLEUM ACT, 1879.

[AN ACT to continue and amend tho petroleum act, 1871.]
B eit enacted by the Queen's most excellent majesty, by and with the advice and consent
o f the Lords spiritual and temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled,
and by the authority of the same, as follows :
1. This act may bo cited as the petroleum act, 1879.

This act shall be construed as one with tho petroleum act, 1871, and together with
that act may be cited as the petroleum acts, 1871 and 1879.
2. Whereas by the petroleum act, 1871, it is enacted that the term petroleum to
which this act applies means such of the petroleum defined by that act as, when
tested iu manner set forth in schedule 1 to that act, gives off an inflammable vapor
at a temperature of less than 100 of Fahrenheits thermometer, and it is expedient
to alter the said test : Be it therefore enacted that
In the petroleum act, 1871, the term petroleum to which this act applies shall
mean such of the petroleum defined by section 3 of that act as, when tested in man
ner set forth in schedule 1 to this act, gives off an inflammable vapor at a tempera
ture of less than 73 of Fahrenheit's thermometer.
Every reference in the petroleum act, 1871, to schedule 1 to that act shall be contrued to refer to schedule 1 to this act.
3. A model of the apparatus for testing petroleum, as described in schedule 1 to
this act, shall be deposited with the bo ard of trade, and the board of trade shall, on
payment of such fee, not exceeding 5 shillings, as they from time to time prescribe,
cause to be compared with such model and verified every apparatus constructed in
accordance with schedule 1 to this act which is submitted to them for the purpose^
and if the same is found correct shall stamp the same with a mark approved of by
the board and notified in the London Gazette.
An apparatus for testing petroleum purporting to be stamped with the said mark
shall, until the contrary is proved, be deemed to have been verified by the Board of
trade.
SUPPLEMENN---- BRITISH EXPLOSIVE LAWS.
279
All fees under this section shall be paid into the exchequer.
4. The petroleum act, 1871, shall continue in force until otherwise directed by
Parliament.
5. This act shall come into operation on the 31st day of December, 1879, which
day is in this act referred to as the commencement of this act.
6. The petroleum act, 1871, shall be repealed after tlie commencement of this act
to the extent in the third column of tlie second schedule to this act mentioned.
Provided that any sample of petroleum taken before the commencement of this
act shall be tested in manner set forth in schedule 1 to the petroleum act, 1871, and
any offence committed before tho commencement of this act shall be prosecuted, and
any investigation, legal proceeding, or remedy in relation to suh offence, or to any
act done before the commencement of this act, shall be instituted, carried on, and
have effect as if the provisions of this act, other than those continuing the petro
leum act, 1871, had not been passed.
F ir s t Sc h e d u l e .
MODE OF TESTING PETROLEUM SO AS TO ASCERTAIN THE TEMPERATURE AT W H ICH
IT W ILL GIVE OFF INFLAMMABLE VAPO R.
SPECIFICATION OP THE TEST APPARATUS.
The following is a description of the details of the apparatus:

The oil cup consists of a cylindrical vessel 2" diameter, 2" height (internal),
with outward projecting rim yY' wide, %n from the top, and 1|" from the bottom
of the cup. It is made of gun metal or brass (17 B. W. G.) tinned inside. A bracket,
consisting of a short stout piece of wire bent upwards and terminating in a point,
is fixed to the inside of the cup to serve as a gauge. The distance of the point from
tho bottom of the cup is l". The cup is provided with a close-fitting overlapping
cover made of brass (22 B. W. G.), which carries the thermometer and test lamp.
The latter is suspended from two supports from tho side by means of trunnions upon
which it may be made to oscillate, it is provided with a spout, the mouth of which
is one-sixteenth of an inch in diameter. The socket which is to hold the thermome
ter is fixed at such an angle and its length is so adjusted that the bulb of the ther
mometer when inserted to its full depth shall be l\ below the center of the lid.
The cover is provided with three square holes, one in the center,
by -/>and
two smaller ones, -" by ", close to the sides and opposite each other. These
three holes may be closed and uncovered by means of a slide moving in grooves, and
having perforations corresponding to those on the lid.
In moving tho slide so as to uncover the holes, the oscillating lamp is caught by a
pin fixed in the slide, and tilted in such a way as to bring the end of the spout just
below the surface of the lid. Upon the slide being pushed back so as to cover the
holes, the lamp returns to its original position.
Upon tho cover, in front of and in line with the mouth of the lamp, is fixed a
white bead, tho dimensions of which represent tho size of the test flame to be used.
The bath or heated vessel consists of two flat-bottomed copper cylinders (24 B. W.
G.), an inner one of 3" diameter and 2" height, and an outer one of 5" diameter
and 5|" height ; they are soldered to a circular copper plate (20 B. W. G. ) perforated in
the center, which forms tho top of the bath, in such a manner as to enclose the space
between the two cylinders, but leaving access to the inner cylinder. The top of the
bath projects both outwards and inwards about f " ; that is, its diameter about '
greater than that of tho body of the bath, while the diameter of the circular opening in
the center is about the same amount less than that of the inner copper cylinder. To
the inner projection of the top is fastened, by six small screws, a flat ring of ebonite,
the screws being sunk below the surface of the ebonite, to avoid metallic contact
between the bath and the oil cup. The exact distance between the sides and bottom
280
of the bath and of the oil lamp is one-half of an inch. A split socket similar to
that on the cover of the oil cup, but set at a right angle, allows a thermometer to
be inserted into the space between the two cylinders. The bath is further provided
with a funnel, and overilow pipe, and two loop handles.
The bath rests upon a cast-iron tripod stand, to the ring of which is attached a
copper cylinder or jacket (24 B. W. G.) flanged at the top, and of such dimensions
that the bath, while firmly resting on the iron ring, just touches with its projecting
top the inward-turned flange. The diameter of this outer jacket is 6". One of the
three legs of the stand serves as support for the spirit lamp attached to it by means
of a small swing bracket. The distance of the wick-holder from the bottom of the
bath is 1".
Two thermometers are provided with tho apparatus, the one for ascertaining the
temperature of the bath, the other for determining the flashing point. The ther
mometer for ascertaining the temperature of the water has a long bulb and a space
at the top. Its range is from about 90 to 190 Fahrenheit. The scale (in degrees
of Fahrenheit) is marked on an ivory back fastened to the tube in the usual way.
It is fitted with a metal collar, fitting the socket, and the part of the tube below
the scale should have a length of about 3// measured from the lower end of the
scale to the end of the bulb. Tho thermometer for ascertaining the temperature of
the oil is fitted with collar and ivory scale in a similar manner to the one described.
It has a round bulb, a space at the top, and ranges from about 55 F. to 150 F. ; it
measures from end of ivory back to bulb 2".
N ote .A model apparatus is deposited at the weights and measures department
of the Board of Trade.
DIRECTIONS FOB APPLYING THE FLASHING TEST.
(1) The test apparatus is to be placed for use in a position where it is not exposed
to currents of air or drafts.
(2) The heating vessel or water bath is filled by pouring water into the funnel un
til it begins to flow out at the spout of the vessel. The temperature of the water
at the commencement of the test is to be 130 Fahrenheit, and this is attained in the
first instance either by mixing hot and cold water in the bath, or in a vessel from
which the bath is filled, until the thermometer which is provided for testing the
temperature of the water gives the proper indication ; or by heating the water with
the spirit lamp (which is attached to the stand of the apparatus) until the required
temperature is indicated.
If the water has been heated too highly, it is easily reduced to 130 by pouring in
cold water little by little (to replace a portion of the warm water) until the ther
mometer gives the proper reading.
When a test has been completed, this water bath is again raised to 130 by placing
the lamp underneath, and the result is readily obtained while the petroleum cup is
being emptied, cooled, and refilled with a fresh sample to be tested. The lamp is
then turned on its swivel from under the apparatus, and the next test is proceeded
with.
(3) The test lamp is prepared for use by fitting it with a piece of flat plaited can
dle wick, and filling it with colza or rape oil up to the lower edge of the opening of
the spout or wick tube. The lamp is trimmed so that when lighted it gives a flame
of about 0.15 of an inch diameter, and this size of flame, which is represented by
the projecting white bead on the cover of the oil cup, is readily maintained by
simple manipulation from time to time with a small wire trimmer.
When gas is available it may be conveniently used in place of the little oil lamp,
and for this purpose a test-flame arrangement for use with gas may be substituted
for the lamp.
(4) The bath having been raised to the proper temperature, the oil to be tested is
introduced into the petroleum cup being poured in slowly until the level of the liquid
281
just reaches the point of the gauge which is fixed in the cup. In warm weather the
temperature of the room in which the samples to be tested have been kept should be
observed in the first instance, and if it exceeds 65 the samples to be tested should
be cooled down (to about 60) by immersing the bottles containing them in cold water,
or by any other convenient method. The lid of the cup, with the slide closed, is
then put on, and the cup is placed into the bath or heating vessel. The thermometer
in the lid of the cup has been adjusted so as to have its bulb just immersed in the
liquid, and its position is not under any circumstances to be altered. When the cup
has been placed in the proper position, the scale of the thermometer faces the oper
ator.
5. The test lamp is then placed in position upon the lid of the cup, the lead line or
pendulum, which has been fixed in a convenient position in front of the operator, is
set in motion, and the rise of the thermometer in the petroleum cup is watched.
When the temperature has reached about 66 the operation of testing is to be com
menced, the test flame being applied once for every rise of one degree, in the follow
ing manner:
The slide is slowly drawn open while the pendulum performs three oscillations,
and is closed during the fourth oscillation.
N o t e .If it is desired to employ the test apparatus to determine the flashing
points of oils of yery low volatility, the mode of proceeding is to be modified as fol
lows:
The air chamber which surrounds the cup is filled with cold water, to a depth of
l inches, and the heating vessel or water bath is filled as usual, but also with cold
water. The lamp is then placed under the apparatus and kept there during the
entire operation. If a very heavy oil is being dealt with, the operation may be com
menced with water previously heated to 120, instead of with cold water.
3. EXPLOSIYE-SUBSTANCES ACT, 1883.

[AN ACT to amend the law relating to explosive substances.]
Be it enacted by the Queens Most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent
of the Lords spiritual and temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled,
and by the authority of th same, as follows:
1. This act may be cited as the explosive-substance act, 1883.
2. Any person who unlawfully and maliciously causes, by any explosive substance,
an explosion of a nature likely to endanger life or to cause serious injury to prop
erty, shall, whether any injury to person or property has been actually caused or not,
be guilty of felony, and on conviction shall be liable to penal servitude for life,
or for any less term (not less than the minimum term allowed by law), or to impris
onment with or without hard labor, for a term not exceeding two years.
3. Any person who, within or (being a subject of Her Majesty) without Her
Majestys dominions, unlawfully and maliciously (a) does any act with intent to
cause by an explosive substance or conspires to cause by an explosive substance an
explosion in the United Kingdom of a nature likely to endanger life or cause seri
ous injury to property; or (6) makes or has in his possession or under his control
any explosive substance with intent by means thereof to endanger life or cause
serious injury to property in the United Kingdom, or to enable any other person by
means thereof to endanger life or cause serious injury to property in the United
Kingdom, shall, whether any explosion does or not take place, and whether
any injury to person or property has been actually caused or not, be guilty of felony,
and on conviction shall be liable to penal servitude for a term not exceeding twenty
years, or to imprisonment with or without hard labor for a term not exceeding two
years, and the explosive substance shall be forfeited.
4. (1) Any person who makes or knowingly has in his possession or under his con
trol any explosive substance under such circumstances as to give rise to a reasona
ble suspicion that he is not making it or does not have it in his possession or under
282
his control for a lawful object, shall, unless he can show that he made it or had it in
his possession or under his control for a lawful object, be guilty of felony, and, on
conviction, shall be liable to penal servitude for a term not exceeding fourteen
years or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years with or without hard
labor, and the explosive substance shall be forfeited.
(2) In any proceeding against any person for a crime under this section such per
son and his wife, or husband, as the case may be, may, if such person thinks fit, be
called, sworn, examined, and cross-examined as an ordinary witness in the case.
5. Any person who, within or (being, a subject of Her Majesty) without Her Majes
tys dominions, by the supply of or solicitation for money, the providing of premises,
the supply of materials, or in any manner whatsoever procures, counsels, aids, abets,
or is accessory to the commission of any crime under this act, shall be guilty of
felony, and shall be liable to be tried and punished for that crime as if he had been
guilty as a principal.
6. (1) Where the attorney-general has reasonable ground to believe that any crime
under this act has been committed, he may order an inquiry under this section, and
thereupon any justice for the county, borough, or place in which the crime was com
mitted or is suspected to have been committed, who is authorized in that behalf by
the attorney-general, may, although no person may be charged before him with the
commission of such crime, sit at a police court or petty sessional oroccaional court
house or police station in the said county, borough, or place, and examine on oath
concerning such crime any witness appearing before him, and may take the deposi
tion of such witness, and if he see cause may bind such witnes by recognizance to
appear and give evidence at the next petty sessions or when called upon within
three months from the date of such recognizance; and the law relating to the com
pelling of the attendance of a witness before a justice, and to a witness attending
before a justice and required to give evidence concerning the matter of an informa
tion or complaint, shall apply to compelling the attendance of a witness for examina
tion and to a witness attending under this section.
(2) A witness examined under this section shall not be excused from answering any
question on the ground that the answer thereto may criminate, or tend to criminate,
himself; but any statement made by any person in answer to any question put to
him on any examination under this section shall not, except in the case of an indict
ment or other criminal proceeding for perjury, be admissible in evidence against him
in any proceeding, civil or criminal.
(3) A justice who conducts the examination under this section, of a person concern
ing any crime, shall not take part in the committing for trial of such person for such
crime.
(4) Whenever any person is bound by recognizance to give evidence before justices,
or any criminal court, in respect of any crime under this act, any justice, if he sees
fit, upon information being made in writing and on oath that such person is about
to abscond, or has absconded, may issue his warrant for the arrest of such person,
and if such person is arrested any justice, upon being satisfied that the ends of justice
would otherwise be defeated, may commit such person to prison until the time at
which he is bound by such recognizance to give evidence, unless in the meantime he
produces sufficient sureties: Provided, That any person so arrested shall be entitled,
on demand, to receive a copy of the information upon which the warrant for his arrest
was issued.
7. (1) If any person is charged before a justice with any crime under this act, no
further proceeding shall be taken against such person without the consent of the
attorney-general, except such as the justice may think necessary by remand, or other
wise, to secure the safe custody of such person.
(2) In framing an indictment the same criminal act may be charged in different
counts as constituting different crimes under this act, and upon the trial of any such
indictment the prosecutor shall not be put to his election as to the count on which
he must proceed.
SUPPLEMENT---- BRITISH EXPLOSIVE LAWS.
283
(3) For all purposes of and incidental to arrest, trial, and punishment, a crime for
which a person is liable to be punished mi (1er this act, when committed out of the
United Kingdom, shall be deemed to have been committed in the place in which
such person is apprehended or is in custody.
(4) This ct shall not exempt any person from any indictment or proceeding for a
crime or offense which is punishable at common law, or by any act of Parliament
other Ilian this act, but no person shall be punished twice tor the same criminal act.
8. (1) Sections 73,74,75,89, and 96 of the explosives act, 1875 (which sections relate
to the search for, seizure, and detention of explosive substances, and the forfeiture
thereof, and tho disposal of explosive substances seized or forfeited), shall apply in
like manner as if a crime or forfeiture under this act were an offense or forfeiture
nndor the explosives act, 1875.
(2) Where the master or owner of any vessel has reasonable cause to suspect that
any dangerous goods or goods of a dangerous nature which, if found, lie would be
entitled to throw overboard in pursuance of the merchant-shipping act, 1873, are con
cealed on board his vessel, lie may search any part of such vessel for such goods, and
for the purpose of such search may, if necessary, break open any box, package, parcel,
or receptacle on board the vessel, and such master or owner, if he finds any such
dangerous goods or goods of a dangerous nature, shall be entitled to deal with the
same in manner provided by the said act, and if ho do not find tho same, he shall not
be subject to any liability, civil or criminal, if it appears to tho tribunal before
which the question of his liability is raised that ho had reasonable cause to suspect
that such goods were so concealed as aforesaid.
9. (1) In this act, unless the context otherwise requires, the expression explosive
substance shall be deemed to include any materials for making any explosive sub
stance; also any apparatus, machine, implement, or materials used, or intended to
be used, or adapted for causing, or aiding in causing, any explosion in or with any
explosive substance ; also any part of any such apparatus, machine, or implement.
The expression attorney-general means Her Majestys attorney-general for England
or Ireland, as the case may be, and incaseof liis inability or of a vacancy in the office,
Her Majestys solicitor-general for England or Ireland, as the case requires.
(2) In the application of this act to Scotland the following modifications shall be
made: Tho expression attorney-general shall be deemed to mean the lord advo
cate, and in case of his inability or of a vacancy in the office Her Majestys solicitorgeneral for Scotland. The expression petty sessional court-house shall be deemed
to mean the sheriff court. The expression felony shall be deemed to moan a high
crime and offense. The expression recognizance shall be deemed to mean juratory
caution. The expression justice " shall include sheriff and sheriff substitute.
EXPLOSIVES.
FIFTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF HER MAJESTYS INSPECTORS OF EX
PLOSIVES, BEING THEIR ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR 1890.
[Transmitted by Conul-General New, o f London.]
H o m e O f f i c e , January 1,1891.
Sib : In accordance with the fifty-seventh section of the explosives act, 1875, we,
being the Government inspectors appointed under that act, have the honor to furnish
this the fifteenth annual report of our proceedings and of the working of the act
during the year ending December 31, 1890.
*
*
*
We have visited at least once, and, in very many instances, more than once, every
factory and magazine on our books. It is with very great satisfaction that we are
able to report that there has been no falling off in the high standard previously
attained in a large number, indeed in the great majority of them.
The number of deaths from accidents in manufacture during the year was but
8, giving an average in ten years of 8.1. These figures show an extraordinary con
trast with those given before the act came into operation. It should also be re
membered that not only does the actual number of factories increase, but also in
many cases the amount of output of an individual factory, and consequently the
number of hands employed and the chances of accident. Moreover, the risks attend
ing the manufacture of wholly new explosives are less well known, and therefore
not so easy to provide against. We have dealt with these points more fully in the
accident section.
With these preliminary observations we will pass to the detailed examination of
the various points on which it falls to us to report.
I.M a n u f a c t u r e .
The total number of factories (under continuing certificate and license) i now 123*
(exclusive of small-firework and toy-firework factories, which will be dealt
with separately), boing an increase of 1 on last year, when the number stood at
122.
No factory has ceased to exist during the year. One new factory has been licensed.
Altogether 89 factories have now been licensed since the act came into operation,
viz, 88 during the fourteen years from 1876 to 1889 and 1 in 1890. The increase
during the year has therefore been very small as compared with previous years.
The number of factories under continuing certificate remains at 47. The total
reduction in the number of such factories since the act came into operation is 8.
The present number of factories under license is 76, against 75 in existence at the
end of 1889 (exclusive of toy-firework factories), one new one having, a already
stated, been licensed, while none have ceased to exist during the year.
The number of applications for new factory licenses received during the year was
5,and there were 6 outstanding from the previous year. One was withdrawn and none
were rejected during the year.
* The number actually in use is 121, Nos. 22 and 111 having given notice of tem
porary disuse under section 13.
284
SUPPLEMENT---- EXPLOSIVES.
285
The new factory i a follows, viz : Factory 144 for cartridges for mallarms.
Appendix A gives a table of all factories at present in existence, with the classes of
explosives authorized to be manufactured therein, while Appendix B specifies in
detail the various natures of explosives authorized for the different factories, dis
tinguishing between the factories in which they were authorized to be made prior to
1890 and those which were licensed during that year. Appendix D contains descrip
tions of the explosives and Appendix E (l) gives the distribution of the factories
throughout the country.
We see no grounds for modifying the favorable opinion which we have frequently
expressed as to the sound practical working ef the system of licensing as laid down
by the act, which is calculated to insure a thorough investigation of all technical
details when the draft license is under consideration at the home office, while it
affords ample security for the protection of the public and of the local interests con
cerned when the application comes before the local authority.
Forty-eight amending licenses for factories have been applied for during the year,
and 8 were outstanding from the year before. The number of amending licensee
actually confirmed during the year has been 47. As the number confirmed during the
previous fourteen years was 439, this is largely in excess of the annual average, as
also was the case in the two preceding years.
The following changes have occurred in the list of licensed explosives during the
year:
No explosives have been added to the list of authorized explosives during the year.
The definitions of scurit, ballistite, smokeless powder, gun cotton, and other ex
plosives into which guncotton enters as an ingredient have been slightly altered
during the year. The new definitions will be found in Appendix D.
The following explosives have been submitted for examination during the year,
with a view to their being placed on the authorized list, viz, cycene (a second vari
ety), Hengt powder, rifieite, and oarite.
A variety of cycene, which was under examination in 1889, failed to pass the test
and was rejected, but the variety submitted during the past year was favorably
reported upon. A similar remark applies to rifieite. Hen gats powder failed to pass
the tests. Oarite was favorably reported upon. Cycene, rifieite, and oarite will,
therefore, become *'authorized explosives so soon as any license for manufacture or
importation for general sale is applied for and granted. They at present occupy
the position that may be called licensable explosives.
Particulars of the natures of the various explosives submitted will be found in Dr.
Dupre report at p. .
Flameless scurit disappears from tho list of authorized explosives, being included
in Becurite as newly defined.
The four varieties of E. C. powder are now included in two definitions.
The addition of sulphate of magnesium to dynamite has been approved. This en
tails no change of definition. The object of tho addition is to render the dynamite
flameless.
For the assistance of inventors who desire to have explosives examined with a
view to their being placed on the list of authorized explosives, a memorandum whioh
was prepared some time ago, giving the necessary information as to the steps to be
taken by them, and which has appeared in previous annual reports, is reprinted in
Appendix Q.
During the year we have paid 221 visits to the 123 factories, all of them having
been inspected at least once, and tho larger proportion twice. In a few instances,
where a third visit to a factory has appeared desirable, we have inspected it three
times.
There has been no falling off in the general improvement referred to in our previ
ous reports in the factories. The high standard of excellence which has been reached
since the passing of the explosives act, has, as a rule, been fully maintained, and
286
very marked and satisfactory improvement has been effected in several instances.
We believe that, as a rule, the factories for explosives in tho United Kingdom will
bear favorable comparison with the factories for whatever nature of goods, whether
in the Kingdom or abroad.
Our relations, too, with both employers and employed continue, we are glad to say,
generally, to be on the same satisfactory footing as they have now been for several
years past.
Under these conditions proceedings for irregularities in the factories are naturally
of rare occurrence. It is perhaps unavoidable that we should find breaches of the
act in the course of our visits to some of the factories, but they are now usually of a
minor character, perhaps technical points which have been overlooked, and these
are at once rectified when attention is drawn to them.
In only three cases did we find it necessary to take proceedings. They were as
follows:
Messrs. Hay, Merricks & Co. (Limited), of Roslin Factory, were prosecuted at the
sheriffs court, Edinburgh, for a breach of the terms of their license in having six
work people in their lower press-houso at the time of the serious explosion which
occurred on the 19th January, four only being allowed by the license. In view
of the heavy loss sustained by the company by that accident they were admonished
and no penalty was inflicted.
The Midlothian Gunpowder Company (Limited) were prosecuted at the same court
on the 16th September for three breaches of the terms of their license. They were
covicted and fined in all 35.
The West Calder Cooperative Society (Limited) were also prosecuted at the same
court on the 16th September for a breach of one of the terms of their license, and
were convicted and fined 5.
In addition to the above, Mr. George Pinder, jr., of the Edwinstowe Factory, was
prosecuted at Worksop on the 29th November for having 80 pounds of fireworks in
a building outside his licensed factory; in other words, for storing in an unauthor
ized place. He was convicted and fined 5, and was ordered to pay the costs,
amounting to 4 6.
The building in question was erected just outside the licensed factory boundary,
and was intended for case-rolling, a perfectly legitimate process, but one of us, on
visiting tho factory, found a considerable number of work people there with an open
stove burning and a large amount of fireworks on the work benches. Tho opera
tions of finishing were doubtless being carried on, but we elected to take the more
lenient course of merely charging illegal storage in lieu of illegal manufacture,
thereby much reducing the penalties to which Mr. Pinder was liable.
In three other cases explosives were placed under seizure, but were ultimately
released without further steps being taken, viz :
Factory of Messrs. A. Greaves & Son, of Chesterfield, 800 pounds compressed gun
powder cartridges.
Factory of Mr. W. Thompson, of Dairy, 400 pounds of gunpowder.
Factory of Mr. John Hodsman, Dublin, 60 pounds of fireworks.
The factory magazine of a fog-signal factory in the occupation of Mr. H. Morris,
near Birmingham, was broken into in August by some youths, who stole some gun
powder. They also destroyed the lightning conductors. Proceedings were insti
tuted and 7 boys were fined 10. and costs (or a months hard labor) each.
No notice has been given under the provisions of sections 24 and 56 of the act to
require a reduction of tho amount of explosives present in a building.
During the year there have come under our notice 64 accidents in manufacture,
causing 8 deaths and injuring 15 persons. They are fully dealt with in the accident
section of this report.
One license for toy firework factories (i. e., for the making of bon-bon crackers,
throwdown, and 11amorces ) has been granted during the year, and one of these
SUPPLEMENT EXPLOSIVES.
287
factories has ceased to exist. The number of such factories at present in existence
is 12. All of these factories are in the metropolitan district.
We have obtained no fresh returns of small firework factories from the local au
thorities since 1885, when the number licensed was 24, of which 23 were in England
and 1 was in Scotland. There bad been a falling off in the number of these factories
since 1880, when it stood at 29.
The distribution in counties of these factories (24 in number) now on our books is
shown in Appendix E (2). Five of these are in the London district, 3 in the neigh
borhood of Birmingham, and 2 near Bristol, the remainder being scattered over the
country.
We have visited about one-fourth of these during the year, and found that the
special attention we paid to this branch of our work in 1887 has borne fruit in a
generally improved condition.
It is, however, difficult in many instances to induce the local authority officers to
face the minutiae of inspection of these factories, where so many more points have
to be noted and considered in comparison with the more simple inspection of a store
or registered premises. We have not had occasion to take proceedings against the
occupiers of any small firework factories, either ourselves or through the local
authority.
The proceedings instituted by us in respect of the illegal manufacture of quickfiring ammunition against Sir W. G. Armstrong, Mitchell & Co. (Limited) resulted
in a conviction at Durham summer assizes, and a penalty of 250 was imposed.
This point is dea It with in the accident section of this report.
One instance of the illegal manufacture of colored fire has been brought to our
notice during the year. Mr. Herbert Crook, of Eastbourne, was summoned for this
offense and convicted on 20th January.
We have to record another instance of illegally breaking up small-arm car
tridges (constituted manufacture by section 105) by Mr. A. C. Argles, of 143 Queen
Victoria street, London. This was brought to notice by an accident which occurred
during the process. Mr. Argles was convicted at the Mansion House and fined 5,
with 1 l. costs. This case will be found to be dealt with in the accident section,
where other similar former cases are mentioned.
Another case was brought to our notice by an accident which occurred at the Grin
quarries, near Buxton, which had a fatal result. The particulars are fully detailed
in Special Report No. XCII, on an inquiry held under section 66. Proceedings were
subsequently instituted, and the Old Buxton Lime Company (Limited) were fined
20 and costs for manufacturing explosives in a repairing shop and a cabin. The
acts of manufacture were the breaking up and drying of gun cotton and mixing the
product with gunpowder. It may be added that this latter process was carried on
in a rough stone cabin, where there was an open fire and habitual smoking.
In our annual report for 1885 (p. 12) we published a statement of the total number
of persons employed in factories under the act. A period of five years having elapsed,
we have again, through the courtesy of the manufacturers, obtained returns enabling
us to produce a similar table for 1890, which is given below.
In this table we have, as before, classed the factories now on our books in four
groups, A, B, C, and D.
Group A comprises those factories which produce guupowder and nitrate mixtures,
i. e., explosives of Classes 1 and 2.
Group B comprises those factories which produce dynamite, gun cotton, small-arm
nitro-compounds, and, in fact, all those licensed explosives which belong to Classes 3
and 4.
Group C comprises those factories which produce fulminates and ammunition of
all sorts, including fuses (safety and otherwise), detonators, sporting, blasting, and
cannon cartridges ; also those which pack gunpowder for retail sale from bulk into
smaller units. This group, therefore, comprises Classes 5 and 6.
Group D comprises all firework factories, *. ., those producing explosives of Claes 7.
288
It should be further explained that in many cases a factory comprised in one group
also produces explosives belonging to one or more other groups, e. g.} many gunpowder
factories make compressed cartridges which would fall into Group C, and some am
munition factories make fireworks (Group D) ; but to avoid an almost endless com
plication each factory has been placed in the group corresponding to its leading or
staple output.
Persons employed (maximum num
ber) at one time during the years
1890 and 1885, respectively._______
Factories
comprised
Group. in group. In danger In nondan
ger build
Total.
buildings.
ings.
Bemarks.
1890. 1885. 1890. 1885. 1890. 1885. 1890. 1885.

A
29
29 1,228
934 1, 349 1,236 2,577 2,170
585
511
252
959
531 4,297 3,550 5,256 4,081
441
419
22
123
23
747
288
333 1,258
229
729
648
The 29 factories in this group include 4 in

which the work (if any) carried on is
merely nominal, and 2 which are merely
smaU groups of outlying mil connected
with other factories.
Of this group one is in disuse, and another,
employing but few hands, is only used for
drying and packing gun cotton.
Of the 58 factories in this group 11 , employ
ing in all 391 persons, are devoted exclu
sively to the manufacture of safety fuses ;
16 are only factories in that they have
workshops attached to magazines for the
purpose of filling blasting and other car
tridges for sale. These latter employ in
all only 45 persons. Two others (one of
which is in disuse) are for the manufac
ture of fulminate only. This leaves a
total of 29 factories devoted to the manu
facture of ammunition in general, and em
ploying 4,816 persons.
In addition to tneso numbers in this group
there are 16 small firework factories at
present known to be in operation, employ
ing 115 persons, and 12 toy firework fac
tories, employing 91 persons, thus giving
a total of 935 persons employed in the fire
work manufacture. But these numbers
must be accepted as approximate only, for
the small firework factories are li
censed by and under the immediate super
vision of the local authorities, and we
have no recent return of their numbers.
108 3,139 12,136 6,681 5,348 9,820 7,484
Comparing the figures given in the above table, we find during the half decade an
increase of nearly 14 per cent in the number of factories and of about 31 per cent in
the number of persons employed.
The percentage of deaths in manufacture, calculated on the number now employed,
is .081 on the total and .26 on the numbers employed in danger buildings, i.e., just
one-tenth, or less, of the present London mortality.
We have discussed these very interesting and important figures more fully in the
accident section.
II.S t o r a g e .
Magazine8.The total number of magazines (under continuing certificate and
license) is now 359,# being an increase of 2 on last year, when the number stood at
357.
* The number actually in use is 354, Nos. 61, 169, 170, 178, and 226 having given
notice, under section 13, of temporary disuse. In addition, there exists on our books
a magazine in Erith Marshes (No. 200), established by this department in conjunction
with the metropolitan and city police for the deposit of seized explosives. This
magazine is, however, exempt from the opration of the act under section 97, and is
not included by us in our list of magazines.
289
The increase of 2 does not, however, represent the number of magazines actually
added during the year, because 6 magazines have been struck off our books. The
total number of new magazines licensed since tho act came into operation is 246.
As regards magazines under continuing certificate, the number now in existence
is 145, tho continuing certificates of Nos. 21 (Carnarvon), 23 (Stafford), 89 (Flint),
142 (Glamorgan), and 161 (Lancaster), having been surrendered, making a total
reduction of 54 such magazines since the act came into operation.
As regards magazines under license, the number now in existence (including the
3 Mersey magazines, which have been subject to our inspection from 15th January,
1884) is 214, being an increase of seven on last year. During the year 1 has ceased
to exist, and 8 new magazines have been licensed.
The 8 new licenses are as follows : One for gunpowder (No. 439) ; 3 for dynamite,
blasting gelatin, etc. (Nos. 441, 442, 440) ; 4 for various explosives (Nos. 440,443,444,
445).
In our annual report for 1889 we stated that we had recommended the grant (when
applied for) of new or amending licenses to magazines, enabling the occupiers to
store any particular authorized explosives of Classes 1 to 4 which they might specify
jn their application in the same magazine. This was found to be a very welcome
concession by many members of the trade. Dnrihg the year 1890 we have decided,
after careful consideration, that we might still further increase the facilities for mis
cellaneous storage by permitting all authorized explosives of Classes 1 to 4 to be
kept in the same magazine without insisting on their being individually named in
the license. Under the former system it was necessary, when the occupier of a maga
zine wished to store a new explosive in his magazine, that he should obtain an amend
ing license, in which the explosive was specially named, to authorize such storage.
This obligation is relieved by the new system, which comes into force on the 1st Janu
ary, 1891.
The magazines for gunpowder under continuing certificate remain, however, unaf
fected for the reasons stated in our last year report.
During the year the question was raised, in a memorial from tho Manchester Ship
Canal Company, of the continued suitability of the site which had, in consequence of
the report of Admiral Phillimores committee in 1881, been assigned for tho Mersey
gunpowder magazines, and which was subsequently confirmed by an order of 22d
December, 1883 (immediately prior to their transfer to this department, on 1st Janu
ary, 1884, by the Mersey gunpowder act, 1883).
Col. Majendie was directed to hold an inquiry into the matter, and the result of
this inquiry (which is embodied in a report dated 24th June, 1890) was to show that
the existing site had become unsafe and unsuitable, not, however, on the grounds
alleged by the memorialists, but because, by alterations in the bed of the river, a
fundamental condition of safety (as laid down by Admiral Phillimore committee)
could no longer be observedthe condition, namely, that all gunpowder stored in
the magazines should be at all times below the level of the surrounding water. It
appeared that, at low-water spring tides, two of tho magazines were actually high
and dry, while the third magazine had at such times less than 4 feet of water.
Accordingly it became necessary to find a new site, and this, with the valuable
assistance of Lieut. Sweuy, R. N., marine surveyor of the Mersey docks and harbor
board, was done, and tho magazines have since been removed to the new site, about
200 yards distant from the old.
Unfortunately, owing to the peculiar conditions which exist in the Mersey, w
have no certainty that the new site will continue permanently, or even for a long
period of time, suitable for the purpose; but it certainly seems the best site that
can be found at present.
The number of applications for magazino licenses during the year was 25, and
there were 10 outstanding from the previous year. Of those 4 were withdrawn, 1
was rejected, and 8 were confirmed. Twenty-two are still in progress.
146a ------ 19
290
Thirty-three magazine amending licenses have been applied for during the year,
and there were 3 outstanding from tho previous year. Of tliese 36 applications 2
were rejected or withdrawn and 31 have received confirmation.
During the year we have paid 43Lvisits of inspection to tho 359 magazines in the
United Kingdom. All have been inspected once, and, as the numbers show, a large
percentage of them more than once. We are pleased to be able to report that there>
has been no falling off in the standard of excellence which the groat majority have*
attained since the passing of tho act: and in many instances the advance has boen`
appreciable.
We have continued to pay special attention to the structural security of maga
zines. In many instances the occupiers of existing magazines have been induced to
strengthen them in accordance with our suggestions, while in the case of all new
magazines an improved system of construction lias for some time past been insisted
upon. Tho following, subject to slight variations due to local or other circum
stances, is now inserted in all new licenses as the description of a magazine which
should satisfy modern requirements in these particulars:
The walls of the magazine [which we require to be not less than 18 inches thick]
shall be well and substantially built of good Portland cement concrete, containing
not less than one part of best Portland cement and five parts of clean, sharp, fl!inty
gravel or ballast, with a proper proportion of sand.* Tho roof shall be either of
the same construction as is above directed for the walls, or shall be slated or tiled!
and so secured internally by means of stout beams or crosspieces of wood placed at.
close intervals, or by stout iron netting, iron bands, sheets of galvanized iron, or
other suitable material, as in tho opinion of a Government inspector to afford rea
sonable security against unlawful entry.
The magazine shall be lined throughout with wood, and be provided with a
close-joined wooden floor, and with two good and substantial doors securely affixed
to the structure, and having hinges, as far as may be practicable, inaccessible from
the exterior. The said doors shall open outwards, and the outermost, door siiall be
of iron, or be faced externally with iron. Each of the said doors shall be fitted with
not less than two strong locks, or with one lock throwing three bolts. The locks
shall be of such a character as not to be easily picked or forced from the exterior.
If at any time it shall appear to the secretary of state desirable that a wall or
fence shall be erected about the magazine or any part thereof, there shall forthwith
be erected and maintained such wall or fence as may be specified by the secretary
of state in his requisition for the section of tho same, and such wall or fence shall
be deemed to be a part of tho mounds, buildings, or works in or connected with the>
magazine.
No case of nnlawfnl entry of a magazine has como under our notice during the
year.
In only one case liavo we found it necessary to institute proceedings for irregu
larities in magazines during the year, namely, in the case of Messrs. Evans &.
W idow field, of Cardiff, who were prosecuted at Pontypridd on 5tli December for
breaches of the terms of their license for their magazine at Bortlillwyd Mountain,,
near Pontypridd. A conviction was obtained, and they were fined 11, with 79
6d. costs, but this penalty also covered other oflenses.
In two other cases we placed explosive under seizure for irregularities in maga
zines, viz : Magazine 283, on the Thames, below Gravesend, occupied by the execu
tors of the lato T. F. Wood, where 17 cases of fireworks were placed under seizure;,
Magazine 235, at Honndsham, near Bristol, occupied by Mr. A. Ricketts, of Clifton,
rlicre 12,200 detonators were placed under seizure. In both cases the explosive wa(
subsequently released without the institution of proceedings.
*ln localities where, for economical or other reasons, it is desired, we admit the
building of the walls with good hard stone or hard bricks et in cement,
291
There has boon no accident by five or explosion in any magazine during the year.
Stores.We have obtained no fresh returns of stores from the local authority since
1885, when the number was 1,972, of which 1,534 were in England and Wales, 334 in
Scotland, and 104 in Ireland.
As explained in our report for 1885, for the reasons there stated, these numbers
can not, however, be relied upon as absolutely accurate. We have continued the
practice of devoting as much time as we could spare from other duties to inspecting
a certain number of stores as samples in such districts as we have been able to visit
during tho year, and thus obtaining some measure of the degree of efficiency with
which the act is worked within such districts. We have in this way succeeded in
visiting 196 stores during the year.
The condition of the stores s t ill c o n tin u e s to a d v a n c e , an d great progress has been
made in the way of rendering them more secure, particularly in certain districts.
The outer doors of the stores in some counties are now very generally protected by
iron plating. Great improvement is also visible in the construction of new stores,
which we have recommended should be built on the general lines laid down for the
construction of new magazines as detailed above. We are glad to notice that the
chief constables of counties have, as a rule, taken strong action in this direction in
consequence of the recommendations made to them by us in 1885.
No cases of unlawful entry of stores have come under our notice during the year.
It is most gratifying to be able to state that in no instance were we compelled to
institute proceedings against the occupier of a store, and in one instance only was a
prosecution undertaken at our instance by the local authority. In this case the
condition of the store was very defective, and tines amounting to 5 (including
costs) were inflicted. The store in question (No. 1733) was occupied by the Cwrntil.
lory Industrial Society (Limited), at Cwmtillery, county Monmouth.
In two other instances explosive was placed under seizure, viz, at the store (No.
1711) occupied by Robert Hamilton, of Edinburgh, and at the store (No. 1180) occu
pied by John Hughes, Llandebie.
In the first case 35 pounds of gelatin dynamite were placed under seizure on
account of its defective physical condition, not on account of any irregularity in the
store itself, which was in good order. The explosive was eventually destroyed.
In the second case 100 pounds of gunpowder were placed under seizure on account
of the dirty condition of tho store and subsequently released.
What has been stated above shows that we can speak very favorably of the gen
eral condition of tlie stores visited by us, and that not only in districts previously
noted as good, but generally.
There, has been no accident by explosion or fire in a store during the year.
Hegistcrcd premises.As in the case of stores, we have obtained no fresh return of
registered premises from the local authorities since 1885. The number then returned
was 22,262, of whicli 19,162 were in England and Wales, 2,045 in Scotland, and 755
in Ireland.
As stated in our report for 1885, this shows a considerable increase as comparcdwith former returns and points to tlie development of tho legitimate retail trade in
explosives. Moreover, many collieries and quarries where only small quantities of
explosives are used prefer to have registered premises rather than stores.
During the year we have visited 185 registered premises, many of them in boroughs
and towns previously unvisited. In three cases proceedings were instituted by the
local authority at our instigation. The first of these was for the illegal storage of a
large quantity of gelignite, detonators, and gunpowder, by Mr. George Britton, of
141 East street, Bedininster. These explosives were kept without any regard to the
regulations itlie order in council. Moreover, inflammable oils were kept in close
proximity. Had a tire broken out the consequence would have been most serious,
it would appear that this illegal storage had been going on for some time. It is sat
isfactory to be able to add that substantial penalties and costs, amounting in all to
50 10*,, were inflicted for these offenses.
292
Another case was for irregularities in connection with the storage of gunpowder
by Mr. Samuel Raine, of Midsomer Norton, for which he was convicted and fined.
The third case was for irregularities in connection with the storage of detonators
by the Cwintillery Industrial Society, for which they were convicted and fined.
A seizure of 10 pounds of Shultze gunpowder was made on the registered, premises
of Sarah Hammond, at Winchester. In this case proceedings are pending. A seiz
ure of 750 revolver cartridges was made on the premises of Joseph Haigs, Portsea,
but they were subsequently released.
We continue to occasionally find, instances of breaking bulk on registered prem
ises of quantities of explosives exceeding 1 pound. To this point we always draw
the special attention of the occupiers anil of the local officers, as it is a fruitful
source of danger. It is always to be borne in mind that the explosion of any con
siderable amount of explosive upon the registered premises is likely, as a rule, to be
more disastrous than in a properly isolated magazine or store. If 100 pounds of
powder explodes in a house or shop in the middle of a town tho personal and struc
tural injuries are likely to be far more serious than if a much larger amount exploded
in an isolated structure.
The officer of the local authority lias, in all cases where it was practicable, accom
panied us on our visits to the registered premises.
During the year three accidents (Nos. 79, 87, 114) have occurred on registered
premises, from which one person sustained injury.
In one of the above accidents (87) the explosion resulted directly from the practice
of unloading cartridges, referred to above.
III.P acking
and
Conveyan ce
of
E xplosives .
We have had no reason to find fault with tlie character of the packages generally
in use for the various explosives. As a rule they fultil their purposes excellently. The
only exception is the practice, alluded to in former reports, occasionally (but now
more rarely) indulged in by gun-makers, who have used the cardboard boxes in
which empty cartridges were supplied to them for packing loaded cartridges, and
transmitted them to their customers either improperly marked or not marked at all.
We have continued to draw the attention of the oificcrs of the local authorities to
these points.
The conveyance of explosives by road is now, so far as we have observed, generally
conducted in accordance with the requirements of the law.
But, as we have remarked in former reports, this is a point which we have, for
obvious reasons, very little opportunity of personally observing, and is one for which
the local authorities must be practically considered as solely responsible. It is of
course possible that many offenses against the salutary provisions of the act in this
respect are committed and not detected, but we have reason to believe that, owing
to the increased vigilance of the local authorities, at all events in districts where
explosives are largely conveyed, the chances of detection are considerably greater
than formerly.
The cases of illegal conveyance of explosives of which we have had information
are as follows :
One case of illegal conveyance resulted in proceedings against Messrs. Evans &
Widowfield, of Cardiff. This case formed one of several charges against them.
In another case Messrs. Cook Brothers, of Cork, were fined 1 and costs for illegal
conveyance of dynamite in an open cart.
Tho code of by-laws for canal which was approved by the board of trade in 1876
and quoted in our annual report for that year, is still in force, and we have seen no
reason for suggesting any alteration in the same.
The number of canals working under these regulations remains at 108, no altera
tion having taken place during the year. The number of canals which have given
notice that they do not carry explosives remains at 11, as since 1876.
293
In respect also of railways (and docks worked by railway companies) the 1876 code
of by-laws remains unaltered.
The number of railways on which explosives are prohibited remains at 15.
One more railway, viz, the Tralee aud Dingle Light Kail way or Tramway Company,
has adopted this code during the year, making, with the 115 which had previously
adopted it, 116 railways and docks worked by railway companies under this code.
At the date of our last report 273 harbors and docks were returned as provided
for. Of this number 48 had no trade in explosives or nad prohibited under former
acts, and 69 had prohibited under the explosives act, 1875.
By-laws regulating the general traffic have been sanctioned for one additional
harbor (Amlwch) and by-laws prohibiting the traffic in explosives (Conway River,
outside tho jurisdiction of the Conway harbor commissioners) have also been sanc
tioned during the year.
There are, therefore, 134 harbors and docks where a general traffic is provided for.
The number of harbors and docks where no traffic in explosives exists is (as above
stated) 48 ; that of the harbors and docks in which such traffic is absolutely prohib
ited under the explosives act, 1875, is 70, and in 23 cases a limited traffic is provided
for. Thus a total of 275 harbors and docks is provided for in one way or another.
This number comprehends nearly the whole of the harbors of importance.
The following table shows in a synoptical form the condition of the railways,
anals, harbors, and docks in regard to the making of by-laws :
England.
Scotland.
Ireland.
74
95
85
17
4
25
25
9
47
14
9
36
1
1
15
63
19
118
Companies, harbors, and docks which have made by-laws

regulating the traffic in explosives (including" those
which allow of a limited traffic) :
Railways ....... .
Canals..........................- ......................................................
Harbors and docks............................................................
Companies, harbors, and docks which liavo notified that
they either will not admit a traffic in explosives or have
no such traffic :
Railw ays__. . . . . . . . . __ . . . . . . . . . . __ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canals....... .............. ................................ ................. . . . .
Harbors and docks ............................................................
Total.
116
108
157
11
As stated in previous reports, these figures appear to us to afford a perfectly satis

factory answer to tho anticipations which were expressed by some of the trade when
the act first came into operation, that the effect of tho restrictive regulations would
be to deter the railways and canals generally from carrying explosives and to close
the harbors against this class of goods.
No accident occurred during the year in the conveyance of explosives.
IV.I m p o r t a t i o n .
Up to the 31st of March, 1890, importation licenses, valid for any number of impor
tations from the date of issue up to the succeeding 31st of March, were granted.
These were renewable annually.
Since the above date licenses have been issued valid for one importation only. A
circular notifying this change was addressed to the trade on 10th of February, 1890.
At the same time the terms of the licenses were slightly altered, one of the most
important differences being that in the case where imported explosives are sampled
at the port of entry by Her Majestys customs, the importer is bound to state where
the consignment will be stored; and he is not permitted to distribute it for general
ale until the samples have been examined and found to be satisfactory.
The number of licenses granted during 1890, up to the 31t of March, was 8 j the
number under the new system subsequent to that date was 112.
294
The amount of foreign dynamite imported shows an extraordinary decrease from

that imported in previous years, being only 371,650 pounds, as against an average of
over 1,000,000 pounds a year for tho previous eight years. This marked decrease is
doubtless in part to be accounted for by an increase in the amount of the gelatinous
forms of nitrocompounds imported, and this corresponds with the increased favor
shown by consumers to these forms, not only in this country but abroad. The
amount of these was 462,002 pounds. But it should be noted that the total amount
of all sorts of nitroglycerin compounds imported for blasting purposes did not
amount to quite 900,000 pounds, as against 1,325,950 pounds in 1889.
As explained in previous reports, a considerable amount of imported explosive is
not really for home consumption, but is simply brought to this country for reship
ment abroad. Such a transaction has to be covered by an importation license, but
we have not thought it necessary to attempt to ascertain exactly what proportion is
so reexported and what proportion finds its way into the English market. This in
formation could perhaps, if necessary, be obtained from the customs returns. Every
cargo brought into English waters is sampled and examined and otherwise treated
exactly as if it were for home consumption, and we take no note of its actual destina
tion.*
It is satisfactory to us to be able to state that the quality of the foreign dynamite
generally continues, as a whole, to be very good. It will, however, be seen by Dr.
Duprs report that two samples of imported dynamite were rejected as containing
more than 75 percent nitroglycerine (which, of course, is not strictly a reflection
on the quality of the dynamite). This is tho first instance of rejection since 1882.
The oondition, however, of imported blasting gelatine, including matagnite
gelatine, is still far from satisfactory, no less than 25 samples having been rejected
during the year.
In the case of gelatine dynamite the rejections were 10, all mainly on tho ground
of exudation.
The new nitroglycerin explosive, lt carbonite, was imported to the extent of
44,000 pounds, and stonite to the extent of 22,000 pounds. All samples passed the
tests.
Of bellite 38,500 pounds were imported, and no samples were rejected.
The amount of fulminate imported was 9,700 pounds, practically the same amount
as in 1889, but below the average of previous years.
The number of detonators was 10,950,000, against over 15,000,000 in 1889, which
latter quantity, however, was largely in excess of the average of former years.
In one instance 103 cases of matagnito gelatine were imported into Cornwall,
samples of which proved to be subject to exudation and insufficiently pure. They
were allowed to be returned to tho makers.
Another cargo from the same source was imported into Cornwall and Cumberland.
Samples taken from both ports of importation proved to possess the same faults as
the cargo referred to above, and, as the previous warning had proved ineffectual, pro
ceedings were instituted in each county. Convictions were obtained and penalties
inflicted on the responsible importers, and the whole consignment was eventually
returned to the port of origin.
There was one small consignment only of Cooppal powder, amounting to 375
pounds.
The quantity of amorces or toy caps, including the variety known as crackshots, imported during the year shows a considerable increase, the total amounting
to 10,590 pounds, 1,000 gross and 10 cases (weight not stated), as compared with 140
pounds and 97 cases imported in 1889. Out of 27 samples only one was rejected, the
cause being excess of explosive. This is a groat improvement on former years. (See
as to this Dr. Dupr6s report.)
* As to the different policy which prevails in Germany, where dynamites not of
German manufacture are forbidden to be carried by the State railways, see note on
p . 23, Annual Report for 1885.
295
Tho amount of oriental and other fireworks imported during 1890 has T>eon 312,750
pounds, and in addition 6 packages (weight not stated).
Some irregularities have occurred in respect to the importation of explosives, hut
not of a serious character.
In June a small consignment of electric detonator fuses was imported without a
license at Hull. They were seized by tlie customs, and eventually sunk in deep
water, no further steps being taken.
In October Messrs. Theodor Ick, Sons & Co. imported explosives irregularly into
the Thames. The customs thought that tho justice of the case would bo met by a
penalty of 1.
On three occasions magic lamps, which contain as igniting agent an 'igniting
disc, consisting of small amorces arranged on a circular piece of card, were imported
without a license, as well as boxes of spare discs. In one case they were sent back;
in the other two covering importation licenses were allowed to be taken out.
Importation licenses, as explained in former reports, are only granted (a) for those
ports for which by-laws regulating a general trade in explosives have been duly
made under the act; and (b) where, in the opinion of Her Majestys commissioners
of customs, the duties of sampling cargoes devolving on the customs officers can be
conveniently discharged; and () in Ireland, those which are named in orders made
under the peace preservation (Ireland) act, 1881, as ports into which explosive may
be brought.*
The number of the ports in England, Wales, and Scotland, for which importation
licenses can at present be granted, remains the same as at the end of 18S8, viz, 33.
As the importation of gunpowder does not require a license, we receive no notice
of any such importations; but the statistical department of the board of trade has
been good enough to furnish us with information as to the importations of gun
powder which took place during the year, and this wo have added to information
derived from the same source and published in our report for 1889; the ligures thus
collected show tlio transactions in the import of gunpowder from 1870 to 1890 in
clusive.
V.G overnm ent I nspection and S earch .
We liavo seen no re. son to modify tho opinion we have expressed in former reports,
to the elfoct that the powers conferred on government inspectors by section 55,
coupled with the jmwers of search and seizure conferred by sections 73, 74, and 75,
are ample and satisfactory.
In nine cases wo felt it necessary to institute proceedings, this being slight ly above
tlio average (8.3 cases per annum) for the whole period from 187(5 to the end of 1890,
during which 125 cases have been taken into court. Two cases were outstanding
from the previous year. Convictions were obtained in all cases except in one (Mr.
R. C. Briscoe), and fines amounting in all to 404 17s. wore intlicted, in addition to
costs and forfeiture or penalties in lieu thereof.
In addition to the above, proceedings have been taken by the local authorities on
o u r m o tio n , o r o n in fo r m a tio n s u p p lie d by us, in s ix e a se s, tlic p a r tic u la r s an d re
sults of which are given in Appendix T (6). This is far below the average of former
years. Thus, thore were 27 such cases in 1884, 26 in 1885, 22 in 1886, 11 in 1887, 46
in 1888, and 18 in 1889.
In procuring the institution of proceedings by the local authorities or their officers
we have been influenced by the considerations sot forth in former reports, and which
it is unnecessary to repeat here.
*lt should be particularly observed that it does not follow that all the Irish ports
named in this list would be licensed for the importation of explosive, because some
of them may not satisfy the conditions (a) and (b) specified in the text.
tin another case proceedings were also pending, and it was heard during the
preparation of this report, resulting in conviction.
296
In addition to the cases in which we initiated the institution of* proceedings of

one sort or another, there were 8 cases in which explosive was placed by us, or at
at our instance, under seizure, and afterwards released or destroyed without further
action.
The total number of cases of seizure of all sorts in which we were concerned was
21, as against 24 in 1889, 18 in 1888, 23 in 1887, 43 in 1886, 41 in 1885, 48 in 1884, and
63 in 1883.
The following table gives the nature and amount of work in the way of inspec
tions and other visits which we have accomplished during the year, and for conven
ience of comparison we have shown in italics tlie[work performed in the fourteen pre
ceding years since the act came into operation.
Detailedreturn of inspectionsand other visitsfrom January 1.1876, to December 81,1890.
35
224
197
1G8
235
216
170
155
139
111
107
102 i
431
431
367
448
452
41?
389
345
329
163
316
91 i 220
80 ! 152
57 ; 215
40
72
196
191
300
232
206
275
284
215
368
192
288
319
9
7
26
5
7
210
10
6
6
6
2
8
8
215
39
9
4
r*.2
03
X
"ji
185
299
483
302
283
392
349
319
224
89
75
43
S
M
5
3
4
15
15
14
16
10
40
117
11
88
7
7
29 i........
17
:*8
2
8
6
2
10
7
15
3
8
8
8
14
5
3
4
7
4
4
10
10
9
7
3
9
7
6
8
c3 .
3
S0o
0
*
CS,
- i*5
Total.
s 3
2 >
VI
^
Tear.
1890.
1889.
1888.
1887.
1880.
1885.
1884.
1883.
1882.
1881.
1880.
1879.
1878.
1877.
1876.
o
Inquiries.
s
91
132
252
130
135
138
124
134
54
8 'i
137
99
99
241
88
i1
1,257
1,414
1, 794
184 jI 1,579
! 118 11 1,432
1, 627
200
i 234
1, 577
1,391
jj 198 1
I 201 ! 1,327
846
1! 191
I1 159 j
1, 114
! 169 ;
984
800
; 152
993
101 1
457
1 78 !
112
: 141
200
1
1
It will be observed that though the total number of visits is lower than last
year, yet that the number paid to factories (the most important and time-consuming branch of our duties) has considerably increased. This is due to several
reasons. In tlie first place the actual number of factories has been much augmented
of late years (no less than ten being added in 1889), as has the variety of explosives
manufactured in them. Moreover, individual factories have largely increased in
extent, some of them taking the best part of two days to satisfactorily inspect, the
actual number of persons employed in the trade having increased by about 31 per cent
since 1885. We may add that for obvious reasons a newly established factory for
the first few years of its existence requires, as a rule, more frequent and careful in
spection than one established for many years, with which we are familiar, and which
has got into its regular working routine.
No lectures to the local officers have been given by us during the year.
In the course of our duties we have necessarily traveled over a good deal of ground,
and on reference to our books we find that of the 52 counties in England and Wales,
we have visited 47 ; of the 33 counties in Scotland, we have visited 16; of the 32
counties in Ireland, we have visited 8; making a total out of the 117 counties in the
United Kingdom of 71 in which we have made inspections and paid visits of various
sorts during the year. Of tho unvisited counties the large proportion are agricul
tural counties, where explosive is comparatively little used or kept.
The total number of boroughs which we have personally visited since the act came
into force, with a view to conferring with and assisting the local authorities, or other
wise making observations as to the working of the act therein, now amounts to 283
(showing an increase of 11 on last year).
We have continued to have the benefit of the valuable services and extensive ex-
297
periiice of Dr. Dupr, F. K. s.,as tho chemical adviser of the Department; and in
accordance with or practice we submit in extenso th.it gentlemans report on tho
work which liehas done lor us during the year.
W estminster H ospital M edical Scool ,
Caxton Street,S. W., December 31, 1890.

In presenting this,my tenth annual report, itmay be interesting to
shortly note tho development which has taken place in the industry of explosives
during the past year.
At the date ofmy first report (1881) guncotton and dynamite had been in general
use for a number of years, and, together with gunpowder, practically monopolized
the market. Blasting gelatin had indeed been introduced a few years previously,
but, owing to difficulties in its manufacture, was only slowly making way.
Among explosives other than gunpowder used for blasting, dynamite No. 1 was by
far the most important.
Since that time a change has gradually taken place, and explosives containing
nitroglycerin in a gelatinized form are slowly but surely displacing the original
Kieselguhr dynamite, and other nitro-coinpounds have come into use. This year,
for the firsttimo, the number of samples of gelatinized preparations examined have
exceeded those of dynamite. The causes ofthis displacement are not far to seek.
Taking, firstly,gelatinized preparations, these are practically unaffected by water,
and admit also of a graduation in strength far more readily than ordinary dynamite
does. This isexemplified in such preparations as blasting gelatin with 90 percent
to 92 per cent of nitroglycerin; gelatin dynamite with 75 per cent, and gelignite
with 60 per cent nitroglycerin. In addition, their plastic nature renders them
more easy to use in bore holes.
These explosives are, however, not quite free from dangers of their own, dangers
which manufacturers have not, as vet, completely overcome. Tho chief of these is
their liability to exude a thin gelatin, which is liquid at ordinary temperatures.
There is also, apparently, a greater difficulty to insure absolute stability under the
most trying conditions of temperature and storage.
Since tho establishment of the manufacture of dynamite on a large scale no
authentic caso of its spontaneous ignition ison record, whereas there are several
such in regard to gelatinized preparations.
As regards their use in all but the hottest climates, the difficulty of instability
has been overcome; but, bearing itin mind, in such climates these explosives should
always be stored in water (when practicable) to guard against possible accidents,
and in all cases subjected to periodical and careful inspection. Storage in water
does not injure blasting gelatin, though gelatin dynamite and gelignite can not be
thus stored without loss of power.
Secondly, in regard to the new class of explosives containing other nitrocom
pounds mixed with nitrates, such as ammonite, bellite, roburite, scurit, etc., their
less sensitiveness to percussion and friction give them the advantage of somewhat
greater safety in manufacture and use.
Nine and ten years ago the number of samples of dynamite examined amounted to
two-tliirds to three-fourths of the total number of samples of explosives examined
during the same time, and nitroexplosives and other than nitroglycerin and nitro
cellulose were not represented at all. This year the number of samples of dynamite
examined amount to but littlemore than one-fourth of the total, and the samples of
nitrocompounds other than nitroglycerin and nitrocellulose, amount to neaily
one-half of the number of dynamite samples.
The various explosives and articles examined are, as usual, given in two tables.
Table I contains all samples of licensedexplosives, orofmaterials used inthe man
ufacture of such explosives; in Table II are given all the articles examined which
do not properly fallunder either of these two heads.
G en tlem ex :
298
FIRE AND BUIIDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
The total number of articles inclded in tliotables amount to 392,being the great
est number hitherto examined in any one year.
In addition to tlio samples chemically examined, 90 other samples of explosives
passed through my hands, but were only examined in regard to their then physical
conditions, which was in all cases satisfactory.
T a b l e I.
N o.ot samples.
Name of substance.
A m m onite...........
Amorces..............
Asphalt pow der.
Asteroid, purple.
Ballistite............
1 >ellite.
Blasting gelatin........................
Carl^milite.
Chertiers* co p p e r...................... .
I)vnamite No. 1 ........................

E! C. powder........................................ .
Emerald green...........................
Gelatin dynamite:
No. 1 - ...................................
No. 2 ...................................
G elignite ................................... .
G erbs............................................
Glycerin....................................
Gun cotton................................
Re To
! Pass ject
tal.
ed.* ed.
2C
1
0
8
21
19
11
1
81
No. of samples.
Name of substance.
To
tal.
Lightning paper......................
Xitmcotton .............................
Xitrogly<*crin .........................
Xitron;iphthaleno...................
Picrate of potash....................
21 j Rob urite:
N o .l....................................
44 !
No. 2....................................
ii ;
i ; Scliultzo powder......................
8(5 i Scurit....................................
Smokeless powders.................
Starlights, composition o f ---Stars:
Colored...............................
Pill b o x .............................
Stoneite....................................
S u lp h u r....................................
Tonite:
0
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
2
1
0
0
No. 1...........................................
3
4
0
0
3
4
2
27
1
1
8!
1
1
4
5
2
0
0
0
0
0
3U I1 4(>
Lampblack................................
L a n c e s ..........................................
2
1
1
1
1
4
1
1
4
5
3
9
1
No. 3...................................
Gun cotton, n itra ted ................

T. B. p o w d e r.................................
* See note to Table II.
Pass-;I Recd * !1 jectI!
300
L ___ iI
t Gelignito is merely a variety of gelatin dynamite,N o. 2 .
Table II.
Nature of substance.
A lu m .................
E lectric fu ses..
Igniting strip ..
!Mikado balloon
P icric acid .......
Schrader's dope
Number.
Nature of subs(aiice.
: Number.
Schraders powder
Starch paste .........
Throw-downs.......
Miscellaneous___
T ota l...........
32
* Under tlio heading Passed are given, in tho first place, the number of samples of tho various
explosives, the exact nature of which is defined in the license under which they are manufactured,
and which were found to comply with the conditions thus laid down; and in the second place the num
ber of such other explosives or substances used in the manufacture of explosives, etc., the nature of
whicli is not specifically fixed by license, which were found free from any dangerous or objectionable
features. Under the heading Rejected are given the number of samples found violating the terms
o f their license or containing some dangerous ingredient-; for example, colored fires, or fireworks, con
taining a substance which would render them liable to spontaneous ignition.
Amorces. There has been a considerable falling off in tho number of amorces
examined during the year, probably owing to the alteration in the regulations as to
the importation license, which has come into operation in tho course of the year.
The condition of the r.norces imported was, however, highly satisfactory, and only
1 sample out of 27 had to be rejected, the cause of the rejection consisting in an
excess of explosive matter being present, beyond the proportion licensed.
Blasting gelatin. Tho condition of this explosive isstillopen to grave objections,
299
and no less than 25 out of 44 samples had to be rejected, some on account of

exudation, some on account of failure to pass the prescribed heat test. The precise
conditions necessary to insure success are evidently not even yet fully understood,
and failure in thisrespect probably accounts, in some measure, for the greater popu
larity of the other gelatinized p r e p a r a t i o n s which are more readily manufactured so
as to satisfy allreasonable test. For some remarks on the heat test, see sj>ecialpar
agraph further on. Allrejected samples were of foreign make.
Dynamite No. . For the firsttime since 1882 I find myself obliged to place sam
ples of dynamite No. 1 among the rejected samples. This had to be done in the
case of two samples of imported dynamite, which contained a greater proportion
of nitroglycerin than is allowed by license. Tho dynamite was, however, other
wise in good condition and free from exudation at the time of examination.
The condition of the dynamite was, however, on the whole, extremely satisfactory,
although there were still some samples of rather too dry and friablea nature, a con
ditionwhich, as explained in previous reports,renders miss fire orincomplete detona
tion more frequent.
Gelatin dynamite. The condition of the gelatin dynamite, including in that term
gelignite, was, on the whole, extremely satisfactory, 10 samples only out of 97 sam
ples examined having been rejected, mainly on account of exudation. It is but fair
to add that although the degree of exudation complained of in these samples was
more than isdesirable, itin no case reached anything like the amount which I had
to complain of in the earlier years of its manufacture. The rejected samples were
all imported.
Smokelesspowder. Severalnew varieties of smokelesspowder have latelybeen intro
duced, and it isgratifying to find that the condition of the 5 samples examined was
satisfactory.
Other explosives. The condition of the other explosives proper included in Table
I calls forno special remarks; itwas in every case satisfactory.
In relation to some of the fireworks included in the table, some remarks will be
made further on.
Cycene. This represents another attempt to render the chlorates practically
available, and came very nearto success. Itbroke down, however, on a point which
few, if any, chlorate mixtures have as yet successfully met, viz, becoming more
sensitive to combined friction percussion on keeping. It was, therefore, adversely
reported on.
Cycene.secondvariety. In consequence ofthe adverse report on the above explosive,
the inventor submitted another chlorate explosive, which also he called cyceno.
This lias met with a certain measure of success.
This success lias, however, been gained by abandoning some of the advantages
expected from a chlorate by diluting it with a nitrate (about two parts nitrate to
one part chlorate), and using a very high percentage of combustible material. The
explosive istherefore relatively very feeble, but it stood all tests successfully, and
was favorably reported on.
Hengtyspowder. This is essentially a nitrocellulose powder, the explosiveness of
which issaid to be controlled, (1) by boiling the nitrocellulose in a solution of per
manganate of potassium; and (2) by the addition ofa gelatinized material obtained
by boiling linseed.
The samplesubmitted didnot prove sufficientlystabletowarrant itsbeing licensed,
and was adversely reported on.
jRifleite. This is a smokeless powder, consisting essentially of nitrocellulose, con
trolled by the addition of the ammonium salt of trinitronaplithol. The powder
proved to be of insufficient stability, and was adversely reported on.
Rifleite No. 2. In consequence of the adverse report on rilleite No. 1 a modifica
tion in tliecomposi':ion was proposed. This modification, as itdealt only with ma-
300
terials which had already been examined in connection with similar explosives,and
found tobe satisfactory, was favorably reported on.
Oarite isa rather complex mixture of various nitrocompounds with nitrates. It
passed successfully through all tho tests, and was favorably reported on.
Tlie proposed additions to explosives already licensed, consisted of chlorate and
sulphate of ammonium and of niter and charcoal to roburito, of graphite and para
ffinto ballistite, of camphor to blasting gelatine, of nitrated coal tar to smokeless
powder as licensed, tho new variety to be called smokeless (S. R.) powder, and of
sulphate of magnesium of the double sulphate of ammonium and magnesium to red
and black dynamite respectively.
The firstsix of these applications were reported on favorably, as the proposed ad
ditions did not interfere with stability ofthe explosives. The seventh, nitrated coal
tar, was found to endanger tho stabilityofthepowder, and was adverselyreported on.
Of the four last applications, two, namely, tho addition of sulphate of magnesium
to rod and black dynamite, were reported on favorably, while two, the addition of
the ammonia sulphate of magnesium to these two varieties of dynamite, were ad
versely reported on as interfering with the stability of the dynamite.
It will be noticed that, while the addition of various ammonium salts to dinitrobenzole has been sanctioned, the addition of ammonium salts, other than the carbon
ate, to explosives containing gun cotton or nitroglycerine, lias always been reported
against. The reason is this: All ammonium salts, especially when exposed alter
nately to moist and dry air at slightly elevated temperatures, lose traces of ammo
nia and become acid. Now, nitrocompounds like dinitrobenzole, are little, ifat all,
affected by traces of acid, and under such circumstances show no tendency to spon
taneous decomposition which might lead to ignition or explosion. Nitrocompounds,
like gun cotton and nitroglycerine (more strictly speaking nitric ethers), on the
other hand, are seriously affected by traces even of acids, especially strong mineral
acids, and decomposition once started goes on and ultimately leads tototal decompo
sition, which may end in ignition or explosion. Hence ammonium salts exert no
dangerous action on true nitrocompounds, but may fatally affect the stability of
nitric ethers, like gun cotton and nitroglycerine.
This vital distinction between the two classes of nitrocompounds used as or in
explosives should always be borne in mind by inventors of new mixtures.
The only accidents which have been brought under my notice during the year that
require remark are two which happened at Pain firework factory, near Mitcham.
The accidents are of great interest, as having been undoubtedly due to spontane
ous ignition. At the time of the first accident there were present in the magazine
which was destroyed a variety of fireworks of doubtful character, such as colored
stars, purple asteroids containing Cliertiersscopper and a chlorate, colored starscon
taining the same mixture, green lances (of which more hereafter), and gerbs.
Gerbs Ihave previously reported upon in consequence of an accident at Hanley.
When newly made and moist, they are very liable to generate heat. Moist mixtures
of iron filing and sulphur often become red hot under favorable conditions, but all
my experiments with actual gerb mixtures never led to anything like so great an
elevation of temperature, but a rise of 4(P F., and sometimes even more, was ob
served. It appears, therefore, that gerbs by themselves would not be likely to take
fire; but their proximity to other fireworks at all liable to spontaneous ignition
might, by raising the temperature, seriously endanger their stability or safety. It
should be noted that, although the steel and iron filings in the above gerbs were
what is called u protected, this did not prevent, although it somewhat checked,
the action of the sulphur on the iron.
As regards Chertiers copper, I have repeatedly given it as my decided opinion
that it should not be added to any firework, and in future I propose to place Chertiers copper and any firework containing Chertiers copperamong the rejected sam
ples.
301
The green lances merit a more minute consideration. They contained two different
mixtures, neither of which, taken by itself, would be liable to spontaneous ignition.
One of the mixtures, however, contained sulphur, the other chlorate of potassium,
and a mixture of the two would be liable to spontaneous ignition. Each of the two
compositions occuj)ied about one-lialf the length of the case, and in the majority of
the lances examined came into contact only in the middle, and over an area equal to
the cross section of tho tube. In some cases, however, a certain degree of intermix
ture had taken place, the line of division between the two mixtures, instead of be
ing sharply marked, was indistinct. Here, then, were present all the conditions likely
to lead to spontaneous ignition, and in one case a lance was actually seen to take
fire, and was extinguished before more than a small part of it had been consumed.
There can be little doubt, therefore, that the accidents were due to the spontaneous
ignition of some lances of the character just described. The case is of the highest
interest, as showing how small an amount of a dangerous mixture, or perhaps mere
contact between two mixtures not dangerous when separate, may lead to spontaneous
ignition. This aspect of the case is especially of interest if it be remembered that
stars containing chlorate are frequently embedded in mixtures containing sulphur, a
condition of things which, by the light of these accidents, can not be regarded as
free from danger.
In consequence of some of the evidence given in the case McMurray v. Cadwell,
alluded to shortly in my last years report, I took an opportunity to repeat, with a
different kind of amorces, some of tho experiments which had been carried out by
Col. Majendie and myself in 1880.
In the earlier experiments the amorces consisted of a mixture of amorphous phos
phorous and chlorate of potassium placed in dots between square pieces of paper,
and contained at the maximum but little over 70 grains explosive matter per 1,000
amorces.
In the present experiments, the amorces consisted of a mixture of amorphous phos
phorous, chlorate of potassium, sulphide of antimony, and sulphur, placed in dots,
some between square, some between round, pieces of paper. (See Table III.) The
latter contained 98.94 grains of explosive matter per 1,000, the former 121.56 grains.
The chief point of interest brought out in the course of these experiments is the
influence of the size of the paper holding the dots on the liability of the amorces to
explode en masse. Thus, a sextuple detonator exploded among 1,800 loose amorces
No. 1, contained in a small tin canister, although it broke up the canister as well as
a small wooden box which had been put over it as a screen, failed to explode more
than a few of the amorces. When, however, this experiment was repeated, using
amorces No. 2, nearly all of them were exploded with a very loud report, notwith
standing the fact that the amount of explosive matter per amorce was distinctly
less.
Similarly, when a 1-pound weight was dropped from a height of 12 feet upon 500
loose amorces No. 1, contained in a small tin canister standing on a brick, only a
few of tho amorces went off; whereas, in a like experiment using amorces No. 2,
many of them exploded.
In like manner the effect of a rifle bullet upon the two kinds of amorces (2,500 in
each box fired at) was somewhat greater on the round than on the square amorces,
though in neither case were the amorces exploded en masse.
When, however, the amorces were left in their boxes (some boxes holding 50, some
100 amorces) and the 1-pound weight was dropped on one of tho boxes from a height
of 12 feet, only the amorces contained in the box struck exploded, and even those
only completely when the whole of the box was struck by the base of the weight.
The amorces in none of the boxes surrounding the box struck exploded, whether
amorces No. 1 or No. 2 were taken. On increasing the weight to 5 pounds, a some
what greater effect was produced, but even then very few of the ax&orces contained
302
in^tlie boxes not struck by the weight were exploded, though some of the boxes were
broken up.
In other respects these recent experiments fully confirm those previously made.
Thus, firing at bundles of boxes with a small-bore rifle (weight of bullet 215 grains,
striking velocity 2,200 foot) from a distance of 10 feet failed to effect more than very
local explosion with both kinds of amorces.
Again, exposing the amorces (six dozen boxes at a time) to the action of a strong
fire entirely failed to bring about a general explosion with either kind, whether the
amorces were left in their boxes or were put loosely into an iron pan, and protected
from tho direct action of the flames by a layer of earth 2 inches thick.
These experiments thus once more demonstrate that amorces of a regulated size,
when packed in their ordinary cardboard boxes, holding from 50 to 100 amorces, are
not liable to explode en masse under any condition in the least likely to arise in
practice. They also clearly bring out the fact that amorces containing sulphide of
antimony and sulphur are less sensitive and less violent than amorces containing
amorphous phosphorus only. The latter fact is indeed indicated by theory. Thus,
taking in each case the most favorable proportions, the heats of combination of 1
grain of the chlorate mixture containing sulphur, sulphide of antimony or amorphous
phosphorus amount, respectively, to 600, 700, and 1,200 units of heat, and their rela
tive power will be in the same proportion.
In view of these experiments it might, perhaps, be advisable to fix not only the
amount of explosive matter per 1,000 amorces, but also the size of the paper. This
might be fixed at not less than 100 square inches per 1,000 amorces.
T able
III.Details of the amorces employed in the experiments.
Ingredients.
I. Amorces II. Amorces

between pa between pa
pers o finch pers of 0*31
side.
in diameter.
Total weight of amorces...................................................... ................... .

Total weight of explosive matter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
355.40
121.5C
161.70
98.04
Total weight o f paper, gum, e t c .......... .
233.84
63.66
85.67
5.50
12.39
13.44
4.56
66.53
5.50
11.09
121. 56
98.04
The explosive matter consisted of

Chlorate of potash.....................................................................................
!Nitrate of potash........................................................................................
Phosphorus (amorphous).................................................... .....................
Antimony ( S b 3 S 3 ) ...........................................................................................................................
Sulphur ............................................................................ .* ...................
12.01
3.00
In consequence of some complaints received from importers of blasting gelatin,

and similar preparations, I have investigated the influence of French chalk, variously
treated, on the duration of tlic, heat test.
Various samples of commercial French chalk, which imparted neither an acid nor
an alkaline reaction to water, were divided each into three portions. One portion
was left untreated, the second portion was dried in a water oven, and the third por
tion was heated to a red heat for a short time. In every case the blasting gelatin
mixed with the dried chalk gave the heat test soonest, then came the blasting gela
tin mixed with the untreated chalk, aud lastly with the ignited clialk, which at
times prolonged the duration of the test very considerably. The effect in the first
case is probably due to the absence of moisture, and in the last to tho fact that igni
tion renders French chalk, or at least tho various samples of French chalk I have ex
amined, alkaline.
The simplest way to insure uniformity of results would, perhaps, be to use chalk
dried at 100 C. This, however, would necessitate a reduction of time in the dura
tion of the heat test at present adopt* d j besides which it is practically impossible to
303
keep French chalk perfectly free from moisture. Itseems to me, therefore, prefera
ble to fix the maximum proportion of moisture, that may be present in the French
chalk used for the test. I have accordingly examined several samples bought atthe
place where I have been in the habit of obtaining my supply. Ifindthe percentage
of moisture to vary from 0.2 per cent to 0.35 per cent, and would therefore suggest
that the French chalk be delined in our printed directions for the heat test as fol
lows :
French chalk. Commercial French chalk is carefully washed with distilled water,
dried in a water oven, and then exposed under a bell jar to moist air until it has
absorbed about 0.5 per cent ofmoisture at the most. The chalk is then thoroughly
mixed and bottled for use.*
Chalk so treated can with ordinary precautions be kept within the limits of 0.5
per cent of moisture.
I remain, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
A. Dupjt.
H er M a je s t y 's I n specto rs of E x p l o s iv e s ,
Home Office, Whitehall.

V I . W o r k i n g o f t h e A c t b y t h e L o c a l A u t h o r i t i e s .
The table of visits will show that the working of the act by the local author
ities has occupied some share of our time and attention during the year, though,
for reasons already given, not such a relatively large share as in some previous
years. Thus we have personally visited during the year 91 local authorities,
besides inspecting 6 small firework factories, 196 stores, and 185 registeredpremises.
In the greater part of these inspections we have been accompanied by the officersof
the local authorities, and our visits have thus enabled us to ascertain the general
state of the administration of the act in each district, as well as to correct the offi
cers in points of detail where they were at fault, and to bring about uniformity in
the restrictions applied to the places of storage of explosives by the consumers and
dealers throughout the kingdom.
We have continued as faras practicable to confine ourselves in the selection ofthe
petty sessional divisions and boroughs visitedto those which have been hitherto un
visited by us, or which having been previously visited wertthen found to be more or
lessneglected by the officers,and in consequence had not derived the benefit from the
act which its salutary provisions were designed to afiord.
We have in past years entered very fully into the consideration of this branch of
our work. We have but little to add to what lias been paid be,fore. On the whole,
there isa steady improvement in the condition ofthe stores, and in some ofthe min
ing districts they are extremely well looked after. As always, the registered prem
isesform tho most troublesome branch of our inspectorial duties; theirnumber, their
universal distribution, and, we must add, tho extreme real or feigned ignorance of
the occupiers in many cases render it difficult for us to make much impression on
them as a mass. Still, we can report that they are better looked after as a whole by
the localofficers than formerly, and that it is exceptional now to find large excesses
of explosives stored on them. We find ituseful, in the caseof glaring irregularities,
to cause the local officer to lay informations, and one or two convictions frequently
have the good effect of stirring up to increased care, not only the occupiers inthe
borough or district, but alsothe local officersthemselves.
We found a very bad stateof things to exist in Bristol, as exemplified in the caseof
George Britton, where 2f>pounds gunpowder, 2 pounds of fireworks, 97 pounds of
gelignite, and 22,800 detonators were found and seized.
So far as our observations have gone during the past and preceding years, the fol
*These suggestions will in future form part of the heat-test instructions.
304
lowing may bo enumerated as among tliomore important districtsand places inwhich

an attentive and intelligent administration of the act prevails: Aberdeenshire, Ar
gyll, Ayr, Cardigan, Carnarvon, Cornwall, Cumberland, Denbigh, Derby (parts of,
especially the Repton and Gresley district), Devon (part of), Dumbarton, Durham
(parts of), Edinburgh, Fife, Glamorgan, Inverness, Merioneth, Nottingham (part of),
Lancashire (part of, especially the Furness district),Leicester, Linlithgow, Lanark,
Pombroke, Somerset (parts of, especially tho Radstock district), Stafford (partsof),
Stirling, Sussex, Westmoreland, Yorkshire (parts of, especially the Cleveland dis
trict), and among the cities and boroughs, the Metropolis (especiallythat part ofit
which is under the control of tho London county council), Bath, Birmingham, Ed
inburgh, Glasgow, Huddersfield, Leicester, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle-onTyne, Nottingham, and Sheffield.
The chief constable of Midlothian, Lieut.-Col. Borthwick, has very ably and ener
getically continued to superintend the working of the act in his district. He has
taken tho pains to have printed and distributed copies of the proper rules for stores
as well as circulars, e.g.,one warning traders to take steps to prohibit the delivery
of explosives to young children, a measure found by experienceto be necessary. At
Broxburne, for instance, a childof7was sent by itselftofetch explosivesfrom a store.
The chief constable of Northumberland, Capt. Terry, has taken stops by the issue
of notices to check the practice prevalent to a considerable extent in that county of
illegally storing explosives in minershouses.
Other places, of which wo have not had personal experience, might, perhaps, bo
added, and we hope that we shall find, on revisiting places originally defective to
which we have not been for some years, that our former visits have borne fruit, and
that substantial advance has been made.
We may hero recapitulate the measures to which we habitually have recourse for
procuring an effective administration of the act by the local authorities, viz:
(1) Visitstothelocal authoritiesasthetime and opportunitiesforsuch visitsmay
present themselves. We have, as stated, paid 91ofsuch visitsduring the year, and
1,937 during the fourteen years that the act has been in operation.
(2) Explanatory lectures on the actto the assembled officersofthe localauthor
ities. During the past year we have, however, delivered no such lectures.
(3) Inspection (by preference, in company with officer of local authority) of
stores,registered premises, and small firework factories taken atrandom in thedif
ferent districts in which we may be engaged. As already stated, we paid during
the year 196 visits to stores, 185 to registered premises, and 6 tosmall fireworkfac
tories.
(4) The guidebook actwhich we proposed forthe nse ofthe local authoritiescon
tinues,we believe,to prove of vory substantial assistance to those authorities and
their officers, and is generally recognized as indisi>ensable to the proper working
of the act.
According to a return furnished by the controllerof Her Majestysstationeryoffice,
the number of copies of the guidebook sold and supplied dnring the year was 141,
making a total of 6,986 copies sold and supplied of this publication of all editions,
the sixth edition being now on sale.
In our last report we gave at some length the changes introduced intothe local au
thoritiesby thelocalgovernment (England and Wales) act, 1888. Since thena similar
act has been passed affecting Scotland. It will be useful here ;o tabulate the old
and new state of things in both countries.
305
Local authorities.
England and Wales.
Scotland.
A s under explosives act,

1875.
As under local govern iAs under explosives act, A s under local govern
ment act, 1888.
1875.
ment act, 1889.
1. In the city o f Lon

don, except as hereafter
mentioned, the court of
the lord mayor and alder
men of the said city.
2 . In the metropolis
(that is, in places for the
time being within the
jurisdiction of the metro
politan board o f works
nnder the m etrop olis
management act, 1855),
except the city o f Lon
don, and except as here
after mentioned the me
tropolitan board of works.
3. In any borough in
England which is not as
sessed to the county rate
of any county by tho
justices of such county,
except as hereafter men
tioned, the mayor, alder
men, and burgesses act
ing by the council.
1 . As before (section
41).
2. London c o u n t y
council replaces metro
politan board of works.
1 . In any borough, the

1. A s before.
magistrates and town
council.
2. In any harbor, as
2 . A s before.
for (4) in England and
Wales.
3. In any place other
3. The powers vested
than a borough or harbor in the county justices
as aforesaid, the j utices pass to the county coun
of the peace for the cil without power o f
county in which such delegation.
place is situated.
3. A s before as re
gards county boroughs
and quarter sessions
boroughs of over 10,000
inhabitants. Also bor
oughs o f over 10,000 in
habitants created local
authorities under sec
tion 68 o f explosives
act, but not boroughs
of less than 10,000 in
habitants.
4. In any harbor within
4. A s before.
the jurisdiction o f a har
bor authority, whether
situate or not within
the jurisdiction o f any
local authority before in
this section mentioned,
the harbor authority, to
the exclusion o f any other
local authority.
5. In any place where
5. The powers vested
there is no local authority in the justices pass to
as above defined, the ju s county council with
tices in petty sessions power o f delegation
to() A committee o f
assembled.
its own body, (b) To
any district council, in
terpreted by section
100 to mean a rural or
urban sanitary author
ity, until establishment
o f such district council
by future act of Parlia
ment. (c) To the ju s
tices of tlie county as
sembled in petty ses
sions.
As regards tlie changes we reported last year, that our expectations of a more cen
tralized supervision in the counties of England and Wales had been defeated by the
delegation by several county councilsof theirpowers under the explosivesact,where
such delegation was made to the justices in petty sessions,the old state of things,
having advantages as well as disadvantages, was maintained, but when, as in some
cases, the delegation was made to rural sanitary authorities, naturally totally un
versed in dealing with such matters, we have found confusion and misapprehension
and much of our work with the local authorities during the past fifteen years has
Ieen reduced to a nullity. We hope, however, that the act, despite this delegation,
may yet be effectually administered, and as in the great majority of cases the in
spection duties have been loft in the hands of the county police the difficultiesare
rather of administration than execution. But the wholesale delegation which has
been secured under the English act* has rendered it practically impossible for u
to obtain returns from the local authorities.
*Tlie Scotch act fortunately contains no power of delegation.
146A--- 20
306
FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES
To aid the now bodies in their functions of granting licenses, etc., a memorandum
was prepared lor tho Scottish county councils (at tho request of the officeof the sec
retary ofstate for Scotland), of which a copy is given below. It isapplicable totho
whole ofthe United Kingdom.
MEMORANDUM ON TIIE LOCAL ADMINISTRATION OF THE EXPLOSIVES ACT,
1875.
In mating provisionfor the localadministration ofthe explosives act,regardmust

bo had to various classes ofrequirements and conditions arising under the act.
(1) There isthe case ofa trader who desiresto establish a now factory ormagazine
(sections 6,7,8,39), and who has for this purpose to obtain tho assent of the local
authority to a draft license issued by the secretary of state. The procedure in this
case must be as directed by section 7 ofthe act; and it involves the publication by
the applicant ofa notice ofthe time and place appointed fortho hearing, not lessthan
one month before such hearing; and the statute further requires the local authority
to fixthe time and place ofhearing as soon as practicable after applicationhas been
made tothem, and thetimo sofixedmust bo as soon aspracticable afterthe expiration
ofthe said month from tho publication and service of the notices, and the final de
cision must be given by the localauthority assoon aspracticable afterthe expiration
ofthe said month.
Then there istho case ofthe trader who desiresto obtain a license for a store (sec
tions 15,39).
In such a case no formal hearing isnecessary. Tho grant of a store license (as
soon as practicable)is compulsory, if the proposed site, construction of the store,
and amount of explosive to be stored therein are in accordance with the orders in
council on the subject.
The necessary machinery for ascertainingthese points requires therefore to be pro
vided, and would generally be forthcoming in the officers appointed by the local
authority under the act. (Section 69.)
(3) Then there isthe case ofthe annual renewal of store licenses (sections 18,39).
Such renewal, also, iscompulsory unless the circumstances have so changed as to in
validate the license, and no formal hearing isnecessary for this purpose.* The ma
chinery provided to deal with original store licenses would of course bo adequate
for renewals.
(4) Then there istho case ofthe trader who desires to register his premises for
tho keeping of explosive, or to renew such registration. (Sections 21,39.) Here,
again,no formal hearing isnecessary,the less so, as there isno power to refuse a reg
istration or renewal. It rests with the local authority, on receipt ofa notice to reg
ister (or renew), with the necessary fee, to effect the reqnired registration (28) and
thus to open tho premises to inspection. (Section 68.) Such notice, itisobvions,
may very well bo sent by post; indeed, the act distinctly indicates in the case ofre
newals that the notice may be sent by post or otherwise. *
(5) Lastly, provision has to be made for the efficient local administration of the
act (section 69) by the appointment of officers (sections 69, 75), and the carrying out
by them oftho necessary inspections and search (sections 69, 73, 74, 75), the taking
of samples (sections 69, 75, 76), and other duties ofobservation, inquiry, and report.
The officialguide book to the explosives act, which ispublished by Her Majesty's
stationery office, gives all necessary information as to the duties devolving on local
authorities and their officersunder the act.
V. D. M ajendie,
Colonel, Her Majestys Chief Inspector of Explosives.
Home O ffic e , August 1, 1890.
* The renewals can bo simplified by the local authority arranging for them allto
be effected on ono date.
307
VII. Accidents.
The number of accidents by fire or explosion of which this department has had
cognizance during the year was 132, causing, so far as is known, 44 deaths and in
juring 85 persons.
But, as explained in former reports, tho instructions issued to Her Majesty in
spectors ofmines in 1879 relieve them ofthe obligation ofreporting any.jmrely min
ing accidents with gunpowder except in cases where it appears to them that the
accident was of a character to callfor an investigation by one of Her Majesty's in
spectors of explosives or to afford information which seemed likely to assist these
officers in the discharge of their duty.*
Accordingly, mining accidents with gunpotvder,except when causing loss of life
(when they should bereported by the coroner, orin Scotland by theprocuratorfiscal),
or when ofan exceptional character, do not come under our notice.
Curiously enough, the number ofaccidents is exactly the same as in the previous
year, viz, 132, but the number of deaths shows an increase of5 (44 as against 39),
while the number of persons injured shows tho substantial reduction of 17 (85 as
against 102).
The following table shows the total number of accidents and the persons killed
and injured during the past ten years :
Persons.
Year.
Accidents.
1890 ..............................................................................................................
1889 ..............................................................................................................
1888 ..............................................................................................................
1887 ..............................................................................................................
1886..............................................................................................................
1885 ..............................................................................................................
1884.............................................................................................................
1883 ..............................................................................................................
1882..............................................................................................................
1881..............................................................................................................
132
132
123
130
143
133
144
172
146
123
Total..................................................................................................
Average for last ten years (1881-90)........................................................
Killed.
Injured.
44
39
37
43
40
31
51
39
51
39
97
105
136
74
138
109
98
82
1,378
414
1,026
137.8
41.4
1 0 2 .6
85
102
It will be observed on examining these figures that the accidents during the past
year are, in point of numbers, rather below the average for the decade, but in re
spect of the number of lives lost they are rather above. As regards the number
injured the figures show a large reduction below the ten yearsaverage.
It isalso satisfactory to note that almost exactly half the accidents (65) occurred
in the useofexplosives and under miscellaneous conditions, towhich the controlling
provisions of the act do not apply, and that such acts are chargeable with no less
than 36 out ofthe 44 deaths, and injured 68 out ofthe 85 persons returned as injured.
(Table VII.)
This leaves us with a balance of only 67 accidents, causing 8 deaths and injuring
17 persons in manufacture, storage, and transport, these being the conditions to
which the act does apply. This result isthe same as regards the number ofpersons
killed as in the previous year, but the number of persons injured shows an increase
of1. The number of such accidents shows an increase of 10. (Table VII.)
Of the 67 accidents in manufacture, keeping, and conveyance, no less than 50 were
unattended with personal injury, while of the 65 accidents in use, etc., none came
under our notice which were free from personal consequences. (Table I.)
The following tables, tabulating the accidents under the various heads, follow the
arrangement which we first adopted in 1879, and appear to bring out clearly the
various points and to present all required information in a form convenient for ref
erence and comparison.
*
Annual Report for 1879, p. 26.
308

SUMMARY OF ACCIDENTS.
T a b l e I . Accidents
o f all sorts in 1890 grouped under the several heads o f manufac

ture, keeping, conveyance, use, and miscellaneous.
[Exclusive o f the nonfatal, purely mining accidents with gunpowder, under Her Majesty's inspectors
o f mines (see text above).]
A ccid ents causing loss o f A ccidents
life and bodily injury.
not causing Total
loss o f life
acci
A c c i
or bodily
dents.
K illed. Injured.
iijury.
dents.
Summary.
15
15
49
64
3
50
132
Manu facture........................................................................
K e e p in g ..................................
Conveyance........................................................... .............
Use and m iscellaneous*.............. ......................................
65
36
68
T otal......... ................................................................
82
44
85
65
* Under this head are included all accidents which occurred in the use ot explosives, and immedi
ately connected therewith ; also accidents in thawing nitroglycerin preparations, and others arising
from miscellaneous causes not within the prohibitions of the act. In short, this group oomprises all
accidents occurring under circumstances not immediately controlled by the act, except the nonfatal,
purely mining accidents with gunpowder, under the inspectors of mines.
T a b le
II.Total number and nature of
accidents caused by each description o f explosive

in 1S90.
[Exclusive of the nonfatal, purely mining accidents with gunpowder, under Her Msgestys inspectors
of mine*.
Class.
Nature o f explosive.
Accidents causing loss of Accidents

life and bodily injury. not causing Total
loss of life
acci
A cci Killed. Injured. or bodily dente.
dents.
injury.
28
Gunpowder...........................
1 . Gunpowder..........
9. "N'i,riit.iliiivliirf____
3. Nitro-compound :
1
Stonite....................................
16
and nitroglycerin .
Division 1 .......... - Dynamite
2
Blasting gelatin....................
5
Gelatin dynamite...................
2
Guncotton...............................
3
Ton it e or cotton powder.......
1
Division 2 .......... \ Koburite..................................
E. C. powder...........................
1
Picric acid...............................
1
Scurit..................................
1 . r!h1m*nti miTtrA
S. VlllTTlllltft___ ___ Fulminate of mrc.rv_____1_______
6 . Ammunition:
i Percussion c a p s.....................
4
Division 1 . . . . . . . <! Safety and other cartridges..
i[ Fog signals.............................
Division 3 . . . . . . . . Detonators.............................
12
Ouick-tirinff ammunition___
1
7. Firew orks............ | Fireworks...............................

1
Toy caps or amorces..............
1
1
8 . Unknown............
T ota l_________
T a b le
.................i
................................................... 1
82
29
8
1
3
1
21
1
20
1
8
2
14
42
14
30
1
2
1
5
1
2
1
1
1
|...................
4
15
2
44
5
3
3
2
1
1
1
4
I
2
1
1
85 |
11
11
15
3
2
7
3
50
13
III.Total number and nature of
accidents in manufacture with each description

of explosive in 1890.
Class.
Nature o f explosive.
1. Gunpowder.............. Gunpowder.............. ..............

2. Nitrate mixture.......
3. Eitro-compound :
Division 1 .............. Dynamite or nitroglycerin...
Division 2 ..............
Guncotton...............................
E. C. powder1...........................
Tonite or cotton pow der.......
Koburite..................................
Picric acid...............................
Accidents causing loss of Accidente

life and bodily injury.
not causing Total
loss of life acci
A cci Killed. Iijured. or bodily dente.
iijury.
dents.
3
13
16
14
15
1
1
2
1
1
i
1
1
309
Table III. Total number and nature of accidents in manufacture with each description
of explosive in 1890 Continued.
Nature of explosive.
Class.
4. Chlorate mixture ...

5. Fulminate................ Fulminate o f mercury ..........
6 . Ammunition:
Cartridges...............................
Division 1 .......... | Percussion c a p s .....................
Fog signals.............................
Division 2 ..............
Division 3 .............. Detonators...............................
j...............................
7. F irew orks............ Fireworks
Toy caps or amorces..............
1
1
1
1
8
15
11
3
3
4
3
49
64
IV. Total number and natureof accidents in the keeping of the differentdescrip
tions of explosivesin 1890.
Class.

loss of life acci
A cci
or bodily dents.
dents. Killed. Injured.
injury.
1. Gunpowder.................................................. ..............
1
Nitrate m ixture...........................................................
Nitro-rorrmoii(l........................................................... 1.............
Chlorate mixture..........................................................
Fulminate.....................................................................
Amm unition................................................................
Fireworks......................................................................
U nknow n.....................................................................
1
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Total.........................................................................
T a b le
4
ii
15
T o ta l...................
T a b le

loss o f life acci
A cci Killed. Injured. or bodily dents.
injury.
dents.
1
2
VI. Total number and nature of accidents occurring in the use of the different
explosives and under miscellaneous circumstances in 1890 *
Class.
Nature of explosive.
1. Gunpowder.............. Gunpowder.............................
2 . Nitrate m ixture.___
3. Nitro-compound:
Dynamite.................... ...........
f Blasting gelatin...... .............
Division 1 . . . . . . . < Gelatin dynamite............... . .
I Scurit..................................
[ Stonite ________ _____ . . . . . . .
r Gun-cotton.............................
Division 2 .......... < Tonite.....................................
Roburite.................................
4. Chlorate mixture
5. Fulminate
. . . . . . . Fulminate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 . Ammunition;
Division 1 ..........
Safety cartridge....................
Division 2 ..............
Division 3 . . . . . . . . .
Dtontors .............................
Division 3 ..........
7 . F irew orks..... .......... Fireworks. . . . . . . . . . . . __. . . .
8 . Unknown or irregu
lar .......................... Unknown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
T otal...................

life and bodily injury. not causing! Total
loss oi lire acci
A cci
Injured. or bodily dents.
dents. Killed.
injury.
24
21
18
24
15
8
1
19
15
1
8
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
9
3
12
1
9
3
65
36
68
65
* Under this head are included all accidents which occurred in the use of explosives and immediately
connected therewith, also accidents in thawing dynamite, and others arising from miscellaneous
causes not within the prohibitions of the act. In short, this group comprises all accidents occurring
under circumstances not immediately controlled by the act, except the nonfatal, purely mining acci
dents with gunpowder, under Her Majestys inspectors o f mines.
310
VII. Accidents arranged in groups, according to whether they fall within or with
out the controlling provisions of the act, with the results in former years, f o r the pur
poses of comparison.
T a b le
Accidents causing loss of Accidents ,1

loss of life acci
A c ci Killed. Injured. or bodily dents.
dent.
injury.
Tear.
A . Accidents in manufacture, keeping, and convey

ance. being those which occur under conditions
to which tlie controlling provisions of the act
are intended to apply :
1890 ....................................................................
1889....................................................................
1888....................................................................
1887....................................................................
1886....................................................................
1885....................................................................
1884....................................................................
1883 ....................................................................
1882....................................................................
1881....................................................................
1880....................................................................
1879 ....................................................................
1878....................................................................
B. Accidents in use and under miscellaneous circumstances, being those which occur under condi
tions to which the controlling provisions of the
act are not intended to apply :
1890....................................................................
1889....................................................................
1888 ................................. ................................
1887....................................................................
1886 ....................................................................
1885....................................................................
1884....................................................................
1883 ....................................................................
1882 ....................................................................
1881....................................................................
1880....................................................................
1879....................................................................
1878....................................................................
22
20
21
17
16
24
8
8
6
12
2
23
7
15
21
22
22
18
25
30
18
13
22
20
20
10
20
12
19
3
7
65
73
68
58
64
47
74
62
68
50
51
47
56
50
40
35
45
58
64
46
84
59
52
37
14
27
22
22
11
23
36
31
31
31
38
24
36
31
38
27
29
13
29
68
86
2
1
73
83
114
56
113
79
76
6 :
45
61
69
5
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
4
1
67
57
54
67
78
85
69
108
77
72
57
30
47
65
75
69
63
65
48
75
64
69
51
52
51
57
VIII.Accidents
in manufacture, keeping, conveyance, use, and miscellaneous,

respectively, in each of the last ten years.
1890...................
1889 ...................
1888 ...................
1887 ...................
1886...................
1885...................
1884...................
1883 ...................
1882...................
1881...................
64
52
50
63
73
80
67
106
72
69
Total.......
696
Average for last

ten years....... 69.6
3
5
3
3
5
4
8
11
12
15
13
16
18
18
15
25
27
15
17
5
3
81
179
34
10
35
....
17.9
3.4
1 .0
3.5
.4
----
7
6
8
1
5
15
8 .1
4
1
2
2
1
4
4
3
2
414
1,026
32.3
81.1 137.8
41.4
1 0 2 .6
.1
64.4
7
2
Injured.
811 1,378
644
Killed.
323
1
1
44
39
37
43
40
31
51
39
51
39
36
31
31
31
38
24
36
31
38
27
3
8
132
132
123
130
143
133
144
172
146
123
65
75
69
63
65
48
75
64
69
51
2
1
Total.
Accidents.
Injured.
Killed.
rd
Accidents.
Injured.
j Accidents.
Conveyance. Use and miscella

neous.
Keeping.
KiUed.
Injured.
Killed.
Tears.
Accidents.
Manufacture.
Accidents.
T a b le
17
17
19
68
86
73
83
114
56
113
79
76
63
85
102
97
105
136
74
138
109
98
82
During the yeai we have, in the exercise of our discretion as to which inquests it
would be advantageous for us to be present at, attended five inquests.
The inquiries under section 66 have been twomore thaninthe preceding year (viz,
five), which isabout the average ofprevious years since the act came intooperation.
311
The total number of such inquiries since the act came into operation is 94, * the
results of which arc embodied in reports which are presented to Parliament and com
municated to a number of the leading newspapers and persons immediately inter
ested.
The cases to which the above-mentioned inquiries relate and the dates of the re
ports are as follows :
Consec. utive
No. of
report.
X C I.
xc.
X C III.
xcv .
xcv.
D ate of
report.
N ature o f accident.
Explosion at Eoslin gunpowder factory, January 22,1890. (Col Ford.)

plosion No. G, 1890.
N itroglycerin explosion at Colwill Quarry, Devonshire, February 18,
(Maj.*CundiN, 1. A .) Explosion No. 18,1890.
Explosion of gunpowder and gun cotton near Buxton, Marcli 1,1890.
Majendie, C. B.) Accident N o. 23,1890.
Explosion of firework magazine at Pain's firework factory, J u ly 6,1890.
^lajendie, C. B.) Explosion No. 71,1890.
E xplosion of glazing house at Roslin gunpowder factory, October 22,
(Col. Ford.) Explosion No. 101,1890.
E x Feb. 17,1890.
1890.
Mar. 3,1890.
(Col.
Mar. 25,1890.
(Col.
Ju ly 24,1890.
1890.
Nov. 12,1890.
It has not been found necessary since the act came into force to take advantage of
the power conferred by section 66 to hold a more formal investigation with a legal
assessor.
Dealing first with the accidents in manufacture (Table III), the record will be
seen to be unfavorable as compared with that for tho preceding year ; the number
being 64 (as against 52 in 1889); but this is considerably below the average (69.6)
for the past ten years (1881 to 1890). The number of persons killed is 8 (as against
7 in 1889), which is just below the average (8.1) for the past ten years, while the
number of persons injured, 15 (as against 13 in 1889), is also below the average (17.9)
for the past ten years (Table VIII), so that the years record compares, on the whole,
favorably with the average.
The average of deaths for the past ten years, standing as it now does at 8.1 per
annum, compares, we need hardly remark, most satisfactorily with tho average which
ruled during the seven years immediately preceding the act coming into operation,
when, as we have shown in our 1885 report, an average of no less than 39.5 deaths
occurred annually in manufacture, even on very imperfect returns. The very appre
ciable saving of life, during the time the act has been in operation, which these fig
ures represent, furnishes a striking testimony to the beneficial operation of the act,
which would undoubtedly become more striking still if the comparison could be ex
tended to the number of persons injured.
Buta further and very important observation suggests itself in connection with
this record. Satisfactory as would be tlio very appreciable saving of life which such
figures as the foregoing indicate, even if the number of factories and the number of
persons employed therein had remained stationary, they become still more striking
and Still more satisfactory when it is borne in mind that tliis average is struck on a
vastly extended trade.
Since the act came into operation, fifteen years ago, the number of factories has
increased from 55 to 123, and there is a vast augmentation of the numbers of persons
employed therein. AVhat exactly that augmentation lias amounted to we are unable
to say, as no returns are available of the number of persons employed at the time of
* The number of reports, however, is two in excess of the number of inquiries, be
cause two of them (Nos. iv a and xvi) relate to what were not strictly or formally
inquiries under section 66. And the fact of one of these reports being numbered
iv A makes the total number of reports one in excess of tho highest consecutive num
ber of such reports. This is exclusive of several confidential reports.
312
the Act coming into operation. But we do know that it has been very large, for there
has, as our reports have shown, been a continuous expansion of the trade, and even
during the last half decade (since 1885), as the return on p. 7 shows, while the
number of factories has increased 14 per cent, viz, from 108 to 123, the number of
persons employed in those factories has increased by no less than 31 per cent, viz,
from 7,484 to 9,820, the number at which, excluding about 200 more persons in small
fireworks factories and toy fireworks factories, it stands at present.* Moreover, a
large proportion of the new factories deal with entirely new classes of explosives,
and therefore with new forms of risk, and, when this is considered, the beneficial re
sults of the act in respect of the saving of life in manufacture becomes still more
notable.
It is not a little remarkable that of the 8 deaths recorded in manufacture during
the past year not one occurred in the manufacture of the newer explosives. The
whole 8 deaths were the results of two accidents in one of the old ef tablished gun
powder factories, viz, that at Roslin. It thus follows, that out of the 123 factories,
no less than 122 were conducted without any fatal accident whatever.
We would submit, indeed, that it is really not necessary to go into nice compari
sons or to resort to any very elaborate manipulation of the figures to justify the sat
isfaction with what these figurestaken in their broadest and most significant
formmay be regarded. For, after all, nothing can bo much more strik ing in its
way than the fact that the number of deaths by accidents among over 10,000 per
sons engaged in the manufacture of explosives, has amounted only to 8, or in the
proportion of not more than one death per 1,250 persons.
The number of accidents in the manufacture of gunpowder amounts to two less
than 1889, viz, 16 against 18; these figures being below tho average (22.3) for tho
past ten years ; but the accidents have been much more fatal, having caused the
whole of the recorded deaths, viz, 8 (as against 1 in 1889). This result is very
largely above the ten years average (3.7). The number of persons injured in the
manufacture of gunpowder amounts to 2 (as against 1 in 1889), a figure which is
slightly below the ten years average (2.6).
The following table gives the losses in gunpowder factories since 1881, inclusive
Tear.
A cci Killed.
Injured.
dents.
1 8 9 0 ...........................................................................................................................
1889 ...........................................................................................................................
1 8 8 8 ...........................................................................................................................
1 8 8 7 ...........................................................................................................................
1 8 8 6 ...........................................................................................................................
1 8 8 5 ...........................................................................................................................
1 8 8 4 ...........................................................................................................................
1883 ...........................................................................................................................
1882 ...........................................................................................................................
1 8 8 1 ...........................................................................................................................
1880 ...........................................................................................................................
16
18
19
16
20
22
28
26
30
27
14
T o ta l...............................................................................................................
223
Average for last ten years...........................................................................
22.3
8
1
3
5
4
5
5
6
I
37
3.7
2
1
5
1
2
2
7
2
4
2
26
2.6
As we have already stated, the whole of the recorded deaths in manufacture dur* Strictly, of course, the figures should be calculated with reference to the
tl small and toy fireworks factories, for accidents in those places are included.
But as the former of these two classes of factories are licensed by tho local authori
ties, our information with regard to them is not sufficiently precise to warrant or
including them. But, so far as our information goes, the number of persons employed
in this class of factory does not greatly exceed 200.
t That is to say, 9,820 persons in the regular factories, plus 206 persons known to
be employed in small and toy fireworks factories = 10,026 total.
313
ikg ti year occurred in two accidents in a single gunpowder factory, viz, tlie Roslin
Gunpowder Factory (Messrs. Hay, Merricks & Co., limited).
Of these accidents, by far the most serious, whether regarded from the point of
view of the loss of life, or from that of the amount of damage to property, was one
(No. 6) which occurred on the 22d of January causing the loss of 6 lives, and in
juring one other person.
This is the heaviest loss of life that has occurred in a gunpowder factory since the
act came into operation.
It formed the subject of a special inquiry and report (No. XCI, dated February 17,
1890) by Col. Ford, in which report the circumstances will be fonnd fully discussed.
There appears to be no doubt that the explosion originated in or at a mixing
house, which had been recently erected under an amending license, for the carrying
on of the operation of mixing on what is sometimes called tho German system, viz,
in drums, with lignum vit balls. But it was also placed beyond doubt that the
machinery was not running at the time, so fortunately no suspicion attaches to the
method of mixing, or the machinery employed. Of the various possible causes, the
highest degree of probability appears, after a very full and exhaustive examination
of all the surrounding circumstances, to attach to tlie bringing of matches into the
factory, and their presence at or on the platform of the mixing house; and it is note
worthy that less than a month previously an ordinary (nonsafety) match had been
found on the tramway in a little gully leading up to this very house. Both the men
who were at this house were killed.
The explosion extended to the lower corning house (which fortunately the men
had left just previously ou the conclusion of the days work), and to the lower press
house, where 4 men were killed, making a total loss of 6 lives. The amount of
gunpowder exploded was probably about 5,240 pounds, viz, in mixing house, 1,440
pounds (unmixedcharges) ; coming house, 1,800 pounds; press house, 2,000 pounds.
The circumstances of the explosion were in many ways interesting and instructive,
and will be found fully discussed in the report above-mentioned.
The other explosion (No. 101; at Roslin occurred on the 22d of October, in one of the
glazing houses, in which were present at the time about 2,500 pounds of gunpowder
and 2 workmen, both of whom were killed. This explosion formed the subject of
a special inquiry and report (No. XCY, dated November 12,1890) by Col. Ford, and
was unquestionably due to the improper use in the glazing house by one of the de
ceased of a steel implement, such use being a deliberate violation of one of the rules.
Fortunately, owing to the screening of the building from other buildings of the
factory, which had been provided for in an amending license affecting this glazing
house, the damage done beyond the building itself was of a most insignificant char
acter.
If the conclusions arrived at as to the cause of these two accidents be correct, it
follows that they were both due to a breach of the regulations and were therefore
both easily preventable. It is to be hoped that the significance of this conclusion
and the necessity which it establishes for a rigorous, even a semimilitary, discipline
in factories of explosives will not be overlooked by those on whom the responsibility
of managing such factories rests.
A case of spontaneous ignition of charcoal occurred at Messrs. Figou, Wilks &
Laurences factory at Dartford, on May 23, and resulted in the destruction, with
out personal injury, of the charcoal mill and mixing house.
Other instances of the spontaneous ignition of charcoal are given in former reports,
e. g.y two such cases are mentioned in our 1887 report (one having been in the same
factory as the fire now under notice).
The remaining 13 accidents all occurred in incorporating mills, which is a little
below the average of such accidents. In one instance ouly (No. 45) was any personal
injury occasioned, and that of an extremely light character. All these accidents
occurred in what may be regarded as the ordinary working of the mills. And this,
314
continuing tho figures given ill f jrmer reports, gives a total of 251 ordinary incorpo
rating mill accidents during the fifteen years the act has been in operation (being an
average of rather over 16 a year), causing, happily, only one death and injuring 12
persons.
Twenty accidents have occurred in the manufacture of nitro compounds, happily
without loss of life, and with bodily injury in three cases only (12,14,48), and that of
an unimportant character.
It is somewhat noticeable that, of the 15 accidents in the manufacture of nitro
glycerin preparations, 9 are referable to decomposition of the material, either
nitroglycerin or nitrocotton (see Nos. 17,19, 20, 26, 48, 52, 58, 66, 93). Of these, the
most formidable was one which occurred in and wholly destroyed tho laboratory
magazine of the new factory, near Hayle, of the National Explosives Company (Lim
ited).
The value of mounds in controlling and limiting tho effects of an explosion was
admirably illustrated on this occasion.
Some explosions (21, 33, 54, 63) occurred in the manufacture of ballistite, but they
were of an extremely trivial character. None the less, in our opinion, do they call
for notice, as they may be indications of certain risks in the manufacture of this new
material, which will have to be watched and, if possible, guarded against.
An accident (104) in the manufacture of E. C. powder, when 260 pounds of this
powder, which had been ignited by friction (through a defect in tho machinery),
burnt awayrwithout explosion, affords an exampleof which the destruction by firo
of the drying house of the same factory in the preceding year (No. 91, 1889) fur
nished another illustrationof the large margin of safety iu manufacture which ex
plosives of this character present as compared with ordinary gunpowder.
The only two accidents (12, 53) in the manufacture of gun cotton were cases of the
fuming off of the material in the acid centrifugals. In one case (12) a workman
sustained very slight injury. We discussed this class of accidents at considerable
length in our 1886 report, and similar accidents were recorded in our reports for 1887
and 1888.
Both cases now under notice were attributed to tho accidental introduction of a
small piece of wet cotton into the centrifugal.
The one accident (14) recorded in the manufacture of picric acid (by which a couple
of workmen were very slightly injured) was of an unimportant character.
So also of the one trilling accident (67) in the manufacture of roburite.
The large and varied group of explosives ranked as ammunition furnishes a rather
larger number of accidents than in the preceding year, viz, 21 as against 17; but, on
the other hand, the explosions in 1890 have been much less serious than in 1889, as
no one has been killed and of the seven cases of bodily injury only one (36) was at
all serious.
In that case, which occurred on April 11, at the Folmont factory, a girl who was
employed in charging detonators, sustained rather severe injury by the explosion of
about 10 ounces of fulminate, due (as is supposed) to the accidental fall of one of the
plates used in the process of charging detonators.
The other detonator accidents were of a trifling character, and it is again a matter
of satisfaction to us to be able to point to the reduced number of such accidents (6
in all) during the year, as compared with the record of former years, when (as wo
pointed out last year) from 20 to 30, and in one year (1883) 45, of such accidents an
nually occurred.
The safety-cartridge accidents (2, 30, 77, 89) were of so trifling a character as to
call for no special notice and the same may be said of the accidents in the manu
facture of fog signals, of which 11 were reported without a single case of even the
slightest bodily injury, a result which testifies, we submit, to the efficiency of the
precautionary measures in the way of screens and otherwise, of which we have pro
cured the adoption in factories of this character.
315
The accidents in tho manufacture of fireworks (including amorces) have been

less numerous than in 1889, viz, seven as against twelve. And happily in 110 case was
there any fatal result, while in two cases only (73, 97) was personal injury sustained.
In one of these eases (97), which occurred at a small firework factory at Wandsworth,
occupied by Mr. H. Cad well, a workman was rather severely burned by the ignition
of a quantity of composition in a shed where he and three girls were at work. The
accident appears beyond doubt to have originated at a hand dubbing machine,
and was either the result of some incautious violence or rough handling of the ma
chine on the part of the injured man (who was a new hand), or to the presence of
some foreign body, or more probably some particles of a chlorate composition which
had been in the tool or sieve used for the mixing of tlie composition. We are of
opinion that the construction of the dubbing machines in common use leaves much
to be desired on the score of safety, and we have suggested the substitution of phos
phor bronze for iron plates in these machines, a suggestion which has .already been
adopted with entirely satisfactory results in at least one firework factory. In the
case under notice the man might have escaped without injury if he had not very gal
lantly, but imprudently, attempted to beat out the fire. The girls in the shed es
caped uninjured and vainly implored him to come out.
Tho only other firework accident which occasioned bodily injury (73) occurred in
a toy firework factory, through the ignition by friction of some particles of fulmi
nate of silver adhering to a gallipot, which the injured person was engaged in
cleaning.
A fatal accident of a similar character occurred at Small Heath, near Birmingham,
on the 14th May, 1876, and formed the subject of a special report (Xo. Ill, dated
June 6, 1876). In that case tho explosive material to which the accident was due
was fulminate of mercury, and it was then pointed out that all vessels which had
contained that substance should be thoroughly cleansed by means of hydrochloric
acid.
A similar treatment is recommended in the case of fulminate of silver, and it may
be useful to tho occupiers of factories of this character if we quote the following
passage from a letter which Dr. l)upr6 has addressed to us:
The best way to destroy any fulminate of silver is to place it into hydrochloric
acid, just as in tho case of fulminate of mercury. Perhaps the best would be to
wash the vessels with a mixture of strong hydrochloric acid and water in equal
proportions.
Such a mixture is of course highly acid and corrosive, and must be kept in ves
sels of glass or porcelain, and should not be allowed to come in contact with the skin
or clothing.
u The acid may be used several times over, and may then be safely poured down the
ink into the sewer. *
Two trifling accidents (4, 51) occurred at CadwelVs amorce factory. They are
chiefly useful as illustrating, (1) the necessity for the strictest precautions in these
sensitive little articles, and (2) the efficiency of the precautions which have been
adopted for limiting the effects of an explosion, should one unfortunately occur.
This leaves us to deal only with three remaining firework accidents. One of them,
(47) which occurred during the driving of a rocket, calls for no special notice.
But the other two (71, 75) were of a highly instructive and important character, as
they illustrated very effectively the risk which exists of the spontaneous ignition of
certain firework compositions.
One of these accidents (71) resulted in the total destruction, on Sunday, July 6,
of one of the factory magazines at Mr. Pain firework factory, with its contents,
consisting of from*6,000 to 7,000 pounds of valuable display goods. It formed the
subject of a special inquiry and report (No. XCIV, dated July 24, 1890) by Col.
Majendie.
* Letter from Dr Dupr, July 14, 1890.
316
This accident is referred to by Dr. Dnpr in his report, and circumstances enabled
us to refer the accident beyond all possibility of doubt to the spontaneous ignition of
a lance or lances containing green and white lires. The green fire contained chlorates
and nitrates of barium and potassium, shellac and charcoal; the white fire contained
nitrate of potassium, flowers of sulphur, and sulphide of antimony, and with regard to
them, Dr. Dupr6remarks:
Kept separate, neither of these mixtures would be liable to spontaneous decom
position, but when brought into contact they become dangerous. If these lances are
filled with great care, so that tho two compositions are in contact only at tho sec
tional area along which they touch, the danger is reduced to a minimum, though not,
perhaps, wholly absent. But if, during tlie filling-in of tho two compositions, one
upon the other, any intermixture takes place at the junction, a condition of things
is brought about which, under favorable conditions as to temperature, moisture, and
retention of heat, is certain, sooner or later, to lead to spontaneous ignition.
In tho case of most of the lances, which I cut open very carefully, the filling had
been done with great care, and no intermixture of tho two compositions was notice
able. In one case, however, a very slight, and in another case a decided, intermixing
had taken place. In such a condition of things these lances become one of the most
dangerous firework compositions, containing as they do a mixture of flowers of sul
phur, the most dangerous variety of sulphur for such use, together with chlorate of
barium, a component even more dangerous than chlorate of potassium.
In the special report relating to this accident, the risks arising from tho use of
various unstable compositions are fully discussed, and, we submit, call for the careful
attention of firework-makers. Several articles containing varieties of the composi
tions which we have signalized as unstable and dangerous were present in tho mag
azine, and it would probably have been impossible to assign the cause of the accident
with confidence to any particular article or composition had it not been for the
curious circumstances (stated in the report) that (a) ten days after this accident one
of tho above-mentioned green and white lances was actually observed to fire spon
taneously in a finishing shed ('forming accident No. 75 on our list); while (&) almost
at the same time Mr. Pain received advices from America to the eftect that some of
tho same lances had caused an explosion there a few days previously.
These accidents in their bearing upon tho particular question of spontaneous igni
tion of firework composition are among the most instructive that we have had to
record, and fortunately the experience was acquired without loss of life. The loss
of property in the case of the factory magazine accident (71) was, however, very con
siderable, as the fireworks which were consumed were of a costly character.
It is worthy of notice, however, that although over 3 tons of fireworks exploded,
no dbris was projected to a greater distance than 24 yards, though some of the
escaped fireworks traveled about 212 yards. The screens had again played a useful
part in arresting dbris and fireworks, and no building in tho factory other than tho
exploded magazine sustained injury.
In our last annual report we adverted to the case of the explosion (No. 92,1889)
on board a wherry on the Tyne during the manufacture of quick-firing ammunition
by SirW. G. Armstrong, Mitchell & Co. As the case was then ub judice we refrained
from offering any observations on the subject; and, with a view to avoiding preju
dicing the defense, the special report (No. LXXXIX) dealing with the accident was, as
is usual in such cases, kept back from publication pending the proceedings which
it had been decided to take against the company for the illegal manufacture of ex
plosive.
During the past year tho company was charged with the illegal manufacture of ex
plosive on ten successive days, and the case was tried before Mr. Justice Charles, at
the Durham assizes, on the 22d July, 1890.
The circumstances of tho case are fully detailed in tho special report above men
tioned, which, since the trial, has been made public, together with the remarks of
the judge in delivering judgment.
317
Briefly the result may be said to have been as follows :

The defendants argued (1) that the process of making up quick-firing ammunition
was not manufacture of an explosive ; (2) that it would have been lawful for
them to carry out such manufacture (if it was manufacture) on an Italian war ship ;
(3) that they gave instructions for it to be carried out on tho Italian ship, and not
on the wherry; (4) that they were not criminally liable for their servants disobedi
ence of their orders.
The judge decided against them on points 1,2,4, but in their favor on 3, holding
that, in his lordships judgment, they were not open to the imputation of having
done this act by way of evading the provisions of this enactment.
And he therefore refrained from inflicting the full penalty of 100 a day, but im
posed one of 25 a day, amounting to 250 in all.
Three accidents only have occurred in the keeping of explosives, happily without
fatal results, and with bodily injury to only two persons. These results compare
satisfactorily with those recorded for 1889.
One of these accidents (87) was similar in its general features to one on the prem
ises of Mr. Baker, gun-maker, Fleet streot, Which we noticed in our annual report
for 1886, and which we stated might perhaps be more properly classed as an acci
dent in the illegal manufacture of small-arms cartridges, but as it occurred in regis
tered premises we have placed it under the head of keeping/ Another accident
of this sort occurred on the premises of Mr. Henry, gun-maker, Edinburgh, the par
ticulars of which are given in our 1887 report. In all these cases a gun-maker
assistant was engaged in breaking up safety cartridges, when a cartridge exploded
and fired some loose gunpowder which was on the bench, slightly injuring tho assist
ant. In the present case the accident occurred on the premises of Mr. Argles, 143
Queen Victoria street, London.
In this case, as in the two preceding ones, proceedings were instituted against the
occupier of the premises for carrying on the manufacture of explosive in an un
authorized place (the operation of breaking up cartridges constituting an opera
tion of manufacture iu virtue of section 105, and not being one of the operations
covered by the enabling provisions of section 46) ; and in this case, as in each of the
two preceding, a conviction was obtained and penalties were inflicted.
The other two cases (79, 114) were of an unimportant character, and were due to
an outbreak of fire on the premises.
We are happy to be again able to report an entire absence of accidents in the
conveyance of explosives. During the fifteen years the act has been in operation
there have only been four accidents in conveyance, viz, in 1883, 1885, 1887, and 1888
(see Table VIII), and in one case only (viz, the 1883 accident) has any personal injury
resulted.
The accidents grouped under the head of use and miscellaneous (Table VI) were
less numerous than in 1889, via, 65 as against 75, but the number of deaths resulting
therefrom was greater, viz, 36 as against 31, and this is slightly above tho average
(32.3) for the past ten years (Tables VII and VIII). The number of persons reported
injured shows a sensible reduction, viz, 68 as against 86, which is considerably below
the average (81.1) for the last ten years.
We may, however, here repeat the] observations of former years, viz, that this is
a class of accidents as to which our information is extremely uncertain, and fluctua
tions must accordingly be expected from year to year from this as from other causes.
The really surprising thing is that the fluctuations are not more considerable, espe
cially having regard to the fact that considerable fluctuations doubtless occur in the
amount and character of the explosives used and in the number of persons using
them.
It may also be well to recall the observation that this is a class of accident to which
the controlling provisions of the act do not directly apply, and in respect of which
we have therefore no actual responsibility. The act does not control the use of
318
explosives, and all wo can do is to study tho different accidents occurring under this
head, .and extract from them as muc h information and instruction as they may he
capable of furnishing, and apply the same (by way of suggestion) for the benefit of
those concerned in the use of explosives.
We are not without hope that by patient persistence in this course and through
the publication of our reports and opinions of the various risks attending the use of
explosives they may become in time more widely appreciated and more intelligently
avoided.
The accidents in tho use, etc., of gunpowder show a slight decrease in the number,
but an increase in fatality, as compared with 1889. Tho number of persons injured
is less than one-half the number returned in 1889. The following table gives the
figures for the past ten years :
Gun
powder Deaths.
Injured.
acci
dents.
Years.
24
27
2<
>
3:i
1890.
1889 .
1888.
18r7 .
18^).
18r>
1884 .
18s:j .
18S2 .
1881 .
24
3f>
20
ay
27
289
Total
.
A \'<*r;m*< *w------J
for Inst. fr>n
vinrs 1SSl
to 1890.
_ _____________
....................
.-----------------------------------------------
-----
28.9
11
18
38
25
32
63
32
41
24
43
31
1G9
347
21
14
14
18
21
8
25
14
23
IC. 9
34.7
N. B.In some of tins nl>ovo instances, gunpowder was associated with other explosives, and in
those cases tho accident is generally returned as a gunpowder accident, though gunpowder may not
in all cases have been tho originating cause.
Of these accidents the most important was one (23) which occurred at the Grin Lime
Works, near Buxton, on the 1st March, by which one man was killed and two others
sustained severe injury. The case formed the subject of a special inquiry and report
(No. XOIII) by Col. Majendie, and the accident was shown, beyond all reasonable
doubt, to have arisen while the men were engaged in tho illegal operation of mixing
gunpowder and guncotton for use in a cabin where they kept their tools and
explosives, and may have originated in one of several sources of risk which were
present, the place being wholly unsuitable and ill-adapted for the purpose, besides
containing a fire, into which (among tho other probable elements of risk) it is not
at all improbable some of the fine dry guncotton dust may have been carried, and
whence oil ignition it would flash back to the powder and other explosive which was
in course of being mixed.
The illegality in this case consisted in carrying on what was in effect (and in law)
an operation of manufacture in an unauthorized place, and for this and some other
irregularities which were brought to light in the course of the inquiry, the company
were prosecuted, convicted, and fined.
The recklessness and illegality of the whole proceeding brought it perilously near
to a case of manslaughter. Tho circumstances are fully detailed in tho report above
mentioned.
The accident (76) which caused the largest amount of deaths, viz., three, occurred
in charging a hole. Beyond this nothing is known of the circumstances, all the men
engaged having been killed.
Two other accidents (108, 132) occurred in charging holes with gunpowder and
blasting gelatine (or gelatine dynamite), causing each one death. It is impossible
to say whether these accidents originated with the gunpowder or the nitroglycerin
319
preparation. Bnt as m one case (132) a steel rammer was being used, the explosive,
whichever it was, was hardly to blame.
And an accident (112) which occurred during tbe blowing down of some old prem
ises, near Walsall, and which was due to the use of an iron rammer, may be reckoned
as in the same class.
A curious accident (25) occurred in Glamorganshire, through a quarryman placing
onto a fire a tin containing gunpowder in the belief that the tin contained tea, which
he wished to warm. The two tins were so similar in appearance that he failed to
distinguish between them. Five persons were injured by this accident.
Another case (91) of a very similar character occurred at Deal, through some pow
der used for clearing the flues having been inadvertently left in a stove and covered
with loose paper. On a servant proceeding to light a fire the powder exploded.
The other accidents are of the usual characterboring into or striking unexploded
charges (3, 64); projected dbris (46, 127); ignition of charge through presence in
hole of ignited remains of former charge or fuse (70, 118) ; approaching charged hole
too soon, or not getting under cover soon enough (107, 119) ; incautious approach of
candle to gunpowder (116, 117) ; smoking or matches (84) ; unrainming (124) ; stem
ming (126); and some of a miscellaneous and doubtful character (28, 81, 109, 111).
The accidents in the use, etc., of dynamite and other nitroglycerin preparations
(as blasting gelatine and gelatine dynamite) were 24 in number, and are credited
with 12 deaths and injury to 30 persons (Table VI). This result compares, in all re
spects, favorably with tho preceding year, but it is slightly above the annual average
for the past ten years, as tho following table shows. But in view of the large ex
tending use of this class of explosive it is a matter for satisfaction that there is not
some corresponding large increase in accidents under this head.
Tears.
A cci
dents. Deaths. Injured
24
32
1890
1889
1888
1887
1886
1885
1884
18815
1882
1881
17
16
12
13
14
10
15
11
5
13
8
14
30
33
20
21
29
10
17
35
21
23
202
115
239
22
17
22
14
16
22
Total............................................................................................................
Average for ten years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2072
n .y
23.9
Of these accidents the most seriousmeasured by the loss of lifewas one (119)
which occurred on the 8th December at Abertillery, and which resulted in the loss
of three lives and injured six other men, and which, so far as could be ascertained,
was probably due to an unexploded cartridge having remained in one of tho holes,
of which nine had been charged and supposed to be fired (by electricity). The men
were attempting to remove a loosened stone by means of a crowbar when the ex
plosion occurred.
Accidents due to the presence of unexploded portions of charges are perhaps neces
sarily more frequent in the cases of nitroglycerin compounds than with gunpowder,
owing to the fact that any weakness or deficiency in the detonator may give rise to
an incomplete explosion^ while in some cases (as in wet holes charged with dyna
mite) there is a further risk from exuded nitroglycerin, which may have percolated
through fissures to quite a considerable distance from the original hole (see acci
dents 90 and 131).
320
Each year we have to notice several and generally fatal accidents from tliis cause.
In the year just past eiglit sucli accidents (including the one above mentioned) have
come under our notice, with fatal results to 6 men and injury to 15 others.
Most of these cases were of an ordinary character, but in one case (5) there are
some grounds for suspecting that the accident may have originated in a reckless
or malicious practical joke, if not in a deliberate desire to kill. In another case (10)
also almost criminal recklessness was shown by all concerned.
An accident (72) of this character occurred with stoneito (another nitroglycerin
preparation), remnants of a charge of which had been left in a socket/7which a
miner was improperly reboring.
As regards accidents in the thawing of nitroglycerin preparations, we regret to
have to report that they have been more numerous and more fatal than in the pre
ceding year, the number of such accidents having been 5, causing 5 deaths and injuring 7 persons.
It is deplorable to read the record of the circumstances under which these accidents
arose, disclosing as they do the most extraordinary ignorance or tho most persistent
recklessness.
We again repeat that we have used our best efforts to produce a more intelligent
treatment of frozen nitroglycerin preparation, and we have addressed frequent
communications to tho agents for and manufacturers of dynamite, which have re
sulted in the issue by them of more or less peremptory instructions to insure the use
of proper warming pans.
We have in former reports dealt with this subject at great length and quoted
from the instructions issued by Nobel Explosives Company and others.
We give below, for the benefit of those whom it may concern, a caution issued by
Mr. K. C. Briscoe, who is agent for and importer of foreign nitroglycerin prepara
tions. Certainly these instructions are not wanting in simplicity and explicitness:
GELIGNITE,
GELATIN-DYNAMITE,
DYN AM ITE,
AND
OTHER
NITROGLYCERIN
EX
PLOSIVES.
d ir e c t io n s a n d c a u t io n s t o m in e r s a n d o t h e r s
u s in g t h e s e e x p l o s i v e s i n c o l d
'w e a t e r .
In cold weather cartridges of blasting gelatin, gelatin-dynamite, dynamite,

etc., are liable to become hard or frozen. They should not be used for blasting when
in that condition, but should be first softened or thawed.
Warming pans, specially designed for softening explosives without bringing
them into direct contact with water or fire, should alone be used, and in them cart
ridges can be kept in a soft or plastic condition for several hours in the coldest
weather. The temperature of the water for use in warming pans should be from
130 to 140 F. ; that is, at a heat rather great for the hand to bear.
On no account expose cartridges to the heat of a fire, or place them on a. hot
stove, or warm piece of metal, or on a steam pipe. Do not attempt to heat them by
those or any other irregular means.
No accident would ever occur in thawing or charging if workmen would em
ploy proper warming pans to soften explosive cartridges, and use ordinary precau
tion in pressing the cartridges home.
Warming pans to thaw either 2 or 5 pounds or more at one time are supplied
by us, and at no colliery, mine, or quarry where explosives are used should they be
wanting.
There should be no fire, etc., in the hut or apartment in which the thawing is
conducted.
Not more than one cartridge at a time should be squeezed to the back of a bore
hole,
321
44Gelatin detonators and no others should he used for gelatin explosives.

R . C. B r i s c o e ,
19 Oldhall street, Liverpool
In passing, we may remark that the final paragraph but one of these instructions,
forbidding tho bunching of cartridges, . e., tho attempted squeezing in of more
than one cartridge at a time into a bore hole, is one which, if attended to, would
probably diminish the number of accidents in charging holes with dynamite.
In one case of a fatal accident (18) from thawing, a special inquiry was held in the
case, and a report (No. XCII, March 3, 1890) furnished by Maj. (now LieutenantColonel) Cundhill. Tho case did not differ from many others in respect of the gross
recklessness which characterized it ; but the report is interesting as containing in an
appendix a list of accidents of this character up to date, and the broad result is that
since 1872 not less than 50 lives have been thus fooled away, while 76 persons re
ceived more or less severe though not fatal injuries. The remaining thawing acci
dents since that date bring the list up to 53 deaths and 79 injured, to the end of
1890, every one of which might have been avoided by the exercise of a little care and
the most moderate intelligence.
As Maj. Cundhill observes in that report:
For years we have labored to bring home to the consumers of dynamite and
similar compounds the dangers of improper thawing. We have communicated with
the companies, who have, in some cases at least, done their best to help us ; we have
attended inquests, at which we have freely expressed our views, and we have ex
pressed our views at great length, and, we trust, with some force in our annual and
spcial reports.
Still, contra ignorantiam frustra, the waste of life goes on, though we hope
yearly diminishing. We can not hope for a complete immunity from this class of
accident, certainly not while subagents sell explosives to ignorant men without
taking the trouble to find out whether they have proper moans and knowledge for
using them.
Of accidents in charging holes there have been four (15, 80, 86, 122), which is, we
are happy to say, much fewer than in the preceding year. In three cases it was
stated a wooden rammer was being need.
In such cases it is impossible [not] to believe that undue force was being recklessly
applied, aggravated in some cases by the practice which occasionally prevails of what
is called bunching cartridges, i. e., placing a number of cartridges one on the
top of the other into a hole and then trying to squeeze them or ram them all in to
gether. In this way a jam occurs, the cartridges burst, the sides of the hole become
smeared with a fine film or particles of the explosive, and, force being brought to
bear to overcome the resistance, explosions necessarily follow.*
The paragraph in the instructions issued by Mr. Briscoe, which we have quoted
above, is an extremely useful one and if attended to would doubtless cause a
diminution in this class of accidents. Nobels Company have (a stated in our 1889
report, p. 38) already issued instructions to their agents and instructors to this
effect and enjoining also the use of cartridges of a reasonable fit for tho holes.
The other accidents with nitroglycerin preparations invite no special remark;
there was one (57) in the dangerous and prohibited practice of unramming a hole;
one (1) through the incautious use of a candle ; one (55) through going to a hole too
soon (57).
Only one accident (94) with roburite has come under our notice, and that is not
one which involves any blame to the explosive, as it was a case of projected dbris.
Similarly an accident (130) with scurit might have occurred with any other
explosive, as it was due to the striking with a pick of a detonator in a charge of
* See our remarks on accidents probably due to this cause with gelatin dynamite
in our 1889 report, p. 38.
14A----- 21
322
ecurite. The wonder in this case is that the material burnt rather than detonated,
thus entailing much less severe injuries than might have been expected.
The four explosions (8,60,90,96) with explosives of the gun-cotton class, were not,
with one exception, of a serious character. In the one case (99) in which a life was
lost, the cause was the old and fruitful one of using an iron steminer.
So, also, in a case (8) in which two youths sustained injury through using tho end
of a pick to try and force a tonito cartridge into a hole.
The detonator accidents were nearly twice as many as in 1889, viz, nine as against
five, and twelve persons sustained injury, but in no case of a fatal character.
In the accidents themselves there was no novelty. Of the nine, no less than six
were caused by children playing with detonatorshammering or picking them, or
trying to light themin ignorance of their contents. The other three accidents were
caused by grown-up men, who should have known better than try and pick out the
contents (59,123) or manipulate a detonator in contact with a naked candle (22).
By degrees, as we have before remarked, as people become better acquainted with
the dangerous character of these innocent looking, but really formidable, little ar
ticles, we may hope to find the accidents with them less numerous. Happily these
accidents rarely do any harm except to tho one person concerned, though this year
there has not, as has usually happened on former occasions, been an exact correspond
ence between the number of persons injured and the number of accidents, for in
three cases two persons were injured instead of one.
The accidents (31,105,106) in the use of fireworks which have come under our
notice have again been few, viz, three only (as in the preceding year). But two of
these accidents were fatal.
In one case (31) the article which exploded was a usocket distress signal, which,
like the socket sound signals, becomes in ignorant hands a small infernal machine.
We have, on former occasions, had occasion to rei>ort on accidents with this class of
ignal, with which accidents (including the present one), involving a loss of four
lives and injury to no less than thirty-eight persons, have como under our notice.
Akin to this class of accidents was one (106) with a sound signal rocket, by which
a life was lost and a man was injured.
The other firework accident (105) calls for no special notice, having been much of
the character of those of which it can not be doubted many occur annually about
the 5th November, but which do not usually come under our notice unless they are
of a fatal or very serious character.
The past year has not been wholly free from those outrages or malicious attempts
to destroy life and property by explosion which disgraced the annals of a few years
back, though happily none of them were of a very serious character.
What was believed to have been an attempt to do injury, or to create alarm, at
the Falmouth custom-house was made on July 17, when a bag containing about5
pounds of gunpowder and a quantity of stones, scrap iron, old bullets, and pioces of
lead was found by the night watchman in a passage in the custom-house.
A piece of lighted paper was found near the bag. The watchman placed tho bag
into water and extinguished the burning paper.
An examination of some of the articles by this department failed to throw any
light on the case.
On March 22 a wooden hut at a railway crossing near Toome station (County
Antrim) was blown up by means of some explosive. This was attributed to local
ill-feeling.
On January 27, a box filled with explosives and with a fuse attached was exploded
in the main street of Macroom, close to the doors of a draper called Cronin, fortunately
without personal injury, and with but little damage to property.
The outrage is confidently attributed to local political ill-feeling.
On the 25th September a st<rne jar filled with gunpowder and with fuse attached
was exploded on the window sUl of Dr. J. 0 liyan surgery, doing damage to the
SPPLEMENT---- EXPLOSIVES.
323
window and to the contents of the surgery. Dr. ORyan is chairman of the town
commissioners, and it is alleged had become unpopular in consequence of his action
in endeavoring to procure tho removal of two local agitators.
A baker named Case, living at Templecombe, after he had lighted the fire in his
bakery, noticed a piece of string dangling from the chimney. He pulled it and drew
forth a parcel containing about 3 pounds of blasting powder.
Of scares and false alarms or suspicions there have been a few instances, but none
which appear to call for special notice.
Abroad there has been the usual crop of outrages.
A sardine box filled with dynamite exploded at Trieste with fatal results ; a boni
exploded on one of the windows of the archbishops palace at Valencia; a bomb ex
ploded in the billiard room of a caf in Madrid; a bomb exploded in front of a monu
ment at Trieste, erected in commemoration of the five hundredth anniversary of the
union of Trieste and Austria ; a bomb exploded under a carriage in Belgrade, in which
was an aid-de-camp to the king, fortunately without personal injury. An explo
sion of dynamite occurred at the Grande Chartreuse Monastery, with a view, as be
lieved, to obtain or extort money.
Three cases of suicide (one at home and two abroad) by means of explosives came
under our notice during the year.
In one case it appears that an inhabitant of Leicester wont to a field near the
borough, filled his mouth with gunpowder, and exploded it, with a view to his selfdestruction. His injuries were of such a character that he succumbed to them four
days afterwards in Leicester infirmary. The house surgeon of the infirmary informs
us that the immediate cause of death was inflammation of the lungs, due to the in
juries sustained in the interior of the throat, mouth, and air passages.
A convict employed at the quarries, Birmingham, in the United States, committed
suicide by blowing himself up with dynamite given to him for blasting purposes.
How he applied it is not stated.
A Portuguese officer, chagrined at some real or imaginary professional slight,
committed suicide in June last, by the sensational expedient of wrapping himself
up in a Portuguese flag and blowing himself up with 14 barrels of gunpowder.
These add other examples to the cases, already not infrequent, of suicides or at
tempts with explosives, mention of several of which will be found in former reports.
We regret to say that the past yearas been signalized by two or three explosions
in Government factories, or with explosives belonging to Government, which have
entailed an unfortunate loss of life.
The most important of these was the explosion which occurred on August 22, in
the breaking down house at the Koyal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, by
which two men were killed, and injury was caused to some adjoining windows, be
sides damage of a minor character in the town of Waltham.
The building in which tlie accident occurred was used for the breaking down of
mill cake (i. e., powder as it issues from the incorporating mills,), preparatory to
pressing, and the work is effected by means of rollers.
The exact cause was never ascertained, but it is obvious that where machinery is
employed, more than one possible cause may operate to effect an explosion, and a de
tailed examination of the various possible causes is given in a special report (No.
XXI., dated February 20, 1879), which we rendered on an explosion at the Chilworth
factory, which there were strong grounds for considering had originated iu a break
ing down '* machine in a press house.
And, of course, the various possible causes immediately due to tools or machinery
are wholly independent of a vast number of other possible and independent causes
including, it may be, willful or suicidal actwhich will be found tabulated in the
report above named.
In the present case, not having ourselves investigated the cireuinstances, we are
unable to assign a higher degree of probability to one cause than to another, and we
324
understand that the investigation conducted by the officers of the royal gunpowder
factory has not led to any very decided conclusions.
On the 5th of December an accident happened in the shell filling branch of the
royal laboratory at Priddy Hard, Gosport, by which one man (who was alone in
the building at the time) was killed. He was engaged at the time in examining a
number of 12-inch shells, and it may well have been due (though on this point we
have no certain information, nor is it ever likely to be obtainable) to a similar cause
to that which is believed to have led to the more serions accident at the same place
on the 5th May, 1883, when six men lost their lives, viz, incautious and too forcible
use of a copper rod or implement for breaking up any powder which may have been
caked in the shell.
An explosion occurred on the 25th November in the proof house of the Royal Small
Arms Factory, Sparkbrook, near Birmingham, by which six men sustained injury.
It is believed that, through the fall or accidental discharge of one of the guns un
dergoing proof, a small quantity of gunpowder used or about to be used in the proof
became exploded, and as this occurred in a comparatively small building, in which
several persons were present, the number injured was somewhat disproportionate to
the small amount of gunpowder which is believed to have exploded.
An explosion occurred on the 25th June at Inchkeith, causing injury to an artil
leryman, and is attributed to the presence of some gritty foreign matter in some spilled
powder which had been extracted from shells, and which powder one of the men was
engaged in sweeping up when it exploded.
An explosion was caused in April at Shoeburyness by an unfortunate boy trying
to extract some powder from a shell which, having been fired from a gun blind
(t. ., plugged and without fuse) and having lain for some considerable time under
water, had been recovered and was supposed to be harmless. It is evident from
the result that the whole of the powder could not have been thoroughly wetted, as
when the boy was hammering the nose of the (unplugged) shell on a stone an explo
sion occurred which killed him.
An explosion took place on the 5th of April at the Bell Rock Light-house, which
did considerable damage to the light-house and machinery, but fortunately inflicted
no personal injury on the two men who were present.
The signals in use were small cylindrical disks of tonite, 4 ounces in weight, coated
with paraffin, and having a small hole up the center to receive the detonator, and
during foggy weather the charges were fired at fixed intervals (ten minutes) by
means of an electric detonator fuse and a magneto-electric machine, the charge be
ing affixed for the purpose to a lever fitted to the roof of the light-house and the elec
tric cable being laid along and through the roof. Through some carelessness or absentmindedness on the part of one of the keepers, one of the charges was detonated within
the light-room. That the two men who were present should have escaped unin
jured is little short of miraculous.
During the night of the 31st March a fire, followed by a slight explosion, occurred
in Dr. Duprs laboratory at the Westminster Medical School, Caxton street, which,
although causing serious damage to the contents of the laboratory by the combined
effects of water, fire, and explosion, was fortunately unattended with personal in
jury and did no damage outside the building beyond breaking one window in a
school building near.
On the 25th March an explosion occurred in the Government magazine at Dor
chester Barracks, which resulted in the death of Quartermater-Sergeaiit Howard.
The magazine contained a quantity of blank cartridges for artillery practice and
was in the sole charge of the quartermaster sergeant above named.
The cause of the accident was never ascertained, the only person who could have
thrown any light on it having been killed, and it would be unprofitable for us (not
having been concerned in the inquiry) to attempt to assess the precise value of any
speculative explanation as to its origin.
325
On the 28tli March a laborer in Portsmouth dockyard, while turning over some
rubbish, discovered a hard substance covered with dirt. While removing the dirt
the article ( which is believed to have been the detonator of a torpedo fuze) exploded,
inflicting somewhat severe injury.
Following tho practice of former years, we proceed to notice the more interesting
foreign explosions of which we have had cognizance. As we have before remarked,
our information as to this class of accident is necessarily generally very incomplete,
and in cases even fragmentary, as it is often culled from tho newspapers.
But in some instances, through the courtesy of the persons concerned or through
the foreign office or from other sources, we have beon able to collect details which
are interesting and often valuable.
If the newspaper accounts are to be believed, one of the most tremendous explo
sions ever recorded occurred at Canton on the 15th August through the destruction
of the Government powder magazine at that city. The loss is stated (with a suspi
cious roundness of figures) to have been a thousand persons and to have entailed
the destruction of 200 houses.
Later in the year another explosion is reported from China, at a Government pow
der mill at Wohu, by which 1,000 houses were destroyed and 300 or 350 persons (or
in some accounts many more) are said to have been killed.
The Times correspondent gives the following account of this disaster:
u The entire series of buildings in the north of the city, used as a powder mill by
the Government, were, without a moments warning, blown up, with all their occu
pants, and the houses for half a mile round were demolished or partially wrecked by
the force of tho explosion. Over 50 men were at work in the mills at the time; but
of these and tho half dozen mandarins in charge of the factory, scarcely any traoe
has been found.
The buildings were literally blown to pieces and the unfortunate people inside
reduced to atoms, which were indistinguishable as the remnants of humanity. Two
legs found in a tree were tho largest portions recovered.
There were several hundred barrels of coarse powder stored in the buildings,
and the fire quickly spread from one block to another, causing a serious of explosions
which frightened those who would have gone to the aid of the sufferers by the first
explosion.
Three hundred or three hundred and fifty of the townspeople and soldiers are
known to have been killed, and a thousand houses destroyed, either by the concussion
or by the fire caused by the explosion. The noise was heard for 40 miles around, and
the country people thought it was due to an earthquake and fell terror-stricken, a
the contents of one bnilding after another took fire and exploded.
On the same day another explosion, also at Government powder mills, occurred at
Pah-Chow, of which we have no particulars beyond the fact that there were very
heavy loss of life and destruction of property.
An explosion of a very serious character occurred on the 7th October at the Du
pont gunpowder factory, near Wilmington, Del., by which about 12 persons were
killed and a large number sustained injury, while considerable damage was done to
property.
Through the courtesy of Gen. Abbot, U. S. A., and othors, we have obtained some
information regarding this explosion, though the details as to cause and effects are
much less precise than we could have wished.
There seems to be no doubt that the explosion originated in a magazine which
contained 50 tons of brown prismatic powder, and the effect was communicated to
five other buildings.
It is alleged that the explosion occurred during the soldering of tho tin lining of a
case containing prismatic powder, but on this point we have no absolute authorita
tive information. It seems, however, to be generally accepted as the most probable
explanation. Assuming it to be the correct one, it testifies to an extraordinary
326
recklessness of procedure, for such a process as soldering cases should on no account

be allowed in a magazine or in any danger building, except one in whicb tho amount
of explosive present is narrowly limited.
The other danger buildings that were exploded were a packing house, a separating
house, a corning house, and another magazine.
We have not been able to ascertain definitely the amount of gunpowder exploded
in the subexplosions. But we learn that in one of the magazines was 50,000 pounds
of field gunpowder and in another exploded building 10,000 pounds of sporting pow
der. This, added to tho amount in the magazine in which the accident originated,
and which (as already stated) contained $100,000 pounds of brown prismatic powder,
gives a total of at least 160,000 pounds, or about 80 tons of gunpowder,* independ
ently of the amount present in the other buildings. This quantity exceeds (so far
a our experience goes) any previous accidental gunpowder explosion. Probably
the Erith explosion of 1864, when 57 tons exploded, was the greatest amount of
gunpowder accidentally exploded previous to the explosion now under notice.
Although we have been unable to obtain as much or as detailed information as we
could wish on tho subject of the total amount of powder, radius of destructive effect,
distance apart of other buildings, and so onpoints which might have been of the
highest practical valuewe are able to deduce two important conclusions, as we
venture to think, from this accident.
(1) That a violent and destructive explosion of brown prismatic powder is possible.
At first sight it might appear strange that we should insist upon this point as an
important conclusion; but, as a matter of fact, stress has been laid in some quarters
on the assumed impossibility, or at any rate extreme improbability, of an explosion
of brown prismatic powder en masse.
We have always maintained that it would be in the highest degree dangerous to
accept the conclusion that, because small quantities o f brown prismatic powder could
be fired nonexplosively, the same result would occur if a large store of tho material
caught fire, and the accident now under notice amply vindicates our view.
(2) That a special risk attaches to an explosion of brown prismatic powder (or
probably any slow-burning powder of this sort), in tho liability of the ignited prisms,
to be projected carrying fire to long distances. Mr. Dupont says in his letter: So
many buildings should not have been lost were it not that tho explosion started in
the magazine, in which was stored about 100,000pounds of brown prismatic powder,
and burning grains of this slow-burning powder carried fire to long distances and
exploded five buildings. *
In addition to the foregoing very tremendous explosion at the Dupont works, a
large number of accidents, some of a formidable character, have come under our
notice as having occurred in various parts of America.
Thus, 5 persons were in January killed and 12 injured by the premature action of
a fuse during some blasting operations at Charlotte, N. C.
Some nitroglycerin, which was being conveyed in a wagon along a road near
Decatur, Ind., on tho 23d of March, exploded, killing three persons and two horses.
* Letter from Mr. Eugene Dupont, November 5, 1890.
We say accidental, because during tho American war in 1864, a vessel called
the Louisiana, which had been stocked for the purpose with over 200 tons of gun
powder was exploded outside the harbor of Wilmington, with a view to the destruc
tion of Fort Fisher (which, as a matter of fact, it did not injure). It is curious that
this great explosion should have been effected in the vicinity of the Dupont Gun
powder Works, where the present explosion occurred.
Mr. Eugene Dupont says: The radius of serious damage to adjacent buildings
was within 300 feet. But this statement is somewhat qualified by the further state
ment that when we consider in what a small radius the serious damage to build
ings occurred, and that there were no buildings at regular intervals further away,
we can not tell just how far the serious damage would have extended.
If, a would appear from tho newspaper accounts, the explosive was being con
veyed in the liquid form, such recklessnessin view of the many safe ways in which
solidified nitroglycerin can be employedwas inexcusable.
Two persons are said to have been killed and 25 injured by an explosion of dyna
mite which occurred in a house at Lucas, Ohio, which had been set on fire by lightning.
Another accident, due to the effects of lightning, is reported to have occurred in
June, at Mansfield, Ohio, when 2 tons of gunpowder in a powder mill were exploded
by lightning, killing 3 persons and doing much damage.
An explosion, in June, at the nitroglycerin factory of the Castor Line Company,
at Findlay, Ohio, is stated to have completely destroyed the premises. The explo
sion is said to have occurred at 2 a. in., when all the work people were absent, so that
there was no loss of life. It is reasonable to assume (in the absence of information
to the contrary) that the case was one of spontaneous decomposition.
During a firework display at Industry, Pa., on the 4th of July, a keg of gunpowder
became exploded by (it is alleged) a spark from a cracker, and 5 persons were killed
and 2 injured.
A serious explosion is stated to have occurred at Messrs. Laflin & Rands powder
works, Paterson, N. J., on the 24th July, by which 8 men were killed. The explo
sion occurred in a corning house.
A terribly destructive accident is reported from Spokane Falls, Wash., owing to
the premature explosion of a blast of about 200 pounds of giant powder, which
brought down huge masses of rock onto a number of men who were working in the
immediate vicinity.
What, exactly, the loss of life was we do not know, but it was probably between
40 and 50, as one account states that 18 bodies had been recovered and 27 more men
were unaccounted for and were probably all buried beneath the dbris.
By the explosion of a dynamite magazine at the Rosario Gold Mine, San Diego,
Cal., 10 men lost their lives in one of the last days of September.
An explosion occurred on the 23d October, in the fulminate department of the
Union Metallic Department Cartridge Companys factory at Bridgeport, Conn., by
which one man, who was believed to have been experimenting at the time with a
new fulminate, lost his life.
An accident with what evidently was quick-firing ammunition occurred on the
7th November, in one of tho casemates of Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, causing
the immediate death of one man and injury to four others.
The men were putting together quick-firing cartridges, and placing the same in a
sizing case (i. presumably a sort of cylinder gauge), and it was while so en
gaged that the explosion occurred, which extended to 30 pounds of loose powder also
present in the building.
In licenses granted in this country, regulations are introduced narrowly limiting
the amount of loose powder present in the filling sheds, and enjoining other precau
tions designed to prevent such an accident as that now under notice.
Three men were killed and 4 severely injured by an explosion of dynamite and
giant powder which occurred during the thawing of some dynamite cartridges at
Lima, Ohio.
Another such accident is reported to have occurred in a house in New York on the
24th November, when 4 Italian workingmen set themselves to thaw some dynamite
by holding it over the fire. Naturally the material exploded, killing two of the men,
and seriously injuring the two others.
No doubt, in America, as in this country, the recklessness of those to whom it falls
to prepare dynamite for blasting, and the use of improper appliances, furnish an
nually many accidents, of the larger number of which no notice reaches beyond the
immediate locality.
In November 3 men and a foreman were blasting for a city sewer, when an unusu
ally loud blast took place, and a large piece of rock struck one of the men and
killed him.
328
It is significant, as showing tho stringent inquiry made into such cases in New
York, that the foreman at once fled, and the other 2 men were held to bail in the sum
of $1,500 each ponding the inquest.
On the 31t December 4 men were killed and 5 injured by bringing up a fresh supply
of explosive close to where a blast had just been exploded.
On the 26th December an explosion occurred in the works of tho American Powder
Company, in the packing house, and killed 2 mon working therein. No further de
tails are given.
On the 16th December two explosions are reported to have occurred at powdermills in America, one in the corning house of the Ohio Powder Company, at Youngs
town, killing 2 men and injuring several; the other at the works of the Etna Powder
Company, Miller, Ind., killing 1 man and injuring some others.
Four laborers were killed and 4 others very severely, if not fatally, injured by a
premature explosion of gunpowder when blasting on the Lehigh extension railroad
works in January.
By an explosion on the 9th of December of the powder magazine of the Canadian
government steamer Newfield, employed in the light-house service, 1 man was killed
and 6 were badly injured, 3 fatally; no cause has been assigned for the explosion.
Ten persons are reported to have been killed by an explosion of dynamite, in Octo
ber, at a gold mine in Mexico.
Earlier in the year (in May) 4 persons lost their lives, and 6 sustained injuries
from a similar accident at Tepio, in Mexico.
A very disastrous explosion is reported from Havana, resulting in the loss (it is
said) of 34 lives, and injury to over 100 persons. The explosion is stated to have
occurred in a hardware store, and to have been due to a barrel of gunpowder which
was present there.
If this be the case, it is only an additional proof of the large and serious conse
quences which may result from the explosion of even a comparatively small amount
of explosive in a crowded locality.
A dynamite magazine at Hanchaca, Peru, was exploded by lightning, causing 5
deaths and injury to 40 other persons.
The bark British Monarch was destroyed at sea on the 30th November, while on
her voyage from Hamburg to Sydney, New South Wales, with a general cargo, which
is stated to have included 10 tons of dynamite, between 8,000 and 9,000 cases of gin
and other spirits, a large consignment of safety matches, and 400 pianos.
On the 29tli of November the vessel was found to be on fire, and the crew were
ordered into the boats.
They left the ship about 3 p. m. and laid off at a distance of about 2 miles. The
vessel blew up with a terrific report the following morning. The crew were after
wards picked up by another vessel.
It is not unreasonable in this connection to recall the observations which have
been made by the colonial inspectors of explosives (and to which we have directed
attention in former reports) on the dangerously careless manner in which explosives
imported into the colonies (notably those imported from Hamburg, from which port
the vessel now under notice sailed) are stowed. We would especially call attention
to some extracts in our last annual report, and in the present one from the report
o f the acting inspector of explosives for Victoria, bearing directly upon the condi
tion of the cargoes in Hamburg-laden vessels.*
Having regard to the state of things which is disclosed by that and similar re
ports, it is not surprising that we should now and again hear of the explosion of a
Hamburg-laden vessel on its way to the colonies.
* It is not a little noticeable that one of the cargoes commented on in the extract
given in our present report (p. 51) should have contained many of the same articles :
dynamite, matches, spirit, tobacco, in addition to detonators, ether, collodion, drugs,
and chemicals.
329
While a number of fishermen at Tunis were sitting round a fire, which they had
kindled on the shore near that place, a violent explosion suddenly occurred, which
killed 1 man and injured others.
The explosion was found to have proceeded from a shell, which had lain under the
sand since the French bombardment iu 1881.
From Helsingfors comes notice of an explosion on the 19th May at a gunpowder
factory near Kaipiais railway station, which killed 5 persons.
Tho following account of an explosion at Nicolaioff is too vague to be of much
practical value: An explosion has occurred in the drying chamber of the explosive
compound used in the torpedo factory, by which 1 officer and 4 sailors wore killed.
A serious explosion occurred near Bochum, in Westphalia, on the 7th November,
through a collision which occurred between a railway train and a wagon laden with
powder which was crossing the line.
The drivers of the wagon and engine and the horses were killed, and a large num
ber of passengers are stated to have received serious injuries.
An unfortunate apprentice in an iron-mongery establishment in the Kirch Strasse,
Berlin, lost his life on the 18th November while endeavoring to break up an old shell,
which was believed to be empty.
On the 27th June an explosion took place in the picric-acid division of the works
belonging to the joint-stock company for chemical industry at Rlieinau, near Manhheim.
As the explosion was one of considerable proportions, and as all picric-acid fac
tories in this country have been comparatively recently subjected to the controlling
provisions of the explosives act,* in consequence of our inquiry into the accident
which occurred on the 22d June, 1887, at the chemical works of Messrs. Roberts,
Dale & Co., Cornbrook, near Manchester, and, as finally, accidents of this character
are happily rare, we took some pains to obtain accurate information as to the cir
cumstances of the accidents, and, through the action of the foreign office, we col
lected a good deal of information, though some of it is of a conflicting character.
There seems, however, to be no reasonable doubt that tho accident originated in
the ignition (by friction or otherwise) of some picrate of lime, which had been
formed by the action of the picric acid upon the whitewash and mortar from the
walls.
This risk has already been recognized by this department as one to be guarded
against, and its existence had been signalized by an explosion (or rather two explo
sions) at the Heron Chemical Works, Lancaster, on the 7th Juno, 1882, and which
exploions were attributed to some picrates of lime formed by tho admixture of pic
ric acid with the lime in mortar.
Mr. Graesser, of Ruabon, a large maker of picric acid, also mentioned to us a case
which was caused by some of the brickwork becoming soaked with picric acid and
the lime in the mortar becoming transformed into picrato of lime, which caught fire
and exploded with great force.
And Mr. James Longshaw, another picric-acid maker, mentioned an accident which
he considered was probably due to some picric acid having combined with the lime
of the mortar of a flue leading from a retort to form picrate of lime.
Accordingly, we have provided, in a license which has been granted to Messrs.
Lowe & Son for the manufacture of this material, against such a risk, by requiring
plaster of Paris (sulphate of lime) to be used in and on the walls instead of ordinary
lime, and in the order in council No. 14, relating to picric acid, the precaution i
enjoined of keeping picric acid from contact with any substance capable of forming
with it an explosive mixture or explosive compound.
The fire in this case originated in the drying room, and spread thence to the crys
tallizing house and packing house (being assisted by a strong wind).
After the fire had burnt for about twenty-five minutes a few of the closed cae
* By order in council No. 14, o f 29th December, 1887.
330
FIER AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
(containing together about 650 kilos of the dry material) in the packing house ex
ploded with a feeble report and little destructive effect. After about eight minutes
a second and decidedly more violent explosion took place in the nitrating house;
this involved the destruction of about 800 kilos of moist acid, as removed from tho
centrifugal, loosely packed in casks. After an interval of about five minutes there
was a third and much more violent explosion, which completely destroyed the picricacid department, reducing it to a heap of ruins, while all the neighboring buildings
sustained more or less serious injury. This last explosion involved the destruction
of about 600 kilos of moist acid loosely packed in casks.
It has been suggested that the third and more formidable explosion was a detona
tion of tlie fused highly heated material developed by a detonation of a mixture of
picric-acid vapor and air, with which the space surrounding it became charged.
This explanation is not an improbable one. At the same time we fail to see why
this hypothesis need be resorted to. If, as was certainly the case, picrate of lime
was present in not inconsiderable quantities, and was momentarily becoming detached
from the falling walls, ceilings, etc., or even formed in the course of the fire, and if,
as was inevitable, the temperature of the whole premises was being rapidly raised
by the fire, all the elements for successive explosions, and probably explosions of
cumulative violence, were present, and we fail to see that any higher degree of prob
ability attaches to the theory of a detonation produced by a detonation of picricacid vapor and air than to the theory of a detonation produced by picrate of lime,
and it is worthy of notice that our experiments in connection with the Cornbrook
explosion of 1887 conclusively demonstrated that picric acid containing a very nota
ble percentage of water could be readily detonated.
It is interesting to be able to add, as bearing upon the question, which was dis
cussed at great length in the special report on the Cornbrook explosion, whether
picric acid when imconfined can be exploded by the mere action of fire or heat ; that
on this occasion no less a quantity than 2,500 kilos of picric acid in the drying room
(spread out in wooden trays) burned away without explosion.
A very serious accident occurred on tho 13th May, in a factory at Avigliana, dur
ing the manufacture of ballistite, by which 13 lives were lost. Through the foreign
office wo have obtained some interesting particulars of the accident, collected by Col.
Slade, British military attach at Rome. It appears that
The factory, or rather the special portion of the scene of the occurence, is a long
roofed structure divided into five separate compartments, where the operations of
milling, cutting, sifting, and cleaning are carried out.
In the first ward the ballistite, by means of a special engine, is prepared in the
form of sheets, the sheets, after being laid in a wooden trough, fitted with double
zinc plates, and subjected to the heating process by means of hot-water pipes, after
which they pass to the cutting machine.
The second ward was empty at the time of the fire, a large platform being in
course of construction for the setting up of two cutting and two grinding machines.
In the third were several cutting and granulating machines, together with a ton
of smokeless powder ready prepared to be dispatched to the navy.
The fourth contained the sifting machine, and it is also supposed that upwards
of 2 or 3 tons of black powder was also in the ward.
The cleansing machine and upwards of 4 tons of black powder, partly packed
and partly loose, was in the fifth compartment.
All the several compartments are connected by vaulted passages, and all have an
outlet by means of light glass doors ; all these doors were open* when the fire broke
out.
A workman who was standing about 70 yards off stated that the fire broke out in
* Subsequent information throws doubt on this statement, and it seems more prob
able that the doors were <losed, and they certainly opened inwards instead of out
wards.
331
the first compartment, and spread with the greatest rapidity through the other four.
No dead body was found in the first ward, 2 were found in thefourth, and 11 crowded
together at the door of the last ; among these 11 were the remains of a man who as
the time was working in the first compartment.
This leads one to fairly assume that the fire originated in the first compartment,
either through the action of the cutting machine or by the sudden ignition of one of
the strips of ballistite through overheating.
The bodies of the5 men working in this ward were set on fire, and the poor
fellows, in place of running out through the open door, fatally searched for an escape
through the several compartments, thus spreading fire in every direction, to the last
room, where the heat must have reached such an intensity as to have produced imme
diate death. All the tools and wooden implements were slightly charred, whilst the
metal of those zinc-plated had completely melted away.
The various machines did not suffer much from the results of the accident, and will
be set at work again as soon as the buildings have been repaired.
One of the walls of one of the wards was blown down, and three were unroofed,
the tiles falling outwards. The first two wards were left almost intact. Tho total
amount of powder destroyed may be reckoned at about 8 tons, whilst the damage is
estimated at about 4,000.
Although nothing definite is disclosed as to the cause of the accident, there can be
no doubt that the manufacture was being carried on in a very dangerous manner,
with a wholly unnecessary accumulation of persons and explosive material within a
single building, and with a very inexcusable neglect of what in this country would
be regarded as essential precautions.
It is most important (especially when dealing with a comparatively new material
like ballistite) to isolate the various processes, to subdivide the amounts of material
so as to limit the effects of a possible accident, and to allow only a very few work
people within a single building or risk.
None of these things wore done here, and the subdivision of the buildings into
(wards as the event showed) was entirely illusory.
It has been suggested (by the Italian director-general of artillery) that a piece of
ballistite in being carried from one machine to another may have fallen off one of the
trays, and that some small grit or gravel may have adhered to it, and so brought
about the explosion when the machinery was again set in motion. This suggestion
is not intrinsically improbable, but if it be accepted it would point to an even greater
disregard of precautions, because one of the first efforts of the maker of explosives
should be directed to the rigid exclusion of grit from danger buildings.
The one satisfactory point in connection with this accident (which in its conse
quences, if not in its inception, would appear to have been entirely preventible) it
that, although, no less than about 8 tons of ballistite is estimated to have been con
sumed, there was no violent explosion. This observation usefully supplements the
results obtained in the experiments with burning the kindred explosive cordito,
which are described in the experiment section of this report.*
An explosion occurred in a factory of meganite, near Zurndorf, on tho 11th of
December, by which 3 women were killed and 3 others sustained very serious injury.
The women were engaged in making the meganite into cartridges. The material
consists essentially of nitroglycerin (varying from 7 to 60 parts, according to-the
grade), nitrolignin, nitrate of sodium, and wood or rye meal.
As to the cause nothing has been ascertained, but it is not at all improbable that it
originated (as did the Ardeer accident of May 8,1884, to which in many respects it
bore a strong likeness) in one of the cartridge machines.
* It is not quite clear what is meant by black powder, of which 4 tons were said
to have been present in the fifth compartment. We conclude that it must have bee
black ballistite (i. e,, ballistite treated with graphite), and not ordinary black gun
powder, which must certainly have exploded.
332
A vague telegram from Bourges states that on the 10th of October an explosion oc
curred at the pyrotechnic school there. Ten persons are reported to have been killed,
and many others injured.
Four workmen were killed in November by an explosion at a powder factory near
Belfort.
A dynamite magazine in the La Malice Dock, La Rochelle, exploded on the 5th Sep
tember, killing 10 persons. No details have been received.
At Groudenz an artilleryman was killed and two others badly injured on the 10th
Septomber by the explosion of a shell, from which they were endeavoring to extract
the fuse.
As usual the reports of the inspectors of explosives for the colony of Victoria con
tain some interesting particulars of explosions and accidents. These reports, how
ever, relate to a period which embraces part of two years (from 1st April to 31st of the
following March). But that is no reason why we should not notice the more interest
ing cases referred to in them.
Among them may be mentioned a firework accident on Mr. James Pains premises
in the Friendly Society Gardens, which occurred on the 26th March, 1890, by which
one man received fatal injuries. The premises appear to have been not only unli
censed for the manufacture of fireworks, but to have been unsuited for the purpose,
while none of the ordinary precautions proper to work of this sort were observed.
(Details of these omissions and irregularities are given in an Appendix to the report.)
So many elements of risk were present that it is quite impossible to signalize any
particular one as the most probable ; but, of course, the presence of chlorate of potash
in considerable quantities would furnish a special element of risk, to which the acci
dent may have easily been due.
Most of tho other accidents were of the ordinary blasting type, explosions during
tamping, careless handling of detonators (in one case attempting to enlarge a deto
nator to admit the fuse), hang fires, premature explosions, spark from a candle, and
the like, such as we have so many of in this country.
In one case a member of the local fire brigade, while engaged in taking part in a
torchlight procession, was carrying colored fires in tho breast of his tunic. Having
accidentally stumbled, the torch he v'as carrying set fire to his tunic, causing the
ignition of the colored fires stowed underneath. He received sevore injuries, result
ing in his death.
In our last annual report we quoted some passages from these reports as to the dan
gerously careless storage of explosives on board vessels proceeding to the colony from
Hamburg and elsewhere.
We think it well this year to quote the following:
I would again urgently call attention to the careless manner in which explosives
imported into this colony are stowed. The Maravel, from Hamburg, had on board
205 cases of dynamite. No proper magazine had been made. The explosives were
carclessly stowed with pianos, etc. Three cases of detonators were also amongst the
general cargo, which consisted of hardware, matches, methylated spirit, sulphuric
ether, collodion, drugs and chemicals, etc. Also, the Hawarden Castle, from Ham
burg, brought 600 cases of dynamite. No proper magazine had been made. Nine cases
of detonators had been packed side by side with the explosives. These explosives had
been placed on top of sheets of iron and in and amongst other cargo. Some of the
cases (of dynamite) were found upon examination to have been worn through by the
contact with iron bolts, and those cases of explosives had to be repacked. Amongst
the cargo brought by the vessel were barrels of cement, pianos, alcohol, matches,
collodion, and ether.
Ships arriving from Germany, conveying gunpowder and other explosives, are
often found to have the same stowed in an exceedingly careless manner; and I would
again urgently recommend that steps be taken to stop this dangerous practice, wîich
is no doubt done in order to lessen the cost of exportation. I think that German ex
333
porters ought to be compelled to follow the example of the English exporters and
provide proper and separate magazines on board.
It may be well in this connection to direct attention to the loss by explosion of the
vessel British Monarch, from Hamburg to Sidney, which we have mentioned else
where.
In our annual report for 1888, pages 45-47, we referred at some length to certain
explosions which had occurred at Aden in the course of the year, in magazines which
contained blasting gelatin, and which explosions, in our opinion, were beyond rea
sonable doubt due to spontaneous combustion of the material.
This opinion receives strong and important confirmation from a remarkable acci
dent which occurred in April last in a magazine at Shelabagh, on the Sind-Pishin
Bailway. We have received from the India office a copy of the proceedings of the
committee which was held to inquire into the cause of the accident. From this report
it appears that the accident undoubtedly orginated in a box containing blasting gel
atin (probably some old stock), that the material ignited spontaneously and burnt
away without firing or exploding any of the remaining 21 tons * of explosive stored
in the magazine, though several of the boxes containing the explosive were exter
nally charred.
That 50 pounds of blasting gelatin could burn away in a magazine which con
tained 21 tons of nitro compound without any serious consequences is an experience
which we believe to be unique, and is a circumstance so remarkable that it is greatly
to be regretted that the committee of inquiry failed to furnish details of the actual
method of storage, and whether the box which ignited was on the top of a pile or
otherwise ; but, of course, no practical conclusions could bo based upon this experi
ence, which it is improbable could in any circumstances be repeated. We have,
however, thought it well to give in an appendix an extract from tho proceedings of
the committee.
Of more immediate practical value is the light which this accident throws on other
explosions.
We have ourselves never had any doubt that the two Aden explosions of 1888 were
due to spontaneous combustion of blasting gelatin ; but this view was not, in tlio
opinion of the war office committee of chemists, warranted by the evidence.
The present case appears to us to confirm entirely our opinion on tho point, and to
place beyond all reasonable doubt the fact that all three accidents were due to tho
same cause, and, indeed, it seems likely that the blasting gelatin in all three cases
was some of the same make.
There were also two other previous explosions on tho Sind-Pishin Railway (atNari
Gorge and Kach), to which reference was also made in our 1888 report. But tho
very miscellaneous character of the articles stored in those magazines, and the extraor
dinary absence of suitable precautions and other circumstances, rendered it impos
sible to refer the explosions to any particular cause. In view, however, of the pres
ent case it now seems certainly probable that both those oxplosions were also caused
by spontaneous ignition of blasting gelatin (or gelatiu dynamite), supplied, as in
the other cases, by Messrs. Ewart, Latham & Co., of Bombay, agents to Nobel's
Explosives Company (Limited).
In short, we are of opinion that the whole five accidents, viz, those at Nari Gorge,
Kach, and Shelabagh, on the Sind-Pishin Railway, and the two Aden explosions, are
all referable to the same cause ; and the practical conclusion is the absolute necessity
which exists for adopting special precautions of storage in regard to gelatinous nitro*
glycerin preparations in hot climates, such as keeping tho same under water.
A number of accidents of a miscellaneous character have come under our notice, to
which brief reference may be advantageously made in this report.
* The magazine contained 37,250 pounds of dynamite No. 1,5,600 pounds of gela
tin dynamite, and 400 pounds of blasting gelatin ; total, 43,250 pounds.
334
An explosion occurred on the 27th January, on the premises of Mr. Amos Ashworth,
chemist and druggist, 70 Blackburn Road, Accrington, which recalls an accident at
Wishaw in 1887, which we noticed in our report for that year, as both were due to
an explosion of the vapor from alcoholic spirit and air. In the present instance, Mr.
Ashworth put a gallon tin bottle containing about 3 quarts of methylated spirit
and shellac into a pan of hot water on his kitchen fire ; he eased the cork when he did
so, and shortly afterwards the explosion occurred, the current passing through a
middle room and blowing out a plate-glass window about 6 feet by 8 feet. The inte
rior of the house was shaken, the ceiling slightly disarranged, and a door damaged.
Fortunately no personal injury was occasioned.
When dealing with the Wishaw case in our annual report for 1887, we quoted from
a letter from Mr. Boverton Redwood instances of former similar explosions, showing
that there is no doubt whatever that explosions can and do occur with alcoholic liq
uids similar in all respects to those caused by petroleum spirit.
In January a man was killed at Polmadie (Renfrewshire) by the explosion of a
cylinder containing compressed oxygen gas. It is stated that the cylinder had been
previously tested up to 3,600 pounds per square inch, whereas the pressure at which
the oxygen was introduced was only 1,800 pounds per square inch, and it is surmised
that there must have been a weak place in the cylinder. The deceased was engaged
in removing some cylinders when one exploded.
An explosion of a somewhat doubtful character occurred on the 19th of February,
at No. 1, Glengall road, Old Kent road, a private house occupied by Mr. Arthur
Ross, boiler-composition manufacturer, in the course of some chemical experiments
which Mr. Ross was carrying out, causing somewhat serious injury to the operator
and slight injury to his wife.
There were a considerable number of chemicals of different sorts present, and it is
uncertain what it was that actually exploded; but an examination of the residue led
Dr. Dupr to the belief that it was probably some nitrate mixture of the nature of
gunpowder, if not gunpowder itself.
We have frequently had occasion to advert to explosions of flour dust.
This year we have to record an explosion of a similar character of malt dust at
Reids brewery, Clerkenwell road, E. C., which did damage to the room and injured
one of the employs.
We do not, as a rule, take any notice of ordinary coal-gas explosions in our re
ports. But it may be well so far to depart from our practice on this occasion as to
state that an explosion which occurred at the electroplating works of Mr. Worsnop,
Halifax, on the 11th September, and which caused 3 deaths, was in the first in
stance believed to have originated with an explosive proper, and on this account was
reported to this department by the coroner. The circumstances as disclosed in the
coroners preliminary report did not appear to us to justify the belief that the ex
plosion was anything but an ordinary (though unfortunately serious) gas explosion,
although there was a possibility of vapor of bisulphide of carbon (which is used
in electroplating) having given rise to the accident. We did not, therefore, attend
the inquest, the result of which was to entirely confirm our original impression, and
show that the explosion was one of gas only.
An accident ooccurred on the 28th November, in the fuse factory of Sir W. G. Arm
strong, Mitchell & Company (Limited), at Elswick, and we have had some hesita
tion as to whether we should rank it as an explosion in tho manufacture of fuses
or as a miscellaneous accident. There seems to be no doubt whatever that the explo
sion originated in an explosion of a pipe in the hot-water apparatus, the system
having become choked. It was at first thought that nothing else had exploded, but
subsequently more careful examination by daylight disclosed the fact that a quan
tity of small detonators used for fuses had also exploded, doubtless by a blow
from a portion of the burst pipe or other dbris, and this secondary explosion un
doubtedly sensibly augmented the effects of the explosion, which was attended with
335
injury to 3 work persons, one of whom subsequently died. So far as wo were able
to discover from information derived from the company, and from a perusal of the
depositions at the coroners inquest, the bodily injuries (to which, as we have said,
1 injured person succumbed) were due, not to the secondary explosion of detona
tors, but to the effects of tho original explosion of steam in tho chokcd pipes, and
with such a result we do not think the explosives act is fairly chargeable, and we
therefore decided that the case was moro strictly ono of a :'miscellaneous explosion
(i. e., of steam) than of an explosion proper.
But this accident sets at rest the question of whotlier the little articles which wont
off should bo ranked as detonators. They are in appearance largo, flat, opcnmoutlied percussion caps, containing each 1 grain of fulminate.
We have, by careful experiments, carried out in 1885, in connection with an acci
dent at what was then Mr. Deeleys factory, at Ward End, established that caps of
this class when containing up to half a grain of fulminate, when properly foiled and
varnished, are not liable to explosion en masse, and need not therefore be ranked as
detonators. *
These coclusions have since received some independent confirmation (. </., Acci
dent No. 122, 1889.
The question of whether when the charge was increased from half a grain to 1
grain the articles should still continue to be ranked as u percussion caps, or bo ranked
as detonators, remained, however, undetermined. This accident settles it, for
the articles did evidently explode en masse (though some were recovered unexploded),
and they are therefore detonators.
We think, therefore, that in future the line dividing a percussion cap from a
(tdetonator should be drawn at a half-grain charge.
Following the practice of former years, we will now notice the more important
petroleum accidents.
Of these by far the most serious was the fire which occurrcd oil the 13tli October
on the premises of Messrs. Rowley & Brock, hat and helmet makers, Cloth Fair,
city of London, by which 8 lives were lost.
The fire occurred about midday, in a large building of five floors, measuring about
50 by 40 feet, and situated at the corner of Middle street and Newbury street, and,
it was conclusively established, originated in the ignition of some vapor from miueralnaphtha used by the firm to make tho India-rubber solution, which they employed
in considerable quantities for tho purposes of their business.
The premises were unlicensed, and it was shown that great neglect of the most
elementary precautions prevailed, and that India-rubber solution, in the manufacture
of which naphtha of the most volatile description had been employed, was being
heated in a stove in immediate proximity to some lighted gas, with tho natural re
sult that it became ignited; and tho fire which onsucd was of such a rapid descrip
tion that a number of the unfortunate work people (of whom some 50 were employed
on the promises) were unable to effect their escape, or were injured while attempt
ing to do so, and, as already stated, 8 deaths ensued.
T he coroners jury, in bringing in a verdict of accidental death, found also that
undue quantities of naphtha were unlawfully stored on the promises, and that Messrs.
Rowley & Brock are deserving of severe censure for the dangerous manner in which
their business was conducted. Further, they found that the premises were not
* The term percussion cap does not include a detonator. Tho term detonator
means a capsule or case, which is of such strength and construction and contains an
explosive of the fulminate-explosive class in such quantity that the explosion of one
oapsnle or case will communicate the explosion to other like capsules or eases.
(Order in Council No. 1, Class 6.)
Apart from the conclusion which some experiments carried out by Messrs. Bailey,
Noke & Co., of Ward End, Birmingham, appear to point to.
336
fitly constructed for tho manufacture of helmets to he carried on therein, and would
strongly recommend that such manufactures should only be permitted on premises
specially examined for the purpose. In view of the fact that some doubts had been
thrown ou the promptitude and efficiency of action of tho metropolitan firo brigade,
it is satisfactory to be able to state that the jury expressed an opinion that the
fire brigade acted with commendable promptitude.
Messrs. Rowley & Brock were afterwards prosecuted for their contravention of
the petroleum act, and fined 30 ; a fine of 20 was also imposed in respect of tho
unlicensed storaged of naphtha by the same firm on other premises.
This calamitous fire has not been without its uses, for it has directed attention to
the necessity for a more rigorous application of the provisions of the petroleum act
than has generally prevailed, and especially its application to those miscellaneous
trades, such as helmet-makers, and waterproofers, and cleaners, who employ mineral
spirit for the purposes of their business; it ha led to local authorities, and others
interested, examining the question of the sufficiency or otherwise of the existing law j
it has given rise to some energetic representations to the secretary of state, notably on
the part of the London County council and of the corporation of the city of London,
which latter body nominateda deputation to wait upon the secretary of state,* while
they have taken the useful practical step of appointing Mr. Boverton Redwood, F. C. s.,
to assist them in carrying out the act and to make the necessary tests thereunder,
and generally to act as their technical adviser in the matter.
These results can hardly fail to assist in the introduction and passing of the in
flammable liquids bill, which the exigencies of public business have unfortunately
o long delayed.
Another naphtha fire of an alarming character, although fortunately unattended
with loss of life, occurred on tho 15th September in a shed beneath a railway bridge
on the Metropolitan Railway, between Clerkenwell Green and Farring<l<>n Road.
The railway company stored in a wooden shed erected against the buttress support
ing the bridge a quantity of naphtha, used by their staff of platelayers in their flare
lamps, and they also, in an inner room or compartment, repaired naphtha lamps in
the same shed.
About 7 a. m. on the 15th September, Joseph Ranger, naphtha man, who had
been for about twenty-seven years in the employ of the company, entered tho shed,
passing through the naphtha store into the lamp-repairing room. He left the door
in the front of the store open for ten minutes, that being his usual practice before
striking a match to light the gas. Immediately on striking a match the vapor
which had accumulated in the repairing room ignited. Ranger escaped (with slight
injuries), and gave an alarm. The whole of the naphtha in the store, consisting of
about 12 barrels (=480 gallons), ignited, and produced an alarming conflagration,
which, playing on the irou-girdered bridge above the store, produced distortion.
Possibly the fire brigade might have been able to arrest the fire had it not been for
the fact that a 3-foot gas main pipe which ran across the bridge inside the girders
became burnt through or burst, and the enormous stream of gas issuing therefrom
caught fire and greatly intensified the conflagration, and ultimately more or less de
stroyed the bridge.
In this case, also, the premises were unlicensed, and the London County council
have since taken steps to bring all places of this sort under proper regulation.
A fire of considerable proportions occurred in the early morning of the 23d Febru
ary at some premises on Ordnance Wharf, East Greenwich, occupied by Messrs.
Forbes, Abbott & Co. Through the courtesy of the company one of us was afforded
an opportunity of personally visiting the scene of the fire a few days afterwards in
company with Mr. Boverton Redwood. The statement in the newspapers that a large
quantity of petroleum oil was involved in this fire proved unfounded. As a matter
R 71# l
#The deputation were received by Mr. Lushington, C. B., on November 6, 1890,-!~

54
337
of fact there was present only abont 70 to 100 barrels of Russian petroleum. The ma
terials which burnt, and burnt with an energy, rapidity, and determination which
could not have been surpassed by petroleum, were anthracene (which has a melting
point of about 200 C.)> and creosote (with a melting point of about 120 F.). Some
crude anthraccue (with a molting point about that of creosote) also burnt. A quan
tity of sulphuric acid was also consumed.
The wharf has a river frontage of some 700 feet, and four or five empty barges
lying at one end and in tho direct line of the flames as impelled by the strong NE.
wind were set fire to and burnt. It is alleged that none of the burning substances
escaped into the river. At any rate (beyond tho burning of the barges, which it is
said were set fire to by the flames, and not by the escaping burning substances), no
damage was done outside the wharf. Fortunately the wind drove the flames in a
direction where (outside the wharf) they could do little harm. As a matter of fact
they are alleged to have reached to a distance of some 200 to 300 feet, being driven
down and along by the high wind.
The lessons derivable from the accident appear to be(1) Tho value of under
ground storage for even such volatile liquids as benzole, of which large quantities
stored in half sunk boilers, the upper parts of which became actually red-hot, escaped
destruction. (2) The uselessness of tanks unless resting on a solid foundation, as
exhibited by the fall and destruction of a quantity of tanks (and their contents) on
iron piers in the main building. (3) Similarity of fire (once established) with such
solid and semi-solid substances as anthracene and creosote to a fire with petroleum.
(4) Extraordinary rapidity of this sort of fire. (5) Inability of fire engines to sen
sibly control a fire of this sort. (6) Considerable distance to which flames may ex
tend. (7) Necessity for not overlooking the possible effect of wind in driving flames
from this sort of fire to a considerable distance laterally.
These observations have a practical bearing on any future legislation in reference
to inflammable liquids and that class of goods.
A fire of formidable proportions broke out in the early morning of the 24th April
on premises at 61 Bankside Southwark, occupied by Sir W. A. Rose fc Co., oil
merchants and refiners. Through the courtesy of Capt. Shaw, C. B., one of us had
an opportunity of visiting the scene of the fire on the 26th April, in company with
that officer, and noting and obtaining information as to the character of the damage.
The premises, which contained at the time a large stock of colza oil, a very little
mineral lubricating oil ( mineral colza ),* and some Stockholm tar, occupied a
rectangular space of about 170 by 60 feet (situated about 25 yards from the river),
and consisted of five buildings of one, two, and five floors respectively (used as re
finery, engine, and boiler house, cooperage, store stables, and dwelling), with a yard
back and front, used for the storage of barroled oils, etc., and having in the entrance
front a threo-storied building (used as a testing house, offices, and dwelling).
The origin of the fire was not ascertained ; it appears to have broken out abont
12.30 a. m., and, in a very few minutes, owing to the inflammable character of the
stock, had attained very alarming proportions. The heat is described as intense, and
tho flames are stated to have reached to a height of over 200 feet.
The promisee were fortunately more or less surrounded by water, which operated
most usefully in limiting the effects o f the fire. We say more or loss, because on
the north or river side there was no continuous wall; but as the fall of the ground
was to the back or south side, where there was a 10-foot wall, tho oil was confined,
except in so far as it was able to percolate through a very thin wall (9 inches) on tho
east side, through which there was a very considerable outflow of oil (mixed with
water), to an extent which sufficed, wo wore informed, to flood the neighboring alleys
* Mr. Boverton Redwood has furnished us with the following particulars of the
leading characteristics of mineral colza : () Flashing point (Abel test), from218
to 270 F. (ft) Flashing point (open test) from 248 to 288 F. (o) Fire test, from
290 to 314 F. (d) Specific gravity .829 to .834.
H6a----- 22
338
to a depth of omo 2 fet. Fortunately tlie oil o escaping was not on fire, and did
not become ignited.
Tlie fact that the tide "was high and flowing was favorable for dealing witli the fire,
as it enabled the fire brigado to bring all the powerful river engines into action.
Tho result was that notwithstanding the tremendous beat and force of tho fire, the
fire brigado was able to confine it within the limits of tlie premises ; for although a
few empty barrels stacked in a yard (occupied by Mr. H. J. Leeuw) on the west side
were burnt, * and some dwelling houses on the east side, separated only from the fire
by an 18-foot wall and a 5-foot lane, sustained some injury by the scorching of the
wood work, breaking of windows, and the like, the effects of the firo were practically
confined to the area occupied by Sir W. A. Rose & Co., where the destruction was
more or less complete.
Ono or two points aro noticeable in connection with this fire: () That notwith
standing the fact that it was duo mainly to the burning of colza oil (and about 12
barrels of very high test mineral lubricating oil), once established, it possessed all
the characteristics of a severe petroleum fire. (6) That despite tho unfavorable
position of the premises (in relation to surrounding houses), and tho inadequacy of
the containing walls, the effects were not groatly sensible outside the premises, (c)
That tho walls, inadequate though they were, did assist very powerfully in limiting
the scope of tho conflagration. (d) That in designing premises for this class of busi
ness, regard should be had not only to the height of the surrounding walls, but to
their thickness and sufficiency to prevent the escape of oil by percolation, such
escape having in this instance occurred on a very extensive scale, (e) That the use
of tanks on any but a ground or basement floor is (so far as protection in case of fire
goes) illusory, since the fire is liable to burn through the floor, twist the girders, and
destroy the supports, when the tanks (as in this instance) necessarily fall, pouring
forth their contents into tho blazing material below, and powerfully augmenting'
the conflagration.
On the last day but one of the year a very formidable firo of petroleum spirit
occurred on the premises of Messrs. Carless, Capel & Leonard, at Hackney Wick,
which affords an interesting and instructive example of tho value of precautions in
localizing and minimizing a disaster of this sort. It is, indeed, impossible to doubt
that had it not been for tho two fundamental precautions which had been insisted
upon by the local authority (the late Metropolitan Board of Works), under the judi
cious advice of their executive officer (Mr. A. Spencer), of requiring the bulk of the
spirit to be kept in underground tanks, and of erecting a substantial 18-inch brick
wall, 12 feet high, running for a length of about 70 feet, between the premises and
some dwelling-houses in White Post Lane, distant only about 43 feet 6 inches, the
destruction of the dwelling houses (and other property) must have resulted, and,
having regard to tho characteristic suddenness of the outbreak, there would have
been most serions risk of heavy loss of life.
As it was, wo are fortunately able to report that the lire, injury to these houses was
confined to the scorching of tho fronts of seventeen small houses and the fracture
of some of the windows. The unfortunate occupants, however, suffered in other
ways, as will presently appear.
The circumstances of t-lio accident, are very fully stated in two reports which we
have received, ono made by an inspector of tlie London County council, the other
by Mr. Boverton Redwood, from which reports wo have derived the following par
ticulars :
The premises cover an area of about 250 by 90 feet, bounded by roadways from
30 to 40 feet in width, on the other side of which aro small dwelling houses.
* There is a very considerable stock of empty barrels in this yard, but the fire,
which became established among them, was skillfully extinguished, and the bulk Q f
the barrels were saved.
339
The premises consist of a residence and office at the western extremity, a boiler
house and shed used for distillation purposes, both tho lattor being brick structures,
and near the center of the works. Adjoining the distillery are three large wooden
appliances in which benzoline is cleansed by means of sulphuric acid and soda liquor.
The premises are licensed for the keeping of 52,000 gallons of petroleum within
the act, 40,000 gallons of which should be stored in underground tanks, and the re
mainder in stills, agitators, tanks, and barrels above ground. The latter is the
quantity being treated and prepared for delivery.
The firm carry on a very extensive business as refiners and distillers of petroleum
spirit. Vans are almost continuously delivering petroleum spirit, and, owing to the
want of space, everything has to bo loaded or discharged at the entrance and partly
in the public roadway.
As the petroleum arrives the contents of the barrels are run into the underground
tanks. From the latter the spirit is pumped into the cleansing vats, and thonce into
a tank above ground, in which it is kept until sent away in barrels or metal drums.
There is also a quantity of spirit always in the stillliouse undergoing one of the
processes of distillation. From the stills the spirit is run into the barrels or drums
in which it is delivered to customers, during which process tho spirit is exposed, and
some amount of inflammable vapor escapes.
The fire originated at the stillhouse, which has throe entrances, two at north
east extremity and one at the west side. The latter is a very wide one. Tho build
ing was lighted by an outside gas lamp over the western ontrance. The gas was lit
at dusk, and shortly after 5 p. m. one of the workmen, while filling a still with spirit,
noticed a large flame inside the lamp, and in an instant tho stillroom was ablaze.
Fortunately the workmen inside the stillliouse scaped without injury, beyond get
ting their hair singed.
This building is about 70 by 30 feet, and the fire rapidly destroyed the tiled roof
and communicated with tho large cleansing vats, containing about 2,000 gallons of
spirit, and in a few minutes all tho stock above ground was burning fiercely. It is
stated that the flames ascended to a height of 70 feet, and caused a loud roaring
sound liko that of a storm at sea. At half a mile distant tho light was bright enough
to read by. A strong northeast wind prevailed, but the flames were prevented from
spreading by a high brick wall abutting on White Post lane.
The firo lasted about six hours, and during that time nine steamers and a manual
engine were pouring water into tho burning mass.
The petroleum in the underground tanks escaped damage. A large tank on the
surface, containing about 1,000 gallons, although exposed for four hours to immense
heat, remained intact, except that the outside plate of the tank is considerably
burned.
There are grounds for supposing that the fire was caused while one of tho stills
was being filled. There is a 2-inch vent pipe in the upper part of this still, through
which vapor was forced in by the in-rushing spirit.
Owing to the doors at the farther ond being open, tbo wind, which was blowing
with great force, probably carried the vapor to the western entrance of the shed.
Over this entrance was the gas lamp in which the workman saw flames. This gas
lamp is stated to have been in use for thirty years without accident.
There seems to be some doubt, or at any rate difficulty, in the way of ascertaining
correctly the amount of petroleum present on the premises. The London County
council report gives the amount consumed as not less than 8,000 gallons. Mr.
Redwoods report appears to indicate a considerably lower estimate, even including
some 80 barrels of petroleum oil in barrels, which was also burned.
Mr. Redwood confirms the explanation given in the London County council report
of the origin and to a great extent of the progress of the fire. He says :
The origin of the fire was made very clear to mo by Henry Charles Geary, an
employ of the firm. It appears from his statement that ordinary benzoline was
340
being pumped into the horizontal cylindrical boiler plate still. A short piece of 2-inch
pipe screwed into the top of the still afforded a vent, and through this, as the still
was warm at the time, a great quantity of vapor undoubtedly escaped as the liquid
was pumped in. Immediately outside and over the open doorway at the west end
of the stillhouse, and at a height of about 12 feet from the ground, was a gas lamp
alight. At the east end of the stillhouse was another open doorway, and, as a strong
east wind was blowing at the time the vapor would of course be swept from the
still through the west doorway toward* the light. Geary saw flames playing around
the lamp, and before he could give the alarm he distinctly observed the flame flash
from the lamp to the still, and immediately the stillhouse was in a blaze. The roof
quickly burnt through, and the flames then communicated with the boiler house,
and with a row of lead-lined wooden vats or agitators, which contained spirit at the
time. They also spread to spirit and oil in barrels on the north side of the still
house, and in the yard between the stillhouse and the offices, where there also were
8tored some 1,500 empty barrels, some of which were burned.
Between the stillhouse and the southern boundary of the premises (which con
sisted of a strongly built brick wall) there was a long shallow trough, set in flush
with the surface of the ground, and communicating at one end with an underground
tank of the capacity of 50 barrels. Into this trough the barrels of spirit were emptied
when delivered at the works. The opening to the tank was not covered or closed
in anyway at the time of the fire, and not only did the vapor of the spirit ignite,
but I feel sure that some of the spirit itself must have been floated out alight by
the water used by the firemen. There was another underground tank (containing
spirit), which had been undergoing repair until the work was stopped by frost, and
the vapor from that tank also blazed up, the heat being so great that the exposed
top of the tank was cracked. The whole, or nearly the whole, of the spirit and oil
in casks and cans appears to have been burned, but of the empty barrels a large
number were saved, though the wind drove the flame toward them. There is no
distinct evidence of the escape of oil or spirit out of the premises, which is doubt
less due to the fact that the ground falls from the entrance gateway in the wall on
the south side toward the center of the premises. The spirit in the stills and over
ground tanks seems to have burned fiercely through any openings which existed in
them, but the receptacles themselves, including a rectangular tank of 2,000 gallons,
capacity, which bears evidence of having been exposed to great heat, stood re
markably well. The walls also seem comparatively little damaged, and the stables
at one end of the premises, as well as the offices at the other end, are uninjured.
With the exceptions to which I have referred the whole of the underground tanks
(some thirty-odd, I think), the openings to which were covered with about a foot of
earth, preserved their contents absolutely intact, no vapor even escaping from them
as far as I coiild ascertain. The lead-lined wooden agitators on the south side of tho
stillhouse were completely destroyed. The dwelling houses on the south side of
White Post lane, opposite the works, at a distance of 43 feet 6 inches from the north
side of the screen wall to which I have referred, were undoubtedly largely protected
by the wall, and do not appear to have been in danger, though the paint on tho
doors and window frames was badly scorched and a few panes of glass broken
(either by fire or water). The fire was undoubtedly a very fierce one for a short
time, and the flames are said to have risen above the chimney stack, which is abont
70 feet in height, but notwithstanding the high wind the flames do not seem to have
been driven far laterally.
Although, as we have stated, the neighboring dwelling houses were not seriously
affected by the fire, the occupants suffered severely. The London County council
report says :
When the fire broke out the people in the neighborhood were in a terrible state
of consternation, and many of those in White Post lane removed portions of their
furniture into the back yards. It happened to be the most inclement night that ha
SUPPLEMENT EXPLOStVES.
341
been experienced, for many years, and although the houses were not actually burned,
they were rendered quite untenantable by the powerful heat. Tho sufferings of these
people were increased by the volumes of water discharged by tho firemen to prevent
the houses catching fire. The water penetrated the rooms through the broken win
dows, and did considerable damage to the bedding, etc. To make matters worse, a
rumor prevailed that the underground tanks had caught firo and were expected to
cause a tremendous explosion, which might destroy the neighborhood. This caused
tlie inhabitants to be quite panic-stricken, and most of the children had to be shel
tered in a small church near Victoria. Park for that night.
In addition to the useful illustration which this fire affords of tho value of under
ground tanks and screen walls (precautions to which considerable importance has
been assigned in tho draft inflammable liquids bill), the disaster i>oints other les
sons, oue being tho importance of insisting upon a safer and more sensible distribu
tion of the plant and manufacturing appliances than existed in this case, the impor
tance of more intelligently regulating the position and character of the artificial
lights in relation to the possible presence of inflammable vapor, and the importance
of recognizing that a petroleum fire is not as other fires are, but is likely to be infi
nitely more rapid and paralyzing in its inception and progress.
We think also that the fire emphasizes the lesson derivable from other conflagra
tions of a similar character, that when a large proportion of the inflammable liquid
is unavoidably not contained in underground tanks, some more substantial isolation
of the premises for dwelling houses, etc., is necessary than existed in the present
instance.
A fire broke out on the 5th of March on some promises at 2 and 3 Mortimer Road,
Latimer Road, Notting Hill, occupied by Mr. Thomas Sawyer, oil and color man.
The following particulars are from a report by Mr. Wade, one of the inspectors of
the London county council, to which, through the courtesy of Mr. Spencer of that
body, we have had access.
Tho fire broke out at about 1 a. m. on the 5th instant (viz, March 5, 1890), in a
small wooden shed (measuring about 7 by 7 feet) in yard at the back of the prem
ises. This shed, the manager told me, was used for no other purpose than that he
kept some rabbits in it.
Petroleum oil was stored in a metal tank sunk in the ground close by the side
of this shed, and was covered by a wooden lid, which was burnt off, and tho water
from the firo engine, when playing upon the fire, entered the tank and caused the oil
to overflow and run over tho yard. This oil (the manager stated) did not become
ignited, but I am doubtful upon this point, as the fire seems to havo raged very
fiercely, and the flames appear to have attained a great height by the appearance of
the brick wall of the adjoining house, and I believe that if the tank had been a
properly closed one and covered over with earth or concrete no petroleum oil would
have been involved at all.
The shed was entirely burnt down, and other sheds surrounding it were severely
scorched, but no danger was caused to tho shop or the inhabited part of the promises
other than by water. There was no one injured and the origin of the fire is unknown,
but the manager stated that he went into the shed to see the rabbits at about 10:45
with a light, but it was a closed one.
This accident affords a useful and instructive illustration of the necessity for prop
erly covering underground tanks.
A fire occurred on December 19 on somo premises in Fore Street, Redruth, occupied
by William George Wilton aud used as a general store. There were present at the
time 20 gallons of benzoline, 80 gallons of mineral oil, and about 100 gallons of mis
cellaneous oils (other than petroleum), and turpentine. The premises were registered
for the keeping of gunpowder, of which about 15 pounds is statod to have been pres
ent (in 1-pound canisters in an iron box), and in the course of tho lire (which is said
to have been of a very rapid and powerful character) tho gunpowder exploded. For
342
tunately no one was injured, as, owing to tlie fire, it was impossible for anyone to at
tempt to approach it.
Tho lire is said to have originated in a boy throwing a lighted match on the oilsaturated stove.
The bursting of a petroleum tank at Rouen on May 12, and the release of over a
million liters of petroleum, which flowed over the adjoining country, illustrates in a
very emphatic way tho necessity for insisting on adequate precautions in the con
struction of tanks for this purpose, and the advisability of either sinking the tank
or so surrounding it with a substantial embankment that the escape of any oil, in
the event of any fracture of tho tank, would be impossible.
Unfortunately wo have no reliable details of this accident, which appears to us to
merit more attention from the lesson which it so pointedly taught than it ha re
ceived.
A similar accident, conveying a similar lesson, is reported to have occurred on
July 23 at New York, when a tank containing a large quantity of naphtha at the
Consolidated Gas Works burst, and a quantity of the liquid was releaed, and the
vapor taking fire, a considerable conflagration, attended with serious (and probably
fatal) injury to a workman, resulted. It is stated that most of the tanks at these
works were sunk in the ground; the one that burst was one of two elevated sheetiron overtanks.
A disastrous fire broke out at 1 p. m. on April 27 in the upper floor of the oil refin
ery of Messrs. Gross, Sherwood & Heald, in Little Lant street, Borough. The build
ing was a large one of three floors, and contained a very large variety of oils and
inflammable liquids and other combustible goods.
Quantities of burning oil or ignited and melted solids are stated to have poured
out of the warehouse.
Tliroe detlis were caused at Mindon in September by ail explosion of benzoline
vapor in the cellar of a ehomist shop. The building is stated to have been com
pletely wrecked.
A naphtha-laden vessel lying off the naphtha wharf at Batoum is said to have
been the scene of a serious explosion and fire in August, resulting in the loss of three
lives and much destruction of property.
A much more serious accident occurred in July on board a vessel called the Tioga
while lying in dock at Chicago, when an explosion, due of vapor of gasoline (i. e.,
an extremely volatile mineral spirit), occurred, and killed (according to the news
paper accounts) 15 or 20 dock laborers.
A fatal railway accident occurred near the station of Belagora, near Batoum, in
March, through a train, consisting of 38 vans laden with petroleum, catching fire.
The guard, driver, and stokers lost their live.
On January 8 a curious accident occurred on the river Wear, resulting in serious
damage to tbe Wild Flower and other vessels, and the loss of one life.
An investigation into this accidont, undor the merchant shipping act, 1854, wa
conducted by Mr. Mansel Jones, and from this gentlemans report we derive the fol
lowing particulars :
The Wild Flower (2,655 tons), belonging to Mr. John S. Barwick and others, of Lon
don, had been specially built for carrying petroleum oil in bulk. She had six cargo
and five water-ballast tanks, the cargo tanks being of an estimated capacity of 2,512
tons (calculated at 44 cubic feet to the ton).
The last cargo of oil was crude petroleum oil, and had been shipped at Philadel
phia and discharged at Rouen ; small quantities unavoidably remained in the tanks,
some of which were filled up with water when leaving Rouen. On arrival at her
moorings in the Wear, off Manor Quay, the draining of the tanks was undertaken,
and the liquid (water with oil floating on the top) was pumped out, and this liquid
(more or lees discolored by rust) covered the surface of the water with a thin greasy
film.
343
u Between tho Wild Flower and the quay wore also moored the steamship Douglas
and the tug Earl of Dumfriex, and (still nearer to the quay) tho steamship Deronda9
which was undergoing repairs. Ahead of the Deronda was a keel or lighter, and
immediately ahead of the keel was tho steam vessel Parkfield, till in the hands of
tho builder, un board of which vessel and also of the Deronda riveting was going
on, and portable forges were being used on the decks of both vessels.
Presently a small body of smoke and flame (about tlio size of an ordinary house
hold fire) was observed upon the surface of the water, not more than 4 or 5 feet
from the starboard side of tho Parkfield. The area of the fire rapidly extended, and
tho smoke and limes rushed up into the air, and swept by the quarter of the Parkfield, on a level with tho rails of that ship. Tho limes were carried up by the tide,
and caught the keel, burning it badly. They riished over the bows of the Deronda,
and it was in escaping from this vessel that a man was drowned. The flames envel
oped the tug, destroying tho wliolo of the bulwarks, paddle cases, the mast, tho
bridge and wheel screen, tho engine houso, and a portion of the cabin. and then
spread to the Douglas. Hence the lire passed to the Wild Flower, and was so fierce
that twenty-seven plates in this vessel were badly buckled.
'It was suggested during the inquiry that a hot rivet might have fallen or have been
thrown from the Parkfield, or that a hot coal might have been blown overboard from
one of tho forges, or that a match might have been thrown overboard from the
ferryboat.
If the oil that was pumped from the WildJlowcr upon that morning was in tho
same state and condition as the oil which was submitted to the analysis of Dr.
Dupre, it would be impossible to reconcile either of the above theories with tho
origin of tho fire.
There is no direct evidence to support either of these theories, or, indeed, any
theory.
Unfortunately the evidence forthcoming is very meager. The condition and
quality of the oil actually pumped into the river are unknown. The timo at which
the pumping ceased can not be accurately determined.
In the face of these two difficulties and having regard to tho experiments of Dr.
Dupr<5, as above described, a solution of the question seems at first sight almost
hopeless. But upon looking more closely into the facts one or two possible sources
of origin may be discovered. This crude petroleum is of a highly volatile nature,
and accordingly, if there be a small residuum left in the tank, evaporation goes
on very rapidly and it finally loses all its strength. The oil which Dr. Dupre ex
perimented upon was drawn from the bottom of the tanks some time after tho
vessel had been docked. A few minutes, according to Dr. Dupr analysis, would
make a considerable difference in the combustible nature of this oil. It is therefore
probable that it had lost a large proportion of its combustible nature and was not
nearly so liable to take fire as that which was pumped out on the morning of the 8th
direct into the river.
I am inclined to think that the pumping ceased much nearer 11.45 than is sup
posed and that there was a thicker film of oil, containing more com bustible vapor,
upon the water than that experimented upon by Dr. Dupr<5. If this be so, it is within
tho bounds of possibility that a red-liot rivet thrown into the river from one of the
forges on board the Parkfield or the Deronda might have sot firo to this oil. Again,
another theory is also possible as well as probable, viz, that a burning piece of oily
waste may have been thrown over, which would reach the water at just about tho
distance from the vessel where the iire was first observed, namely, only about 4 feet
om tho side of the Parkfield, and this, fanned into liame by the slight breeze that
wras blowing towards the starboard side of that vessel, would have* been sufficient to
set tho oily surface of the river on lire. Tho actual cause of the firo, in tho ab
sence of direct evideuce, at present remains undiscovered. I am inclined, however,
to adopt the latter suggestion as the more probable cause. Whatever may have been
344
the actual cause it is manifest that the practice of emptying tanks which have been
laden with crude petroleum into harbors or places in which there is shipping is an
exceedingly dangerous one.
In our last annual report we gave some particulars of an accident which oc
curred on board the steamship Fergusons at Rouen, on the 19th of December, 1889,
when an explosion of petroleum vapor destroyed the vessel and caused the loss of 1
life.
In a footnote to the particulars then given we intimated that the result of the
board of trade investigation, which wa not concluded until the present year, was to
establish that the accident was beyond all reasonable doubt due to a spark, caused
by the very defective system of electric lighting which existed on board, and which
spark ignited the explosive mixture with which the below-deck portions of the vessel
and the tanks were filled.
It may be of interest to place on record the formal finding of the court, which was
as follows :
I have no difficulty in arriving at the conclusion that the atmosphere in the hold
of this vessel was of such an explosive nature that an actual explosion could have
occurred through the generation of an electric spark, and that such a spark was
generated by means of the connection with the portable wires which were in use at
the time of the explosion.
Mr. Mansel Jones also appends the following valuable observations, which it may
be as well to place on record :
I think the following deductions may fairly be drawn from the loss of this
vessel :
That it is undesirable that cargoes of crude petroleum should be carried in bulk
in vessels constructed with spaces in the holds in which a large accumulation of ex
plosive vapor can take place, unless there can be ample means of keeping up a
current of air sufficient to neutralize the dangerous character of the vapor.
(t That vessels lighted by electricity should have at least one officer well ac
quainted with electricity and electric lighting.
That it is most desirable that switches, by means of which wires for portable
lamps are attached to main cables, should be of such a construction as to render any
spark generated by the making or breaking of connection perfectly harmless, or that
they should be placed in such a position that any spark generated in them should
not be liable to come in contact with the surrounding dangerous atmosphere, and
that there should always be kept on board a good supply of spare cables and
wires and switches in case of wear or accident.
V i.E x p e r i m e n t s .
Some experiments were carried out by us (on the 14th of March) in conjunction
with Dr. Dupr, to ascertain the conditions under which the class of explosives
known as bellite, scurit, and roburite could be exploded by means of a
blow. It is repeatedly asserted by those interested in this class of explosive (con
sisting essentially of nitrate of ammonium and metadinitrobeuzole) that they
can not be exploded otherwise than by means of a detonator, and claims to exemp
tion of the explosive from the restrictions generally applicable to explosive sub
stances are not infrequently preferred on the basis of this supposed freedom from
all liability to explosion except when in contact with a suitable detonator. The
experiments in question were immediately suggested by a claim which those inter
ested in the establishment of a factory for bellite in the Isle of Man had pre
ferred, that their product might be treated as inexplosive (except by means of a
detonator), a point as to which the governor of the Isle of Man solicited our opinion.
It will be seen from the details of the experiments which are given in Appendix F
that when bellite is placed on an iron anvil and subjected to the free fall of an iron
weight of 59 pounds through a space of 10 feet it readily and violently explodes,
345
and may even, in some cases, be exploded by the same weight falling through a
space of 5 feet.
Even when andwicbcd between two brass surfaces bellite may be exploded by a
56-pound weight falling 15 feet. We bave also found it possible to explode small
quantities on an iron anvil by means of a weight of 1 pound only falling some 22 to
23 inches. These results contrast remarkably with some statements which are to be
found in a little pamphlet entitled Tho new explosive, bellite, designed to set
forth the merits of the material. Thus, at page 1 of the pamphlet, among the merits
of theexplosive (which is described as being as harmless as sawdust ) are specified
the following :
6th. That bellite can not be made to explode by shock nor by pressure.
9th. That bellite can not be made to explode by any means except by the aid of
a detonating cap, and is therefore absolutely safe.
Again (p.4), Tests have proved that bellite, without exploding, stands such
heavy blows as can be produced by a weight of 200 pounds falling a height of about
20 feet.
Again (p. 15), exposed to tho heaviest blow one person can produce with a steel
sledge hammer on an anvil of iron, the bellite certainly gets lioated, but is neither
brought to explode nor to ignite.
These statements, contrasted with the results actually obtained, are not calculated
to inspire confidence in the other statements in tho pamphlet in question, some of
which (as that bellite can not be made to explode by fire, and that, on bellite
being exploded, no noxious gases are given off, and that bellite presents no danger
whatever in manufacture ) are demonstrably false.
In the case of scurit the results obtained were naturally (having regard to the
almost identical composition of the two explosives) about the same, though in this
case it happened that an explosion at 5 feet did not take place. We thought it ad
visable to combine, with these experiments, a few Avitli picric acid, tho result of
which was to show that picric acid is considerably more sensitive to explosion by a
blow than either bellite or scurit, a it went off easily at 5 feet and even (though
less vigorously) at 3 feet.
It is interesting to compare these results with our experiments with dynamite
(frozen and unfrozen) in 1879 (Annual Report, 1879, pp.*91, 99-104), and those with
blasting gelatin and gelatin dynamite (frozen and unfrozen) in 1889 (Annual Re
port, 1889, pp. 62-64, 79-82).
With the exception of the above, we have not found it necessary to carry out
during the year, in connection with our inquiries, any experiments of sufficient im
portance to call for special notice in this section of our report.
One of us attended, on October 21. some interesting experiments which were carried
out by the war office chemical committee on explosives, to determine the liability
or otherwise, of cordite to explode en masse under various conditions.
These experiments may be regarded as related to those which were carried out
with special Chilworth (or amide ) powder, on November 27, 1888, and some
previous experiments with cocoa powder in 1884 and 1887, all of which will be
found recorded in our annual reports.
These appear to establish that very considerable amounts of cordite may be burnt
under ordinary conditions of storage (and even when a portion of the mass has been
raised to a coniderable temperature) without explosion.
The experiments included the severe test of burning a number of wooden cases of
cordite, containing in the aggregate 500 pounds (and in another instance 600 pounds)
in the midst of a large bonfire of wood and shavings which had been placed around the
pile. The bonfire burnt with great violence over a quarter of an hour in one in
stance, while in another experiment some of the boxes were exposed to the heat of
the bonfire for over twenty-one minutes.
Other experiments bearing on the behavior of cordite which had been artificially
346
heated furnished the same very satisfactory results, results, however, which, in view of
our experience as to the behavior of larger masses, or of similar amounts under differ
ent conditions, could not he safely accepted as final or conclusive as to what might
occur in a large magazine, or under conditions of greater confinement. It would, for
example, be interesting to continue the experiments with metal cases substituted for
wooden ones, or inside a stout masonry building, wliilo some value would attach to
an experiment in which the detonation of a small quantity was effected in the midst
of a pile of boxes of heated (or even unheated) cordite.
At any rate we say of the present experiments, as was properly said of tho experi
ments with slow-burning and amide powders, that they do not justify any variation
in the precautions usually adopted in the manufacture or storage of explosives. They
merely establish that there exists with regard to cordite a very much larger margin
of safety under all ordinary conditions (or even under some extraordinary conditions)
than exist in the case of most other explosives; and, in our judgment, advantage
should be taken of this not to diminish precautions, but to reduce the number of
accidents.
In former reports we have made mention of some monster blasts, and in this con
nection wo may state that a very large blast, the largest so far as we are aware, that
has ever been attempted in this country with a nitro compound, was carried out at
Mr. Assheton Smith's Dinorwic Quarries at Llaubcris, North Wales, under the super
intendence of the Hon. W. Vivian, manager of tho quarries, on the 11th October. The
explosive used was blasting gelatin, supplied by Nobel Explosives Company (lim
ited). It was distributed in six chambers or shafts, about 10 yards apart, and each
8 feet 10 inches deep by 2 foot 10 inches square section, driven from a main tunnel 62
yards long and 5 feet 6 inches by 3 feot 6 inches.
The amount exploded (including six dynamite primers of 25 pounds each) was
7,300 pounds, or a little over 3tons. The ignition was effected by means of the Bick
ford safety fuse (of a length timed to burn twenty minutes), and was distributed
simultaneously to the several points of ignition or detonation by means of Messrs.
Bickford, Smith & Co. patent igniters and instantaneous fuse, the latter being
in lengths of 67 yards each. The result is stated to have been entirely successful.
An amount estimated at about 214,000 tons of rock (hard granite or dike rock)
was brought down, but wiftiout tho projection of any dbris or any noticeable ex
plosive effect beyond a dull thud and rumbling.
Mr. Vivian, in describing the results, states that the fall of tho great mass of rock
was like the pushing down of a drunken man, * a description which is entirely
corroborated by other eyewitnesses. It is evident, therefore, that the means had
been very nicely and skillfully adjusted to the end.
The results of the experimental investigations which Dr. Dupr has conducted in
connection with the introduction of new explosives, etc., or in connection with mbuiries into accidents, are stated in that gentleman's report, or in the reports on cho
accidents themselves.
We have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servants,
V . D . M a j e n d ie ,
Colonel,
Hei'Majestifs Chief Inspector of Explosive
A. F ord ,
Colonel,
J . P . ClJNDILL,
Lieut. Colonel,
Her Majesiifs Inspectors of Explosives.
* Letter from the Hon. W. W. Vivian, November 17, 1890,
SUPPLEMENT LONDON BUILDING LAWS.
347
LONDON BUILDING LAWS.

[Transmitted by Consul-General Now.]
[Laws regulating building, construction, etc., are comprised in the (1) metropolitan
building act of 1855; (2) the metropolis management and building act of 1878, and
(3) tho metropolis management and building act, amendment act of 1883. A move
ment is on foot to consolidate and amend the foregoing by a general measure, and leg
islation in that direction will shortly bo attempted.Extract from Consul-General
New'8 report.)
1. METROPOLITAN BUILDING ACT OP 1855.
Pakt
I.R e g u l a t i o n
and
S u p e r v i s i o n o p B u il d i n g s .
6. The following buildings and works shall be exempt from the operation of tho
first part of this act :
Bridges, piers, jettios, embankment walls, retaining walls, and wharf or quay walls.
Her Majestys royal palaces, and any bnilding in tho possession of Her Majesty,
her heirs and successors, or employed for Her Majesty's use or service.
Common jails, prisons, houses of correction, and places of confinement under tho'
inspection of the inspectors of prisons, and Bethlehem Hospital, and tho House of
Occupations adjoining.
Tho Mansion House, Guildhall, and Royal Exchange of the City of London.
The offices and buildings of the governor and company of the Bank of England,
already erected, and which now form the edifice called The Bank of England, and
any offices and buildings hereafter to be erected for tho use of the said governor and
company, either on the site of or in addition to and in connection with the said
edifice.
The buildings of tho British Museum.
Tlie offices and buildings of tho honorable East India Company already erected,
and any offices or buildings hereafter to be erected, for the use of the said company,
on tho site of or in addition to such existing offices and buildings.
Greenwich Hospital and buildings in the parish of Greenwich vested in the commiioners of Greenwich Hospital for the purposes of tho said hospital.
All county lunatic asylums, sessions houses, and other publio buildings belonging
to or occupiod by the justices of the peace of tho county or city in which tho same
are situated.
The erections and bnildings authorized by an act passed in the ninth year of the
reign of His late Majesty King George the Fourth, for the purposes of a market in
Covent Garden.
The cattle market, with its appurtenances, erected in pursuance of the metropoli
tan cattle market act, 1851.
The buildings belonging to any canal, dock, or railway company and used for the
purpose of such canal, dock, or railway under the provisions of any act of Parlia
ment.
All buildings not exceeding in height 30 feot, as measured from the footings of the
walls, and not exceeding in extent 125,000 cubic feot, and not being public buildings,
wholly in one occupation, and distant at least 8 feet from tho nearest street or alley,
whether public or private, and at least 30 feot from the nearest buildings and from
the ground of any adjoining owner.
All buildings not exceeding in extent 21C,000 cubic feet, and not being public build
348
PIRE AND BUILDING REGU1 ATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
ings, and distant at least 30 feet from tile nearest street or alley, whether public or
private, and, at the least, 60 feet from the nearest buildings and from the ground of
an adjoining owner.
All party fence walls and greenhouses, so far as regards the necessary woodwork
of the sashes, doors, and frames.
Openings made into walls or flues for the purpose of inserting therein ventilating
valves of a superficial extent not greater than 40 square inches, if such valves are
not nearer than 12 inches to any timber or other combustible material.
7. With the exemptions heroinbefor mentioned, this act shall apply to all now
buildings, and whenever mention is herein made of any building it shall, unless con
trary appears from the context, be deemed to imply a new building.
8. A building shall be deemed to be new whenever the inclosing walls thereof have
not been carried higher than the footings previously to the said 1st day of January,
1856 ; any other building shall be deemed to be an old building.
9. Any alteration, addition, or other work made or done for any purpose except
that of necessary repair not affecting the construction of any external or party wall,
in, to, or upon any old building, or in, to, or upon any new building after the roof
has been covered in, shall, to the extent of such alteration, addition, or work, be
subject to the regulations of this act; and whenever mention is hereinafter made of
any alteration, addition, or work in, to, or upon any building, it shall, unless the
contrary appears from the context, be deemed to imply an alteration, addition, or
work to which this act applies.
10. Whenever any old building has been taken down to an extent exceeding onehalf of such building, such half to be measured in cubic feet, the rebuilding thereof
shall be deemed to be tho erection of a new building; and every portion of such old
building that is not in conformity with the regulations of this act shall be forthwith
taken down.
11. Whenever any old buildings are separated by timber or other partitions not in
conformity with this act, then if such partitions are removed to the extent of onehalf thereof, such buildings shall, as respects the separation thereof, be deemed to be
new buildings, and be forthwith divided from each other in the manner directed by
this act.
WALLS.
12. Walls shall be constructed of such substances and of such thickness and in
such manner as are mentioned in the first schedule annexed hereto.
r e c e s s e s a n d o p e n in g s .
13. The following rules shall be observed with respect to recesses and openings in
walls :
Recesses and openings may be made in external walls, provided
(1) That the backs of such recesses are not of less thickness than 8inches ; and
(2) That the area of such recesses and openings do not, taken together, exceed
one-half of the whole area of the wall in which they are made.
Recesses may be made in party walls, provided that,
(1) The backs of such recesses are not of less thickness than 13 inches; and
(2) That every recess so formed is arched over, and that the area of such recesses
do not, taken altogether, exceed one-half of the whole area of the wall of
the story in which they are made ; and
(3) That such recesses do not come within 1 foot of the inner face of the external
walls ;
But no opening shall be made in any party wall except in accordance with the
rules of this act.
The word area, as used in this secion, shall mean the area of the vertical face, or
elevation, of the wall, pier, or recess to which it refers.
849
MISCELLANEOUS.
14. Loophole frames may be fixed within l inches of the face of an external wall ;
but all other woodwork fixed in any external wall, except bressummers and story
posts under the same, and frames of doors and windows of shops on the ground story
of any building, shall be set back 4 inches at the least from the external face of such
wall.
15. The following rules shall be observed with respect to bressummers and timbers :
(1) Every bressuuimer must have a bearing in the direction of its length of 4
inches at the least at each end, upon a sufficient pier of brick or stone, or
upon a timber or iron story post fixed on a solid foundation, in addition
to its bearing upon any party wall ; and the ends of such bressummer shall
not be placed nearer to the center line of the party walls than 4 inches ;
(2) No bond timber or wood plate shall be built into any party wall, and the
ends of any beam or joist bearing on such walls shall be at the least 4
inches distant from the center line of the party walls ;
(3) Every bressummer bearing upon any party wall must be borne by a templet
or corbel of stone or iron tailed through at least half the thickness of such
wall and of the full breadth of the bressummer.
16. If any gutter, any part of which is formed of combustible materials, adjoins an
external wall, then such wall must be carried up so as to form a parapet 1 foot at
the least above the highest part of such gutter, and the thickness of the parapet so
carried up must be at the least 8inches, reckoned from the level of the under side
of the gutter plate.
17. Every party wall shall be carried up above the roof flat or gutter of the highest
building adjoining thereto to such height as will give a distance of 15 inches meas
ured at right angles to the slope of the roof, or 15 inches above the highest part of
any flat or gutter, as the case may be ; and every party wall shall be carried up above
any turret, dormer, lantern light, or other erection of combustible materials fixed
upon the roof or flat of any building within 4 feet from such party wall, and shall
extend at the least 12 inches higher and wider on each side than such erection ; and
every party wall shall be carried up above any part of any roof opposite thereto, and
within 4 feet from such party wall.
18. In a party wall no chase shall be made wider than 14 inches nor more than 4
inches deep from the face of the wall, nor so as to leave less than 8inches in thick
ness at the back or opposite side thereof, and no chase may be made within a dis
tance of 7 feet from any other chase on the same side of the wall.
19. The roofs of buildings shall be constructed as follows, that is to say :
(1) The flat, gutter, and roof of every building, and every turret, dormer, lantern
light, skylight, or other erection placed on the flat or roof thereof shall be
externally covered with slates, tiles, metal, or other incombustible mate
rials, except the doors, door frames, windows, and window frames of such
dormers, turrets, lantern lights, skylights, or other erections.
(2) The plane of the surface of the roof of a warehouse or other building, used
either wholly or in part for purposes of trade or manufacture, shall not in
cline from the external or party walls upwards at a greater angle than 47
with tho horizon.
20. The following rules shall be observed as to chimneys and flues:
(1) Chimneys built on corbels of brick, stone, or other incombustible materials
may be introduced above the level of the ceiling of the ground story if the
work so corbeled out does not project from the wall more than the thick
ness of the wall, but all other chimneys shall be built on solid foundations,
and with footings similar to the footings of the wall against which they
Are built;
350
(2) Chimneys and flues having proper doors of not less than 6 inches square may
be constructed at any angle, but in every other chimney or flue the angles
shall be constructed of an obtuseness of not less than 130, and shall be
properly rounded;
(3) An arch of brick or stono or a bar of wrought iron must be built over the
opening of every chimney to support the breast thereof, and if the breast
projects more than 4 inches from the face of the wall, and the jamb on
either side is of less width than 17inches, the abutments must be tied in
by an iron bar or bars turned up and down at the ends and built into the
jambs for at least 8inches on each side;
(4) The inside of every flue, and the back or outside, unless forming part of the
outer face of an external wall, must be rendered, pargeted, or lined with
fireproof piping;
(5) The jambs of every chimney must at the least be 8inches wide on each side
of the opening thereof;
(6) The breast of every chimney, and the front, withe, partition, and back of
every flue must at the least be 4 inches in thickness ;
(7) The back of every chimney opening, from the hearth up to the height of 12
inches above the mantel, must at the least be 8inches thick if in a party
wall, or 4inches thick if not in a party wall;
(8) The thickness of the upper side of every flue, when its course makes with
the horizon an angle of less than 45, must be at the least 8inches ;
(9) Every chimney shaft shall be carried up in brick or stone work all around, at
the least 4 inches thick, to a height of not less than 3 feet above the roof,
flat, or gutter adjoining thereto, measured at the highest point in the line
of junction with such roof, flat, or gutter;
(10) The brickwork or stonework of any chimney shaft, excepting that of the
furnace of any steam engine, brewery, distillery, or manufactory, shall
not be built higher above the roof, flat, or gutter adjoining thereto, meas
ured from the highest point in the line of junction with such roof, flat, or
gutter, than a height equal to six times the least width of such chimney
shaft at the level of such highest point in the line of junction, unless such
chimney shaft is built with and bonded to another chimney shaft not in
the same line with the first, or otherwise rendered secure ;
(11) There shall be laid level with the floor of every story, before the opening
of every chimney, a slab of stone, slate, or other incombustible substance,
at the least 12 inches longer than the width of such opening, and at the
least 18 inches wide in front of the breast thereof;
(12) On every floor, except the lowest floor, such slab shall belaid wholly upon
stone or iron bearers, or upon brick trimmers ; but on the lowest floor
it may be bedded on the solid ground.
(13) The hearth or slab of every chimney shall be bedded wholly on brick, stone
or other incombustible substance, and shall be solid for a thickness of
7 inches at the least beneath the upper surface of such hearth or slab.
(14) No flue shall be built against any party structure, unless a withe is properly
secured thereto, at the least 4 inches in thickness.
(15) No chimney breast or shaft built with or in any party wall shall be cut
away unless the district surveyor certifies that it can be done without in
juriously affecting the stability of any building.
(16) No chimney shaft, jamb, breast, or flue shall be cut into except for the pur
pose of repair, or doing some one or more of the following things: Of
letting in or removing or altering flues, pipes, or funnels for the conveyr .ieo of smoke, hot air, or steam, or of letting in, removing, or altering
smoke jacks; of forming openings for soot doors, such openings to be
fitted with a close iron door and frame; of making openings for the in-
351
ertion of ventilating valves, subject to the following restriction, that no

opening shall be made nearer than 12 inches to any timber or combusti
ble substance.
(17) No timber or woodwork shall be placed in any wall or chimney breast nearer
than 12inches to tho inside of any flue or chimney opening ; under any chim
ney opening within 18 inches from tho upper surface of the hearth of such
chimney opening; within 2 inches from the face of the brickwork or
stonework about any chimney or flue where the substance of such brick
work or stonework is less than 8 inches thick, unless the face of such
brickwork or stonework is rendered.
And no wooden plugs shall be driven nearer than 6 inches to tho inside of
any flue or chimney opening, nor any iron hold fast or other iron fastening
nearer than 2 inches thereto.
21. Tlie following rules shall be observed as to close fires, and pipes for conveying
heated vapor or water ; that is to say :
(1) The floor under every oven or stove used for the purpose of trade or manu
facture, and the floor around the same for a space of 18 inches, shall be
formed of materials of an incombustible and nonconducting nature.
(2) No pipe for conveying smoke, heated hair, steam, or hot water shall be fixed
against any building on the face next to any street, alley, mews, or public
ways.
(3) No pipe for conveying heated air or steam shall be fixed nearer than 6 inches
to any combustible materials.
(4) No pipe for conveying hot water shall be placed nearer than 3 inches to any
combustible materials.
(5) No pipe for conveying smoke or other products of combustion shall be fixed
nearer than 9 inches to any combustible material.
And if any person fails in complying with the rules of this section he shall for each
offense incur d penalty not exceeding 20, to be recovered before a justice of the
peace.
22. The following rules shall be observed with respect to accesses, and stairs : In
every public building, and in every other building containing more than 125,000
cubic feet, and used as a dwelling houso for separate families, tho floors of the lobbies,
corridors, passages, and landings, and also tho flights of stairs, shall be of stone or
other fireproof material, and carried by supports of a fireproof material.
23. The following rules shall bo observed with respect to habitable rooms in any
building; that is to say:
(1) Every habitable room hereafter constructed in any building, except rooms in
the roof thereof and cellars and underground rooms, shall be in every part
at the least 7 feet in height from the floor to the ceiling.
(2) Every habitable room hereafter constructed in the roof of every building
shall be at the least 7 feet in height from the floor to tho ceiling through
out not loss than one half the area of such room.
(3) Cellars and underground rooms shall be constructed in manner directed by
the said act for the better local management of the metropolis.
And whosoever knowingly suffers any room that is not constructed in conformity
with this section to be inhabited shall, in addition to any other liabilities lie may
be subject to,under this act, incur a penalty not exceeding 20 shillings for vory day
during which such room is inhabited ; and any room in which any person passes
tho night shall be deemed to be inhabited within tho meaning of this act.
24. Every party arch, and every arch or floor ovor any public way, or any passage
leading to premises in other occupation, shall be formed of brick, stone, or other in
combustible materials. If an arch of brick or stone is used, it shall, in cases where
its span does not exceed 9 feet, be of th thickness of 4 inches t tho least, but
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when its span exceeds 9 feet be of the thickness of 8 inches at the least. If an
arch or floor of iron or other incombustible material is used, it shall be constructed
in such manner as may be approved by the district surveyor.
25. Every arch under any public way shall be formed of brick, stone, or other in_
combustible materials. If an arch of brick or stone is used, it shall, in cases where
its span does not exceed 10 feet, be of the thickness of 8inches at the least ; where
its span does not exceed 15 feet it shall be of the thickness of 13inches at least; and
where its span exceeds 15 feet it shall be of such thickness as may be approved by
the district surveyor. If an arch or other construction of iron or other incombusti
ble material is used, it shall be constructed in such manner as may be approved by
the district surveyor.
26. The following rules shall be observed as to projections:
(1) Every coping, comice, facia, window dressing, portico, balcony, veranda,
balustrade, and architectural projection or decoration whatsoever, and
also the eaves or cornices to any overhanging roof, except the cornices and
dressings to the window fronts of shops, and except the eaves and cornices
to detached and semidetached dwelling houses distant at least 15 feet
from any other building, and from the ground of any adjoining owner,
shall, unless the metropolitan board otherwise permit, be of brick, tile,
stone, artificial stone, slate, cement, or other fireproof material.
(2) In streets or alleys of a less width than 30 feet, any shop front may project
beyond the external wall of the building to which it belongs for 5 inches
and no more, and any comice of any such shop front may project 13 inches
and no more; and in any street or alley of a width greater than 30 feet,
any shop front may project 10 inches and no more, and the comice may
project for 18 inches from the external walls, but no more.
(3) No part of the woodwork of any shop front shall be fixed nearer than 4inches
from the line of junction of any adjoining premises, unless a pier or corbel
of stone, brick, or other fireproof material, 4inches wide'at the least, is
built or fixed next to such adjoining premises as high as such woodwork is
fixed, and projects an inch at the least in front of the face thereof.
(4) The roof, flat, or gutter of every building, and every balcony, veranda, shop
front, or other projection must be so arranged and constructed, and so sup
plied with gutters and pipes, as to prevent the water therefrom from drop
ping upon or running over any public way.
(5) Except in so far as is permitted by this section in the case of shop fronts, and
with the exception of water pipes, and their appurtenances, copings, cor
nices, facias, window dressings, and other like architectural decorations, no
projection from any building shall extend beyond the general line of fronts
in any street, exccpt with the permission of the metropolitan board of
works hereinafter mentioned.
27. The following rules shall be observed as to the separation of buildings and limi
tation of their areas:
(1) Every building shall be separated by external or party walls from any adjoin.
ing building.
(2) Separate sets of chambers or rooms tenanted by different persons shall, if
contained in a building exceeding 3,600 square feet in area, be deemed to
be separate buildings, and be divided accordingly, so far as they adjoin ver
tically by party walls, and so far as they adj oin horizontally by party arches
or fireproof floors.
(3) If any building in one occupation is divided into two or more tenements, each
having a separate entrance and staircase, or a separate entrance from with
out, every such tenement shall be deemed to be a separate building for the
purposes of this act,
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(4) Every warehouse, or other building used either wholly or in part for the pur
poses of trade or manufacture, containing more than 216,000 cubic feet,
shall be divided by party walls in such manner that the contents of each
division thereof shall not exceed the above-mentioned number of cubio
feet.
28. The following rules shall be observed as to uniting buildings :
(1) No buildings shall be united unless they are wholly in the same occupation.
(2) No buildings shall be united if, when so united, they will, considered as one
building only, be in contravention of any of the provisions of this act.
(3) No opening shall be made in any party wall dividing buildings which, if
taken together, would contain more than 216,000 cubio feet, except under
the following conditions : Such opening shall not exceed in width 7 feet
or in height 8 feet. Such openings shall have the floors, jambs, and head
formed of brick, stone, or iron, and be closed by two wTought iron doors,
each one-fourth of an inch thick in the panel, at a distance from each other
of the full thickness of the wall, fitted to rebated frames, without wood
work of any kind.
(4) Whenever any buildings whioh have been united cease to be in the same
occupation, any openings made in the party walls dividing tho same
shall be stopped up with brick or stonework of the full thickness of the
wall itself, and properly bonded therewith.
29. Every building used or intended to be used as a dwelling house, unless all the
xooms can be lighted and ventilated from a street or alley adjoining, shall have in
the rear or on the side thereof an open space, exclusively belonging thereto, of the
extent at least of 100 square feet.
30. Notwithstanding anything herein contained, every public building, including
the walls, roofs, floors, galleries, and staircases, shall be constructed in such manner
as may be approved by the district surveyor, or, in the event of disagreement, may
be determined by the metropolitan board ; and, save in so far as respects the rules
of construction, every public building hall throughout this act be deemed to be
included in the term building, and be subject to all the provisions of this act, in the
same manner as if it were a building erected for a purpose other than a public purpose.
DISTRICT SURVEYOB 8 .
31. With the exemptions hereinbefore mentioned, every building and every work
ône to, in, or upon any building, shall be subject to the supervision of the district
surveyor appointed to the district in which the building is situate.
32. The following things may be done by the metropolitan board of works, estab
lished by the said act for the better local management of the metropolis, by order,
at their discretion ; that is to ay
(1) They may alter the limits of any district, or unite any two or more districts
together, and in any such case place such altered districts under the super
vision o f any existing or o f any future district surveyor, w ith power from
time to time to alter any district so made, and do all such matters and
things as are necessary for carrying into effect the power hereby given.
(2) They may dismiss any existing district surveyor, with the consent of one of
Her Majestys principal secretaries of state; they may suspend any such
surveyor as last aforesaid; they may dismiss or suspend any future district
surveyor; and in case of any suspension or during any vacancy they may
appoint a temporary substitute.
(3) Whenever any vacancy occurs in the office of any existing or future district
surveyor, they may appoint another qualified person in his place.
(4) They may pay such amount of compensation as they think fit to any district
surveyor who may be deprived of his office in pursuance of the power
hereby given of altering the limits of districts.
146A---23
354
FIBE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
But, subject to the provisions herein contained, the several places which at the
time when thi act comes into operation are constituted districts under an act passed
in the eighth year of the reign of her present majesty, chapter 84, and entitled an
act for regulating the construction and use of buildings in the metropolis and its
neighborhood, for the purposes of that act, shall continue to be districts for the
purposes of thi act, and the several perons who at the time when thi act comes
into operation are district surveyors under the provisions of the said aot shall con
tinue to be district urveyors under this act.
33. The Institute of British Architects may from time to time caue to be examined,
by uch persons and in uch manner a they think fit, all candidates presenting
themselves for the purpose of being examined as to their competency to perform
the dutie of ditrict surveyor, and shall grant certificates of competency to the
candidates found deserving of the same; and no peron who ha not already filled
the office of district surveyor, or ha not already obtained a certificate of competency
in puruance of the aid act of the eighth year of the reign of her preent majesty,
chapter 84, shall be qualified to be appointed to that office unless he has received a
certificate of competency from the said Institute of British Architecte, or ha been
examined in uch other manner a the aid metropolitan board may direct, and been
found competent in uch examination.
34. Every ditrict urveyor shall have and maintain an office at hie expense in
uch part of hie ditrict as may be approved by the metropolitan board of works.
35. If any district surveyor is prevented by illne, infirmity, or any other unavoid
able circumstance from attending to the dutie of hie office, he may, with the con
sent of the metropolitan board of works, appoint eome other peron a hie deputy
to perform all his duties for such time a he may be prevented from executing them.
36. If at any time it appear to the metropolitan board of work that, on account
of the preure of buines in any ditrict, or any other account, the urveyor of that
ditrict can not dicharge hie dutie promptly and efficiently, then uch board may
direct any other ditrict surveyor to assist the surveyor of such district in the per
formance of his duties, or appoint some other person to give such assistance, and
such assistant surveyor shall be entitled to receive all fees payable in repect of the
ervices performed by him.
37. If any building is executed, or any work done to, in, or upon any building, by
or under the superintendence of any district surveyor acting professionally or on hie
own private account, it shall not be lawful for such surveyor to survey any snch
building for the purpose of this act, or to act as district surveyor in respect thereof
or in any matter connected therewith, but it hall be hie duty to give notice thereof
to the aid metropolitan board, who hall then appoint eome other ditrict urveyor
to act in repect of uch matter.
NOTICES TO DISTRICT SURVEYORS.
38. Two day before the following acte or event, that i to eay, two day before
any building, or any work to, in, or upon any building, i commenced, and alo, if
the progre of any uch building or work i after the commencement thereof upended for any period exceeding three months, two day before uch building or
work i resumed, and also if during the progre of any uch bnilding or work the
builder employed thereon i changed, then two day before any new builder enter
upon the continuance of uch building or work, it hall be the duty of the builder
engaged in bnilding or rebuilding uch building, or in executing uch work, or in
continuing uch building or work, to give to the ditrict urveyor notice in writing,
stating the situation, area, and height, and intended nee of the bnilding or bnilding
about to be commenced, or to, in, or upon which any work i to be done, and the
number of uch bnilding if more than one, and alo the particular of any udh pro
posed work, and stating alo hie own name and address, but any works to, in, or
355
npon the same building that are in progress at the same time may be included in one
notice.
89. Every district surveyor shall, npon the receipt of any such notice as aforesaid,
and also npon any work affected by the rules of this act, but in respect of which no
notice has been given, being observed by or made known to him, and also from time
to time during the progress of any works affected by the rules and directions of this
act, as often as may be necessary for securing the due observance of such rules, sur
vey any building or work hereby placed under their supervision, and cause all the
rules of this act to be duly observed.
40. Every notice given in pursuance of this act shall be deemed, in any question
relative to any building or work, to be prima facie evidence as against such builder
of the nature of the building or work proposed to bo built or done.
41. If any bnilder neglects to give notice in any of the cases aforesaid, or executes
any works of which he is hereby required to give notice before giving the same, or
having given due notice of any works executes the same before the expiration of two
days from the time of giving such notice, such builder shall for every such offense
incur a penalty not exceeding 20, to be recovered before a justice of the peace.
42. At all reasonable times during the progress of any building or work affected
by this act it shall be lawful for the district surveyor to enter and inspect such build
ing or work ; and if any person refuses to admit such surveyor to inspect such build
ing or work, or refuses or neglects to afford such surveyor all reasonable assistance
in such inspection, in every such case the offender shall incur for each offense a pen
alty not exceeding 20, to be recovered before a justice of the peace.
43. The district surveyor may at all reasonable times enter any premises, with the
exception of buildings hereinbefore exempted by name, for the purpose of ascertain
ing whether any buildings erected in such premises are in such a situation or possess
such characteristics as are hereinbefore required in order to exempt them from the
operation of this act, and he may do all such things as are necessary for the above
purpose; and if any person refuses to admit such surveyor to enter such premises or
to inspect any such building, or neglects to afford to him all reasonable assistance
tn such inspection, in every such case the offender shall incur for each offense a pen
alty not exceeding 20, to be recovered before a justice of the peace.
44. If by reason of any emergency any act or work is required to be done imme
diately, or before notice can be given as aforesaid, then it shall be lawful to do the
act or work o required to be done, upon condition that before the expiration of
twenty-four hours after such act or work has been begun notice thereof is given to
the district surveyor.
PROCEEDINGS BT DISTRICT SURVEYORS HT CASE OF IRREGULARITY.
45. In the following cases, that is to say, if in erecting any building or in doing
any work to, in, or npon any building, anything is done contrary to any of the rules
of act, or anything required by this act is omitted to be done ; or in cases where
due notice has not been given, if the district surveyor, on surveying or inspecting
any building or work, finds that the same is so far advanced that he can not ascer
tain whether anything has been done contrary to the rules of this act, or whether
anything required by the rules of this act has been omitted to be done; in every
such case the district surveyor shall give to the builder engaged in erecting such
building, or in doing such work, notice in writing, requiring such builder, within
forty-eight hours from the date of such notice, to cause anything done contrary to
the rules of this act to be amended, or to do anything required to be done by this
act, but which has been omitted to be done, or to cause so much of any building or
work as prevents snch district surveyor from ascertaining whether anything has
been done or omitted to be done as aforesaid to be to a sufficient extent out into,
laid open, or pulled down.
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46. If the builder to whom each notice is given makes default in complying with
the requisition thereof within such period of forty-eight hours, the district surveyor
may cause complaint of such noncompliance to be made before a justice of the peace
and such justice shall thereupon issue a summons requiring the builder so in default
t>o appear before him; and if, upon his appearance, or in his absence, upon due proof
of the service of such summons, it appears to such justice that the requisitions made
by such notice or any of them are authorized by this act, he shall make an order on
such builder commanding him to comply with the requisitions of such notice or any
of such requisitions that may, in his opinion, be authorized by this act, within a time
to be named in such order.
47. K such order is not complied with, the builder on whom it is made shall incur
a penalty not exceeding 2 0 a day, to be recovered before a justice of the peace
during every day of the continuance of such noncompliance, and in addition thereto
the district surveyor may, if he thinks fit, proceed with a sufficient number of work
men to enter upon the premises and do all snch things as may be necessary for en
forcing the requisitions of such notice, and for bringing any building or work into
conformity with the rules of this act, and all expenses incurred by him in so doing
and in any such proceedings as aforesaid, maybe recovered from the builder on
whom such order was made, in a summary manner, before a justice of the peace, or
may be recovered from the owner of the premises in the same manner in which ex
penses incurred by the commissioners hereinafter named in respect of dangerous
buildings are hereinafter directed to be recovered from any owner; and-if the owner
can not be found, or if on demand he refuses or neglects to pay the aforesaid ex
penses, the district surveyor shall have the same power of taking and selling the
building in respect of which the order is made, and of applying the proceeds, a is
thereby given to the commissioners.
48. If any workman, laborer, servant, or other person employed in or about any
building, willfully, and without the privity or consent of the person causing such
work to be done, does anything in or about such building contrary to the rules of
th act, he shall for each such offense incur a penalty not exoeeding 50 shillings.
FEES OF DISTRICT SURVEYORS.
49. There shall be paid to the district surveyors, in respect of the several matters
specified in the first part of the second schedule hereto, the fees therein specified,
or such other fees, not exceeding the amounts therein specified, as may from time
to time be directed by the metropolitan board of works; but one fee only shall-e
chargeable with respect to any such works done in, to, or upon any building as are
in pursuance of the provisions hereinbefore contained included in one notice; and
if, in consequence of any reduction being made by the said metropolitan board in
the amount of the said scheduled fees the income of any existing district surveyor
is diminished, the metropolitan board shall grant to him compensation in respect of
such diminution.
50. If any special service is required to be performed by the district surveyor under
the first part of this act, for which no fee is specified in the said schedule, the metro
politan board of works may order such fee to be paid for such service as they think
fit, and the district surveyor shall have the same remedy for recovering such special
fee a if the same were especially named in the said schedule.
51. At the expiration of the following periods, that is to say, of one month after
the roof of any building surveyed by any district surveyor under this act has been
covered in, of fourteen days after the completion of any such work as is by this act
placed under the supervision of the district surveyor, of fourteen days after any
special service in respect of any building lias been performed, the district surveyor
shall be entitled to receive the amount of fees due to him from the builder employed
in erecting such building, or in doing such work, or in doing any matter in respect
357
of wbich any special service has been performed by the surveyor, or from the owner
or occupier of the bnilding so erected or in respect of which such work has been done
or service performed; and if any snoh builder, owner, or occupier refuses to pay the
same, such fees may be recovered in a summary manner before a justice of the peace,
upon its being shown to the satisfaction of uch justice that a proper bill specifying
the amount of such fees was delivered to such builder, owner, or occupier, or sent to
him in a registered letter addressed to his last known residence.
RETURNS BY DISTRICT SURVEYORS.
52. Every district surveyor shall, within seven days after the first day of every
month, make a return to the metropolitan board of works, in such manner as they
may appoint, of all notices and complaints received by him relative to the business
of his district, and the resnlts thereof, and of all matters brought by him before any
justice of the peace, and of all the several works supervised and special Services per
formed by him in the exercise of his office within tlie previous month, and of all fees
charged or received in respect thereof, and specify in such return the description
and locality of every building built, rebuilt, enlarged, or altered, or on which any
work has been done under his supervision, with the particular nature of every work
in respect of which any fee has been charged or received.
53. Every snch return shall be signed by such surveyor, and shall be deemed to
be a certificate that all the works enumerated therein as completed have been done
in all respeot agreeably to this act, according to the best of his knowledge and
belief, and that they have been duly surveyed by him.
54. The officer hereinafter mentioned as the superintending arohitect of metropoli
tan buildings, or such other officer as the metropolitan board of works appoint, shall
from time to time examine the said monthly returns made by the district surveyors;
and in case any fees therein specified appear to such officer to be unauthorized by
this act, or to exceed in amount the rates hereby made payable, or in case any such
account appears to be in any respect fraudulent or untrue, he shall, make his report
in writing to that effect to the metropolitan board of works, who shall thereupon
take such steps in the matter as they deem expedient.
POWERS OF METROPOLITAN BOARD OP WORKS.
55. The metropolitan board of works may, by order, made with the consent of Her
Majesty in council, alter, in snch manner as they may think fit, the rules for the reg
ulation of the thickness of walls contained in the first schedule hereto.
56. Whenever any builder is desirous of erecting any iron bnilding or any other build
ing to which the rules of this act are inapplicable, he shall make an application to
the metropolitan board of works, stating such desire, and setting out a plan of the
proposed bnilding, with such particulars as to the construction thereof as may be
required by the said board; and the latter, if satisfied with such plan and particu
lars, shall signify their approval of the same, and thereupon uch building may be
constructed according to snch plan and particulars; but it shall not be lawful for
snch board to authorize any warehouse or other building need either wholly or in
part for the purposes of trade or manufacture to be erected of greater dimensions
than 216,000 cubic feet, unless it is divided by party walls in manner hereinbefore
required.
57. The said metropolitan board may, for the purpose of regulating the proceed
ings of suoh applicants as aforesaid, from time to time issue such general rules as to
the time and manner of making such applications, as to the plans to be presented, as
to the expenses to be incurred, and as to any other matter or thing connected there
with, as they may think fit.
58. The approval by the metropolitan board of works of any plans or particulars,
in pursuance of the foregoing provisions, shall be signified by writing.under the hand
358
of tlio superintending architect of metropolitan buildings and countersigned by the

chairman of such board or by any other officer appointed, by the board.
59. The said metropolitan board may from time to time prepare or sanction forms
of the various notices required, by this act and may from time to time make such
alterations therein as they deem requisite; and they shall cause every such form to
be sealed with the seal of the board or marked with some other distinguishing mark;
and any notice made in a form sanctioned by the board shall in all proceedings be
held sufficient in law.
60. All expenses incurred in and about the obtaining such approval of the metro
politan board of works as aforesaid shall be paid by the builder to the aid superin
tending architect, or to such other person as the said board may appoint, and in
default of payment may be recovered in a summary maimer.
61. A copy of any plans and particulars, approved by the metropolitan board of
works, shall be furnished to the surveyor within whose district the building to which I
such plans and particulars relate is situate, and thereupon it shall be the duty of
such district surveyor to ascertain that the same is built in accordance with the said
plans and particulars.
62. The metropolitan board of works may, for the purpose of aiding in the execu- |
tion of this act, appoint some fit person, to be called the superintending architect ,
of metropolitan buildings, together with such number of clerks as they think fit;
such architect and clerks shall be removable by the said metropolitan board and
shall perform such duties as the said board direct; but it shall not be lawful for any
superintending architect to practice as an architect or to follow any other occupa
tion.
63. If the superintending architect is prevented by illness, infirmity, or any other
unavoidable circumstance from attending to the duties of his office, he may, with the
conent of the metropolitan board ofworks, appoint some other person his deputy
to perform all his duties for such time as he may be temporarily prevented from exe
cuting them.
64. There shall be paid to such superintending architect and clerks such salaries
as the said metropolitan board may from time to time direct.
EXPENSES.
65. The said metropolitan board may at any time hereafter, by order, cause such
fixed salary as they may determine to be paid to any district surveyor by way of
remuneration instead of fees, provided the amount of such remuneration bo not less
than the amount of the average of the fees for the last three years ; and thereupon
such surveyor shall pay all fee received by him under this act into the hands of the
said superintending architect.
66. All moneys received by the superintending architect in pursuance of this act
shall bo accounted for and paid by him into the hands of the treasurer of the said
metropolitan board, at such time and in such manner as the said board may direct.
67. The said metropolitan board may at any time hereafter provide, either wholly
or partially, for the payment of salaries to the district surveyors, or to any of them,
out of the rates leviable by such board, in pursuance of the said act for the better
local management of the metropolis, and may thereupon abolish or reduce any fees
hereby made payable to the district surveyors.
68. All expenses of carrying into execution this act, not hereby otherwise provided
for, shall be deemed to be expenses incurred by the said metropolitan board in the
execution of the said act for tho better looal management of the metropolis and shall
be raised and paid accordingly.
Pabt
II. D a n g e r o u s
St r u c t u r e s .
69. Whenever it is made known to the commissioners hereinafter named that any
structure (including in such expression any building, wall, or other structure and
Anything affixed to or projecting from any building, wal or other structure) i in *
359
dangerous state, uch commissioners shall require a survey of such structure to be

made by the district surveyor or by some other competent surveyor, and it shall
also be the duty of the district surveyor to make known to the said commissioners
any information he may receive with respect to any structure being in such state as
aforesaid.
70. In cases where any such structure is situate within the city oi London or the
liberties thereof, hereinafter included under the expression the city of London,"
the expression the commissioners shall mean the commissioners of sewers of
the city of London ; but when such structure is situate elsewhere it shall mean
the commissioners of police of the metropolis, or such one of them as may be
authorized by one of Her Majestys principal secretaries of state to act in the mat
ter of this act.
71. Upon the completion of his survey the surveyor employed shall certify to the
said commissioners his opinion as to the state of any such structure as aforesaid.
72. K such certificate is to the effect that such structure is not in a dangerous state,
no further proceedings shall be had in respect thereof, but if it is to the effect that
the same is in a dangerous state the commissioners shall cause the same to be shored
up, or otherwise secured, and a proper board or fence to be put up for the protection
of passengers, and shall cause notice in writing to be given to the owner or occupier
of such structure requiring him forthwith to take down, secure, or repair the same,
as the case requires.
73. K the owner or occupier to whom notice is given as last aforesaid fails to com
ply, as speedily as the nature of the case permits, with the requisition of such no
tice, the said commissioners may make complaint thereof before a justice of the
peace; and it shall be lawful for such justice to order the owner, or on his default
the occupier, of any such structure to take down, repair, or otherwise secure, to the
satisfaction of the surveyor who made such survey as aforesaid or of such other sur
veyor as the said commissioners may appoint, such structure or such part thereof as
appears to him to be in a dangerous state, within a time to be fixed by such justice;
and in case the same is not taken down, repaired, or otherwise secured within the
time so limited, the said commissioners may, with all convenient speed, cause all or
so much of such structure as in a dangerous condition to be taken down, repaired, or
otherwise secured, in such manner as may be requisite; and all expenses incurred by
the said commissioners in respect of any dangerous structure by virtue of the second
part of this act shall be paid by the owner of such structure, but without prejudice
to his right to recover the same from any lessee or other person liable to the expenses
of repairs.
74. If such owner can not be found, or if, on demand, he refuses or neglects to pay
the aforesaid expenses, the said commissioner, after giving three months notice of
their intention to do so by posting a printed notice in a conspicuous place on the
structure in respect of which or of part of which they have incurred expense, or on
the land whereon it stands, may sell such structure, and they shall, after deducting
from the proceeds of such sale the amount of all expenses incurred by them, restore
the surplus (if any) to the owner.
75. All payments hereby directed to be made by or to the commissioners shall in
the cases of payments in respect of any structure situate within the city of London
be made by or to the chamberlain of the city out of or to the consolidated rate made
by the commissioners of sewers, and in the cases of payments in respect of any
structure situate elsewhere within the limits of this act be made by or to the receiver
of metropolitan police, in the same manner in which payments are made by or to
such chamberlain or receiver respectively in the ordinary course of their business;
but no commissioner or other officer shall be liable in respect of any loss that may be
sustained by any person in consequence of the exercise by the said commissioners of
the powers hereby given them, unless such loss happens through the willful default
of such commissioner or other officer.
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FIBE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOBEIGN COUNTBIES.
76. Ia cases where any surplus is hereby made payable to any owner, if no demand
for the same is made by any person entitled thereto within one year, then the same
shall be paid into the Bank of England in the name and with the privity of the account
ant-general of the court of chancery, to be placed to his account there to the credit of
the owner (describing him so far as the commissioners can), subject to the control of
the court, and to be paid out to the owner on hie applying by petition and proving
his title thereto.
77. There shall be paid to the district surveyor, or to such other surveyor as afore
said, in respeot to his services under the second part of this act, suoh fees, not ex
ceeding the amounts specified in the second part of the second schedule hereto, as
may from time to time be directed by the said metropolitan board.
78. If any special service is required to be performed by the district surveyor or
by such other surveyor as aforesaid, under the second part of this act, for which no
fee is specified in the said sohedule, the said metropolitan board may order such
fee to be paid for such service as they think fit.
79. All fees paid to the district surveyor or to suoh other surveyor as aforesaid, by
virtue of the second part of this act, shall be deemed to be expenses incurred by the
said commmissioner in the matter of the dangerous structure in respect of which
such fees are paid, and shall be recoverable by them from the owner accordingly.
80. In cases where a structure has been certified by a district surveyor, or such
other surveyor as aforesaid, to be dangerous to its inmates, a justice of the peace may,
if satisfied of the correctness of such certificate, upon the application of tlie aid com
missioners, by order under his hand direct any inmates of such structure to be re
moved therefrom by a constable or other peace officer, and if they have no other
abode he may require them to be received into the workhouse established for the re
ception of the poor of the place in which such structure is situate.
81. Subject to the approval of one of Her Majestys principal secretaries of state,
the said commissioners may appoint such persons at such salaries and make such
regulations as they think fit for carrying into execution the second part of this act;
and all expenses incurred by them not hereby otherwise provided for shall, in the
case of expenses incurred by the said commissioners of police, be deemed to be ex
penses incurred by them in respect of the police force of which they are commissioners,
and be payable accordingly; and all expenses ineurred by the said.commissioners of
sewers shall be paid out of the said consolidated rate.
P a s t I I I . P a r t y St r u c t u r e s .
PRELIMINARY.
82. In the construction of the following provisions relating to party structures,

such one of the owners of the premises separated by or adjoining to any party struc
ture as is desirous of executing any work in respect to such party structure shall be
called the building owner, and the owner of the other premises shall be called the
adjoining owner.
RIGHTS OF BUILDING AND ADJOINING OWNERS.
83. The bnilding owner shall have the following rights in relation to party struc
tures ; that is to say :
(1) A right to make good or repair any party structure that is defective or out
of repair.
(2) A right to pull down and rebuild any party structure that is so far defective
or out of repair as to make it necessary or desirable to pull down the same.
(3) A right to pull down any timber or other partition that divides any build
ings and is not conformable with the regulations of this act, and to build
instead a party wall conformable thereto.
361
(4) In the cose of: buildings having' rooms or stories the property of different own
ers intermixed, a right to pull down uoh of the said rooms or stories or
any part thereof as are not built in conformity with this act andto rebuild
the same in conformity with this act.
(5) In the case of buildings connected by arches or communications over pnblic ways or over passages belonging to other persons, a right to pull down
such of the said buildings, arches, or communications, or any part thereof,
as are not bnilt in conformity with this act and to rebuild the same in
conformity with this act.
(6) A right to raise any party structure permitted by this act to be raised or any
external wall built against such party structure, upon condition of mak
ing good all damage occasioned thereby to the adjoining premises or to the
internal finishings and decorations thereof, and of oarrying up to the
requisite height all flues and chimney stacks belonging to the adjoining
owner on or against such party structure or external wall.
(7) A right to pull down any party structure that is of insufficient strength for
any building intended to be built and rebuild the same of sufficient
strength for the above purpose, upon condition of making good all damage
occasioned thereby to the adjoining premises or to the internal finishings
and decorations thereof.
(8) A right to cut into any party structure, upon condition of making good all
damago occasioned to the adjoining premises by such operation.
(9) A right to cut away any footing or any chimney breasts, jambs, or flue pro
jecting from any party wall, in order to erect an external wall against
such party wall, or for any other purpose, upon condition of making good
all damage occasioned to the adjoining premises by such operation.
(10) A right to cut away or take down such parts of any wall or building of an
adjoining owner as may be necessary in consequence of such wall or
building overhanging the ground of the building owner, in order to erect
an upright wall against the same, on condition of making good any dam
age sustained by the wall or building by reason of such cutting away or
taking down.
(11) A right to perform any other necessary works incident to the connection of
party structure with the premises adjoining thereto.
But the above rights shall be subject to this qualification, that any building which
has been erected previously to the time of this act coming into operation shall be
deemed to be conformable with the provisions of this act if it is conformable with the
provisions of an aot passed in the fourteenth year of his late Majesty King George
III, chapter 78, or with the provisions of the said act of the eighth year of her
present majesty, chapter 84.
84. Whenever the building owner proposes to exercise any of the foregoing rights
with respect to party structures the adjoining owner may require the building owner
to build on any such party structure certain chimney jambs, breasts, or flues, or cer
tain piers or recesses, or any othor like works for the convenience of such adjoining
owner; and it shall be the duty of the building owner to comply with such requisi
tion in all cases where the execution of the required works will not be injurious to
the building owner or cause to him unnecessary inconvenience or unnecessary delay
in the exercise of his right ; and any difference that arises between any building
owner and adjoining owner in respect of the execution of such works as aforesaid
shall be determined in manner in which differences between building owners and
adjoining owners are hereinafter directed to be determined.
85. The following rules shall be observed with respect to the exercise by building
owners and adjoining owners of their respective rights:
(1) No building-owner shall, except with tho consent of the adjoining owner or
in eases where any party structure is dangerous, in which cases the pro-
362
visions hereby made as to dangerous structures shall apply, exercise any

right hereby given in respect of any party structure, unless he ha given
at least three months previous notice to the adjoining owner by deliver
ing the same to him personally or by sending it by post in a registered
letter addressed to such owner at his last known place of abode.
(2) The notice so given shall be in writing or printed and shall state the nature
of the proposed work and the time at which such work is proposed to be
commenced.
(3) No building owner shall exercise any right hereby given to him in such
manner or at such time as to cause unnecessary inoonvenience to the ad
joining owner.
(4) Upon the receipt of such notice the adjoining owner may require the build
ing owner to build or may himself build on any such party structure any
works to the construction of which he is hereinbefore mentioned to be
entitled.
(5) Any requisition so made by an adjoining owner shall be in writing or printed
and shall be delivered personally to the building owner within one month
after the date of the notice being given by him, or be sent by post in a regis
tered letter addressed to him at his last known place of residence. It
shall specify the works required by the adjoining owner for his con
venience, and shall, if necessary, be accompanied with explanatory plans
and drawings.
(6) If either owner does not, within fourteen days after the delivery to him of
any notice or requisition, express his consent thereto, he shall be con
sidered as having dissented therefrom, and thereupon a difference shall be
deemed to have arisen between the building owner and the adjoining
owner.
(7) In all eases not hereby especially provided for where a difference arises be
tween a building owner and adjoining owner in respect of any matter
arising under this act, unless both parties concur in the appointment of
one surveyor, they shall each appoint a surveyor, and the two surveyors
so appointed shall select a third surveyor, and such one surveyor, or three
surveyors, or any two of them, shall settle any matter in dispute between
suoh building and adjoining owner, with power by his or their award to
determine the right to do and tho time and manner of doing any work,
and generally any other matter arising out of or incidental to such differ
ence ; but any time so appointed for doing any work shall not commence
until after the expiration of such period of three months as is hereinbefore
mentioned.
(8) Any award given by such one surveyor, or by such three surveyors, or any
two of them, shall be conclusive, and shall not be questioned in any court,
with this exception, that either of the parties to the difference may appeal
therefrom to the county court within fourteen days from tlie date of the
delivery of any such award as aforesaid, and such county court may, sub
ject as hereinafter mentioned, rescind or modify the award so given in such
manner as it thinks just.
(9) If either party to the difference makes,default in appointing a surveyor for
ten days after notice has been given to him by the other party in manner
aforesaid to make such appointment, the party giving the notice may make
the appointment in the place of the party so making default.
(10) The costs incurred in obtaining any such award as aforesaid shall be paid
by such party as such one surveyor, or three surveyors, or any two of them
may determine.
(11) If the appellant from any such award as aforesaid, on appearing before the
county court, declares his unwillingness to have the matter decided by
363
each court, and proves to the satisfaction of the judge of each court that
in the event of the matter being decided against him he will be liable to
pay a sum, exclusive of costs, exceeding 50, and gives security, to be
approved by such judge, duly to prosecute his appeal and to abide the
event thereof, all proceedings in the county court shall thereupon be
stayed ; and it shall be lawful for such appellant to bring an action in one
of Her Majestys superior courts of law at Westminster against the other
party to the difference; and the plaintiff in such action shall deliver to
the defendants an issue or issues whereby the matters in difference be
tween them may be tried; and the form of such issue or issues, in case of
dispute, or in case of the nonappearance of the defendant, shall be settled
by the court in which the action is brought; and such action shall be
prosecuted and issue or issues tried in the same manner and subject to
the same incidents in and subject to which actions are prosecuted and
issues tried in other cases within the jurisdiction of such court, or as near
thereto as circumstances admit.
(12) If the parties to any such action agTee as to the facts, a special case maybe
stated for tho opinion of any such superior court as aforesaid, and any
case so stated may be brought before the court in like manner and sub
ject to the same incidents in and subject to which other special cases are
brought before such court, or as near thereto as circumstances admit;
and any costs that may have been incurred in the county court by the
parties to such action as is mentioned in this section shall be deemed to
be costs incurred in such action, and be payable accordingly.
86. Whenever any building owner has become entitled, in pursuance of this act, to
execute any work, it shall be lawful for him, his servants, agents, or workmen, at
all usual times of working, to enter on any premises for the purpose of executing and
to execute such work, removing any furniture or doing any other thing that may be
necessary, and if such premises are closed he or they may, accompanied by a con
stable or other officer of the peace, break open any doors in order to such entry; and
any owner or other person that hinders or obstructs any workman employed for any
of the purposes aforesaid, or willfully damages or injures the said work, shall incur
for every such offense a penalty not exceeding 10, to be recovered before a justice
of the peace.
87. Any adjoining owner may, if he thinks fit, by notice in writing given by him
self or his agent, require the building owner, before commencing any work which
he may be authorized by this act to execute, to give such security as may be agreed
upon, or, in case of difference, may be settled by the judge of the county court, for
the payment of all such costs and compensation in respect of such work as may be
payable by such building owner.
88. The following rules shall be observed as to expenses in respect of any party
structurethat is to say :
As to expenses to be borne jointly by the building owner and adjoining owner:
(1) If any party structure is defective or out of repair, the expense of making
good or repairing the same shall be borne by the building owner and ad
joining owner, in due proportion, regard being had to the use that each
owner makes of such structure.
(2) If any party structure is pulled down and rebuilt by reason of its being so
far defective or out of repair as to make it necessary or desirable to pull
down the same, the expense of such pulling down and rebuilding shall be
borne by the building owner and adjoining owner in due proportion,
regard being had to the use that each owner makes of such structure.
(3) If any timber or other partition dividing any building is pulled down, in
exercise of the right hereinbefore vented in a bnilding owner, and a party
structure built instead thereof, the expense of building such party struc
364
FIRE AND BUDDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
ture, and also of building any additional party structures that may be
required by reason of such partition having been pulled down, shall be
borne by the building owner and adjoining owner in due proportion, re
gard being had to the use that eaoh owner makes of suoh party structure
and. to the thickness required to the respective buildings parted thereby.
(4) If any room or stories, or any part of rooms or stories, the property of differ
ent owners and intermixed in any building, are pulled down in purnance
of the right hereinbefore vested in any building owner, and rebuilt in con
formity with this act, the expense of such pulling down and rebuilding
shall be borne by the building owner and adjoining owner in due propor
tion, regard being had to the use that each owner makes of such rooms or
stories.
(5) If any arches or communications or any parts thereof are pulled down in
pursuance of the right hereinbefore vested in any building owner, and
rebuilt in oonlormity with this act, the expense of such pulling down and
rebuilding shall be borne by the building owner and adjoining owner in
due proportion, regard being had to the use that each owner makes of such
arches or communications.
AB to expenses to be borne by building owner :
(6) If any party structure or external wall built against the same is raised in
pursuance of the power hereinbefore vested in any building owner, the ex
pense of raising the same, and of making good all such damage, and of
carrying up to the requisite height all such flues and chimneys as are here
inbefore required to be made good and carried up, shall be borne by the
building owner.
(7) If any party structure which i of proper materials and sound, or not so far
defective or out of repair as to make it necessary or desirable to poll
down the same, is pulled down and rebuilt by the building owner, the ex
pense of pulling down and rebuilding the same, and of making good all
uch damage a i hereinbefore required to be made good, shall be borne
by the building owner.
(8) If any party structure i cut into by the building owner, the expense of cut
ting into the same, and of making good any damage hereinbefore re
quired to be made good, shall be borne by such building owner.
(9) If any footing, chimney breast, jambs, or floor is cut away in pursuance of
the powers hereinbefore vested in any building owner, the expense of such
cutting away, and of making good any damage hereinbefore required to
be made good, shall be borne by the building owner.
89. Within one month after the completion of any work which any building owner
i by this act authorized or required to execute, and the expense of which is in whole
or in part to be borne by an adjoining owner, such building owner shall deliver to the
adjoining owner an account in writing of the expense of the work, specifying any
deduction to which suoh adjoining owner or other person may be entitled in respect of
old materials, or in other respects; and every such work as aforesaid shall be esti
mated and valued at fair average rates and prices, according to the nature of the
work and the locality, and the market prio of materials and labor at the time.
90. At anytime within one month after the delivery of such account, the adjoining
owner, if dissatisfied therewith, may declare his dissatisfaction to the party deliv
ering the same, by notice in writing given by himself or his agent, and specifying his
objections thereto ; and upon such notice having been given a difference shall be
deemed to have arisen between the parties, and such difference shall be determined
in manner hereinbefore provided for the determination of differences between build
ing and adjoining owners.
91. If within each period of one month as aforesaid the party receiving such acoout doe not declare in manner aforesaid his dissatisfaction therewith, he shall be
365
deemed to have accepted the game, and shall pay the same, on demand, to the party
delivering the account, and if he fails to do so the amount so due may e recovered
a a debt.
92. Where the adjoining owner is liable to contribute to the expenses of building
any party strotnre, until such contribution is paid the building owner at whose ex
pense the same was built shall stand possessed of the sole property in such structure.
93. Where any building owner has incurred any expenses on the requisition of an
adjoining owner, he adjoining owner making such requisition shall be liable for all
such expenses, and in default of payment the same may be recovered from him a a
debt.
94. Where any building owner is, by the third part of this act, liable to make good
any damage he may occasion to the property of the adjoining owner by any works
authorized to be executed by him, or to do any other thing upon condition of doing
which his right to execute such works is hereby limited to arise, and such building
owner fails within a reasonable time to make good such damage or to do such thing,
he shall incur a penalty, to be recovered before a justice of the peace, not exceeding
20 for each day during which such failure continues.
95. Where, in pursuance of this act, any consent is required to be given, any notice
to be served, or any other thing to be done by, on, or to any owner under disability,
snob consent may be given, such notice maybe served, and such thing may be done
by, on, or to the following persons, on behalf of such persons under disability; that
is to say, by, on, or to a husband on behalf of his wife ; by, on, or to a trustee, on
behalf of his ce$iui qne trust; by, on, or to a guardian or committee, on behalf of an
infant, idiot, or lunatic.
96. Where any consent is required to be given or any other thing to be done by
any owner in pursuance of this act, if there is no owner capable of giving, such con
sent or of doing such thing, and no person empowered by this act to give such consent
or to do such such thing on behalf owner, or if any owner so capable, or any person
so empowered, can not be found, the judge of the county court shall have power to
give such consent or do or cause to be done such thing on behalf of such owner, upon
such terms and subject to such conditions as he may think fit, having regard alike
to the nature and purpose of the subject-matter in respect of which such consent is
to be given, and to the fair claims of the parties on whose behalf such consent is to
be given; and such judge shall have power to dispense with the service of any no
tice which would otherwise be required to be served.
Pa r t
IV.M is c e l l a n e o u s
P b o v i s io k s .
97. Where it i hereby declared that expenses are to be borne by the owner of any
premises (including in the term owner the adjoining and building owner respect
ively), the following rules shall be observed with respect to the payment of such
expenses :
(1) The owner immediately entitled in possession to suoh premises, or the occu
pier thereof, shall in the first instance pay such expenses, with this limi
tation, that no occupier shall be liable to pay any sum exceeding in amount
the rent due or that will thereafter accrue due from him in respect of such
premises during the period of his occupancy.
(2) If there are more owners than one, every owner shall be liable to contribute
to such expenses in proportion to his interest.
(3) If any difference arises a to the amount of contribution, uch difference
shall be decided by arbitration, to he conducted in mauner directed by
the companies clauses consolidated act, 1845; and for that purpose the
clauses of the said act with respect to the settlement of disputes by arbi
tration shall be incorporated with this act.
(4) If some of the owners liable to contribution can not be found, the deficiency
so arising shall be divided amongst the parties that can be found.
366
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOEEIGN COUNTEIES.
(5) Any occupier of premises who has paid any expenses under this act may de
duct the amount so paid from auy rent payable by him to any owner of
tho same premises; and any owner of premises who has paid more than
his due proportion of any expenses may deduct the amount so overpaid
from any rent that may be payable by him to any other owner of the same
premises.
(6) If default is made by any owner or occupier in payment of any expenses
hereby made payable by him in the first instance, or if default is made by
any owner in payment of any other expenses or moneys duo from him by
way of contribution or otherwise in pursuance of this act, then in addi
tion to any other remedies hereby provided such expenses and moneys, if
arising in respect of any matter within the provisions of the third part
of this act, may be recovered as a debt in dne course of law, but if aris
ing in respect of any other matter under this act may be recovered in a
summary manner.
98. The following rules shall be observed with respect to the giving of service of
any notice, summons, or order directed to be given or served under this act in cases
not hereinbefore provided for :
(1) A notice, summons, or order may in all cases be served personally.
(2) A notice, summons, or order may be served on any buildor by leaving the
same or sending it in a registered lotter addressed to him at his place of
address as stated by him to the district surveyor, or by putting up such
notice, summons, or order on a conspicuous part of the building or premi
ses to which the same relates.
(3) A notice, summons, or order may be served on the owner or occupier of any
premises by leaving the same with tho occupier of such premises, or with
eome inmate of his abode, or if there is no occupier by putting up such
notice, summons, or order on a conspicuous part of the building or premi
ses to which tho same relates ; and it shall not be necessary to name the
owner or occupier of such premises ; nevertheless, when the owner of any
such premises and his residence, or that of his agent, are known to the
party by whom or on whose behalf any notice, summons, or order is in
tended to be served, it shall be the duty of such party to send, every suoh
notice, summons, or order by the post in a registered letter addressed to
the residence or last known residence of such owner or of his agent.
(4) A notice, summons, or order may be served on any district surveyor by leav
ing the same at his office.
99. Whenever any thing is hereby authorized to be done by a county court it may
be done as follows : that is to say, if such thing arises in respect to any structure
or other subject matter situate within the city of London or the liberties thereof, by
the sheriffs court, established by a local act passed in the eleventh year of the reign
of Her Majesty, chapter 71, entitled An act for the more easy recovery of small
debts and demands within the city of London or the liberties thereof, and if such
thing arises in respect of any structure or other subject matter situate elsewhere, by
the county court having jurisdiction within the district in which such structure or
other subject-matter is situate.
100. In cases where jurisdiction is hereby given to a county court, such court mav
from time to time make such order in respect of matters so brought before it a it
may think fit, with power to settle the time and manner of executing any work or
of doing any other thing, and to put the parties to the case upon such terms as re
spects the execution of the work as it thinks fit. It shall also have power to award
or refuse costs, according to circumstances, and settle the amount thereof.
101. Proceedings in any county court in respect of any matter arising under thi
act shall be conducted in the ame manner as proceedings are conducted in any ease
within the ordinary jurisdiction of such court, or as near thereto a circumstances
367
permit, and orders made by the judge of any such court may be enforced by execu
tion, committal, or otherwise, in a similar manner to that in which the orders of
such court are ordinarily enforced.
102. If either party in any case over which jurisdiction is hereby given to a county
court feels aggrieved with tho decision of such court in respect to any point of law
or the admission or rejection of any evidence, he may appeal therefrom in the same
manner and npon the same terms in and upon which he might have appealed from
tho decision of such court in any case within the ordinary jurisdiction of such court,
or as near thereto as circumstances permit ; but no such appeal shall be allowed un
less the value of the matter in difference between the parties exceeds 50, and the
opinion of the judge before whom the case is tried as to such value shall be conclu
sive.
103. All penalties under this act and all fees, moneys, costs, or expenses by this
act directed to be recovered in a summary manner may be recovered in manner di
rected by an act passed in the eleventh and twelfth years of the reign of her pres
ent majesty Queen Victoria, chapter 43, entitled an act to facilitate the perform
ance of the duties of justices of the peace out of sessions within England and
Wales with respect to summary convictions and orders; and whenever anything is
hereby authorized or required to be done by or before a justice of the peace it may
be done as follows : that is to say, if such thing arises in respect of any building
or wall situate within the city of London, by or before one or more justice or jus
tices of the peace for the said city or by any metropolitan police magistrate, and if
such thing arises in respect of any building or wall situate elsewhere within the
limits of this act, by or before any metropolitan police magistrate.
104. Any justice of the peace in any case over which jurisdiction is hereby given
to him may make such order as to the costs of any proceedings of which he has cog
nizance as he thinks just. He may also direct the whole or any part of any penalty
imposed by him under this act to be applied in or towards payment of the costs of
the proceedings; and, subject to such direction, all penalties shall be paid into the
hands of the treasurer of the said metropolitan board, to be applied in such manner as
the said board thinks fit.
105. In cases where any building has been erected or work done without due
notice being given to the district survey, the district surveyor may, at any time
within one month after he has discovered that such building has been erected or
work done, enter the premises for the purpose of seeing that the regulations of thi
act have been complied with, and the time during which the district surveyor may
take any proceeding or do anything authorized or required by this act to be done by
him in respect of such building or work shall begin to run from the date of his dis
covering that suoh building has been erected or work done.
106. In every case, except in respect of fees of a district surveyor, in which juris
diction is hereinbefore given to a justice of the peace, if either party to any such
case is dissatisfied with the determination of the justice so convicting in respect of
any point of law or of the admission or rejection of any evidence, such party may,
upon giving notice within seven days to the other party of his intention to appeal,
appeal therefrom to any of the superior courts of common law at Westminster, sub
ject to this restriction; that no such appeal shall be made by any district surveyor
except with the consent of tho justice before whom the case is tried, and that no
such appeal shall be made by any other party to the case except upon giving such
security for costs, and, if the case requires it, in addition thoreto such undertaking
in respect of desisting in the meantime from any works complained of, or in respeot
o f any other matter or thing arising in the case as the justice thinks fit.
107. Any appeal so made shall be in the form of a special case, to be agreed on by
both parties, or, if the parties can not agree, to be settled by the justice from whose
decision the appeal is made ; and suoh case shall be transmitted by the appellant to
368
the rule department of the masters office in tlie court in which the appeal is to be
brought, and be heard in manner provided by the practice of such court.
108. No writ or process shall be sued out against any district surveyor or other
person for anything done or intended to be done under the provisions of this act
until the expiration of one month next after notice in writing has been delivered to
him or left at his office or usual place of abode, stating the cause of action and the
name and place of abode of the intended plaintiff, and of his attorney or agent in
tho cause; and upon the trial of any such action the plaintiff shall not be permitted
to go into evidence of any cause of action which is not stated in such last-mentioned
notice; and unless such notice i proved the jury shall find for tho defendant; and
every such action shall be brought or commenced within six months after the aocrual of the cause of action, and not afterwards, and shall be laid and tried in the
county or place where the cause of action occurred, and not elsewhere ; and the de
fendant shall be at liberty to plead the general issue, and give this act and all spe
cial matter in evidence thereunder.
Pa s t
V.R e p e a l
of
F o r m e r A cts a n d T e m p o r a r y P r o v is io n s .
repeal.
109. From and after the commencement of this act the following acts, that is to
say, an act passed in the eighth year of the reign of Her Majesty, chapter 84, and
entitled An act for regulating the construction and the use of buildings in the me
tropolis and its neighborhood, with tho exception of the sections relating to dan
gerous and noxious businesses, and numbered respectively 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60,
61, 62 and 63, and an act passed in the ninth year of the reign of her present Ma
jesty, chapter 5, and entitled An act to amend an act for regulating the oonstrnction
and use of buildings in the metropolis and its neighborhood, are throughout the
limits of this act and elsewhere hereby repealed, subject to the following provisions;
that is to say:
(1) That such repeal shall not affect any proceedings authorized to be taken by
the said acts or either of them in respect of any act, omission, penalty, matter,
or thing, and pending before the official referees or any other tribunal at the
time of the commencement of this act;
(2) That in cases where any act, omission, or thing has occurred previously to
the time of the commencement of this act, in respect of which, if this act had
not passed, proceedings might have been taken under the said acts or eithi
of them, then proceedings in respect of such act, omission, or thing may be
had under this act in manner following; that is to say, if the matter in
question is anything relating to the rights of building and adjoining owners
in respect of party structures, proceedings may be had in the county court,
bnt if the matter in question relates to the recovery of any penalty or to any
other thing, proceedings may be had before any justice of the peace;
(3) That so much of the act of the fourteenth year of King George the Third,
chapter 78, as was excepted from the operation of the said act of the eighth
year of her present Majesty, chapter 84 (that is to say), the sections num
bered respectively 74,75,76, 77,78, 80,81,82, 83,84, 85, and 86 shall continue
in full force.
110. Any contract made previously to the passing of this act for the erection of a
new building shall be carried into effect in the same manner as if this act had been
passed at the time of the making thereof, and the necessary deviations from the
terms of such contract may be made accordingly; and if any dispute arises in re
spect of any loss sustained by any party to such contract by reason of such necessary deviation, such dispute shall be determined by the county court; and whenever
any costs or expenses have been paid by any owner in pursuance of this act, then a
SUPPLEMENT---- LONDON BUILDING LAWS.
369
to any structure held under any lease or agreement made previously to tlie com
mencement of this act it shall he lawful for such owner to recover the same from
the persons hitherto liable by law, or by such existing lease or contract to maintain
or repair the structure in respect of which such costs and expenses have been in
curred.
111. Nothing herein contained shall vary or affect the rights or liabilities as be
tween landlord and tenant under any contract between them.
112. In cases where any iron building has been constructed or is in progress of con
struction previously to the time at which this act comes into operation, and doubts
are entertained whether suoh building is permitted by law, any person interested in
such building may make an application to the commissioners of works and buildings
to signify their approval of such building ; and the commissioners of works and build
ings, upon being satisfied of the stability of such building, may approve of the
same, and upon such approval being giveu such building shall be deemed to have
been constructed in manner permitted by law; and this section shall come into op
eration immediately after th> passing of this act.
113. The official referees and registrar of metropolitan buildings may, within six
months from the time at which this act comes into operation, apply to the commis
sioners of Her Majestys treasury for compensation in respect of the loss they have
sustained by reason of the abolition of their offices; and the commissioners shall
take any such application into consideration, and award such compensation, either
by way of a gross sum or annual payment, as they think just, having regard to the
nature of the office, the time during which the applicant has held tho same, and
generally to the special circumstances of each case; and any compensation so given
shall be paid out of moneys to be provided by Parliament ; and such compensation,
when made by annual payment, shall be subject to this proviso, that if any such official
referee or registrar is at any time thereafter appointed to any public office in respect
of which he receives a salary the payment of the compensation awarded to him
TinrW this act shall be suspended so long as he receives such salary, if the amount
thereof is greater than such compensation, or if not shall be diminished by the
amount of such salary.
114. Any person, except the said official referees and registrar, who at the time
when this act comes into operation is employed in tho office of metropolitan build
ings, may within six months from such time apply to the metropolitan board of
works for employment, and such board shall thereupon take such application into
consideration, and they shall either employ the applicant at a salary not less in
amount than that which he enjoyed when in the said office of metropolitan build
ings, or at a less salary, awarding to him compensation in respect of such diminu
tion of salary, or they shall award to him such compensation, if any, as they or, in
the event of the applicant feeling aggrieved with their decision, as the commisoners of the treasury think just, having regard to the nature of the office, the time
during which it has been held by the applicant, and generally to the special cir
cumstances of the case ; and any expenses incurred by the said board in carrying
into effect this section shall be deemed to be expenses incurred in the execution of
the said act for the better local management of the metropolis, and be raised ac
cordingly ; nevertheless, if any such clerk or servant as aforesaid at any time there
after is appointed to any public office, or to any office under the said metropolitan
board in respect of which he receives a salary, the payment of the compensation
awarded to him under this act shall be suspended so long as he receives such salary,
if the amount thereof is greater than the amount of such compensation, or, if not,
hall be diminished by the amount of such salary ; but, notwithstanding anything
herein contained, the metropolitan board may, in the event of their employing any
person mentioned in this section, dismiss him, with the consent of the treasury.
146a ------ 24
370

F ir s t S c h e d u l e .
PRELIMINARY.
1. Every building shall be inclosed with walls constructed of brick, stone, 01

other hard and incombustible substances, and the foundation shall rest on the solid
ground, or upon concrete, or upon other solid substructure.
2. Every wall constructed of brick, stone, or other similar substances shall be
properly bonded and solidly put together with mortar or cement, and no part of
such wall shall overhang any part underneath it, and all return walls shall be
properly bonded together.
3. The thickness of every stone wall in which the beds of the masonry are not
laid horizontally shall be one-third greater than the thickness prescribed for stone
walls in the rules hereinafter contained.
4. The thickness of every wall as hereinafter determined shall be the minimum
thickness.
5. The height of every topmost story shall be measured from the level of its floor
up to the under side of the tie of the roof, or up to half the vertical height of the
rafters when the roof has no tie; and the height of every other story shall be the
clear height of such story and exclusive of the thickness of the floor.
6. The height of every external and party wall shall be measured from the base
of the wall to the level of the top of the topmost story.
7. Walls are deemed to be divided into distinct lengths by return walls, and the
length of every wall is measured from the center of one return wall to the center
of another; provided that such return walls are external, party, or cross walls of
the thickness hereinafter required, and bonded into the walls so deemed to be di
vided.
8. The projection of the bottom of the footing of every wall, on each side of the
wall, shall be at least equal to one-half of the thickness of the wall at its base; and
the diminution of the footing of every wall shall bo formed in regular offsets, and
the height from the bottom of such footing to the base of the wall shall be at the
least equal to one-half of the thickness of the wall at its base.
Part I.Buies for the walls of dwelling houses.
1. The external and party walls of dwelling houses shall be made throughout the
different stories of the thickness shown in the following table, arranged according to
the heights and lengths of the walls, and calculated for walls up to 100 feet in height,
and supposed to be built of bricks not less than 8 inches and not more than 9
inches in length, the heights of the stories being subject to the condition hereinafter
given.
Table.
I.
Height up to
100 feet.
Height up to
90 feet.
.
Length up to 45 feet.
Two stories, 21inches.
Three stories, 17} inches.
Two stories, 21 inches.
m.
One story, 26 inches.
Two stories, 21 inches
IV.
Length unlimited.
Two stones, 26 inphes.
Two stories, 21 mche.
Length unlimited.
Two stories, 26 mche.
One story, 21inches.
Two stories, 17inches.
Remainder, 13 mchcs.
371
t. TableContinued.
L
Height up to
80 feet
Height up to
70 feet.
.
Height up to
60 feet.
Height up to
50 feet.
Height up to
40 feet.
Height up to
30 feet.
Height up to
25 feet.
m.
IV.
Wall below the topmost

story, 13 inches.
Topmost story, 8 inches.
Remainder, 8inches.

Rest of wall below topmost
story, 13 inches.
Topmost story, 8inches.
Remainder, 8inches.
Wall below two topmost
stories, 13 inches.
Two topmost stories, 8
inches.
Remainder, 8inches.
Length unlimited.
Length unlimited.
One story, 17inches.
Length unlimited.
Length unlimited.
Length unlimited.
One story, 17 inchos.
Rest of wall below topmost story, 13 inches.
Remainder, 8inches.
Length unlimited.
Wall below two topmost Wall below topmost story, 13 inches.

stories, 13 inches.
Two topmost stories, 8 Remainder, 8inches.
inches.
Remainder, 8inches.
Length unlimited.
From base to top of wall, 8 Wall below topmost story, 13 inches.

Topmost story, 8inches.
inohes.
Remainder, 8inches.
3. In using the above table the height of the wall is to be reckoned on the first vertical
oolumn on the left band of the table, and the length o f the wall on the corresponding
horizontal column. The thickne of the wall in each story is given in inches, and
begins with the wall from the base upwards.
4. If any external or party wall, measured from center to center, is not more than
25 feet distant from any other external or party wall to which it is tied by the beams
of any floor or floors other than the ground floor or the floor of any story formed in
the roof, the length of such wall is not to be taken into consideration, and the thick
ness of the wall will be found in the second vertical column in the above table.
5. If any story exceeds in height sixteen times the thickness prescribed for the
walls of such story in the above table, the thickness of each external and party wall
throughout such story shall be increased to one-sixteenth part of the height of the
story; but any such additional thickness may be confined to piers properly distrib
uted, of which the collective widths amount to one-fourth part of the length of the
wall.
372
6. No story inclosed witli walls less than 13 inches in thickness shall be more than
10 feet in height.
7. The thickness of any wall of a dwelling house, if built of materials other than
such bricks as aforesaid, shall be deemed to bo sufficient if made of the thickness
required by the above tables, or of such less thicknoss as may be approved by the
metropolitan board with this exception, that in the case of walls built of stone in
which the beds of masonry are not laid horizontally no diminution shall be allowed
in the thickness required by the foregoing rules for sucli last-mentioned walls.
8. All building, excepting publio buildings and such buildings as are hereinafter
defined to be buildings of the warehouse class, shall, as respects the thickness of
walls, be subject to the rules given for dwelling houses.
Part II.Rules for the walla of building of the warehouse class.
1. The warehouse class shall comprise all warehouses, manufactories, breweries,
and distilleries.
2. The external and party walls of buildings ot tlie warehouse class shall at the
base be made of tho thickness shown in the following table calculated for walls up
to 100 feet in height, and supposed to be built of bricks not less than 8inches and
not more than 9inches in length.
S. Table.
I.
m.
IV.
Height up to
100 feet.
Length unlimited.
Base, 26 inches.
Base, 30 inclics.
Base, 34 inches.
Length unlimited.
Base, 26 inches.
Base, 30 inches.
Base, 34 inches.
Length unlimited.
Base, 21} inches.
Base, 26 inches.
Base, 30 inches.
Length up to 30 feet
Length unlimited.
Base, 17inches.
Base, 21inches.
Base, 26 inches.
Length up to 35 feet
Length unlimited.
Base, 17inches.
Base, 21inches.
Base, 26 inches.
Length unlimited.
Base, 17inches.
Base, 21 inches.
Base, 26 inches.
Length unlimited.
Base, 13 inches.
Base, 17 inches.
Base, 21inohe.
Height up to
Height up to
80 feet.
Height up to
70 feet.
Height up to
60 feet.
Height up to
60 feet.
4 feet?
Height up to
80 feet.
Heghtupto
Length unlimited.
Base, 13 inches.
Base, 17 inches.
Length unlimited.
Base, 13 inches.
373
4. The above table is to be used in the same manner a the table previouly given
for the wall of dwelling houses, and is subject to tho same qualifications and con
ditions respecting walls not more than 25 feet distant from each other.
5. The thickness of the walls of buildings of the warehouse cla at the top, and
for 16 feet below the top, shall be 13 inches ; and the intermediate parte of the wall
between the bae and uch 16 feet below the top hall be built solid throughout the
space between straight lines drawn on each ide of the wall and joining the thickne
at the base to tho thickness at 16 feet below the top, a above determined; nvertheles in walls not exceeding 30 feet in height the walls of the topmot story may
be 8 inches thick.
6. If in any story of a building of the warehouse class the thickne of the wall,
a determined by the rules hereinbefore given, is less than one-fourteenth part of the
height of such story, the thickness of the wall shall be increased to one-fourteenth
part of the height of the story ; but any such additional thickness may be confined
to piers properly distributed, of which the collective widths amount to one-iburth
part of the length of the wall.
7. The thickncs of any wall of a building of the warehouse olass, if built of mate
rials other than suoh brick a aforesaid, shall be deemed to be sufficient if made o f
the thickness required by the above tables, or of such loss thickness a may be ap
proved by the metropolitan board, with this exception, that in the cae of wall
built of stone in which the beds of the maonry are not laid horizontally no diminu
tion shall be allowed in the thickness required by the foregoing rules for such lastmentioned walls.
M ISCELLANEOUS.
1. The thickness of a cross wall shall be two-thirds of the thickness hereinbefore

required for an external or party wall of the same dimensions and belonging to the
same class of buildings, but never less than 8 inches, and no wall subdividing any
building shall be deemed to be a cross wall unless it is carried up to two-thirds of
the height of the external or party walls, and unless tho recesses and openings therein
do not exceed one-half of the vortical surface of the wall in each story.
2. Tho thickness of every stone wall in which the beds of tho masonry are not laid
horizontally shall be one-third greater than the thickness prescribed in the rules
aforesaid.
3. Buildings to which the preceding rule are inapplicable require the special
sanction of tho metropolitan board of works.
Se c o n d S c h e d u l e ,
t e e s p a y a b l e t o d is t r ic t s u r v e y o r s .
Pa b t
I.
Fees for new buildings.

For every building not exceeding 400 square feet in area, and not more than
two stories in height...........................
............................. ...................
For every additional story.......... .................... .............. .......................
For every additional square of 100 feet or fraction of such square..................
But no fee shall exceed 10.
And for every building not exceeding 400 square feet in area, and of one story
only in height, the fees shall b e .................................................................
. d.
30 0
5 0
2 6
15 0
Fees for additions or alterations.

For every addition or alteration made to any building after the roof thereof
has been covered in the fee hall be one-half of the fee chargcd in the cae
of a new building.
For inspecting tho arohes or stone floors over or under public ways . . . . . . . . . . 10 0
Fox inspecting the formation of openings in party w alls............................... 10
374

P ar t n .
For inspecting dangerous structure, by direction of the commissioners of

police or sewers...............................................................................................20 0
N. B.In this schedule area shall include the area of any attached building.
ILMETROPOLIS MANAGEMENT AND BUILDING ACT, 1878.
P a r t I.
4. In this part of this act the term roadway in relation to any road, passage, or
way shall mean the whole space open for traffic, whether carriage traffic and foot
traffic, or foot traffic only. The term center of the roadway" in relation to any
road, passage, or way existing at the time of the passing o f this act or thereafter
formed, shall mean the center of the roadway of such road, passage, or way a ex
isting immediately before the time when first after the passing of this act or the
formation of the same, any hoe or bnilding fronting to warde or abutting npon such
road, passage, or way, was begun to be constructed or extended. The term (<the
prescribed distance shall mean 20 feet from the center of the roadway where uch
roadway is need for the purpose of carriage traffic, and 10 feet from the center of the
roadway where each roadway is used for the purposes of foot traffic only.
5. The metropolis management act, 1855, and the acts amending the same, end
this part of this act shall be construed together a one act: Provided always, That
nothing in this act shall be held to limit or restrict the powers now vested in the
commissioners of sewers of the city of London, or in any body or person elsewhere
within the metropolis, by an act passed in the session of Parliament held in the fiftyseventh year of the reign of King George the Third, entitled An act for better pav
ing, improving, and regulating the streets of the metropolis and removing and
preventing nuisances and obstructions therein.
6. From and after the passage of this act no house or building began to be con
structed after the passing of this act shall be constructed or begun to be constructed,
and no house or building shall be extended or begun to be extended, in such manner
that the external wall or front of any such house or building, or, if there be a fore
court or other space left in front of any such house or building, the external fence or
boundary of such forecourt or other space, shall be at a distance less than the pre
scribed distance from the center of the roadway of any road, passage, or way,
whether a thoroughfare or not, being a highway, without the consent in writing of
the board : Provided always, That the board may, in any case where they think it
expedient, consent to the construction, formation, or extension of any house, build
ing, forecourt, or space at a distance less than the prescribed distance from the
center of the roadway of any such road, passage, or way, and at such distance from
the center of such roadway, and subject to such conditions and terme (if any) a they
may think proper to sanction.
In every case where any such house, building, forecourt, or space is constructed,
formed, or extended, or is begun to be constructed, formed, or extended in contra
vention of the provisions of this section, at a distance from the center of the roadway
of any such road, passage, or way a aforesaid lees than the prescribed distance, or
than such other distance a may have been sanctioned by the board, or contrary to
the conditions and terms (if any) subject to which such sanction wa obtained, the
board may serve a notice upon the owner or occupier of the aid house, building,
forecourt, or space, or upon the builder or person engaged in constructing, forming,
or extending the same, requiring him to comply with the provisions of this section,
and to cause such house, building, forecourt, or space, or any part thereof, to be set
baok so that the external wall of such house or building, or the <Ttan| fenoe at
375
boundary of uch forecourt or space hall be at a distance not less thau the prescribed
distance from the center of the roadway of such road, passage, or way as aforesaid,
or at suoh distance and according to uch conditions and terms (if any) as the board
may have sanctioned.
Provided always, That the preceding provisions of this section shall not affect the
construction or extension of any house or building within the limits of any area which
may have been lawfully oocupied by any house or building at any time within two
years before the passing of this act, or the construction or extension of any house or
building lawfully in course of construction or extension at the time of the passage of
this act : Andprovided also, That the construction or extension of any house or buiding
in or abutting upon any street existing, formed, or laid out for building at the time
of the passing of this act may be begun and completed in like manner in every respect
a if the preceding provisions of this section had not been made.
7. Where, after the passing of this act, any house 01 building begun to be con
structed after the passing of this act is constructed or is begun to be constructed, or
any house or building i extended or begun to be extended, in such manner that the
external wall or front of any such house or building, or, if there be a forecourt or
other space left in the front of any uch house or building, the external fence or
boundary of such forecourt or space, is at a distance from the center of tho roadway
of any road, passage, or way (not being a highway), lee sthan the prescribed distance
or less than suoh other distance as may have been sanctioned by the board as herein
after provided, or where, in relation to any such house, building, or forecourt, or
space constructed, formed, or extended at such loss distance than tho prescribed dis
tance within the sanction of the board as aforesaid, tho conditions or terms, if any,
snbjeot to which such sanction was obtained have not boon complied with, or the
time during which such anction was limited to continue has expired, then in every
such case, where it i intended that such road, passage, or way shall become a high
way, a written notice to that effect shall be served upon the board, and thereupon
the board may at any time within two months after the receipt of such notice serve
notice upon the owner or occupier of such house, building, forecourt, or space, or
the builder or person engaged in constructing, forming, or extending the same, re
quiring him to cause the same, or any part thereof, to be set back so that the external
all or front of such house or building, or the external fence or boundary of such
forecourt or space, shall be at a distance not less than the proscribed distance from
the center of the roadway of such road, passage, or way, or at such distance and ac
cording to such conditions and terms (if any) as the board may have sanctioned, and
n1naa and until such first-mentioned notice has been given to tho board and such
last-mentioned notice (if any) has been complied with, such road, passage, or way
shall not become a highway.
The board may consent to the construction, formation, or extension of any house,
building, forecourt, or space at any lesser distance than the prescribed distance
from the center of the roadway of any such road, passage, or way (not being a high
way) as aforesaid, to be specified in such consent, or to the continuance of any house,
building, forecourt, or space constructed, formed, or extended at such lesser dis
tance, or to the continuance thereof for a limited time only, to be specified in such
consent, in such cases and subject to uch terme and condition (if any) as they may
think proper.
Provided always, That the preoeding provisions of this section shall not affect the
c o n s t r u c t i o n or extens'o.i of any house or building within the limits of any area
which may have been lawfully occupied by any house or building at anytime within
two years before tho passing of this act, or the construction or extension of any
house or building lawfully in course of construction or extenion at the time of the
passing of this act.
8. In case any owner, occupier, builder, or peron during twenty-eight days after
the service of any notice under the preceding provisions of thi part of thi act
376
neglects or refuses to comply with the requirements of such notice, or after the ex*
piration of such period fails to carry out or complete the works necessary for such
compliance with all reasonable dispatch, the board may cause complaint thereof to
be made before a justice of the peace, who shall thereupon issue a summons, requir
ing such owner, occupier, builder, or person to appear at a time and place to be stated
in the summons to answer such complaint, and if at the time and place appointed in
such summons the said complaint is proved to tho satisfaction of the justice before
whom tlie same is heard, such justice shall make an order in writing on such owner,
occupier, bnilder, or person directing him to comply with the requirements of such
notice within such time as such justice may consider reasonable, and such justice
shall also make an order for the payment of the costs incurred up to the time of
hearing, and of hearing ; and in case such owner, occupier, builder, or person makes
default in complying with the requirements of such notice within the time limited
by such order, he shall be liable to a penalty of not less than 40 shillings and not
more than 5, and to a further penalty of not less than 10 shillings and not more
than 40 shillings for each day during which such default continues after the first day
after the expiration of the time limited by such order for compliance with the re
quirements of uch notice : Provided always. That this section shall not apply to any
noncomplianco with tho notice of the board in the case of an intended highway
where the same shall not be opened as a highway.
9. No street, road, passage, or way (being a highway) formed or laid out for foot
traffic only after the passing of this aot shall, except with the consent of tho board,
be used for the purposes of carriage traffic, unless the space open for foot traffic and
carriage traffic be of the full width of 40 feet where there are houses or buildings on
each side thereof, or, where there are houses or buildings only on one side thereof,
unless there be a distance of not less than 20 feet from, the center of the space open
for foot traffic and carriage traffic and the external walls or fronts of such houses or
buildings, or, if there be forecourts or other spaces loft in front of such houses or
buildings, the external fences or boundaries of such forecourts or other spaces ; and
in case any person alters any such street, road, passage, or way so that it may be
used for any traffic other than foot traffic, contrary to the provisions of this section,
or takes up or removes any post, bar, rail, flagstone, or knowingly does any act, mat
ter, or thing to facilitate the use of the same for traffic other than foot traffic, con
trary to tho provisions of this section, he shall for every such offense be liable to a
penalty not exceeding 50.
10. No street, road, passage, or way (being a highway) formed or laid out for foot
traffic only before tlie passing of this act shall be used for the purposes of carriage
traffic for any longer period than seven consecutive days without the consent of a
justice, unless the space open for foot traffic and carriage traffic be of the full width
of 40 feet where there are houses or buildings on each side thereof, or where there
aro houses or buildings only on one side thereof, unless there be a distance of not
less than 20 feet from the center of the space open for foot traffic and carriage traffic
and the external walls or fronts of such houses or buildings, or, if there be forecourts
or other spaces left in front of such houses or buildings, the external fences or bounda
ries of such forecourts or other spaces, and any justice may grant such consent as
aforesaid, or may do so subject to such terms and conditions as he may think fit: Pro
vided, That twenty-eight days previous notice of any such application to a justice
shall be served upon the board, and the board may appear at the time and place fixed
for hearing such application and bo heard thereon. In case any person alters any
guch street, road, passage, or way, bo that it may be used for any traffic other than
foot traffic, contrary to the provisions of this section, or to any conditions imposed
by any such justice as aforesaid, or takes up or removes any post, bar, rail, flagstone,
or knowingly does any act, matter, or thing to facilitate the use of the same for
traffic other than foot traffic, contrary to the provisions of this section, he shall for
every such offense be liable to a penalty not exceeding 20.
377
11. Whenever it appears to the board that any houso or other place of public re
sort within the metropolis which was at the time of the passing of tliis aot author
ized to be kept open for the public performance of stage plays, and which is keptopen for such purpose, under the authority of letters patent from Her Majesty,
her heirs and successors or predecessors, or of a license granted by the lord chamberlain of Her Majestys household for the time being, or by justices of the peace, or
that any house, room, or other place of public resort within the metropolis, contain
ing a superficial area for the accommodation of the public of not less than 500 square
feet, which was at the time of the passing of this act authorized to be kept open, and
whioh is kept open, for dancing, music, or other public entertainment of the like
kind, under the authority of a license granted by any court of quarter sessions, is so
defective in its structure that special danger from fire may result to the public fre
quenting the same, then and in every case the board may, with the consent of the
lord chamberlain in the case of theaters under his jurisdiction, and of Her Majestys
principal secretary of state in all other cases, if in the opinion of the board such
structural defects can be remedied at a moderate expenditure, by notice in writing
require the owner of such house, room, or other place kept open for any of the pur
poses aforesaid, under such authority as aforesaid, to make such alterations therein
or thereto as may be necessary to remedy such defects, within a reasonable time, to
be specified in such notice; and in case such owner fails to comply with the require'
ments of such notice within such reasonable time as aforesaid he shall be liable to a
penalty not exceeding 50 for such default, and to a further penalty of 5 for every
day after the first day after the expiration of such reasonable time as aforesaid dur
ing which such default continues: Provided, always, That any such owner may, within
fourteen days after the receipt of any such notice as aforesaid, serve notice of appeal
against the same upon the Board, and thereupon such appeal shall be referred to an
arbitrator to be appointed by Her Majestys first commissioner of works, at tho re
quest of either party, who shall hear and determine the same, and may, on such
evidence as he may think satisfactory, either confirm tho notice served by the Board,
or may confirm the same with such modifications as he may think proper, or refuse
to confirm the same, and the decision of such arbitrator with respect to the require
ments contained in any such notice, and tho reasonableness of the same, and tho
persons by whom and the proportions in which the costs of such arbitration are to
be paid, shall be final and conclusive and binding upon all parties.
In case of an appeal against any such notice, compliance with the requirements of
the same may be postponed until after the day upon which such appeal shall be so
decided as aforesaid, and the same, if confirmed in whole or in part, shall only take
effect as and from such day.
12. The board may from time to time make, alter, vary, and amend such regula
tions as they may think expedient with respect to the requirements for the protection
from fire of houses or other places of public resort within the metropolis to be kept
open for the public performance of stage plays, and of houses, rooms, or other places
of public resort within tho metropolis containing a superficial area for the accommo
dation of the public of not less than 500 square feet, to be kept open for public danc
ing, music, or other public entertainment of the like kind, under the authority of
letters patent from Her Majesty, her heirs or successors, or of licenses by the lord
chamberlain of Her Majestys household, or by any justices of the peace, or by any
court of quarter sessions, which may be granted for the first time after the passing
of this act; and may by such regulations prescribe the requirements as to position
and structure of such houses, rooms, or places of public resort which may, in the
opinion of the board, be necessary for the protection of all persons who may frequent
tho same against dangers from fires which may arise therein or in the neighborhood
thereof : Provided, That the board may from time to time, in any special case, dis
pense with or modify such regulations, or may annex thereto conditions, if they
think it necessary or expedient so to do.
378
The board shall, after the making, altering, varying, or amending of any snch
regulations, cause the same to be printed, with the date thereof, and a printed copy
'thereof shall be kept at the office of the board, and all persons may, at all reasonable
times, inspect such copy without payment, and the board shall cause to be delivered
a printed copy, authenticated by their seal, of all regulations for the time being in
force to every person applying for the same, on payment by such person of any sum
not exceeding 5 shillings for every such copy.
A printed copy of such regulations, dated and authenticated by the seal of the
hoard, shall be conclusive evidence of the existence and of the due making of the
same in all proceedings under the same, without adducing proof of such seal or of
the fact of such making.
From and after the making of any such regulations it shall not be lawful for any
person to have or keep open any such house, room, or other place of public resort
for any of the purposes aforesaid, unless and until the board grant to such person a
certificate in writing under their seal to the effeot that such house, room, or other
place was on its completion in accordance with the regulatiocs made by the board
in pursuance of the provisions of this act for the time being in force, and in so far a
the same are applicable to such house or other place, and to the conditions (if any)
annexed thereto by the board.
In case any such house, room, or place of public resort is opened or kept open by
any person for any of the purposes aforesaid, contrary to the provisions of this en
actment, such person shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 50 for every day on
which such house or place of public resort is so kept open as aforesaid.
13. A person interested in any premises about to be constructed, or in course of
construction, which are designed to be licensed and used within the metropolis for
public performance of stage plays or for public dancing, music, or other public enter
tainment of the like kind, may apply to the licensing authority for the grant of a pro
visional license in respect of such premises. The grant of such provisional license
shall, in respect of the discretion of the licensing authority and procedure, be sub
ject to the same conditions as those applicable to the grant of a like license which is
not provisional. A provisional license so granted shall not be of any force until it
ha been confirmed by the licensing authority; but the licensing authority shall con
firm the ame on the production by the applicant of a certificate by the board that
the construction of the premises has been completed in accordance with the regu
lations and conditions made by the board as hereinbefore provided, and on being
satisfied that no objection can be made to the character of the holder of uch pro
visional license.
P a rt II.
14. In this part of this act the term foundations w hall mean the pace immedi
ately beneath the footing of a wall. The term site in relation to a house, build
ing, or other erection shall mean the whole space to be occupied by uch house,
building, or other erection between the level of the bottom of the foundations and
the level of the base of the walls.
15. The metropolitan building act, 1855, and the acts amending the same, and this
part of this act shall be construed together as one act.
16. The board may from time to time make, alter, vary, amend, and repeal such
by-laws as they may think expedient with respect to the following matters; that is
to ay :
(1) The foundations of houses, buildings, and other erections, and the sites of
houses, buildings, and other ereotion to be constructed after the paing
of thi act, and the mode in which and the materials with which such
foundations and sites shall be made, formed, excavated, filled up, pre
pared, and oompleted for securing stability, the prevention of fires, and
for purposes of health.
379
(2) The description and quality of tlie substances of which walls are authorized
to be constructed by section 12 of the metropolitan building act, 1855, for
securing stability, the prevention of fires, and for purposes of health.
(3) The duties of district surveyors in relation to such foundations and sites and
bstance, and for the guidance and control of such district surveyors in
the exercise and discharge of such duties.
(4) The regulation of the amounts of the fees to be paid to such district survey
ors in respect of any duties imposed upon them by any such by-laws or by
this act.
The board may further provide by any by-law that in any ease in whioh the board
think it expedient they may dispense with the observance of any by-law made under
the authority of this part of this act, subject to such terms and conditions, if any,
as they may think proper; and such terms and conditions maybe enforoed in like
manner in every respect as if the same had been enacted by such bylaw.
The board may, subject as hereinafter mentioned, further provide for the due ob
servance of such by-laws by enacting tlieroin such provisions as they think fit a to the
deposit of plans and sections of public buildings, and buildings to whioh seotion 56
of the metropolitan building act, 1855, applies, which shall be constructed after the
passing of this act, and as to inspection by the district surveyor or other officer of
the board of houses, buildings, and other erections to be constructed after the pass
ing of this act, and of the plans and sections relating thereto, and as to the power of
the board to cause the removal, alteration, or pulling down of any house, building,
or other erection or work done or begun in contravention of any such by-law, and by
imposing suoh reasonable penalties as they think fit, not exceeding 5 for each
breach of any such by-law, and in case of a continuing offense a further penalty
not exceeding 40 shillings for each day after notice of such offense from the board or
district surveyor.
Any by-law made in pursuance of this section, and any alteration, variation,
and amendment made therein, and any repeal of a by-law, shall not be of any validity
until it Tin* been confined by one of Her Majestys principal secretaries of state.
A by-law made under this section shall not, nor shall any alteration, variation,
amendment, therein, or repeal thereof, be confirmed by one of Her Majestys princi
pal secretaries of state until the expiration of two months after a copy of the by-law,
together with notice of the intention to apply for confirmation of the same, has been
published by the board, once at least in each of two consecutive weeks, in two or
more newspapers circulating in the metropolis, and copies of such by-law and notice
have been delivered at the office of the Boyal Institute of British Architects and of
the Institution of Surveyors, and to such other societies and persons as such princi
pal secretary of state may direct; and any person affeoted by any such proposed
by-law or alteration, variation, or amendment in or repeal of any by-law may
forward notice of his objection to suoh secretary of state, who shall take the same
Into consideration.
All the provisions contained in sections 202 and 203 of the metropolis management
aot, 1855, as to the making, publication, and evidence of by-laws made by the board
under the authority of the said act, and as to penalties for breach of the same and the
remission of suoh penalties, shall extend and apply to the making, publication, and
evidence of by-laws made by the board under the authority of this act, and to penal
ties for breach of any such by-laws, and to the remission of such penalties.
17. In case any house, building, or other erection begun to be constructed after the
passing of this act is constructed or begun to be constructed upon any foundation or
site, or with any substances which have not been made, filled up, and prepared, or
which are not in description and quality in accordance with the provisions of the
by-laws relating thereto, made under the authority of this act, or in accordance with
the terms and conditions subject to which the board may have dispensed with the
observance of any such provisions, the district surveyor may forthwith, by notice to
be served on the occupier of suoh house, building, or other erection, or on the builder,
380
owner, or other person engaged in constructing any such house, building, or other
erection as aforesaid, require him to alter, pull down, or remove such house, build
ing, or other erection, or any part thereof, as he may think proper; and in case any
each occupier, builder, owner, or other person, during twenty-eight days after the
service of such notice, fails to oomply with the requirements of such notice, he shall
be liable to a penalty of not les than 10 shillings and not more than 40 shillings for
every day from the time of the service of such notice as aforesaid until such house,
building, or other erection, or such part thereof, is altered, pulled down, or removed
in accordance with the terms of such notice, and every such penalty shall be in ad
dition to any other penalty for breach of any b-law.
Provided always, That, notwithstanding the imposition and recovery of any penalty,
the board at any time after dofault in compliance with the requirements of such
notioe, if they think proper, may cause complaint thereof to be made before a justice
of the peace, who shall thereupon issue a summons requiring such occupier, builder,
owner, or other person to appear at a time and place to be stated in the summons to
answer such complaint, and if at the time and place appointed in such umiuons the
said complaint is proved to the satisfaction of the justice before whom the same is
heard, such justice may make an order in writing authorizing the board to enter and
alter, pull down, or remove such house, building, or other erection, oranyparttlirof,
and do whatever may be necessary for such purpose, and also to remove the materials
of which the same was composed to a convenient place, and (unless the expenses of
the board be paid to them within fourteen days) subsequently sell the same as they
think proper; and all expenses incurred in respect of such entering and altering,
pulling down, or removing any such house, building, or other erection, and in dis
posing of the said materials, may be deducted by the board out of the proceeds of such
sale, and the balance, if any, shall be paid by the board to the person entitled thereto ;
and in case such materials are not sold by the board, or in case the proceeds of the
sale of the same are insufficient to defray the expenses incurred by the board as
aforesaid, the board may recover such expenses or such insufficiency from such occu
pier, builder, owner, or other person, together with all costs and expenses in respect
thereof, in like manner as if the same were a penalty imposed by this act.
18. Any person affected by any notice under the preceding provisions of this part
of this act may, within seven days after the service of the same, appeal to the board.
All such appeals shall stand referred to the committee of appeal appointed by the
board nder and in pursuance of section 212 of the metropolis management act, 1855,
for hearing appeals, who may hear and determine the same, and may order the dis
trict surveyor, or any other surveyor, to inspect any foundations, site, house, build
ing, or other erection, and may, on such evidence as they think satisfactory, either
confirm the notice served by the district surveyor, or may confirm the same with
sch modifications as they think proper, or refuse to confirm the same.
In case of an appeal against any such notice, compliance with the requirements of
the same may be postponed until after the day npon which such appeal shall be so
decided as aforesaid, and the same, if confirmed in whole or in part, shall only take
effect as and from such day.
19. Where, under the provisions of the metropolitan building act, 1855, and the
acts amending the same, with respect to dangerous structures, any structure is sold
for payment of the expenses incurred in respect thereof by the board in manner pre
scribed by section 74 of the said act, the person to whom the same is sold (herein
after referred to as the purchaser ), his agents and servants, may enter npon the
land whereon such structure is standing for the purpose of taking down the same
and of removing the materials of whioh the same is constructed, and any person who
refuses to admit the purchaser, his agents or servants, upon such land, or impedes
him in removing such materials, shall be liable on conviction to a penalty not exceed
ing 10, and to a further penalty of 5 for every day after the first day during
which such refusal continues.
381
Where the proceeds of the sale of any such structure under the said seventy-fourth
section are insufficient to repay the board the amount of the expenses incurred by
them in respect of such structure, no part of the land whereon such structure stands
or stood shall be built upon until after the balance due to the board in respect of
such structure shall have been paid to the board.
20. Provided always, That the provisions of Part II of this act shall not extend or
apply to the city of London.
P a rt III.
21. The arohitect of the board, and any other person authorized by the board in
writing under their seal, may, at all reasonable times after completion or during
construction, enter and inspect any house, room, or other place kept open or intended
to be kept open for the public performance of stage plays, or for public dancing,
music, or other public entertainment of tho like kind affected by any of the provi
sions of this act, or of any regulations made in pursuance thereof; and the district
surveyor of any district may at all reasonable times during the progress and the three
months next after the completion of any house, building, erection, or work in such
district affected by and not exempted from any of the provisions of this act, or by
any by-law made in pursuance of this act, or by any terms or conditions upon which
the observance of any such provisions or any of suoh by-laws may have been dis
pensed with, enter and inspect uch house, building, erection, or work; and if any
person refuses to admit such architect, person, or surveyor, or to afford him all rea
sonable aitance in such inspection, in every such case the person so refusing shall
incur for each offense a penalty not exceeding 20.
22. For the purpose of complying with the requirements of any notice or order
served or made under the proviions of this act on any owner, builder, or person in
respect of any house, building, or other erection, room, or place, such owner, builder,
or person, his servante, workmen, and agents, may, after giving seven days notice
in writing to the occupier of such house, building, or other erection, room, or place,
and on production of such notice or order, enter such house, building, or other erection, room, or place, and do all such works, matters, and things therein or thereto,
or in connection therewith, as may be necessary ; and if any person refuses to admit
uch owner, builder, or person, or his servants or workmen or agents, or to afford
them all reasonable assistance, uoh person shall ineur for each offense a penalty not
exceeding 20.
23. Every penalty imposed by Part I and Part m of this aot may be recovered by
summary proceedings before any justice in like manner, and subject to the like
right of appeal as if the ame were a penalty recoverable by summary proceeding
under the metropolis management act, 1855, and the acts amending the same ; and
every penalty imposed by Part II of this act, or by any by-law made in pursuance
thereof, may be reoovered by summary proceedings before any justice in like man
ner and subject to the like right of appeal as if the same were a penalty recoverable
by summary proceedings under the metropolitan building act, 1855, and the acts
amending the same : Provided, always, That in any proceedings against any person for
more than one penalty in respect of one or more breach or breaches of any provision
of this act, orof any by-law made in pursuance of this act, it shall be lawful to include
in one summons all such penalties, and the charge for such summons shall not ex
ceed shillings.
24. Her Majestys royal palaces, and all buildings, works, and ground excepted
from the operation of the metropolis management act, 1855, and the acts amending
the same, or of any of the said acts, shall be excepted from the operation of the pro
visions of this act which are to be construed with such acts, and all exemptions from
the provisions of any of the said acts shall extend to such of the proviion of this
M a are to be construed a aforeaid with uch acts.
382
FIBE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
from the operation of the metropolitan building act, 1855, and the acts amending
the same, or of any of the aid acts, shall be excepted from the operation of the pro
visions of this act which are to be construed with such acts, and all exemptions
from the provisions of any of the said acts shall extend to such of the provisions ef
this act as are to be construed as aforesaid with such acts.
26. Nothing in this act, or in any by-law of the board thereunder, shall apply to
the Inner Temple, the Middle Temple, Lincolns Inn, Grays Inn, Staple Inn, Fumivals Inn, or the close of the collegiate church of St. Peter, Westminster.
27. Nothing contained in this act, or in any by-law thereunder made, shall apply
to or shall authorize or empower the board, or any vestry, district board, or district
surveyor, to take, use, or in any manner interfere with any land, soil, tenements, or
hereditaments, or any rights of whatsoever nature, belonging to or enjoyed or exer
cisable by the Queens most excellent majesty in right of her crown, or in right of her
Duchy of Lancaster, without the consent in writing of the commissioners for the
time being of Her Majestys woods, forests, and land revenues, or one of them, on
behalf of Her Majesty, in right of her crown, first had and obtained for that purpose
(which consent such commissioners are hereby respectively authorized to give), or
without the consent in like manner of the chancellor of the said duchy, on behalf of Her
Majesty, in right of her said duchy; neither shall anything contained in this act, or
in a>ny by-law thereunder made, extend to divest, take away, prejudice, diminish, or
alter any estate, right, privilege, power, or authority vested in or enjoyed or exer
cisable by the Queens majesty, her heirs, or successors, in right of her erown, or in
right of her said duchy; and nothing contained in Part I of this act shall apply to
the extension of Savoy street or the bridge which the chancellor and council of the
said duchy are by the metropolitan board of works (various powers) act, 1875, em
powered to make and construct, or to any house or building within the precinct of
the Savoy, or upon the land mentioned in section 6 of the last-mentioned act, con
structed or extended after the passing of this act, in or abutting upon any road,
passage, or way existing, formed, or laid out at the time of the passing of bit> act.
m . METROPOLIS MANAGEMENT AND BUILDING ACTS (AMENDMENT)
ACT, 1882.
P ab t I.
1. This act may be cited for all purposes as the metropolis management and build
ing acts (amendment) act, 1882.
2. This act shall extend and apply to the metropolis as defined by the metropolis
management act, 1885.
P a s t II.
4. The metropolis management act, 1855, and the acts amending the same, and
this part of this act shall be construed together as one act.
5. Whenever the board have transmitted a copy of any order made by them in
pursuance of the provisions of the eighty-seventh section of the metropolis manage
ment amendment act, 1862, to any vestry or district board, or to the commissioners of
sewers of the oity of London, and such vestry or district board or ftnmnnirininTB have
all the space of three calendar months after the receipt of such order failed to perform
for or any of the necessary acts, or to take all or any of the requisite proceedings for
carrying such order into execution, then and in every suoh case the board may per
form all or any of such necessary acts, or take all or any of such necessary proceed
ings which such vestry or district board or commissioners have failed to perform or
take, and for snch purpose, and generally for giving effect to the provisions of the
383
id section, a amended by this section, the board shall have and may exercise all
the rights, powers, authorities, and jurisdiction by the said section conferred upon
vestries, district boards, and tho said commissioners, respectively, including the recov
ery of expenses from owners of houses and buildings, and the said section shall be
construed accordingly.
6. In case any person not being lawfully authorized knowingly erects or places,
or causes to be erected or placed, any post, rail, fence, bar, obstruction, or encroach
ment whatsoever in, upon, over, or under any street, or alters or interferes with any
street in such a manner as to impede or hinder the traffic for which such street was
formed or laid out from passing over the same, he shall (in addition to any other
proceeding to which he may be liable therefor) be liable to a penalty not exceeding
10 for every such offense, and to a further penalty not exceeding 40 shillings for
every day on which such offense is continued after the day on which he shall have
received notice in writing from the board to remove such post, rail, fence, bar, ob
struction, or encroachment, and to reinstate or restore such street to its former
condition; and the board may, at the expiration of two days after giving such
notice as aforesaid, demolish or remove any such post, rail, fence, bar, obstruction, or
encroachment, and reinstate or restore such street to its former condition, and re
cover the expenses thereof in like manner as if the same were a penalty imposed by
this part of this act.
7. Where after the passing of this act it is intended by any person to form or lay
out any road, passage, or way for buil<ling as a street for tho purposes of carriage
traffic or of foot traffic only, in such manner that such road, passage, or way will not
afford direct communication between two streets, such person shall, at least three
months before such road, passage, or way is begun to be so formed or laid out, make
an application to the board giving notice of such intention, and setting out a plan
of the proposed street, with such particulars in relation thereto as may be required by
the board, and if it appears to the board that it is expedient that such road, passage,
or way should not be formed or laid out in manner aforesaid, or that such road, pas
sage, or way should be formed or laid out in manner aforesaid subject to any conditions
which the board may prescribe, the board may, by order made at any time before
the expiration of the said period of three months, decline to sanction the formation
or laying out of such road, passage, or way in manner aforesaid, or may sanction the
formation or laying out of such road, passage, or way in manner aforesaid subject to
to such conditions as they may prescribe, and thereupon, and until the board shall
otherwise direct, such road, passage, or way shall not be formed or laid out for build
ing as a street in manner aforesaid where the board have declined their sanction, or
shall not be formed or laid out for building as a street in manner aforesaid, except
in accordance with the conditions prescribed, where the board have given their sanc
tion subject to such conditions.
Any person forming or laying out, or commencing to form or lay out or keeping
open any road, passage, or way so formed or laid out in manner aforesaid contrary
to the provisions of this section, shall for every such offense be liable to a penalty
not exceeding 40 shillings, and to a further penalty not exceeding 20 shillings for
every day on which the offense is continued after the day on which the first penalty
is incurred.
Provided always, that in case the said person so intending to form or lay out any
road, passage, or way as aforesaid, considers that any of the conditions prescribed
by the board are unreasonable, then tne said person so objecting to the said condi
tions may appeal to the police magistrate for the district in which the said road,
passage, or way is situate, and his decision shall be final upon the question.
8. Where after the passing of this act it is intended by any person to form or lay
out any road, passage, or way for building as a street for foot traffic only, such per
son shall, at least three months before such road, passage, or way i begun to be so
formed or laid ont,make an application to the board giving notice of suohintention, and
384
FIRE AND BUILDING REGULAI TONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
setting out a plan of the propose, streot, with such particulars in relation thereto a
may be required by the board, and if it appears to the board that it is expedient that
uch road, passage, or way should not be formed or laid out for foot traffic only, or
that uch road, passage, or way should be formed or laid out for foot traffic only, sub
ject to any conditions which the board may prescribe, the board may, by order made
at any time before the expiration of the said period of three months, decline to sanc
tion the forming or laying out of the same for foot traffic only, or may sanction the
formation or laying out of such road, passage, or way for foot traffic only, subject to
such conditions as they may think proper to prescribe, and thereupon, and until tlie
board shall otherwise direct, such road, passage, or way shall not be formed or laid
out for building a a street for foot traffic only where the board have declined their
sanction, or shall not be formed or laid out for building as a street for foot traffic
only, except in accordance with the conditions prescribed, where the board have
given their sanction subject to such conditions.
Any person forming or laying out, or commencing to form or lay out, or keeping
open any such road, passage, or way for foot traffic only, contrary to the provisions
of this section, shall for every such offense be liable to a penalty not exceeding 40
shillings, and to a further penalty not exceeding 20 shillings for every day on which
ucli offense is continued after the day on which the first penalty is incurred.
Provided always, that in case the said person so intending to form or lay out any
road, passage, or way as aforesaid, considers that any of the conditions prescribed
by the board are unreasonable, then the said person so objecting to the said condi
tions may appeal to the police magistrate for the district in which the said road,
passage, or way is situate, and his decision shall be final upon tho question.
9. Where the board consent, in writing, under section 75 of the metropolis mana
gement amendment act, 1862, to the erection by any person of a building or part of
a building or erection in any street, place, or row of houses beyond the general or
regular line of buildings in such street, place, or row of houses, the board may an
nex to such consent, if they think fit, any conditions they may think proper as to
the amount of land in front of such building, part of a building, or erection which
hall be dedicated to or left open for the use of the public ; and where the board
have annexed to such consent to the erection of such building, part of a building,
or erection any such condition, then and in every such case such condition hall
within three months after the erection of such building, part of a building, or erection be fulfilled, and if such person fails to fulfill such condition within such period
a aforesaid he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 5, and to a further penalty
not exceeding 40 shillings for every day upon which such condition continues to be
unfulfilled after the day on which the first penalty is incurred.
Provided always, That notwithstanding the imposition and recovery of any penalty
under this section, the board, at any time after default in the fulfilling of any such
condition, may cause complaint thereof to be made before a justice of the peace, who
shall thereupon issue a summons requiring the owner or occupier of such building,
part of a building, or erection, at a time and place to be stated in the summons, to
answer such complaint, and if at the time and place appointed in such summons the
said complaint is proved to tho satisfaction of the justice before whom the same is
heard, such justice shall make an order in writing on such owner or occupier direct
ing the demolition of such building, part of a building, or erection, or so much
thereof a may be beyond such general or regular line, within such time as such
justice shall consider reasonable, and shall also make an order for the costs in
curred up to the time of tho hearing; and in default of the building, part of a build
ing, or erection complained of being demolished within the time limited by such
order, the board may forthwith enter the premises to which the order relates and
demolish the building, part of a building, or erection complained of, and do what
ever may be necessary to execute such order, and may also remove the materials of
which the ame was composed to a convenient place and (unless the expenses of the
SUPPLEMENT---- LONDON BUILDING LAWS.
385
board be paid to them within fourteen days after such removal) sell the same as they
think proper ; and all expenses incurred by the board in executing such order and in
disposing of the said materials may be deducted by the board out of the proceeds of
such sale, and the balance, if any, shall be paid by the board on demand to the per
son entitled thereto; and in case such materials are not sold by the board, or in case
the proceeds of the sale of tho same are insufficient to defray the expenses incurred
by the board as aforesaid, the board may recover suoh expenses or such insufficiency
from such owner or occupier, together with all costs and expenses in respect thoreof,
in like manner as if the same wore a penalty imposed by this part of this act.
10. Tlio powers conferred by the seventy fifth section of the metropolis manage
ment amendment act, 1862, upon tho vestry of any parish and the board of works of
any district witli respect to any building or erection situate in such parish or dis
trict in case such building or erection lias been crected, or begun to be erected or
raised, beyond the general line of buildings in the street, place, or row of houses in
which tho same is situate without the consent in writing of the board, or contrary
to the terms and conditions on which such consent may have been granted (includ
ing the powers for the recovery of expenses), shall extend and apply to and may be
exercised of the board in like manner as by such vestry or board of works.
P a r t III.
11. The metropolitan building act, 1855, and the acts amending the same, and this
part of this act shall be construed together as one act.
12. Whenever an application is made to the board by any person stating his desire
to erect in any place any iron or other building of a temporary character to which
the rules of the metropolitan building act, 1855, and the acts amending the same, are
inapplicable, the board may, in case of their approval of the plan and particulars of
such building, limit the period during which such building shall be allowed to re
main in such place, and may make such approval subject to such conditions as to the
removal of such building or otherwise as they may think fit ; and if at the expiration
of the period limited by the board during which such building is allowed to remain
in such placo such building is not removed in accordance with such conditions, the
board may, by notice in writing, require the occupier or owner of such building to
remove such building within a reasonable time, to be specified in such notice, and in
case such occupier or owner fails to comply with the requirements of such notice
within such time as aforesaid he shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding 5 for
such default, and to a further penalty not exceeding 40 shillings for every day on
which such default continues after tho day on which the first penalty incurred.
Provided always, That notwithstanding the imposition and recovery of any penalty
the board may at any time after default in complying with the requirements of such
notice, if they think proper, cause complaint thereof to be made before a justice
of the peace, who shall thereupon issue a summons requiring such occupier or owner
to appear, at a time and place to be stated in the summons, to answer such complaint,
and if at the time and place appointed in such summons the said complaint is proved
to the satisfaction of the justice beforo whom the same is heard, such justice may
make an order, in writing, authorizing the board to enter upon the land upon which
such building is situated, and to remove or take down the same, and do whatever
may be necessary for such purpose, and also to remove the materials of which the
same is composed to a convenient place and (unless the expenses of the board be
paid to them within fourteen days after such removal) sell the same as they think
proper ; an<l all expenses incurred in respect of any such order, and of entering and
removing or taking down any such building and in disposing of the said materials,
may be deducted by the board out of tho proceeds of such sale, and the balance, if
any, shall be paid by the board on demand to the person entitled thereto; and in
case such materials are not sold by the board, or in ftS the proceeds Qf the sala
140A------ 25
386
of the same aro insufficient to defray tlie expenses incurred by tlie board as afore
said, the board may recover sucli expenses or such insufficiency from the occupier
or owner of such building, together with all costs and expenses 111 respect thereof,
in like manner as if tlie same were a penalty imposed by this part of this act.
13. It shall not be lawful for any person to erect or set up in any place any wooden
structure or erection of a movable or temporary character (unless the same be exempt
from the operation of the first part of tho metropolitan building act, 1855), without
a license in writing first had and obtained from the board for the erection or setting
up of such structure or erection in such place, and every such license may contain
such conditions with respect to such structure or erection and tlie time for which it
is to be permitted to continue in such place as the board may think expedient, and
if any person erects or sets up any such structure or erection in any place without
having had and obtained such license to erect or set up tho same in such place, or
makes default in observing any of tlie conditions contained in such license, or is
guilty of any breach of such conditions, ho shall be liable to a penalty not exceed
ing 5, and to a further penalty not exceeding 40 shillings for every day on which
any such structure or erection continues erected or set up, without such license
being bad and obtained, or upon which such default or breach continues after the day
on which the first penalty is incurred.
Provided, always, That a license shall not be required in the case of any wooden
structure or erection of a movable or temporary character erected by a builder for
use during the construction, alteration, or repair of any building unless tho same is
not taken down or removed immediately after such construction, alteration, or
repair.
14. Every noAV building begun to be erected upon a ite not previously occupied in
whole or in part by a building, after tho passing of this act, intended to be used
wholly or in part as a dwelling house, shall, unless tho board otherwise permit, have
directly attached thereto and in the rear thereof an open space exclusively belonging
thereto of tho following extent:
Where such building has a frontage not exceeding 15 feet the extent of the open
space shall be 150 square feet at the least.
Where such building has a frontage exceeding 15 feet, but not exceeding 20 leet,
the extent of the open space shall be 200 feet square at the least.
Where such bnilding lias a frontage exceeding 20 feet and not exceeding 30 foet,
tho extent of the open space shall bo 300 square feet at the least ; and
Where such building has a frontage exceeding 30 feet the extent of the open space
shall be 450 square feet at the least.
Every such open space shall be free from any erection thereon above the level
of the ceiling of tho ground-fioor story, and shall extend throughout the entire
width (exclusive of party or external walls) of such building at the roar thereof.
The provisions of this enactment shall be in addition to and shall form part of the
rules of the metropolitan building act, 1855, and the said act shall bo construed
accordingly.
15. Where it is proposed to convert or alter any building erected for a purpose other
than a public purpose into a public building within the meaning of the metropolitan
building act, 1855, and tho acts amending the same, such conversion or alteration,
and the public building thereby formed, including the walls, roofs, floors, galleries,
and staircases of the same, shall be carried into effect and constructed respectively in
uch manner as may be approved by the district surveyor, or iu tho event of disa
greement may be determined by the board, and tho provisions of the metropolitan
building act, 1855, and of the acts amending the same, with respect or applicable to
the construction of public buildings, shall extend and apply to such alteration or
conversion a though such alteration or conversion were the construction of a publio
building.
16. From and after tho passing of this act the restrictions imposed by the twenty-
387
first section of the metropolitan building act, 1855, with respect to the distance at
which pipes for conveying hot water or steam may be placed from any combustible
materials shall not apply in the case of pipes for conveying hot water or steam at
low pressure.
17. Whore a building or structure is ruinous, or so far dilapidated as thereby to
have become and to be unfit for use or occupation, or is from neglect or otherwise
in a structural condition prejudicial to the property in or the inhabitants of the neigh
borhood, the board may make complaint thereof to a justice of the peace, who shall
thereupon issue a summons requiring the owner and occupier of suoh building or
structure, hereinafter referred to as a neglected structure, to appear at a time and
place to be stated in the summons to answer such complaint, and if at the time and
place appointed in such summons the said complaint is proved to the satisfaction of
the justice before whom the same is hoard, such justice may, if he sees good caue,
order the owner or, on his default, the occupier to take down or repair or rebuild
the neglected structure or any part thereof, or to fence in the ground upon which
the same stands, or any part thereof, or otherwise to put the same or any part thereof
into a state of repair and good condition, to the satisfaction to the board, within a
reasonable time to be fixed by tho order, and may also make an order for the costs
incurred up to the time of the hearing.
If the order is not obeyed the board may, with all convenient speed, enter upon
tho neglected structure or such ground as aforesaid and execute the order.
Where the order directs the taking down of a neglected structure or any part
thereof, the board, in executing the order, may remove the materials to a convenient
place and (unless the expenses of the board under this section in relation to such
structure be paid to them within fourteen days after such removal) sell the same, as
they think fit.
All expenses incurred by the board under this section in relation to a neglected
structure may be deducted by the board out of the proceeds of such sale and the
balance (if any) shall be paid by the board on demand to the person entitled thereto,
and in case such neglected structure or some part thereof is not taken down, and
such materials are not sold by the board, or in case the proceeds of the sale of the
same are insufficient to defray the expenses incurred by the board as aforesaid, the
board may recover such expenses or such insufficiency from the owner of such
neglected structure, together with all costs and expenses in respect thereof, in like
manner as if the same were a penalty imposed by this act, but without prejudice to
his right to recover the same from any lessee or other person liable to the expenses
of repairs.
18. Whore, under the provisions of the metropolitan building act, 1885, and tho
acts amending tho same, with respect to dangerous structures, or under the pro
visions of this act with respect to neglected structures, the board have incurred any
expenses in respect of any dangerous structure or any neglected structure, and have
not been paid or have not recovered the same, the board may, after giving notice of
their intention to do so, in manner hereinafter mentioned, to the owner of such
dangerous or neglected structure, apply to a justice of the peace at the time and
place named in such notice for an order fixing the amount of such expenses and the
costs of such application, and directing that no part of the land upon which such
dangerous or neglected structure stands or stood shall be built upon, or that no part
of such neglected structure, if repaired or rebuilt, shall be let for occupation until
after payment to the board of the amount of such expenses and costs as fixed by such
order; and such justice, on proof of such expenses having been incurred by the
board, and after hearing the parties appearing before him, may make such order as
aforesaid, and thereupon and until payment to the board of the amount fixed by
such order no part of such land shall be built upon, and no part of such neglected
structure so repaired or rebuilt shall be let for occupation.
Every such order shall be signed in duplicate by such justice, and on of such
388
orders shall bo retained by the officer of the court in which such justice made the
same and the other of such orders shall be kept at the office of the board.
The board shall keep at their principal office a register of all such orders as may
from time to timo be made under the authority of this section, and shall keep the
same open for inspection by all persons at all reasonable times, and any such order
not entered in such register within ten days after the making of the same shall
cease to be of any force or effect.
A notice of the intention to make an application for any such order may be printed
or written, or partly printed and partly written.
19. Any summons or notice under this act with respect to a dangerous or neglected
structure shall be served or given in accordance with the provisions of section 98 of
the metropolitan building act, 1855 : Provided, always, That where the owner of any
ucli dangerous or neglected structure is not known to or can not bo found by the
board or their officers, any such summons or notice shall bo deemed to be duly
served or given if a copy of the same be posted in a conspicuous place on such dan
gerous structure or neglected structure, or on the land Avhereon it stands or stood,
at least two months before the time named in such summons or notice for the hear
ing of such complaint or for the making of such application.
20. Proceedings with respect to any irregular building or structure shall not be
prejudiced or affected by the removal or falling in of the roof of such building or
structure.
21. Where in any case not specially provided for by the metropolitan building
act, 1855, a difference has arisen botween a building owner and an adjoining owner
in respect of any matter arising under the said act, and both parties have concurred
in the appointment of one surveyor for the settlement of such difference in manner
prescribed by section 85 of the metropolitan building act, 1855, then and in every
sncli case, if such surveyor rofusea or for seven days neglects to act, or dies, or be
comes incapable to act before he has made his award, the matters in dispute shall be
determined, under the provisions of the said section, in the same manner as if such
single surveyor had not been appointed.
When any such difference as aforesaid has arisen and each party has appointed a
surveyor for the settlement of such difference in manner prescribed by the said sec
tion, and a third surveyor has been selected, then and in every such case, if such
third surveyor refuses or for seven days neglects to act, or before such difference is
settled dies or becomes incapable to act, the two surveyors shall forthwith, after
such refusal, neglect, death, or incapacity, select another third surveyor in his place,
and every third surveyor so to be selected as aforesaid shall have the same powew
and authorities as were vested in the third survoyor at tho time of such his re
fusal, neglect, death, or incapacity as aforesaid.
When any such difference as aforesaid has arisen, and each party has appointed a
survoyor for tho settlement of such difference in manner prescribed by the said sec
tion, then, if the two surveyors so appointed refuse or for seven days after request
of either party neglect to select a third surveyor or another third surveyor in the
event of the refusal or neglect to act, death, or incapacity of the third surveyor for
tho time being, one of Her Majesty's principal secretaries of state may, on tho ap
plication of either party, select some fit person to act as third surveyor, and every
surveyor so selected as aforesaid shall havo the same powers and authorities as if
ho had boon selected as a third surveyor by the two surveyors so appointed by the
parties.
Whon any such difference as aforesaid has arisen, and each party has appointed
a surveyor for the settlement of such difference in manner prescribed by the said
section, then and in every suoh case, if before such difference is settled any such
surveyor so appointed as aforesaid by either party dies or becomes incapable to aot,
the party by whom such surveyor was appointed may appoint in writing some other
surveyor to act in his place, and if for the space of seven days after notice in writ-
389
ing from the other party for that purpose he fail to do so, the remaining or other
surveyor may proceed ex parte, and the decision of snch remaining or other surveyor
shall be as effectual as if he had been a single surveyor in whose appointment both
parties had concurred, and every surveyor so to be substituted as aforesaid shall
have the same powers and authorities as were vested in the former surveyor at the
time of such his death or disability as aforesaid.
When any such difference as aforesaid has arisen, and each party has appointed a
surveyor for the settlement of such difference in manner prescribed by the said sec
tion, then and in every such case, if either of the surveyors refuses or for seven days
neglects to act, the other surveyor may proceed ex parte, and the decision of such
other surveyor shall be as effectual as if he had been a single surveyor in whose ap
pointment both parties had concurred.
Part IY.
22. Every penalty imposed by Part of this act may be recovered by summary
! proceedings before any justice in like manner and subject to the like right of appeal
I as if the same were a penalty recoverable by summary proceedings under the me
tropolis management act, 1855, and the acts amending the same ; and every penalty
imposed by Part hi of this act may be recovered by summary proceedings before
any justice in like manner and subject to the like rig]it of appeal as if the same
were a penalty recoverable by summary proceedings under the metropolitan build
ing act, 1855, and the acts amending the same : Provided, always, That in any pro
ceedings against any person for more than one penalty in respect of one or more
breach or breaches of any provisions of this act, or of any bylaw made in pursuance
of tliis act, it shall be lawful to include in one summons all such penalties, and the
charge for such summons shall not exceed 2 shillings.
from the operation of the metropolis management act, 1855, and acts amending the
same, or of any of the said acts, shall be excepted from the operation of the provi
sions of this act which are to be construed with such acts, and all special exemptions
from the provisions of any of the said acts shall extend to such of the provisions of
this act as are to be construed as aforesaid with such acts.
from the operation of the metropolitan building act, 1855, and the acts amending
the same, or of any of the said acts, shall be excepted from the operation of the pro
visions of this act, which are to be construed with such acts, and all special ex
emptions from the provisions of any of the said acts shall extend to such of the pro
visions of this act as are to be construed as aforesaid with such acts.
25. Nothing in this act thall apply to the Inner Temple, the Middle Temple, Lin
colns Inn, Grays Inn, Staple Inn, Fumivals Inn, or the close of the collegiate church
of St. Peter, Westminster.
26. The provisions of sections 6, 7, 8, and 13 of this act shall not apply to the city
of London and the liberties thereof.
27. All the costs, charges, and expenses of and incident to the applying for, ob
taining, and passing of this act shall be paid by the board.
CONTINENT OF AMERICA.
BRITISH NORTH AMERICA.
AM H ERSTBURG.
!
REPORT B T CONSUL S IN E .
1. Name of town, Amlierstburg.

3. Area of town limits, about 240 by 360 rods.
4. Number of brick and stone buildings, 65.
5. Number of wooden buildings, about 520.
9. Total value of property involved in the fire, $12,000.
10. Total loss thereon, $200.
12. Total insurance loss, $190.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which originated, 1.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which originated, 1.
17. The fire department consists of 1 steam fire engine, and 12 paid
firemen.
18. The system of water supply is elevated storage, with direct pres
sure in case of fire. Detroit River the source of supply.
19. No provision made to investigate causes of fire, etc., except as
provided by the municipal council in specific cases.
21. While the Ontario statutes authorize municipalities to pass by
laws regulating the storage and sale of oils, explosives, etc., no such
by-law has been adopted here. Restrictions imposed by insurance
companies.
22. No municipal law u regulating building, construction, heating,
lighting, etc.
J ames W. F ine,
Consul.
Amlierstburg, December
890
18, 1891.
391
CONTINENT OP AMERICA CANADA.
B E L L E V IL L E .
REPORT B Y CONSUL DENEEN.*
1. Name of place, Belleville, Canada.

2. Population, 9,914, according to the Dominion census of 1891 ;
10,200according to returns made to the city officials.
3. Area, 1,700 acres.
5. Number of wooden buildings, 700.
8. Number of fires in wooden buildings, 10.
9. Total value of property involved not given in the report made to
the city.
11 and 12. Losses did not exceed the insurance more than $250 or
$300.
17. Fire department: Chief engineer; 1 assistant engineer; one prac
tical engineer, and 25 men.
18. Water supply: Both standpipe and Holly systems. Capacity of
standpipe, 500,000 gallons of water.
19. In cases of incendiarism, the ordinary legal processes are resorted
to. No special provisions.
20. Incendiary fires, 3; causes not known, 4.
21. Dealers limited to 25 pounds of gunpowder and 10 pounds of
nitroglycerine in their stores at one time.
22. No building regulations have been enacted; the city is lighted
by 39 electric and 107 gas lights.
Sa m u e l H . D e n e e n ,
Consul.
Belleville, December
15, 1891.
C H A R L O T T E T O W N , P R IN C E
IS L A N D .
EDWARD
REPORT TRANSMITTED B Y CONSUL HALL.*
1.
2.
3.
4.
Name of city, Charlottetown.

Population, 10,428.
Area of city limits, 1 mile square.
Number of brick or stone buildings, 97.
Year 1890.
392

8. Number of fires in frame building, 6 ; rest sparks on roof, tc.,
no damage.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, $6,520.
12. Total insurance loss thereon,7 $1,004.
7
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, 1 ; extended to
adjoining barn.
17. The fire department consists of volunteer brigade, two steam fire
engine companies, hook and ladder, salvage corps, three hose compa
nies. Two fire engines have not been called out since introduction of
waterworks, aboutthree years.
is the capacity of the supply ? Gravitations from reservoirs and direct
from pumping station.
Investigations before fire wardens.
20. Number of incendiary fires, supposed 2.
21. What regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils, exjriosives,
and fireworks! Usual regulations about isolation, but not enforced.
Stored wherever pleases.
22. No fire by-law, firelimit, or anything ofthis kind. Can build of what
material and where they please as long as they keep off the streets.
R obangus,
Secretary of Prince Edward Island Board of Fire Underuriter.

Charlottetown, January 27,1892.
CHATHAM .
REPORT B Y CONSUL WEBSTER.
(Year, 1890.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Name of city, Chatham, Ontario.

Population, 9,000.
Area of city limits, 1,650 acres.
Number of brick or stone buildings, one-fourth.
Number of wooden buildings, three-lourths.
Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 4.
i
II
II
j
I
!
393
CONTINENT OP AMERICA. CANADA.

16. Number of conflagrations j i. e., fires extending beyond adjoining
property, none.
17. Fire property: Two steam fire engines, capacity 400 gallons each
per minute ; two hose reels ; one hook and ladder truck and equipments ;
3,000 feet 2.12-inch hose; 4 horses j 15 men, 4 employed permanently,
others sleep in engine house. Telephone alarm and watchman in tower
from 10 p. m. to 6 a. m.
18. Water supply: In business portion of town supply from naviga
ble streams, unlimited; 25 cisterns or tanks in suburbs of 20,000 gal
lons capacity each.
to provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime 1
Corouer inquest.
21. What regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils, explosives,
and fireworks? By law providing for storage of explosives (in quantities)
in isolated buildings.
22. By law forbidding erection of frame buildings or structures in
business portion of town.
W . H. H. W
ebster,
Commercial Agent.
Chatham, December 18,1891.
F O R T E R IE .
REPORT B Y CONSUL B E D E L L .
Tn answer to request for information contained in Department circu

lar of November 20 last, I beg leave to say that this office is located in
the unincorporated village of Victoria, in the township of Bertie, con
taining about 1,000 inhabitants.
Nearly all buildings are wooden; there is no fire apparatus, and
there have been no fires for more than a year.
OssiAN B e d e l l ,
Consul.
Fort Erie, January 7, 1892.
394
G A S P B A S IN .
REPORT B T CONSUL DICKSON.
1.
Name of town in which the consular officer is located: Gasp
Basin, Quebec.
2. Population, 775.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 3.
17. No fire department of any kind.
18. No system of water works of any kind.
19. On demand the coroner impanels a jury and holds an investiga
tion. If person or persons are implicated by verdict of jury the case
goes to the criminal court.
21. The storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks are regu
lated by insurance companies according to the location of the building.
During the last year there was only one fire in this village, in an un
insured frame house.
A t,mat
. F. D ic k s o n ,
Consul.
Gasp Basin, Quebec, December 22,1891.
H A L IF A X .
REPORT B T CONSUL-GENERAL F R T E *
In answer to interrogatories contained in Department circular of

December 1,1891,1 submit the following statistics relating to fires,
etc., in the city of Halifax during the year 1891. I applied to various
city officials and others for the special information desired for the year
1890, but through a misunderstanding the statistics were furnished for
the year 1891.
1. Name of city, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
2. Population (census of 1891), 38,467.
Year 189L
WEST INDIES SPANISH.
395
12. Total insurance loss, $182,310.

13. Number of fires confined to floor in whicli they originated, 24.
16. Number of conflagration, 1.
17. The fire department consists of four steam fire engines with about
12,000feet of hose and other useful ai)pliances, manned by a volunteer
force of about 325 men. Fire alarms are provided. A new chemical
engine aud new steam fire engine and other fire aj)paratus, to cost
$10,000, have been ordered by the city. The estimated additional cost
of maintenance will be $5,000 per year.
18. The water supply is obtained from lakes outside the city, brought
in by gravity power. The capacity of supply is about 6,500,000 gallons
per day. The number of hydrants is about 350. The average pressure
is 22 pounds to the square inch.
19. A statute of Nova Scotia provides that whenever any building
or property shall be injured by fire, and the cause or origin thereof is un
known, the mayor of the city of Halifax, the wardens of any incorpo
rated town, and any two justices of the peace in other parts of the
province, shall cause an investigation to be made to ascertain the cause
or origin of the fire, etc.; but practically the law is little heeded in
Halifax, and, except at the instance of insurance companies interested
in the loss, such investigations are seldom if ever held.
21. Petroleum and naphtha, if in quantities exceeding 2 barrels of
refined petroleum or 10 gallons of naphtha, shall be stored only in iso
lated buildings or premises which are at least 100 yards distant from
the next nearest building not owned or occupied by the owner of the
petroleum or naphtha; but no person is authorized to keep or store naph
tha without a license from the inland revenue department, conditioned
that such naphtha shall only be sold or used for the purposes men
tioned in a law of the Dominion, viz:
(1) For illuminating purposes, under certain restricted conditions, and
(2) For mechanical or chemical purposes in buildings not inhabited
for residences for family purposes.
22. It is impracticable to furnish a full copy of the law regulating
building construction, etc., in this city, as called for by Department
circular, as the law contains many sections, some of which, if included
here, would encumber this report without adding to its value. Follow
ing is an abstract of its more important provisions:
Within certain prescribed limits in the central part of the city the
erection of wooden buildings is prohibited; they must be built of brick
or stone. Partition walls must be at least 16 inches thick; or if own
ers of adjoining properties do not build in conjunction, the outer walls
must be at least 12 inches in thickness. The walls of outhouses, if from
15 to 30 feet high, must be 12 inches thick, or if less than 15 feet high,
8 inches in thickness. Bear windows must be protected with iron shut-
396
trs. Chimneys must bo built from the lower solid foundations of the
house. The roofs of all buildings within said limits must be entirely
covered with iron, tin, tile, or other uninflammable materials.
Within another prescribed district adjoining the above, and which
includes some of the thickly settled portions of the city occupied
mainly by residences, wooden buildings may be constructed, not to
exceed 45 feet in height, nor, unless they be sheds or outhouses, less
than 12 feet in height. Every building more than 36 feet in height
shall have at least one brick or stone wall 12 inches in thickness and
rising 2 feet above the roof. Tenement buildings shall have 8-inch
division walls of brick or stone between the tenements. Tlie roofs of
all buildings over 36 feet in height shall be covered with uninflamma
ble materials. Openings in end or party walls must have fireproof
iron doors or shutters.
An inspector of buildings is chosen annually by the city council, who
has authority in the matter of building and repairing, and of removing
buildings which are deemed unsafe, ete.
I find no regulations relating especially to the subject of heating or
lighting buildings.
W
a k e f ie l d
G. F r y e ,
Consul-General.
JHalifax, January 26, 1892.
H A M IL T O N , O N T A R IO .
R EPORT B Y CONSUL MONAGHAN.
1. Name of city, Hamilton, Ontario.

3. Area of city limits, 3,696 acres; 90 miles of streets.
4. Number of houses, 4,975 brick, 530 stone.
5. Wooden buildings, 4,446.
7. Number of fires in brick and stone buildings, 29.
9. Total value of property involved in fires, $280,000.
10. Total loss thereon, $21,829.89.
12. Total insurance loss, $20,894.89.
13. Number of fires confined to floors in which they originated, 90
per cent.
15. No fire passed beyond buildings in which they originated.
17. Fire department, 40 firemen; paid; 7 pieces of apparatus.
18. Water supply, gravity pressure; 2,000,000 gallons daily.
10. Ample provisions provided by law for investigations into causes
of fires.
397
CONTINENT OF AMERICA---- CANADA.
20. Number of incendiary fires in 1891, 6.

21. Regulations for storage of coal oil onlj.
22. Tlie by-laws of tlie city of Hamilton provide for preventing fires
and for regulating tlie erection of buildings and defining the fire limits
in the city.
Would add to the foregoing, as a matter of interest, that there are
35 acres devoted to parks, 40 miles of sewers, and 92.3 miles of water
mains.
W m. M o n a g h a n ,
Consul.
Hamilton, Ontario, February 15, 1892.
GUELPH.
A REPORT B Y CONSUL HUNT.
N um
ber.
Statistics.
Interrogatory.
1889.
1890.
1891.
Name of c i t y ......................................................................... Guelpli, Province of Ontario,

Population (census of 1891)..................................................
10,539
3,200
Area of city lim its.......................................................acres..
3,200
3,200
Number of brick buildings, 633 ..........................................
1,089
Number of stone buildings, 4 5 6 ..........................................
Number o f wooden buildings............................................. .
1,136
Number not specified...........................................................
4
22
Number o f alarms.................................................................. .
30
21 .
There being no local board of fire
underwriters or other body or
Number of fires in brick or stone buildings
person responsible for these staNumber of fires in frame buildings..............
tistics, than the chief of the fire
Total value o f property involved in fires
department, accurate answers *c
these interrogatories are not ob
tainable.
$6,670
Total loss th e r e o n ................................................................
$12,000
$17,879
$5,320
$8,930
Total insurance tliereo n ......................................................
$17,074
$5,320
Total insurance, loss tliereon .............................................
$8,930
$17,074
Number of fires confined to floor in which they origi N ot obtainable.
nated.
Num berof fires confined to buildings in which they origi
21
22
30
nated.
Number of fires extending to adjoining p roperty........... None
None ,
None .
Number o f conflagrations extending beyond adjoining None
None .
None .
property.
20 men, 1 chief, 1 assistant chief, and
Fire departm ent.
1 fire warden. Equipment: 1
steam fire engine, 1 hose wagon, 3
hose reels, 1 hook and ladder
truck.
W aterw orks: 108 hydrants, 60 to
18 System of water supply, capacity, e t c .
90 pounds pressure; pumping ca
pacity, 720,000 gallons per day.
Water, after passing through l i
ters is taken into tw o small veser*
voirs from the river Speed, which
is the principal source of supply.
19 Provision made by law to investigate causes of fire, and (See Revised Statutes of Ontario,
to provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incen
18S7, Chapter 217, sections 1 to 10.
Inclosure No. 7.)
diarism or crime.
N um b erof incendiary fires.................................................. N o n e ....... I N o n e ........ I Noneprov!
I en.
Regulations existin g for the storage and sale o f oils, ex (See by-law of the city of Guelph,
No. 148, sections 99, 100, and 101.
plosives, and fireworks.
Inclosure No. 2.)
22 Law regulating building construction, heating, lighting, Copy inclosed. Samo by-law, sec
tions 61 to 101 and 166 to 170, inclu
etc. : (See by-law o f the city o f Guelph, No. 148, sec
sive.
tions 61 to 76, inclusive. Inclosure No. 3.)
L o to n S. H u n t ,
Consul.
G u e lp h , O n ta r io ,
January 23,1892.
398
INVESTIGATING ACCIDENTS BY FIRE IN ONTARIO.*

[Inclosure No. 1 in Consul H un ts report.]
1. (1) Whenever any fire has occurred whereby any house or other building has
been wholly or in part consumed, the coroner within whoso jurisdiction tho locality
is situated shall institute an inquiry into tho cause or origin of the fire, and whether
it was kindled by design or was tho result of negligence or accident, and act accord
ing to tho result of such inquiry.
(2) It shall not be tho duty of tho coroner to institute an inquiry into the cause or
origin of any fire or fires by which any house or other building lias been wholly or
partly consumed, nor shall such inquiry be had until it has first been made to appear
to the coroner that there is reason to beliove that tho lire was the result of culpable
or negligent conduct or design, or occurred under such circumstances as in tho inter
ests of justice and for the due protection of property require investigation. (R. S. O.,
1877, c. 196, s. 1.)
2. For the purpose of the investigation, the coroner shall summon and bring before
him all persons whom he deems capable of giving information or evidence touching
or concerning the fire, and shall examine such persons on oath, and shall reduce their
examination to writing and return the same to the clerk of tho peace for the district
or county within which they have been taken. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 2.)
3. The coroner may, in his discretion, or in conformity with the written requisition
of any agent of an insurance company, or of any three householders, in the vieiuity
of such firo, empanel a jury chosen from among the householders resident in tho vi
cinity of the fire, to hear the evidence that may be adduced touching or concerning
the same, and to render a verdict under oath thereupon in accordance with the facts,
(R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 3.)
4. If any person summoned to appear before any coroner acting under this act,
neglects or refuses to appear at the timo and place specified in the summons, or if
such person, appearing in obedience to such summons, refuses to be examined or to
answer any questions put to him in the course of his examination, the coroner may
enforce the attendance of such person, or compel him to answer as the case may re
quire, by the same means as the coroner might use in like cases at ordinary inquests
before him. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 4.)
5. If any person having been duly summoned as a juror upon such inquiry does
not, after being openly called three times, appear and serve as such juror, the coro
ner may impose upon the person so making default such fine as he thinks fit, not
exceeding $4 ; and the coroner shall make out and sign a certificate containing the
name, residence, trade, or calling of such person, together with the amount of the
fine imposed and the cause of such fine, and shall transmit tho certificate to the
clerk of the peace in the district or county in which the defaulter resides, on or be
fore the first day of the general sessions of the peace then next ensuing for the dis
trict or county, and shall cause a copy of the certificate to be served upon the person
so fined, by leaving it at his residence, within a reasonable time after the inquest ;
and all fines and forfeitures so certified by such coroner shall be estreated, levied, and
applied in like manner, and subject to like powers, provisions, and penalties, in all
respects, a if they had been part of the fines imposed at such general sessions. (R.
S. 0., 1877, c. 196, s. 5.)
6. Nothing herein contained shall affect any power by law vested in any coroner
for compelling any person to attend and act as a juror, or to appear and give evi
dence before him on any inquest or other proceeding, or for punishing any person
for contempt of court in not so attending and acting or appearing and giving evi
dence, or otherwise, but all such powers shall extend to and be exercised in respect
of such inquiries under this act. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 6.)
* Chapter 217, Rev. Stat. of Ontario. Ad act respecting the investigation of acoidnts by fire.
399
7. Where uch inquiry has been held by tho coroner in respect of fire in any city,
town, or incorporated village, in conformity with this act, the coroner holding the
same hall be entitled therefor to the sum of $10, and should the said inquiry extend
beyond one day, then to $10 per diem for each of two days thereafter, and no more;
and in the case of an investigation concerning a firo occurring in any place not
within a city, town, or incorporated village, the allowance to the coroner shall be
$5 for tho first day, and should the inquiry extend beyond one day, then $4 for each
of tho two days thereafter, and no more. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 7.)
8. In all cases the party requiring such an investigation shall alono be responsible
for tho expenses of and attending such investigation. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 8.)
9. No municipality shall be liable for such expense unless the investigation is re
quired by a rquisition under tho hands and seals of the mayor or other head officer
of the municipality, and of at least two other members of the council thereof; and
such requisition shall not be given unless there arc strong special and public rea
sons for granting tho same. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 9.)
10. No expenses of or for an adjournment of such inquest shall be chargeable against
or payable by the party or municipal incorporation calling for or requesting the in
vestigation to be held, unless it is clearly shown by tho coroner, and certified under
his hand, why and for what purpose an adjournment took place or became neces
sary in his opinion. (R. S. O., 1877, c. 196, s. 10.)
EXPLOSIVES REGULATIONS OF GUELPH.
[InclosreKo.2.]
It shall be unlawful for any person to have or keep in any house, storehouse, shed,
or premises, situated within the following limits, that is to say : Commencing at
the junction of Norfolk street and the Grand Trunk Railway ; thence up the cen
ter of Norfolk street to its junction with Woolwich street; thence down the center
of Woolwich street to the Grand Trunk Railway ; thence along said railway to tho
place of beginningany greater quantity than 10 barrels of petroleum, coal oil, or
turpentine, or their products, or 1 barrel of benzine.
It shall bo unlawful for any person to keep, store, or have in his premises a
quantity of gunpowder or blasting powder, greater than 25 pounds weight; and
no person shall keep or have gunpowder for sale, except in boxes of copper, tin,
or lead.
All dealers in gunpowder or blasting powder in quantities greater than 25 pounds
weight are required to keep and store the same in some safe building distant from
others, the said building to be approved of by tho firo, water, and gas committee of
the city council, or a majority of them, with the chairman thereof.
BUILDING REGULATIONS OF GUELPH.

[Inclosure No. 3.]
No person shall erect any wooden building or enlargement or addition thereto

within the part of the city of Guelph hereiu specified, that is to say: Commencing
at the point where tho bridge of the Grand Trunk Railway crosses the river Speed;
thence west along tho lino of the said Grand Trunk Railway to Dublin street ; thence
along Dublin street north to its intersection with Norwich street ; thence along Nor
wich street to the bed of the river Speed; thence south along the river Speed to the
Grand Trunk Railway bridge, the place of beginning.
400
The erection or placing of buildings or any enlargements or addition or additions

thereto, other than with main walls of brick, iron, or stone, or concrete, and roofing
of incombustible material, within the said specified part or area of the said city is
hereby prohibited; and any person who shall erect or place any building or addition
thereto other than with main walls of brick, iron, or stone, and roofed with incom
bustible material, within the said part or area of the city of Guelph hereinbefore
specified shall be liable to and incur the penalty hereinafter mentioned.
Any removal of a wooden frame building shall be considered a rerection or plac
ing, subject to the terms of this by-law ; and the removal of any wooden frame build
ing from without the limits defined by this by-law to within said limits shall be
considered an erection or placing, and shall subject the person to the penalties of
this by-law.
Upon any conviction for a breach of the provisions contained in sections 61, 62, or
63 of this by-law, the convicting magistrate, beside imposing a penalty, shall order
the defendant to remove or pull down the building, enlargement, or addition in
question.
In case the building, enlargement, or addition in question be not removed by the
day so named as aforesaid by the convicting magistrate, it shall be lawful for and
shall be the duty of the chief constable, acting on behalf of the corporation, forth
with to pull down or remove the same without further or any notice to the defend
ants, and the said building or enlargement or addition shall be pulled down at the
expense of the defendant.
An account of the expense of so pulling down or removing any such building or
erection, when done by or at the instance of the said chief constable or other person
acting on behalf of this corporation, in default of the owner thereof so pulling
down or removing as aforesaid, shall be prepared and rendered to the said owner;
and in default of payment thereof on demand, the said chief constable or other per
son aforesaid shall proceed in the name of tho said corporation to recover the ex
pense of the said pulling down or removal, with costs, by action or distress, and the
amount of such expense when so recovered shall be paid over to the city treasurer
for the use of the municipality.
The said chief constable or other person aforesaid shall deliver a duplicate copy
of every such account to the treasurer of the city of Guelph, who is hereby author
ized to pay the same.
It is hereby dclarai that any building roofed with slate, metal, tile, fireproof com
position, or with shingles laid in good haired mortar spread at least half an inch thick
npon good sound roofing boards elosely joined, shall be deemed to be roofed with
incombustible material, within the meaning of this by-law, and shall be permitted
within the specified parts or areas of tho said city.
The following manufactures or trades being deemed dangerous in causing or pro
moting fires, shall not, after the passing of this by-law, be established, instituted, or
carried on within the limits described in the sixty-first section of this by-law: That
is, no soap or candle factory, ashery, tannery, gas, glass, or coal-oil works, planing
mill, lumber yard, or wood yard. After any conviction for any offense against the
provisions of this section, tho continuing to carry on the manufacture or trade
respecting which the conviction took place shall constitute a fresh offense, subject
to a further or repeated conviction and penalty until the matter complained of is
removed.
No steam engine, boiler, or furnace shall be constructed and set up in any building
now erected, or which may be hereafter erected within the aforesaid limits, except
in a building erected of brick, stone, or iron, roofed with incombustible material as
aforesaid, nor without a permit in writing signed by the city clerk; and every fur
nace erected or to be erected in said buildings shall have a good and sufficient chim
ney at least 40 feet high from the floor of the boiler, built of brick, stone, or iron,
with a good safe wire screen on the top thereof. After any conviction of any offense
401
against the provisions of this section, the neglect to comply with the provisions of
this section within ten days after conviction shall constitute a fresh offense, subject
to a further or repeated conviction and penalty until the matter complained of is
removed.
No steam engine or boiler hereafter to be erected in the city of Guelph shall be
used until the same has been inspected and the construction thereof approved as
hereinafter provided; and every such steam engine, together with all those now in
use in the city, shall be subject to inspection once a year.
No stovepipe shall project through the side or roof of any building, unless such
building be entirely isolated or 100 feet from any other building.
It shall be the duty of the city inspector to carry out and enforce all the provi
sions contained in the twelve last preceding sections of this by-law.
The city council shall appoint, from time to time, some competent person who shall
be inspector of steam engines and boilers, and who shall inspect the construction of
all steam engines and boilers in use in the city of Guelph once every year, aud he
shall report the result of his inspection to the council aforesaid; and the person so to
be appointed and tho city inspector shall have authority to enter at all reasonable
times upon any property subject to the regulations of the council, in order to ascer
tain whether such regulations are obeyed, and to enforce and carry into effect the
same. Such inspector shall also examine all buildings in which it is proposed to
construct or sot up any steam engine, boiler, or furnace, and make his report to the
city clerk in writing, before any permit to construct or set up any such steam engine,
boiler, or furnace is granted, whether such buildings are fit and proper within the
terms of this by-law or not.
Whenever the inspector of steam engines and boilers shall report that any steam
engine or boiler may be dangerous in causing or promoting fire, and the council shall
approve of his report, the owner of such steam engine and boiler or the occupant of
the premises on which they are shall, upon notice from the said council, cause them
forthwith to be removed.
After any conviction for any offense against the provisions of the seventy-first, seventy-second, or seventy-fifth sections hereof, or any of them, the neglect to comply
with the provisions of the same shall constitute a fresh offense, subject to a further or
repeated conviction and penalty until the matter complained of is removed.
M O R R IS B U R G .
R EPORT B T COMMERCIAL AGENT SCHOFIELD.
1. Name of town, Morrisburg.

3. Area of town limits, 1,100 acres.
4. Houses of brick or stone, 600.
5. One-eighth are wood.
7. None in the year.
8. One in a storehouse.
9. Total value of property involved, $16,600.
11. Total insurance, $6,500.
12. Insurance loss, $6,500.
13. Fires confined to floors in which they originated, 1.
17. Good fire appliances in each ward.
146a --- 26
402
18. Water power, good engines; water taken from river St. Law
rence.
19. The law gives coroner power to investigate fires when requested.
20. No incendiary fire during year.
21. Only 1 barrel of coal oil allowed in the building where retailed
at a time; all extra kept in outhouse.
22. No building of wood allowed to be put up on main or business
streets. Coal oil used for lights. Coal and wood for fuel.
W . A . S c h o f ie l d ,
Commercial Agent.
Morrisburg, February, 1892.
K IN G S T O N , C A N A D A .
REPORT B Y CONSUL TWITGHELL.
I have the honor to submit the following lire statistics for the city of
Kingston for the year 1890, for which I am indebted to the kindness of
Edward Horsey, chief of police and late chief of the fire department.
Name of city, Kingston, Canada.
Population, 20,000.
Area, 1,713 acres.
Number of brick and stone buildings, 1,746.
Number of wooden buildings, 2,888.
Fires in brick and stone buildings, 27.
Fires in frame buildings, 30.
Value of property involved, $227,475.
Total loss, $19,500.
Total insurance, $149,500.
Total insurance loss thereon, settlements are generally made pri
vately, and the amounts paid are unknown.
Fires confined to floor in which they originated, 11.
Fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 45.
Number of fires extending to adjoining property, 1.
Number of conflagrations, none.
Fire department is a paid department of ten men with complete mod
ern apparatus.
Water supply consists of water works pumping into a stand pipe,
pressure 75 pounds to the square inch, capacity 4,000,000 gallons per
day. In many portions of the city the hose may be attached to the
hydrant at the street corners and the pressure will throw the water to
the highest buildings. A man is detailed from the police force to in
vestigate all fires.
Number of incendiary fires, none.
CONTINENT OP AMERICA---- CANADA.
403
KINGSTON BUILDING AND EXPLOSIVE REGULATIONS.

FIRE LIMITS AND WOODEN BUILDINGS.
330. No wooden buildings of any kind or for any use or purpose shall be begun,
carried on, erected, or put or placed in any part of the city lying within the follow
ing limits, which shall bo the fire limits of the city, that is to say: Commencing at tho
foot of Barrio street, thence northerly along Barrie street to Ordnance street, thence
easterly down Ordnance street to Eodeau street, thence northerly to Bay street,
thence easterly down Bay street to tho waters of tlie harbor; tlience along Emily
street to King street, thence southerly along King street to the place of beginning;
and no wooden addition shall be made to any wooden building now' being anywhere
within the said limits, and no buildings shall be begun, carried on, erected, or placed
within the said limits having other than main walls of brick, iron, or stone, and
roofing of incombustible materials or shingles laid in mortar, except as hereinafter
is excepted: Provided always, That wooden buildings sheltered and roofed with
metal may be erected on water lots where a sufficient foundation can not be had
for a stone or brick building; and also that it shall bo lawful to erect substantial
wooden buildings, roofed with incombustible material or shingles laid in mortar,
uoh buildings to be roughcast in a careful and substantial manner, in any part of
the said city, within what is called the fire limits of tho said city, except on the
lots or properties fronting on tho following named streets,viz : (1) Princess street,
from the waters edge to Barrie street ; (2) King street, from the Place DHimes to
Barrie street ; (3) Ontario street ; (4) Clarence street ; (5) Brock street, from the waters
edge to Barrio street ; (6) Queen street, from tho waters edge to Barrie street.
331. Provided f urther, That no such wooden or roughcast buildings which may be
erected after the passing of this by-law shall be built within a less distance than 3
feet of any other building unless there be a fire-guard wall of brick, not less than 9
inches thick, or if of stone, not less than 16 inches thick, to extend from the founda
tion up and 1 foot 3 inches above tho roofs of said buildings, and provided also that
no wooden or roughcast building shall bo erected within 66 feet in tho rear of or
behind buildings in streets or part of streets in which the erection of such wooden
buildings is prohibited by this by-law.
332. Nothing in this by-law contained shall have, nor shall the passing of this by
law have, the effect of legalizing the erection of any wooden bnilding or wooden
addition thereto, which may have been heretofore erected contrary to any by-law of
the aid city.
333. All wooden or roughcast buildings or additions to buildings which have been
at any time heretofore erected, begun, carried on, put, or placed contrary to any by
law or by-laws heretofore in force, or which may hereafter be begun, carried on, put,
placed, or erected contrary to this by-law shall or may be pulled down or removed
by this council at the expense of the owner thereof: Provided, That such owner shall,
before any uch building or additions thereto shall be pulled down or removed, re
ceive two weeks notice in writing of the intention of this council to pull down or
remove such building or addition in default of his doing so, which notice may bo left
at the owners residence or place of business, or if such owner is not a resident in tho
said city the notico may be left at the residence or place of business of his agent, if
he lias one, or with the occupant of such building, or may be mailed to the owners
address, if known, and if tho owner is not a resident in tho said city and has no
agent in the said city, and if hie address is not known and the building is unoccupied,
then such notice may be fastened to tho building or addition to be pulled down or
removed, and it hall be the duty of such owner to pull down or remove such build
ing or addition within said two weeks, and ho shall do o accordingly, and if on tho
expiration of ueli notice the building or addition has not been pulled down or re
moved, then it may be forthwith pulled down or removed at the expense of the
owner by this council, which expense may be recovered a provided by law.
404
334. Tho moaning of tho term rough-cast houses :n tho preceding sections of thij
by-law used is houses rough cast all around on each side and each end on the outside,
except the roof, and all such rongh-cast buildings as are authorized by this by-law
shall be completed within thi'ce months from tho commencement thereof, respectively.
335. It shall not bo lawful for any person to begin, carry on, put, place, or erect oi
rercct any wooden building or wooden addition to any building within the limitB
in section 330 of this by-law mentioned, contrary to the provisions of this by-law,
and any person so doing shall be deemed to be guilty of a breach of this by-law, and
shall bo liable to tho penalties heroin provided.
336. Any removal or enlargement of any such wooden building or addition shall be
considered a rerection within the terms of this by-law, and any repairs to any
building which it will be necessary to execute to the extent of one-half of the whole
value of such building shall bo considered a rerection thereof within tho tenus of
this by-law: Provided, That such wooden buildings or additions may bo removed out
side of the said fire limits upon obtaining permission from this council for the pur
pose.
PETROLEUM AND OTHER ILLUMINATING OILS AND FLUIDS.
337. It shall not be lawful after tho passing of this by-law to keep in that part of
the city of Kingston lying south of a lino parallel and 100 feet south of Cataraqui
street and west of Montreal street, petroleum, coal oil, benzoine, benzole, naphtha,
spirits of turpentine, paraffin oil, gasolemn, or any fluid compounded of any of the
foregoing substances, or dangerously combustible, in any greater quantity or other
wise than is hereby provided, namely : (1) Of petroleum or coal oil not more than 5
barrels in anyone place or establishment; (2) of benzoine, benzole, naphtha, paraffin
oil, o r gnsolo in not inovo than 2 barrels in any one place or establishment ; (3) Of any
fluid containing any of tho above fluids, or dangerously combustible, not more than
2 barrels in any one place or establishment.
Provided, That no person shall keep in any one place or establishment in the afore
said part of the city more than 5 barrels altogether of all the above fluids at onetime.
338. It shall be lawful to keep and store the above fluids in the part of tho city
which lies north of a lino 100 foot south of Cataraqui street, west of tho Great River
Cataraqui, and east of Montreal street, with limitation of quantity.
POWDER MAGAZINE.
339. A safe and properly constructed powder magazine shall be provided in the
city for the storing of gunpowder belonging to merchants, dealers, and other private
parties in the city who are used to having quantities of gunpowder in their posses
sion from time to time for sale or use or otherwise1.
340. The powder magazine now in use and situated on the property of John Duff,
esq., on lot No. 1, west side of the Groat liiver Cataraqui, shall be, and the sanio is
hereby, constituted, declared, and appointed to bo tho city powder magazine of and
for the city of Kingston for the storing of all gunpowder (excepting the quantity
hereinafter mentioned) belonging to or being in the possession of merchants, dealers,
and other private parties dealing in or using or being possessed of tho same in the city
of Kingston ; and all such gunpowder (except as hereinafter provided) shall be by the
said persons removed to and duly and safely stored in the said magazine within
twelve hours after its arrival in tho city, under and according to the provisions con
tained in this by-law respecting the same ; and from the time this by-law comes into
force and takes effect no gunpowder shall be stored or kept (except as hereinafter
provided) within tho limits of the city of Kingston elsewhere than in tho said maga
zine so provided for tho storage of tho same as aforesaid, and all gunpowder here-
CONTINENT OP AMERICA CANADA.
405
ffcer imported into the city of Kingston, except it is to be forwarded or shipped elserhere, shall within twelve hours of its arrival be stored in the said magazine in the
riginal package.
341. Each merchant, dealer, and person aforesaid may, for storing his gunpowder,
n application to the city couucil, obtain one of the rooms, divisions, or compart
ments provided in the said magazine for the purpose, and shall in such case receive
,nd keep the key of the same, and shall pay for the same an animal fee of $15 to
he city treasurer upon his obtaining such room, division, or compartment, and no
irson shall store or allow to be stored in his room, division, or compartment in the
aid magazine gunpowder which belongs to any other person.
342. It shall not be lawful for any other shipper, carrier, or forwarder to keep
;unpowder, received for delivery or transshipment, on his premises or in his vessels
ying thereat, in any greater quantity than is hereinafter mentioned, for more than
welve hours before delivering the same or dispatching the same to its destination;
tnd if the same can not be so delivered or dispatched within twelve hours of its
eceipt, it shall be removed to and stored by such shipper, carrier, or forwarder, in
)he said magazine, and a fee of 5 cents per original package per week shall be paid
>y him for the storage thereof.
343. The key of the said magazine shall be kept by such person as the consul may
point residing near the magazine, and said key may be obtained by persons having
gunpowder stored in the said magazine, or their clerks or employs, at all times be
tween 9 oclock in the forenoon and 4 oclock in the afternoon, after which hour it
>hall not be opened until the next day, and said key shall be returned to the said
:aretaker or person aforesaid by the person using the same immediately after he is
lone with using it.
344. No person shall use any candle, lamp, taper, matches, or other lights, or shall
smoke in the said magazine, nor shall any person light or place any fire therein, nor
shall any person enter or be therein wearing boots or shoes with iron nails therein,
*nd the said caretaker or person aforesaid shall each time the said magazine has
been opened ee that the same has been securely locked up, and shall also prevent
the accumulation or the placing of any combustible materials or the placing, carry
ing or lighting, of any fire dangerously near to the said magazine.
345. The said caretaker or person keeping the key of the said magazine shall re
ceive from the city $25 per annum for his services.
346. No person shall keep or allow to be kept in or upon hie property or in or npon
the property he occupies within the said city a greater quantity of gunpowder at
any one time than 75 pounds and said quantity of gunpowder shall be kept covered
in metallic case or box capable of being shut up close, having a strong handle on
Bach side, and labeled gunpowder, and placed on the ground floor not more than
10 feet distant from the street door and at least 20 feet distant from any fire or stove;
and no person shall carry or use a naked light within 6 feet of any gunpowder so
kept.
347. It shall be the duty of the high bailiff to visit and inspect all places where
gunpowder is sold or kept in quantities greater than a pound weight or for other
purposes than the private use of the possessor, at least once in every month, to see
that the provisions of this by-law relating to the gunpowder are observed and that
they are enforced, and that persons offending against them be prosecuted.
348. The corporation of the city of Kingston shall not incur any responsibility or
be liable in any way for any loss occasioned by the theft of the gunpowder which
may be stored in the said magazine or its destruction by fire or otherwise, or for any
loss occasioned by the carelessness or improper conduct or negligence of the persons
entering the said magazine to fetch gunpowder for its owners, or to store, examine,
or look after said gunpowder, or by the negligence of the caretaker; and each perBon so storing gunpowder in said magazine shall before getting the privilege to do
bo sign an agreement to the effect of this section.
406
849. No person shall keep for his private use, or otherwise than for sale, more than
10 pounds of gunpowder.
Insurance companies now place Kingston in Class A.

M. H. T w it c h e l l ,
Consul.
Kingston, Ontario, January 8 ,1892.
L O N D O N , O N T A R IO .
REPORT B T CONSUL LEON AR D *
1. Name of city, London, Ontario, Canada.

4. Number of brick or stone buildings, estimated at 4,000.
5. Number of wooden buildings, estimated at 3,500.
G. Alarms of all kinds, 124.
7. Fires in brick buildings, 59.
8. Fires in frame buildings, 41. Actual fires, 84, from which more or
less damage resulted. Chimney fires, no damage, 28. False alarms, 8,
and tests, 4.
9. Total value of property involved, $850,000.
10. Total loss tliereon, $G0,000.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, $5G,944.
13. Number of fires confined to floors in which they originated, 80.
15. Number of fires which extended to adjoining property, 15.
IG. Conflagrations, none.
17. The fire department is a full-paid one and consists of 1 chief of
department, 1 assistant chief, 2 station foremen, and 15 men ; 3 fire
stations, fully equipped ; 3 hose wagons, 1 spare hose carriage, one
hook and ladder truck, 8 horses, hanging harness, and electric door
openers in all the stations; 4,000 feet good 2-inch hose, 47 street firealarm boxes. No steam fire engines are used nor are any owned or kept
by the city. Our street hydrants give us an average pressure of about
70 pounds per square inch.
18. Water pumped from springs to reservoir 280 feet above pumping
station ; gravitation from reservoir to city, adistance of 3miles. Direct
pumping can be substituted, if necessary ; 2 Worthington hydraulic
pumps ; capacity 2,000,000 gallons per day. 1 Killey steam pump, same
capacity; used as an alternative or a reserve pump principally.
Average pressure in city, 70 pounds; 367 hydrants, on 6 and 8 inch
mains.
The supply of water is ample and the very purest spring water.
* Consul Leonard desires to thank Mr. John A. Roe, chief of tho fire department,
for the most of the statistics contained in this report.
407
EXPLOSIVES ,ND BUILDING REGULATIONS.
No person shall erect within the fire limits a wooden huilding or any addition to
a wooden building, or erect or place within the fire limits any building other than
with main walls of brick, iron, or stone, and roofing of incombustible material or
shingles laid in mortar.
The inspector of buildings may, under the direction of the mayor, police magis
trate, or chairman of the fire, water, and gas committee, pull down or remove, at
the expense of tho owner thereof, any building or erection which may be constructed
or placed in contravention of this by-law.
Every person who constructs or erects any building within the city shall make the
party walls, if of brick, not less than 1 foot thick in tho clear, and if of stone, not
less than 16 inches thick in the clear, and shall arrange the joists so as to prevent their
communicating fire through the wall, by so placing them that the joist holes shall
not extend more than half way through the wall or correspond with, but be at least
4 inches in the clear from the joists in the other half of the wall, and shall continne
the wall above the roof to the height of not less than 18 inches of the same materials
and thickness, and terminate it with a proper coping.
The owner, and in case of his default the occupant, of every bnilding within the
city more than one story in height shall make or cause to be made a scuttle through
the roof of such building and a convenient stairway leading to the same, or shall
have appended to such building a good and sufficient ladder of sufficient length to
reach the roof and a good and sufficient ladder of sufficient length to reach tho top
of the chimney thereof.
Every chimney or flue built or constructed within the city shall be built of brick,
stone, or other incombustible material, and the walls thereof shall be not less than
5 inches in thickness, exclusive of plastering, and shall be well and sufficiently
plastered, and every such chimney shall rise at least 3 feet above the ridge of the
house or building in which the same shall be, and every such chimney or flue, if
built in circular form, shall be not less than 12 inches in diameter, and if of oval
form not less than 9 inches by 16 inches, and every such chimney or flue shall be so
constructed as to admit of its being scraped, brushed, or cleansed.
No person shall build or construct within the city any chimney or flue otherwise
than in accordance with the provisions of the next preceding section of this by-law ;
and no person shall use within the city any chimney or flue constructed or built
otherwise than in accordance with such provisions.
No person shall within the city construct or use any chimney, fine, fireplace, stove
oven, boiler, or other apparatus or thing which may be dangerous in causing or
promoting fire ; and it shall be the duty of the owner or person using the same, or
occupying the house, room, building, or place in which the same is or are contained,
after receiving notice in writing from the inspector of buildings, under the authority
of the mayor, police magistrate, or chairman of the fire, water, and gas committee
that the same is or are dangerous as aforesaid, forthwith to discontinue using the
same, and if required so to do by the said inspector within a reasonable time there
after to remove tho same.
The pipe of every stove, chimney, or fireplace within the city shall be conducted
into a chimney of stone, brick, or other incombustible material, and in all cases where
a stovepipe passes through the woodwork of a building within the city it shall be
separated from such woodwork at least 3 inches by metal or other incombustible
material, and all pipes from stoves or fireplaces over 15 feet in length shall be riv
eted at each joint, and when necessary for safety supported and stayed by wires,
and no person shall within the city use any pipe or stovepipe which is not put p in
accordance with the provisions of this section.
No occupant or other person in possession or charge of any house or building
within the city hall permit any tovepipe-hole in the chimney of each house or
408
FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN lOREIGN COUNTRIES.
building while tlie same isnot in actual use toremain open, but shall cause the same
to be closed with a stopper of metal or other incombustible material.
The occupant or other person in possession or charge of any house or building
within the city, or of any room or place therein where a stove is used, shall have,
place, and keep under such stove hearth or pan of brick or metal or other incom
bustible material, and the bottom of such stove shall not be less than 8 inches from
uch hearth or pan. and tlie sides or ends thereof not less than 18 inches from any
wooden partition, and the pipes of such stove shall not be placed within 12 inches
of the ceiling or of any wooden partition, and where any such stove is used to heat
more than one room or place, by being built into any wall or partition, the space
around iton the top and sides to the distance of at least 9 inches shall be filled up
with bricks and mortar, stone, sheet iron, or other incombustible material.
No person shall set on fire or burn in the open air within the city stumps, wood,
logs, trees, brush, straw, shavings, or refuse without some person being in charge of
the fireto prevent its spreading or doing damage.
No person shall make or kindle a fire, or furnish materials for a fireto be made or
kindled in any street, alley, or vacant place within t,liecity: Provided,always,That
this section shall not apply to fires made by tinsmiths, plumbers, and other mechan
ics in pursuing a business which requires the use ofa fire made for boiling tar,pitch,
or oilto be used in tlie construction or repair of a buildingor vessel; but all such
firesshall be made in some crate or vessel,so that the same shall not emit sparks or
otherwise endanger surrounding property.
No person shall, within the city place, keep or depositashes inwooden recptacles,
or within 25 feet of a house or building, unless the same are contained in some safe
depository constructed of brick, stone, or other incombustible material.
No person shall carry firoor live coals inor through any street, alley,or lot within
the city, unless the same are placed in a covered metal pan or vessel.
No person shall use a lighted candle or lamp in any stable, building, or place
within the city, where hay, straw, hemp, cotton, flax, rushes, gunpowder, or other
combustible materials shall be stored or kept or may be, unless the same is well seured in a lantern.
No person shall smoke or have in his possession any lighted cigar or pipe in any
stable, carpenter or cabinetmakers workshop, or other shop, building, or place
within thecity, where straw, shavings, or other combustible material may be.
No person shall use or occupy within the city any building or p la c e for the manu
facture ofturpentine, refined petroleum oilor kerosene, paraffin, benzine, camphene,
fireworks, or other dangerous or easily inflammable or explosive substances, or for
the storage of fireworks of any description whatever.
No person shall have, put, orkeep hay, straw, cotton, hem]), or wood shavings in
stack or pile within the city without securely inclosing the same, so as to protect
them from flying sparks.
No person shall bum or place in any stove, grate, or furnace, or use in lighting or
kindling firesin any dwelling-house, shop, or other building within the city, refined
petroleum oil, kerosene, gasoline, benzine, naphtha, or otherhighly explosive or in
flammable substances: Provided,always,That nothing herein contained shall prevent
the use oftar burners or of stoves especially constructed for consuming oil.
No person shall keep or have in any house or place within the city, at any one
time, more than 10 pounds ofgunpowder, unless the same iskept in a magazine tobe
approved of by the fire, water, and gas committee, and all gunpowder under the
saidquantitywhich iskept on hand by any person within the cityshallbe deposited
in a firepoof box or safe, and no person shall take a lighted candle, lantern, lamp,
or light or fire ofany description near the same.
No person shall carry or transport, or cause to be carried or transported, or assist
in carrying or transporting, gunpowder or othercombustible or dangerous materials
through the city, or from one place to another therein, unless the same shall be con-
409
bained in casks secured l>y good canva,s tow cloth, leather bags or metal covered
boxes or chests.
No person shall have or keep a lumber yard within the city whereat the buying or
selling of lumber or timber is carried on, or whereat lumber or timber is stored, un
less such yard shall bo inclosed with a good and substantial fence, at least 6 feet in
height.
Any member of the police force, upon the written authority of the mayor, police
magistrate, or chairman of the fire, water, and gas committee, and the inspector of
buildings may, at .my time between the hours of 9 o'clock in the forenoon and 6
oclock in the, afternoon, enter into and upon any house, building, or place within the.
city for the purpose of examining tho same, in order that lie may ascertain whether
the provisions of the by-laws of the city for preventing fires are observed, and no
person shall obstruct the said inspector or any member of the police force in making
Biich examination, or refuse hitn, or prevent him having access to such house, build
ing, or place for tho purpose aforesaid.
A . G. L e o n a r d ,
Commercial Agent.
U n it e d S tatics C o m m e r c ia l A
gency,
London, Ontario, December 18, 1891.
OTTAW A.
R EPORT B Y CONSUL-GENERAL L A Y .
1. Name of city, Ottawa.

4. Number of brick buildings, ,753; stone, 373.
5. Number of wooden buildings, 5,134; not specified, 70.
6. Number of alarms: 1890,198; 1889, 204; 1888, 170.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, no record.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, no record.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, no record.
10. Total loss thereon, $120,761.55, in 1890.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, no record.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, no
record.
no record.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, no record.
property, no record.
17. The fire department consists of 1 chief, 1 deputy chief, 34 paid
men, 15 horses, 1 large hose wagon, 7 hose reels, 1 large steamer, 1 ex
tension ladder (75 feet), 1 hook and ladder truck, 10,500 feet of hose.
18. Water power, direct pumping into mains capable of furnishing
15,000,000 gallons per day; pressure, 60 to 120.
410
19. On application of parties interested and guaranty for cost the

corporation can order an investigation, either as to cause of fire or the
management of same, before a county judge.
21. The following are the regulations for the storage and sale of oils,
explosives, and fireworks:
No person shall liavo or keep any quantity of gunpowder, dynamite, or any other
combustible material, exceeding 25 pounds, in any one place, except in such powder
magazines as may be approved of by the said council.
No person shall smoke or have in his or lier possession any lighted pipe or cigar
in any stable, carpenter or cabinetmakers shop, or other shop, building, or place
within the city, where straw, shavings, or other combustible material may be, or
carry or keep, or suffer to be carried or kept, any lighted lamp in any livery or other
stable within the said city, unless such lamp or candle shall be inclosed in a lantern
or shade, so as to prevent any accident from lire therefrom.
No person shall carry or transport, or cause to be carried or transported, or assist
in carrying or transporting, gunpowder or other combustible or dangerous material
through the city, or from one place to another therein, unless tho same shall be con
tained in casks secured by good canvas, tow cloth, leather bags, or metal-covered
boxes or chests.
No person shall keep any larger quantity than 5 barrels of rock oil, coal oil, water
oil, or of any other such oils, nor any larger quanty than 1 barrel of crude oil, burn
ing fluid, naphtha, benzole, benzine, or other similar combustibles or other dangerous
materials at any onetime in any house, shop, or building, or in any other place what
soever within the limits of the city of Ottawa, without the permission of the council
of the said corporation, nor shall any person permit any of the before-mentioned
fluids to flow into any drain or sewer of the said city.
All buildings in the said city used or to be used for the purpose of keeping or stor
ing rock oil, coal oil, water oil, or other such oils shall be isolated or detached at
least 25 feet from any other building, but high-grade refined petroleum, the flash
test of which is not lower than 95 Government standard, and the property of bona
fide wholesale distributing firms, may be stored in any building constructed accord
ing to tlie provisions of this by-law applicable to lire limit A hereinbefore men
tioned; and when such buildings are used for tho storing of burning-fluid, crude
oil, naphtha, benzole, benzine, or other similar or dangerous materials, they shall be
isolated and detached at least 100 feet from all other buildings, and all such buildings
shall be constructed fireproof, with tlie exception hereinbefore mentioned, and so
as to ensure a thorough ventilation thereof at all times.
No fire shall be taken, lighted, or used within the said last-mentioned storage
buildings, either for heat, light, or for any other purpose whatever.
Every person desiring to keep or store in the manner provided by section 56 of
this by-law any of the fluids mentioned in the said section, and every person desir
ous to keep or store, for the purpose of sale, any of the fluids mentioned in the said
section shall make a written application to the standing committee on fire and light
for permission so to do, and shall state in such application the storehouse, shop,
building, or place in which he desires to keep or store the said fluids, or any of them;
and it shall be the duty of the chief of the fire department upon any application
being made, or at any other time if required so to do, to examine the premises and
report to the said committee thereon; and upon such report the said committee shall
take action, and grant or refuse permission as to them may seem fit, subject, how
ever, to the approval of the council.
No person shall use or occupy within the city any building or place for the manu
facture of turpentine, refined petroleum oil or kerosene, paraffin, benzine, cam-
411
phene, fireworks, or other dangerous or easily inflammable or explosive substances,

or for tho storage of fireworks of any description whatever.
No person shall burn, or place in any stove, grate, or furnace, or use in lighting
or kindling fires in any dwelling house, shop, or other building within the city,
refined petroleum oil, kerosene, gasoline, benzine, naphtha, or other highly explo
sive or inflammable substances; provided always that nothing herein contained
shall prevent the use of gas-burners or of stoves specially constructed for consum
ing oil.
22. The following extracts from the code governing the erection of
buildings and prevention of fires cover the main points involved in
inquiry 22 :
It shall be the duty of every person intending to erect a building in the city of
Ottawa to deposit with the inspector of buildings in and for tho said city, before
commencing tho excavation for or tho erection of any such building, a ground or
rough block plan of such proposed building, drawn to a scale of 8 feet to an inch, and
showing the levels of the cellars and basements thereof with reference to the actual
grade or surface of the street on which the said building fronts or which is nearest
the site of the said building.
No person or persons shall erect or place, or assist in so doing, any building or
buildings, or any addition or additions to any new or existing building, other than
with main walls of brick, iron, or stone, and roofing of incombustible material, within
the following defined areas of the city of Ottawa, known as Limit A.
No building or any addition to any existing building shall be erected or placed on
old or new foundations, or on foundations partly new and partly old, unless the
same shall be built with main walls of brick, iron, or stone, and roofing of incombus
tible material, and no wall of any building two stories in height or upwards built of
brick, and no external or party walls shall be less than one and a half bricks in
thickness for the first story, one brick in thickness for the other stories thereof, or
less than 9 inches in actual measurement; and all brick walls shall be carried up on
the construction aforesaid to tho under side of the roof boards, whether front, rear,
or gable walls; and all gable or parapet walls surmounting roofs of buildings shall
be at least one brick or 9 inches in thickness, and shall be carried to the full
height of 1 foot 6 inches above the roof on a square therewith ; and such walls, if
built of stone, shall not be less than 18 inches in thickness, carried up at their full
thickness to the under side of the roof boards, whether front, rear, or gable walls;
and all gable or parapet walls surmounting roofs of buildings, if built of stone, shall
not be less than 16 inches in thickness, and shall be carried up to the full height of
1 foot and 6 inches above tlio roof on a square line therewith, and all the exterior
walls of sheds abutting on lanes or passages other than streets, shall be constructed
of brick or stone not less than 9 inches in thickness. All buildings erected in ter
races or rows must have one brick division wall to at least every 30 feet in length of
frontage, and said division walls must be equal in thickness to that required for
outer walls; these division walls shall be carried 18 inches above the roof as before
mentioned. The division walls in all semidetached houses must be carried up close
and flush to roof boards to divide each separate tenement and go through the roof
every second tenement with parapet walls.
All party walls shall be between houso and house, except in parts where each
house has independent walls. Party walls not being of sufficient thickness shall be
taken down when one or more of the adjoining houses require to be rebuilt. Ends
of timbers lying through old party walls shall be cut. off when new buildings are
erected against them. External walls shall not become party walls unless the same
have been previously erected in accordance with the provisions of this by-law. The
brickwork in all party walls and external walls shall be properly bonded in every
cae.
412
No timber shall hereafter be laid into any party arch, except for bond to the
same, nor into any party wall other than such templets, chains, and bond timbers as
5l1all be necessary for the same, and other than the ends of girders, beams, purlins,
binding or trimming joists, or other principal timbers, all of which timbers shall
have at least 8 inches of solid brickwork between tho ends and sides thereof and
the timber of any building adjoining thereto; and the ends of every girder, beam,
purlin, binding or trimming joist, and every other piece of principal timber, may be
laid beyond tho center of any party wall, providing that there be left 8 inches of
solid brick or stonework at the end of every such piece of timber, except in places
whore any part of the ends of any such timber shall lie opposite to and level with
any part of the ends of any timber of any adjoining building, in which case no part
of such timber shall approach nearer than 2 inches to the center of the said party
wall.
All roofs of buildings, roofs of lanterns, coverings of domes, spires, faits or towers,
platforms or deck roofs, or other coverings of old or new buildings, shall be finished
externally with tin, iron, zinc, copper, slate, tile, or felt and gravel, or with shingles
laid in hair mortar not less than one half of an inch in thickness, or with some
other material of an incombustible nature; and no roof of any building already
erected shall hereafter be relaid or recovered except with the materials before
enumerated.
No covered gallery or veranda, constructed or covered with timber or other com
bustible material, shall be erected in connection with any house, warehouse, or
other building on any other floor than tlie ground floor thereof, unless the same
shall be wholly covered with some incombustible material, enumerated in the next
preceding section of this by-law.
No window sills, dressings, string courses, eave troughs, cornices, or other details
or ornaments in anyway projecting from tho face of external walls, or surmounting
the same, shall be fixed to any such walls above the line of shop fronts of any build
ings, or surmount the party walls thereof; unless such details, dressings, or orna
ments shall be constructed of stone, brick, or iron, or shall be completely covered
with iron, tin, zinc, copper, or some other material of an incombustible nature.
All cranes and hoisting jibs projected from the face of any external wall of any
house, warehouse, storehouse, or other building above the ceiling line of the ground
floor, shall be constructed of iron or other incombustible material, or covered in
ternally or externally with incombustible material. Such crane or jib shall not
project over any street or lane.
Any removal or enlargement of any frame building shall be considered a reerection, and subject casioned by the cutting of any such party wall ; and building
which it will be necessary to execute to the extent of one-lialf of the whole value of
such building shall be considered a rerection thereof, subject to the terms of this
by-law.
Party arches or the shafts of any chimneys shall not be cut or maimed for any
purpose whatever ; nor shall any party wall be cut or maimed otherwise than for
the purpose and in the manner hereinafter mentionedthat is to say; when the front
or back wall of any house or building, being in a line with the front or back wall of
the house or building adjoining thereto, shall be built, it shall be lawful to cut or
break not less than 9 inches from the external face of such front or back wall, for
the purpose of inserting therein the end of such new front or back wall, but in no
case shall such breaks be cut more than 4 inches into the party wall ; and it shall
be lawful to cut into any party wall for the purpose of tailing in stone steps or stone
landings, or for timbers for bearers to Avood stairs, provided that no timber bearer
be laid into any party wall nearer than 9 inches to any chimney or flue whatever,
or than 8inchos to any timber of an adjoining house, and for tho purpose of lay
ing therein stone corbels for the support of chimney jambs, girders, beams, or
joists; and it shall be lawful to cut perpendicular recesses into any party wall for
the purpose of inserting walls and piers therein, provided no recess shall be more
CONTINENT OF AMERICA CANADA.
413
than 14 inches wide or more than 4 inches deep, and no such recess be more th in 10
feet to any other recess; but any person av1io shall cut into any party wall for any
of the purposes aforesaid shall immediately make good every defect according to the
terms of this by-law, and any repairs to any no party wall shall be cut for any of
tlio purposes aforesaid, tlio cutting wlioreof will injure, displace, or endanger tho
timbers, chimney flues, or internal finishings of any adjoining house or building.
Breast summers in all cases shall be carried on brick or stone walls or piers, or on
cast-iron columns seated on stone, and shall in no case be carried on story posts or
other timber supports; and when the ends of any breast summer shall approach tho
center line of any party wall nearer than -l inches, such ends shall be incased and
entirely surrounded in cast-iron shoes. Cast-iron column supporters of brick or ma
sonry walls must in no case exceed in height thirty times the diameter of said col
umn in buildings more than 30 feet in height.
No breast of any chimney shall bo supported by timber, excepting such piling or
planking as may be necessary in the foundations, and all timber shall be 8 inches at
least below the hearth. Chimneys back to back in party walls shall be in the chim
ney back at least one brick or 9 inches in thickness; chimney backs in party walls,
not being back to back with any other chimney, shall be at least 7 inches clear from
tho party line. The thickness above specified shall bo continued to a height of at
least 12 inches above the mantel in every case. All flues built in internal, external
or party walls shall bo surrounded by brickwork not less than 7 inches in thickness.
All partitions or widths between flues shall be at least half a brick in thickness,
and the breast and baek of every chimney, and every breast, back, and partition or
width of any flues, shall be parquetted within.
Chimney hearths shall in all cases be laid wholly on brick or stone, unless the same
bo in a collar or basement story, and be laid and bedded in solid earth ; and every
chimney shall have a slab or slabs, or foot pieces before the same, of stone, brick,
marble, iron, or cement at least 1 foot 6 inches broad and extending at least 6inches
beyond each end of every fireplace opening.
All hoists or elevators erected, constructed, built, or put up and maintained in any
store, shop, warehouse, hotel, or othor building, intended to bo used or in use for the
transfer, carnage, or elevation of goods, wares, merchandise, or passengers, shall be
constructed, erected, maintained, kept in good order and repair to the satisfaction
of the inspector of buildings, and shall be open at all reasonable times to bo inspected
by him.
For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this by-law the inspector of build
ings, or other person appointed to such duty, shall keep a record of all elevators and
hoists constructed and erected or hereafter to bo constructed or erected in the city
of Ottawa, and shall visit and inspect every such hoist and elevator at least once
every six months, and at all other times whenever his attention shall be callod to
tho same or any of them by tho mayor, police, magistrate, or any alderman of the
city.
It shall be the duty of any person proposing to construct or put into any building
any hoist or elevator to notify the said inspector of buildings ol such proposal and
intention before commencing any such construction, and to submit tho plans of every
such elevator or hoist for his inspection and approval, and the construction shall not
bo proceeded with until such approval is obtained.
Every elevator and hoist worked by steam, water, hand, or other power shall be
provided with a screen made of strong wire or iron, half inch mesh, securely fastened
to a l-inch by 6-inch wooden flange, placed as near as possible underneath the top
gearing of the said elevator or hoist, to be the full size of tho hoist or elevator, or
such other erection as shall afford tho protection that is contemplated, to tho satis
faction of the inspector of buildings, and every such hoist or elevator shall also be
provided with an iron safety catch or stop attached to the tray cage or platform.
Competent persons hall always be employed to take charge of and work any such
414
elevator and hoist, and no child nnder tho age of fourteen years shall take charge of
and work or bo employed or permitted by any other person to take charge of and
work any such elevator and hoist.
Evory chimney or Hue built or constructed within tho city shall bo built of brick,
stone, or other incombustible material, and tho walls thereof shall be not less than
5 inches in thickness exclusive of plastering, and shall be well and sufficiently plas
tered, and every such chimney shall rise at least 3 feet above the ridge of the house
or building in which the same shall be; and every such chimney or Hue, if built in
circular form, shall not be less than 12 inches in diameter, and if of oval form, not
loss than 9 inches by 16 inches ; and every chimney or lluo shall bo constructed so as
to admit of its being scraped, brushed, or cleansed.
No person shall build, construct, or place within the city any chimney or flue other
wise than in accordance with the provisions of the next preceding section of this
by-law; and no person shall use within the city any chimney or flue constructed,
built, or placed otherwise than in accordance with such provisions.
Every person owning or occupying any houso or building, or room therein, within
the city of Ottawa, in or attached to which there is a chimney or flue, or pipe used
as a chimney or flue, if the same has been in constant use during the year, shall cause
the same to be well and sufficiently swept and cleaned once in every six months at
least, and oftener if necessary, and if the same has not been in constant use during
tho year, shall cause tho same to be well and sufficiently swept and cleaned once in
every twelve months at least, and oftener if necessary.
No shop window or shop front of any building, in any street or highway of the
width of 66 feet or over, shall project at the plinth or stall board more than 6 inches
into or over the line of such street; and no shop window or shop front of any build
ing in any street or highway of a width less than 66 foot shall project more than 3
iiuvht*8 into or over the line o f such street; bay windows or other projections of a
similar nature, except such as are herein particularly mentioned, shall be built of
the same materials, and subject to the same regulations, as tho house or building to
which the same shall be attached.
No oavetrough, conductor, water pipe or gutter pipe shall be so built or constructed
as to cause the water from the roof of any building to escape upon, flow over or run
across or upon any sidewalk of any street in the city ; and the owner or occupant of
any house or building adjoining any street, lane, or highway within tho said city
shall not by means of a water spout or otherwise convey the water from the roof of
such house or building in or upon any sidewalk or footpath in the said city, and
should such owner or occupant use a water spout to convey the water from the roof
of any such house or building such water spout shall be water-tight and carried
into the building and connected with, a drain or sewer to carry off tho said water, or
the same shall be carried under the sidewalk or footpath by means of a tile or wooden
drain so that tho water passing through the same from the roof may empty into the
gutter or the outer edge of such sidewalk or footpath.
No person shall, without leave of the council, expressed by resolution, set up or
work any steam engine within the said city.
Any person who shall set up or work, erect, construct or build, or continue to use,
or cause or procure to be erected, constructed, built or continued, any such steam
engine, contrary to the true intent and meaning of this by-law, shall be subject to
the penalty hereinafter mentioned.
No timber shall be laid within 2 feet of the inside of any oven, copper still, boiler
or furnace; or within 9 inches of the opening of any chimney, or within 7 inches of
the inside of any flue.
No person shall hereafter place any stove in any house or building in the city with
out leaving 18 inches clear from any woodwork immediately above such stove, and
12 inches from any woodwork opposite the sides, unless the same is covered by a
zinc guard.
The doors of all buildings of a public character, already erected or hereafter built,
415
uch as public halls, churches, and places of amusement and instruction shall open
outward. Tho hall doorways, stairways, scats, and aisles shall be so arranged as to
facilitate egress in case of fire or accident ; and to afford the requisite accommoda
tion for the public protection in such case, all aisles and passageways in such build
ings shall be kept free from camp stools, chairs, sofas, and other obstructions during
the service, exhibition, lecture, performance, concert, ball, or other public assemblage.
Every public building hereafter erected and every building hereafter altered to be
used as a public building, in addition to all other provisions applicable to such
buildings, shall have at least ono frontage for its entire height of at least one entire
side of tlie auditorium and lobbies, passages and stairways for exit on that side on
a street, court, or open passageway 15 feet or more wide, and at least two-thirds of
tho entire width of exits and entrances shall open on to such street, court, or pas
sageway. Evory such building shall have the door, corridors, halls, lobbies, stair
ways, passages, and aisles, wide, direct, and so constructed and arranged as to afford
easy egress for tlie occupants under all circumstances ; and exits and entrances shall
have all doors open outwards, and of the full width of the passages from which they
open; and shall have the passages of exits and stairways at least 5 feet wide, and of
an aggregate capacity in width of not less than 20 inches for each one hundred per
sons that tho said building may at any time contain. This provision shall apply to
the exits from each division, gallery, or compartment of such building, as well as to
tho exterior opening. Every building shall have tho corridors, lobbies, stairways,
passages, and aisles of equal or increasing width toward tho exits, and without any
projection into them within 6 feet of the floors; shall have the halls, corridors, doors,
stairways, seats, and aisles so arranged as to facilitate egress ; and shall have all
pipes and apparatus used in heating or lighting, and all lights protected to the sat
isfaction of tho inspector; and shall have such fire service and apparatus for the
extinguishment of fire as the inspector may deem necessary. All exits from any
public building shall be opened for tho use of any departing audience.
All changes in lovel in the floors of public buildings, except regular stairways,
from story to story, and except the necessary steps in galleries and balconies rising
toward the exits, shall be made by incline of no steeper gradient than one in ten
within the auditorium, and rising toward the exits.
Tho ceilings immediately beneath tho floor of the auditorium lobbies, hall room,
galleries, soffits of staircases, landings, and corridors of public buildings shall be
protected by incombustible material.
All partitions of public buildings inclosing the stairways, lobbies, and corridors,
or separating them from the auditorium or anterooms, shall bo o f brick masonry, or
of heavy studding, brick nogged throughout, or otherwise made noncombustible.
All stairs and landings of public buildings shall have propor hand rails on both
sides, firmly secured to walls or to strong posts and balusters throughout their
entire length ; and wide stairways shall have one or more intermediate rails on strong
vertical supports.
The rise of stairs to public buildings shall not exceed 7inches, nor the tread be
less than 12 inches. No winders less than 7 inches wide at the narrowest end or
flight of less than three steps shall be introduced, and there shall be a full landing
to at least every fifteen steps.
No winders shall be allowed in theaters, churches, schools, or any building where
largo numbers of people assemble.
Every approach or exit to a public building, under or through any other building,
shall have solid brick walls, and the floors and ceilings shall be approved incom
bustible and fire-resisting materials, and there shall be no openings through aid
walls, floors, or ceilings.
The lights for the rear of the auditorium, and for all passages and stairways of
exit of every public building, shall be independent of the rest of the lights of the
auditorium and platform, and shall be so arranged that they can not be turned down
or off from the platform.
416
Every building hereafter built or altered to be used as a theater for dramatic,

operatic, or other similar performances, involving the use of a fixed stage, with
moveable or shifting scenery, curtains, and machinery, shall be a brick or stone
building, and in addition to all other provisions applicable to a public building shall
have the highest part of the main floor of the auditorium not more than 7 feot above
the sidewalk of tho open street, court, or passageway on which the main doors of
exit shall be located; and for each gallery or division above the ground floor shall
have independent stairways and exits therefrom, which hall be located as far apart
as practicable. The lobbies shall be separated from the. auditorium by brick or other
fire-resisting walls, and all tho doors from auditorium to lobbies and stairways shall
be of metal-covered wood and self-closing.
The stage of every theatre shall be separated from the auditorium by a brick wall
16 inches thick, or its equivalent, which wall shall extend tho entire width of the
building and from ground to roof, and from ground to stage floor, and be topped as
a party wall. There shall be no openings through this wall excopt the curtain open
ing, and not more than two others, to be located at or below the level of the stage.
These latter openings shall not exceed 21 superficial feet each and shall have metalcovered wood self-closing doors, securely hung to rabbets in the brickwork.
The wall over the curtain opening of every theater shall be carried by a brick arch,
or by an iron truss or girder, and if a truss or girder is ued it shall be covered with
material nonconductive of heat, and a girder shall be spanned by a sufficient reliev
ing arch of brick in cement.
Every theater shall have a ventilator to open automatically, in the roof over the
proscenium, in case of lire.
The finish or decorative features around the curtain opening of every theater shall
be of incombustible materials well secured to masonry.
There shall be at least two 2-inch standpipes attached to water mains on the stage
of every theater, with ample provision of hose and nozzles at each level of tho stage
on each side, and the water shall be kept turned on during tho occupancy of the
building. The said pipes shall have two valves, one above the other, with a proper
test or waste valve ; the lower valve shall be kept open at all times except when
testing the upper valve to ascertain if it is in order for use. The proscenium shall
be provided with a 2-inch perforated iron pipe, so constructed that in case of emer
gency it will form a complete wator curtain for the entire proscenium opening.
Such pipes shall be at all times ready for use. It shall be compulsory to have three
or more men in attendance during any performance who are competent to handle
the apparatus.
It shall be the duty of all officers, policemen, servants, workmen, and agents of the
corporation of the city of Ottawa, whenever required by the mayor, for the time
being, of the said city, to give all possible aid and assistance in his or their power, to
the inspector of buildings of the said city in the discharge of his duty under this by-law.
It shall be lawful for any police officer of the aid city and of the inspector of
buildings appointed under this by-law to enter at all reasonable times upon any
property subject to the regulations of this by-law, in order to ascertain whether
uch regulations are complied with, or to enforce or to carry into effect the same.
No person shall molest or obstruct or interfere with the said inspector of buildings,
police officers, or other persons acting in aid or assistance of such inspector or police
officers in the discharge of his or their duty under this by-law.
If tho inspector of buildings for the city of Ottawa shall, contrary to the provi
sions of this by-law, permit or willfully neglect or refuse to prevent the erection,
placing, repair, or alteration of any building, or any erection wholly or in part put
up, erected, repaired, or altered, or placed contrary to the provisions
R ic h a iid
U n it e d
St a t e s
G .
L a y ,
C o n s u l a t e -G e n e r a l ,
Ottawa, February, 1892.
Consul-General.
417
CONTINENT OF AMERICA CANADA.
P IC T O U , N O V A S C O T IA .
REPORT B Y CONSUL SPENCER.*
1. Name of town, Pictou, Nova Scotia.

3. Area of town limits, 2,000 acres.
9. Total value of property involved in fires, $50,000.
13. Number of fires confined to rooms in which they originated, 1.
16. Number of conflagrations, i. e., extending beyond adjoining prop
erty, 1.
17. Fire brigade: Two steamers, 1 hand engine, 6 hose carts, and 1
hood and ladder truck, with a force of 57 men.
18. Water from the harbor, that never fails.
19. No local provision for the investigation of fires other than the
general law of the province, which provides that evidence may be
taken before the recorder of any two members of the council, the evi
dence to be filed with the prothonotary of the supreme court.
20. One fire supposed to be incendiary, but no evidence obtained
sufficient to arrest.
21. No regulations exist for the storage and sale of explosives.
22. No laws or regulations in force; everybody builds as he pleases.
A lo n zo S p e n c e b ,
Consul.
Pictou, Nova Scotia, December 31, 1891.
SH ERBROOKE.
REPORT B T CONSUL WOOD.
1. Name of city, Sherbrooke.

3. Area of the city limits, 4 square miles
4. 5. About two-thirds of the business portion is built with brick,
the remainder wood.
146A---27
*Year 1890.
418
6. In 1890 there were 45 alarms.

7. Number of fires in brick buildings, 13.
9,10,11,12.
Am unable to obtain value of property involved in the
fires, or total loss. No record kept of total insurance or total insurance
loss.
13. All of the fires were confined to the floor in which they originated.
17,18. The inclosed circular describes the fire department and the
water supply.
19. No special provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire,
etc.
20. Incendiary fires, none.
21. There are no regulations for storage and sale of oil, etc.
22. There are no lawsr egulating building, construction, heating, light
ing, etc.
J. A . W o o d ,
Consul.
Sherbrooke, December 17, 1891.
[IncloBtire in Consul Woods report.)
SHERBROOKE.
INFORMATION FOR THE USE OF INSURANCE COMPANIES, AS REVISED DECEMBER,
1891.
Population, as por valuation roll for city purposes, 10,100.

Assessed value of real estate, including buildings, as computed for city purposes,
$2,561,708.
Character of buildings.Business part : Brick, wood, veneered stores and dwellings,
closely built both sides, on Wellington street, which is 50 feet wide, running north
and south ; on northeast corner, near the junction of rivers, large rough-cast building
used as a planing mill, sash and door and cabinet shop, with lumber yard attached;
on northwest comer mostly brick, with iron, slated, or gravel roofs ; all of this por
tion well protected with fire-signal stations and large water supply ; water works
average pressure about 100 pounds.
Manufacturing part.Well isolated from surrounding buildings, except Paton and
Lomas mills, which are close together. This portion also has good water supply, of
easy access by fire department; water works fair average pressure about 60 pounds,
with private alarms from each of the two above mentioned.
Suburbs.Detached dwellings: North, private residences; south, east, and west,
private residences and tenements ; the latter sections, mostly small buildings, aver
age brick and wood about one-fourth and three-fourths, respectively.
Character of business.County, market, and manufacturing city, to-wit: Two large
woolen mills, 1 carding mill, 2 breweries, 2 foundries, 3machine shops, 3 cabinet shops,
3 sash and door shops, 1 sawmill, planing mills, and a large number of minor in
dustries; also railway junction.
Water supply.Rivers St. Francis and Magog, the former lying north and south and
the latter east and west, emptying into the former near the middle of the city, with
places made where the fire engine can get at water ; also seven large cisterns or tanks,
419
holding an average of 30,000 gallons of water; some are self-filling, others have to
be pumped by means of stoamers or otherwise, and a pond near the corner of Pros
pect (formerly Beckett) road and Queen street, at the extreme north end if the city
proper.
Water works.New, completed within a few years by private company for general,
domestic, and fire purposes, supplied with two 10-inch water-power pumps in a
brick building totally isolated. Wator is pumped into a reservoir holding seven
days' average supply, 110 feet above the level of the Paton mill dam and about 230
feet above tho business portion of the city. Distribution by 8-inch pipe on Queen,
Montreal, and Commercial streets to south end of Lower Magog Bridge; thence on
Wellington street and a portion of King, 6-inch pipe; Market, Factory, and Belvidere streets, 4-inch, with a second supply pipe, 6-inch, from reservoir at the comer
of Factory and Belvidere streets. The above distribution supplies 62 hydrants of
the improved Matthews pattern. All are kept in good order, and have always been
found ready for use when required, under the immediate supervision of the super
intendent of the gas and water company, a careful and vigilant officer.
Central fire station.Brick bnilding near the center of the city, corner Market and
Grove streets, and used by the fire and police in common, under command of one
chief, who resides with his family in part of the building.
Steam fire engines.Two, one Merry weather, English, third class, two or more
streams, and 1 Silsby, American build, second class, three or more streams, both hav
ing steam attachments ; are now cold.
Hose.Four thousand one hundred and fifty feet of rubber and canvas, fully
reliable; 2,000 feet of rubber-lined linen; 650 feet of middling (I may say good)
kept in reserve.
Hook and ladder and salvage.In good order, fitted with all modem appliances and
improvements.
Brigade.Fire and police combined (paid force), chief, with 18 men ; 1 assistant
chief; 1 of permanent paid force is detailed for duty on tho main floor day and night.
Horses.Twenty-one all told, 11 of which stand for fire service, drilled every day,
Sundays excepted, and 10 do the city work on streets ; all under the control of the
fire department during the night and when required.
Fire-alarm telegraph.One hundred and seven signal boxes and 5 private, under
control of fire department, headquarters at fire station, with fire bell on station ;
two branch stations, being No. 2, western portion, No. 3, eastern portion.
QUEBEC.
REPORT B Y OONSUL RYD ER .
(Year ending April 31,1800.)

1. Name of city, Quebec, Canada.
3. City area, 1,800 square acres.
4. 5. Stone buildings 1,476, brick 3,339, wood 3,230; total, 8,045. In
addition to this number there are about 5,000 sheds and u liangards, as
they are called here, used for storing wood, coal, etc., and are considered
a necessary adjunct to every residence and business house; in most
cases these are detached.
420
7.
Number of fires, 56 in brick and stone buildings; 33 in wooden
buildings; 7 on steamboat; 1 on freight car.
9,10,11,12. The only record is in the possession of various fire com
panies, and the representatives seem unwilling to impart any informa
tion on these points.
13. Nearly every fire has been confined to floor in which it originated.
14. Every fire confined to building in which it originated.
15. None extended to adjoining buildings, and in the opinion of fire
marshal there will be none in future, owing to good supply of water and
an efficient fire brigade.
17. The fire department consists of 1 chief and 50 men. There are
seven fire stations, twenty-sixhorses, eight reels (500 feet hose each), and
one reserve reel in each station, with 500 feet hose each, two steam fire
engines, one fire-escape ladder, three hook and ladder trucks, one fireextinguisher wagon, with six Babcocks, two coal carts, and five cisterns
in different parts of the city, for the upper level, containing 500,000
gallons of water, and the St. Lawrence and St. Charles rivers for the
lower level. There is also a central district fire-alarm telegraph with
ninety-one boxes at convenient points.
18. The system of water supply is gravity, with a capacity of 13,000,000
gallons daily, and a pressure from 60 to 150 pounds to the square
inch, 400 fire hydrants, under immediate superintendence of the chief
of the fire department, who also has entire charge of the waterworks,
which is the property of the city.
19. Fire marshal or fire commissioners investigate causes of fires, and
provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism, etc.
20. There were no incendiary fires during the year past.
21. No person is allowed to keep on sale kerosene or other explosive
oils in any larger quantities than five barrels, and this must be in closed
reservoir of iron, and in an isolated building expressly adapted for the
purpose. The sale of fireworks, or their use, is strictly forbidden within
the city limits.
22. All building within the city limits of the city proper must be of
stone or brick, and covered with tin, sheet iron, or slate.
The terrible conflagrations which have visited this city, the last one
being in 1887, have been an expensive lesson to the inhabitants. Pre
vious to this time, in several sections of the city the buildings were of
wood, and joined each other. In the burnt district buildings of a more
substantial class have been erected, and the material stone and brick.
The city is lighted by electricity and gas. The former is in general use
in places of business and a large number of private houses.
F r e d e r ic k M. B y d e e ,
Consul.
Quebec, January 25, 1892.
421
ST. T H O M A S , O N T A R IO .
REPORT B Y CONSUL HUSHER.
1. Name of city, St. Thomas, Ontario.

2. Population, census 1891, 10,370; now about 10,500.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings can not be stated.
5. Number of wooden buildings can not be stated.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires can not be stated.
11. Total insurance thereon, not stated.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, $700.
stated.
aU.
17. The fire department consists of 1 chief and 17 men j 9 men sleep
every night in the fire building; 4 horses, 2,000 feet of hose.
is the capacity of the supply! Holly water system, with filtrating.
21. Eegulations for the storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fire
works : Storage must only be done in buildings 200 feet away from all
other buildings.
F. A. H u s h e r ,
Consul.
Port Stanley and St. Thomas, Ontario, March 8, 1892.
T H R E E R IV E R S .
REPORT B Y CONSUL SMITH.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
.
7.
8.
9.
Name of city, Three Eivers.

Population, 8,334, census of 1891.
Area of city limits, 3 square miles.
Number of brick or stone buildings, about 300.
Number of wooden buildings, over 1,000.
Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, about 10.
Number of fires in frame buildings, about 10.
Total value of property involved in the fires, little over $100,000,
422
10. Total loss thereon, about $6,000.

11. Total insurance thereon, about $40,000.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, about $4,500.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated,
about 15.
17. The fire department consists of fire brigade of 7 men, with reels
and ladders; 4 horses for brigade use.
IS. System of water supply for fire purposes, capacity of supply:
Powerful steam waterworks.
According to civil law.
21. Storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks : None allowed
in ordinary stores or warehouses; must be kept in special storehouses.
22. Building construction, heating, lighting, etc.: In the fire district,
which includes the most important portion of this city, buildings must
be constructed with brick or stone; no frame buildings allowed. Out
side of the fire district, which includes the suburbs, frame buildings
are allowed.
N ic h o l a s S m it h ,
Consul.
Three Rivers, December, 1891.
V I C T O R IA , B R IT IS H C O L U M B IA .
REPORT B Y CONSUL MYERS.
(Tear 1890.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Name of city, Victoria, British Columbia.

Population, 22,000.
Number of brick and stone buildings, 513.
Number of wooden buildings, 3,139.
Fires in brick and stone buildings, 12.
Fires in frame buildings, 31.
Total value of property involved, $250,000.
Total loss thereon, $10,795.
Total insurance thereon, unknown.
Total insurance loss, $9,500 paid.
Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 41.
423
14. Number of fires confined to the building in which they origi

nated, 43.
17. The fire department consists of 28 paid men, 3 steam fire en
gines, 2 hose carriages, 1 hose wagon, 1 70-foot rial truck, 8 horses,
6,000 feet of hose, 104 hydrants, 10 cisterns.
18. System of water supply : By gravitation. The following data will
show elevation, pressure, size of mains, etc. : One 16-inch main, length
27,200 feet; one 12-inch main, length 30,266 feet; elevation of entry of
16-inch main, 180 feet above high-water mark in Yictoria Harbor. The
elevation of the other main is the same. Hourly consumption, 41,000
gallons; gravity pressure on hydrants, from 40 to 70 pounds. Cisterns
in center of city contain from 15,000 to 25,000 gallons each.
19. Investigating the causes of fires : The police magistrate and a
jury hold investigations when considered necessary. Should the in
surance company or its agent consider an investigation necessary the
agent deposits a sum of money to cover the costs incurred at said in
vestigation.
21. Regulations for storing oils, explosives, and fireworks : Section
23 of the u fire-prevention by-laws is as follows :
No person shall keep any larger quantity than 80 gallons of coal oil or other oil of
a similar combustible character in wooden casks, or300 gallons in tin, iron, stone, or
earthen ware, or 20 gallons of crude oil, burning fluid, naphtha, benzole, benzine, or
other similar combustible fluid in any wooden building ; and no person shall keep any
larger quantity than 150 gallons of coal oil or other oil of a similar combustible
character in wooden casks, or 750 gallons in tin, iron, stone or earthen ware, or 80
gallons of crude oil, burning fluid, naphtha, benzole, benzine, or other similar com
bustible fluid in any brick building unless the same shall be kept in a cellar prop
erly ventilated and without a floor, or with a floor of brick, stone, cement, or other
incombustible materials, in which case 300 gallons of coal oil or other oil of a similar
inflammable character in wooden casks, or 1,000 gallons in tin, iron, stone or earthen
ware may be so kept ; and no person shall permit or suffer any of the fluids men
tioned in this section to flow into any municipal drain or sewer.
Thomas Deasy, the chief of the fire department for several years, has
kindly assisted in answering the questions propounded in the Govern
ment circular, and in addition to this has written the following letter,
which I submit as a part of this report. He is especially efficient in his
official position and devoted to its duties, and I do not doubt that it is
owing to his wise supervision that Victoria is known as the phenominal city in its fire record:
C h ie f E n g in e e r ' s Of f ic e , V ic t o r ia F ir e D e p a r t m e n t ,
Victoria, British Columbia, December 20,1891.

Esq.,
United States Consul, Victoria, British Columbia :
Sir : Understanding that the National Board of Fire Underwriters of the United
States requested you to prepare a report containing information for the purpose of
reducing the fire waste of the country, permit me to give what little information lies
in my power to assist the good work.
Le v i W . Myers,
424
In a recent edition of Fire and Water, a weekly paper devoted to matters per
taining to the fire service in the United. States, the city of Victoria was described
as a phenomenal city. During four years the fire loss in this city amounted, to
$45,140. During 1888 the loss amounted, to $16,000; 1889, $9,000; 1890, $10,000; 1891,
$10,140. With a population estimated at 22,000, covering an area of 4,500 acres, and.
buildings valued at $10,000,000, the record is remarkable. During that period but
three buildings, one-story frame structures, burned completely.
The city of Victoria has all the modem improvements for quick work. Tho Gamewell fire-alarm system is in use. Twenty-nine paid men comprise the force. Horses
and swinging harness assist in lessening the time of turning out in responding to an
alarm of fire. Politics has nothing to do with the selection of firemen. A fine is
imposed on all persons allowing their chimneys to bum. No fires are allowed in
vacant lots without a permit. Storing over 750 gallou of oil or 50 pounds of powder
in a brick building is prohibited. Fire escapes have been placed on all hotels and
lodging houses over two stories in height, and standpipes on four-story buildings.
The supply of water is inexhaustible, unless two mains should break at one time.
Should this occur the water in ten large cisterns in the business portion of the city
would be used. The following causes, in my opinion, tended in the past to keep
down the fire loss : (1) Inspection of buildings. (2) Investigations after fires. (3)
Imposing fines for defective fiues; depositing ashes in wooden boxes, and for per
mitting stovepipes to run through wooden roofs or partitions. (4) Good supply of
water. (5) First-class alarm system. (6) Quick work. (7) Sober, steady firemen.
(8) Keeping politics out of the department and selecting firemen for fire service
only. (9) Purchasing the best apparatus. (10) Constant inspection of hydrants
and everything in use, or to be used, by the fire department.
The future welfare of our city is threatened in many ways, and it is my aim to
keep agitating for several reforms. The greatest danger to life and property is the
overhead system of electric wires. The next is permitting the storage of explosives
and oil within the city limits. The third is the keen competition between insurance
companies. I would suggest that buildings and stock be insured for half tlieir actual
value. This would tend, in a great measure, to prevent incendiary fires and would
make owners of property more careful. There are many other matters of which I
would be pleased to write, but time will not permit at present.
I am ready at any time to furnish you with any information on fire matters.
Yours, obediently,
T hom as D e a sy ,
Chief Engineer Victoria Fire Department.
I inclose also a copy of the city by-law and a copy of the fire war
dens report.
Le y i W . My e r s ,
Consul.
Victoria, British Columbia, December 23, 1891.
W I N D S O R , N O V A S C O T IA .
REPORT B T CONSUL TO UNO.*
1. Name of place, Windsor, Nova Scotia.

3. Area of town limits about 2 square miles.
Year 1891.
425
CONTINENT OF AMERICA MEXICO.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, five brick and one stone.

5. Number of wooden buildings, nearly 400.
6. Number of alarms, 2 only.
7 to 10. Number of fires, loss, etc., none.
17. Tlie fire department consists of one volunteer company.
18. Water system, gravitation. The water is brought several miles,
having a head of about 180 feet. The supply is abundant; the fire
plugs or hydrants are numerous and efficient.
19. Provision is made by statute to investigate causes of fire and to
provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism.
20. No incendiary or other fires in the year.
21. The municipal regulations require that inflammable oils and ex
plosives be stored at remote and safe distances from other buildings.
The town of Windsor has been remarkably free from fires, not only
since the introduction of an abundant supply of water, but in previous
years. Wooden houses, built from 60 to 90 years ago, are yet occupied
as dwellings and in some cases as places of business.
E d w ar d Y oung,
Consul.
Windsor, Nova Scotia, Jcmuary 28, 1892.
MEXICO.
ACAPULCO.
REPORT B Y CONSUL T CASKEY.
1. Name of city, Acapulco.

3. Area of city limits, 1 square mile.
4. The buildings are all constructed of adobe bricks.
6. There were no fire alarms nor fires in 1890.
11. No fire insurance of any kind is carried here.
17. There is no fire department.
18. There is no water supply for fire purposes.
19. Arson is, I believe, a felony in this State.
The buildings in this city are practically fireproof for business and
domestic uses as carried on here. They are built chiefly of adobe brick,
having tiled roofs and floors, and, being for the most part but one story,
the minimum of wood enters into their construction.
James F. M gCaskey,
Consul.
Acapulco, January 9, 1892.
426
DURANGO.
REPORT B T CONSUL M'CAUOHAN.
1. Name of city, Durango.

3. Area of city limits, dont know ; compactly built.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, unknown.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, about $100,000.
10. Total loss thereon, about $30,000.
17. No fire department.
18. No water supply for fire purposes.
19. No provision is made by law to investigate causes of fire and pro
vide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime.
21. No regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils j explosives
kept outside of city.
Durango is built almost entirely of adobe houses; some stone.
Fires are very few, burn very slowly, and are very easily controlled.
Adobe makes a splendid house when there is not much frost. Roofs
all flat; wood beams covered with brick or boards; this covered with
clay, and then plastered on top.
J. S. M c C au gh an ,
Consul.
U n ited S t ates C onsulate ,
Durango, January, 1891.
NOGALES.
REPORT B T VICE-CONSUL STONE.
Inquiry, by letter or in person, was made of the fire officials of the

large municipalities in this consular district, namely :
Nogales, with a population of 1,600; Altar, 4,000; Ures, 4,000; Arispe,
1,500; Magdalena, 2,000.
Replies received were substantially the same. No place had more
than three buildings of brick or stone, or any of wood, adobes, or sundried bricks being the material universally used. No place had had a
fire of any consequence within the memory of the officials. No place
427
CONTINENT OF AMERICA MEXICO.
had a fire department, or any provisions for extinguishing afire if there

should be one.
In case of a fire all citizens would be required by law to assist input
ting it out under direction of municipal officials. Buildings were sel
dom if ever insured.
By law or local regulation explosives, oils, etc., were required to be
stored outside of town limits. No special law in regard to construction
of buildings existed, but usually the municipal authorities had the
power, but seldom exercised, to stop the erection of buildings by them
deemed unsafe or objectionable.
Since the preceding was received the dwelling of the secretary of this
municipality was gutted by fire. He had given the information relative
to explosives, oils, etc., and the authority of officials to call for assist
ance and assume control, and the fire furnished an interesting com
mentary upon his statements. Soon after alarm was given a large
quantity of coal oil was removed from a part of building, and then fire
destroyed everything combustible within the adobe walls without any
well-directed effort being made to prevent.
The immunity from fires in this country is due apparently to the sim
ple facts that adobes are the most convenient material for building, and
that buildings are seldom more than one story high.
JosiH E. S tone ,
Vice-Consul.
U n ite d S t a t e s C o n su late ,
Nogales, February, 1892.
P IE D R A S N E G R A S.
REPORT B Y CONSUL FEOHT.
1. Name of place, Piedras Negras (Ciudad Porfirio Diaz).

3. Area of city limits, about l mile square.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, not known. No records kept,
and buildings unenumerated.
5. Number of wooden buildings, not known. Yery few wooden build
ings; town chiefly built of adobe, brick, and stone.
. Number of alarms, not known.
7. Two fires in brick building in year ended December 31,1890, and
one in present year of 1891.
8. None known to have occurred in wooden buildings.
428
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOEEIGN COUNTBIE8.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, none.

14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated, none.
15. Number of fires extending to the adjoining property, 2.
16. Number of fires (conflagrations) extending beyond adjoining prop
erty, 2.
17. No fire department. In cases of fire the city police and soldiers
stationed here guard all property from plunder and are detailed in squads
with buckets, axes, etc., to check and control the fire.
18. There is no water system specially for fire purposes. Water mains
4 and 6 inches are laid in principal streets, and supplied by pump
(steam) from Bio Grande Kiver; there are no reservoirs, and, in con
sequence, no pressure save that from pump direct.
19. No special laws to investigate causes of fire and to provide for
prosecution in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime; the general
penal code is deemed ample.
20. Number of incendiary fires; none proven, one suspected.
21. Municipal regulations permit oils, explosives, and fireworks to
be stored in small quantities on premises where sold; large amounts
must be stored beyond city limits.
22. No laws in force specially bearing upon building construction,
heating, lighting, etc.
The town of Piedras Negras was originally constructed of adobe
(sun-baked bricks), and tepatate, a soft and porous argillaceous
lime rock; in recent years some brick buildings have been erected and
a very few one-story frame (wooden) ones. Fires are of very rare oc
currence, less than one per year, and extensive conflagrations are en
tirely unknown.
E u g e n e O. F e c h t ,
Consul.
C onsulate of th e U n ited S t a t e s ,
Piedras Negros December 31 1891.

T A M P IC O .
Tampico is a city of about 6,000 inhabitants, laid out in blocks of 300

feet square; streets are 45 feet wide; city 21 blocks long and averaging
8 blocks wide. Most of the buildings are built of stone and brick, some
of wood, besides a good many huts on the outskirts. No fires occurred
in 1890; one fire so far in 1891, in a frame building (distillery); loss
about $3,000 and no insurance. The fire was confined to the building
in which it originated. No fire department nor system of water supply j
no fire alarm. Oils, explosives, etc., must be stored outside of city or
in isolated buildings, but a reasonable supply is allowed to be kept in
retail stores. No law regulating the construction of buildings, heating,
429
SOUTH AMERICA ARGENTINE REPUBLIC.
lighting, etc. No stoves of any kind in use here (hot enough without
them). Kitchens are outside of main l>uildiugs by themselves. Fuel,
charcoal.
A . L ie b e r k n e g h t ,
Consul.
U n ite d S t a te s C o n su tate ,
Tampico, December 22,1891.
SOUTH AMERICA.
A R G E N T IN E R E P U B L IC .
BUENOS AYRES.
REPORT B T CONSUL BAKER .
There are few cities in the world which, in proportion to their popu
lation, suffer less from loss by fire than the city of Buenos Ayres. This
is owing to two causes : (1) The manner of constructing the houses, all
of which have flat or azotea roofs made of brick j and (2) the limited
use of fire in the household economy, owing to the uniformly moderate
temperature which prevails here, and the very few steam manufacturing
establishments in the city. It is very seldom that a fire occurs which is
of any significance. Owing to this infrequency of fires and the com
paratively small losses therefrom, no especial pains are taken to keep
exact or detailed statistics.
The area of Buenos Ayres, according to the census of 1889, the latest
which has been taken, is 18,141 hectares, equal to about 46,350 acres,
divided into twenty-six wards or parishes. Lying along the La Plata
River, it is 18 kilometers from north to south and 25 kilometers from
east to west. Its perimeter or circuit is 62 kilometers.
This includes the cities of Flores and Belgrano, lying adjacent to
Buenos Byres, and which were made a part of the municipality in the
year 1880.
The population of Buenos Ayres, including Flores and Belgrano, is
now officially stated to be 525,000, though within the city limits proper
the number of inhabitants is probably not much more than 400,000.
The number of buildings in the city proper, according to the census
of 1887, was 30,604. Many of these however, are composed of <de
partments or what are called conventillos, with innumerable prem
ises or rooms, each one of which holds a family. How many houses
are included in the additional limits of Flores and Belgrano it is im
possible to say, but it must be 10,000 or 12,000 more, thus making in
all about 42,000 distinct houses within the municipal limits.
It may be stated that the houses of Buenos Ayres are all built of
brick or of brick and stone, since I do not suppose there are a thousand.
430
frame or wooden houses in the entire city, and the most of these are
mere shanties at the Boca port, 2 miles away from the center of the
city. Indeed, very little wood enters into the composition of the
houses here, since in the large majority of cases the floors, the ceilings,
the roofing, and the inside partitions are all of incombustible mate
rials, generally brick, tiles, stone, and iron.
In regard to the number of fires and fire alarms for 1890,1 have not
been able to obtain the statistics, as none seem to have been published ;
but I have succeeded in securing the following for several years pre
vious, from which it will be seen that the figures are quite uniform
and show but very unimportant differences for each year :
Tear.
1882 .............................................................................................................
1883.............................................................................................................
1884 .............................................................................................................
1885 .............................................................................................................
1886 .............................................................................................................
1887.............................................................................................................
1888.............................................................................................................
No. of
fires.
Loss.
$65,416
79,710
61
260,791
421,070
58
75
5,395,789
351,539
80 j!
423,000
87
Amount of
insurance.
156. 475
207,519
157,635
264,000
In regard to the year 1886 I have to explain that one of the Govern
ment deposits of imported merchandise was consumed, involving an
estimated loss of $5,000,000, but the exact amount of which was never
verified, and there was never any account published of the insurance
on the contents j so that there is considerable guesswork about the
actual loss by that exceptional fire.
There are no figures in any of the above years which show the total
value involved in the fires or the total amount of insurance.
The greater portion of the fires in this city is confined to the houses,
and indeed to the floors in which they originated, for the reason that
nearly all the houses, except on a few of the principal streets, are but
one story in height. Owing to their peculiar construction and lack of
outside combustible matter, it is very seldom indeed that fires extend
to adjoining property. I have known of only two or three such cases
during the entire sixteen years that I have been at this consular post.
Such a thing as a conflagration is unknown in the history of the city.
Indeed, most of the fires end in simply 11gutting the premises or in
consuming the stock of goods which may be within, in many cases even
leaving the roof intact.
The fire department of Buenos Ayres consists of 1 chief director, 1
second director, 3 captains, 6 lieutenants, 3 sublieutenants, 3 first ser
geants, 12 second sergeants, 10 first corporals, 10 second corporals, and
165 men. It costs $8,803 monthly for the salaries of the corps and ex
pense of maintaining the horses, etc. The corps is on a semimilitary
basis and is not unfrequently called on to do military duty. Buenos
Ayres being the capital of the Republic, the fire department is depend
ent upon the national Government, and though it is annexed to and
SOUTH AMERICA ARGENTINE REPUBLIC.
431
has its headquarters in the police department, it receives its pay through
the Minister of the Interior. The men sign a contract for two years,
but can be discharged whenever they become useless or unserviceable.
The number of steam fire-engines at present employed is three, with all
the necessary paraphernalia of hose carriages, ladders, etc., all drawn by
horses, 11always harnessed and ready for service. For fire alarms the
cuartels or quarters are connected by telegraph and telephone with the
police headquarters, and also with each one of the twenty police stations
into which the city is divided. Distinguished or meritorious services
in saving life or property on the part of any of the members of the corps
are rewarded by the national Government. In case of injuries in the
line of their duty their pay goes on the same, and in case of their death
from such injuries their families are pensioned at half the amount of
their salary.
The fire department is supplied with water from the city water works
by means of street plugs. The number of these plugs is 3,774 within
the city proper; but I am informed that the number is too few for effect
ive service in extinguishing flames. Besides this, there is, in too many
cases, so little pressure that it is almost impossible for the water to reach
the second story of such houses as are built in the modern style. In
deed, the great object in the case of most fires is not so much to extin
guish the flames as it is to guard against their extending to the adjacent
property.
The law is very severe in reference to suspected incendiarism, and
when the indications would suggest this as the cause of the fire,
or the amount of the insurance is out of proportion to the value of the
property, the parties interested are put under arrest at once and are
kept in prison until a thorough investigation absolves them from tho
suspicion. While it is impossible to state the number of incendiary
fires, it is generally assumed, owing to the peculiar construction of
the houses and the infrequent use of fire for heating or domestic pur
poses, that a large proportion of the fires which occur in this city are
purposely ignited, in the hope of thus liquidating a losing business well
insured or of making a profit on an overinsured stock. The number
of dwelling houses destroyed by fire is almost nil. It is the business
establishments almost exclusively which suffer from the devouring ele
ment.
There are special municipal and custom-house regulations for the
stowage of explosives and inflammables, and any infraction of the same
is visited with heavy fines, not only against the owners or agents, but
also the lancheros and cartmen who convey the articles in question.
In all cases where such articles are handled or landed it must be done
by special permits, under severe penalties; and provision is made for
the usual safeguards and formalities. Special localities are designated
for their deposit, and a failure to comply with such regulations works
as a forfeiture and confiscation of the articles.
There is no law here regulating the heating and lighting of houses.
452
The municipality has an ordinance which provides that within a cer

tain radius no frame or wooden houses shall erected; and it is also
provided that in streets not exceeding 8.66 meters in width no houses
shall be built of more than 12 meters in height; when the streets ex
ceed that width they may reach to 14 meters in height; but these later
provisions are for hygienic purposes. There are building inspectors,
appointed by the municipality, to watch the erection of houses and see
that the walls and superstructure are securely built; but there is, as a
general thing, very little interference with the plans of the architects,
except in the case of theaters and other public structures. In such
buildings the plans and specifications are required to be submitted to
the inspectors and duly approved before the work can proceed.
E . L. B a k e r ,
Consul.
Buenos Ayres, March 4 1892.
BRAZIL.
R IO G R A N D E DO SU L .
REPORT B Y CONSUL NE OLE Y,
1. Name of city, Rio Grande do Sul.

2. Population, 17,000 by last census (1890).
3. Area of city limits, about 1 square mile.
4. Number of brick and stone houses, about 3,500.
5. Scarcely any wooden buildings; a few outbuildings.
6. No alarms.
7. No fires.
17. The captain of the port, the custom-house, and the market each
have several small hand engines. All sellers of water have their carts
full at night and have to attend immediately when church bells ring
fire alarm; otherwise they are fined. The first water-carrier on the
scene receives a gratuity.
18. Water from the lake on which tho city is located; also from wells,
cisterns, and pipes of the water company, although the latter source
is quite slight and inadequate, as the pipes are verysma.il and there is
but little head to the water.
19. The usual criminal prosecution and police investigation cover in
vestigations into the causes of fires.
21. Storage and sale of oils, explosives, fireworks, etc., not allowed
inside the city limits.
22. No special laws in regard to building, lighting, heating, etc.
Ch a r l e s Ne g l k y ,
Consul.
U nited S ta te s C onsulate ,
Rio Grande do Sul, February 2,1892*
SOUTH AMERICA---- COLOMBIA.
433
COLOMBIA.
COLON.
REPORT B Y YIOE-OONSVL ROBINSON.
1. Name of place, Colon, Isthmus of Panama.

2. Population, about 3,000; no statistics.
3. Area of Colon, 1 square mile, more or less.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, not more than two now occu
pied.
5. No way of finding out number of wooden buildings, except by act
ual count. Many of the buildings of which the town and its suburbs
are composed are shanties.
6. Several alarms of fire, but the exact number is unknown.
7. The fire of September 23,1890, that destroyed the best part of the
town, originated in a brick building or in the shed attached thereto.
8. None that were not controlled.
9. No statistics as to total value of property involved.
10,11,12,13,14. No statistics.
15. One, September 23, 1890.
16. One, September 23,1890.
17. Fire department: There is none. There was an organization of
bomberos (firemen) at the time of the fire of September, 1890, but it
proved utterly inadequate. It was of no practical use whatever, except
to give the alarm and then arouse people (the fire having commenced
about midnight) and enabled them to save their lives. They did not
even assist to save property, but in a helpless way stood with openmouthed wonder looking on. From that date nothing has ever been
heard of the bomberos.
18. The Panama Railroad Company has a steam pump and water
pipe attached to one of its stationary wharf engines for the purpose of
protecting its wharf property. In the great fire of September 23,1890,
this did not prove entirely adequate, for the general offices of that com
pany, as well as the adjoining offices of the Eoyal Mail Steam Packet
Company, were destroyed before the hose from the water pipe could be
brought into action. It was useful, however, in arresting the fire in
the direction of the railroad shops and the residences of the officers of
the company.
There has been talk for many years about extending the water pipes
of the company into the back streets, a distance of 300 or 500 feet from
the wharf upon which the steam pump is located, but nothing has ever
been done.
19. No special provisions. If any prosecutions have ever been made
(of which I have never heard), they would have been made under the
general laws of the country.
20. It is impossible to answer.
146A--- 28
434
21. Every merchant that deals in oils, explosives, etc., keeps them in
his everyday j>lace of business.
22. No building law exists.
T r a c y K o b in s o n , Vice-Consul.
Colon, January 5, 1892.
PANAM A.
REPORT BT COXSUL-GEXERAL ADAMSON.
1. The name of place, city of Panama.

2. The prefect estimates the population at 15,000.
3. The area of the city limits is about 360 acres.
4. The number of brick and stone buildings is 485.
5. The number of wooden buildings is 1831, and of mixed materials,
say stone and wood, 186.
6. The number of alarms for each year was not stated separately,
but for the years 1890 and 1891 together there were 29 alarms.
7. The fires during these two years were of the most trifling kind,
such as the burning of a curtain or of slight injury by the upsetting
of a lamp, setting fire to matting or clothing.
8. The statistics fail to show whether these slight fires were in frame
or stone or brick buildings.
9 to 16. There was no loss worthy of mention and the fires did not
extend beyond place of origin.
17. The fire department of Panama consists of 120 volunteer firemen,
3 hand engines, and 4,000 feet of hose.
18. The water supply consists of the rain water collected in two tanks,
of the capacity of 120,000 gallons, and the sea water which surrounds
the town.
19. The penal code authorizes the police authorities to investigate
fires and to punish incendiarism, the penalty for which is imprisonment
from eight to twenty years.
20. There were no incendiary fires in 1890 or 1891.
21. The police regulations or decrees forbid the introduction and sale
of kerosene oil of less than 150 degrees, and require that dynamite, pow
der, and other explosives, as also fireworks, shall be stored in the Govi
eminent magazine some 2 miles out of town. While it is forbidden tol
keep kerosene in quantities in the warehouses, I believe the infractions
of the law are overlooked.
22. I know of no law regulating building particularly. The publicj
and private lighting is partly by electric lamps and partly by kerosene^
aheting not required.
T h om a s A d a m so n , Consul-General
Panama, March 16, 1892.
SOUTH AMERICA ECUADOR.
435
ECUADOR.
G U A Y A Q U IL .
REPORT B T CONSUL-GENERAL S0RSB7.
1. Name of city, Guayaquil.

3. Area of city limits, 1,000,000 square meters.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 1 ; the prison not yet finished.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone building, none.
traceable.
property, 3.
17. The fire department consists of 17 hand engines, 1 steam engine,
and 1,291 volunteer firemen.
18. Water supply for fire purposes and capacity of supply: Streets
on and running to the river front take water therefrom. The rest of
the water supply in cases of fire is had from shallow wells located at
most of the cross streets. This source of supply is, of course, limited.
Waterworks are, and have been for seven or eight years past, in course
of construction.
19. Provisions made by law to investigate causes of fire and to pro
vide prosecutions in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime; none but
ordinary police regulations.
20. Number of incendiary fires not known.
21. Eegulations exist for the storage and sale of oils, explosives, and
fireworks; only small quantities allowed to be kept in warehouses.
When the quantity is large it must be stored outside of the city limits.
Same applies to powder.
22. There are no laws regulating building, construction, heating,
lighting, etc. In the towns of the interiorQuito, Ambato, Eio Bambo,
and, in fact, all interior towns and citiesthe buildings are practically
fireproof in that the buildings are of stone and baked dirt and clay, with
tile roofing.
In no part of the Eepublic, from the torrid heat of the coast to the
436
ever-bracing and often cold climate of tlie interior, are fires used except
for cooking purposes.
W
i l l ia m
B. S o e s b y ,
Consul-General.
U n it e d
S t a t e s
C o n s u l a t e -G e n e r a l ,
Guayaquil, February 13,1892,
PARAGUAY.
A S U N C IO N .
REPORT BY CONSUL SHAW.
The city of Asuncion is in a very primitive state. It contains no fire

department of any kind, and, still further, there has not been a fire,
entailing loss to property, in the last seven years. There is no water
supply except the wells and the river Paraguay. There are no regula
tions against the storage of oils, explosives, or fireworks, neither is
there any regulations in regard to heating, lighting, etc. All the build
ings are of brick or stone plastered on the outside and inside with
mortar or mud, with either tile, zinc, or iron roofs, and generally onestory liigh. Tlie population in 1891 was about 25,000.
E dm und S h a w ,
Consul.
Asuncion, February 13,1892.
DUTCH GUIANA.
P A R A M A R IB O .
REPORT B Y CONSUL WYNDHAM.
I have the honor to forward herewith the report of the chief of the
local fire department, which has been prepared at my request, the
answers being numbered to correspond with the questions put in your
circular.
I may add that, although this town is constructed of wood, the wood
used is either brown heart or other such hard material, that very few
fires occur, and since 1845 no serious fire has taken place, and in the
course of nearly seven years, during which I have resided in this col
ony, only two alarms of fire have been signaled, and each of them proved
to be small huts occupied by natives.
1. Name of city, Paramaribo, capital of Surinam (Dutch Guiana)
SOUTH AMERICA---- DUTCH GUIANA.
437
3. Area of eity limits, 925 hectares.

4. Number of buildings of brick or stone, 13 stone.
5. Number of wooden buildings, 2,944. This number indicates only
the principal (front) buildings j the number of the smaller buildings,
occupied by the lower people on the yards and wharves, can not be
estimated.
6. Fire alarms regulated by ordinance No. 5 of the year 1857 : (a)
The general cry of fire ! fire ! (6) Two gunshots at the Fortress Zeelandia, which directly are repeated by the man-of-war stationed on the
roads of Paramaribo. (c) When the fire brigade is master of the fire,
again two gunshots are fired in the same way.
9-12. Not ascertainable.
14. Fires confined to building, etc. : One on July 12,1890, being a
email building on the yard of a house in the Wageweg street.
17. The fire brigade consists of 1 commander, chief of the fire bri
gade, 1 assistant (adjutant commander), 1 assistant (for the adminis
tration), 1 engineer, 1 assistant engineer, 1 domestic, 32 chiefs of
engines, 31 assistant chiefs of engines, 260 firemen, without salary.
This service, same as for civic guard, is obligatory. Every man be
tween eighteen and fifty years can be enrolled. In different cases free
dom from this service is given by a commission yearly appointed by the
governor.
The training and instruction is unsatisfactory, and reorganization of
this service has been proposed, but is still in consideration.
There are in town in the different fire stations 13 manual fire engines
of Dutch and American construction, with their reserve materials ; 1
manual water-supplying engine; 1 car for materials (ladders, chains,
axes, saws, buckets, etc.); 1 mechanical, long, fire ladder, with car; 6
hose carts ; 8 rapid fire (marine) engines.
In the fortress: 2 manual fire engines, 2 manual water-supplying
engines, 1 rapid (marine) fire engine.
18. The town is situated on the river Surinam, and is intersected by
three small canals, of which only one is provided with a sluice by which
the water can be kept in the canal. Only for the buildings situated in
the proximity of the river and a part of the last said canal can be
disposed at every time of sufficient water supply.
19. In cases of suspected incendiarism or crime, investigation takes
place by the commissary of the i>olice and the attorney-general;
against those crimes the law provides by capital punishment and hard
labor from five to twenty-five years.
21. In the center of the town no storage of kerosene oil is allowed;
explosives and fireworks are stored in the Governments gunpowder
stores at localities in the Fortress Amsterdam.
438
In the shops and stores only small quantities, regulated by ordinance,

are allowed, but the police do not maintain this ordinance sharply.
Coals are stored in iron buildings on the water side.
22. Only for kitchen chimneys and fireplaces exists a special ordi
nance.
W
il l ia m
n dh am ,
Comul.
Paramaribo, January 21,1892.
URUGUAY.
M O N T E V ID E O .
REPORT BY CONSUL HILL.
1. Montevideo, capital of the Eepublica Oriental del Uruguay.

2. According to the u Annario Estadistico for 1890 the department
of Montevideo contained 234,018 inhabitants. The city census, now in
the printers hands, which was taken at the end of the year 1889, states
the population of the municipality of Montevideo at 214,682 inhab
itants.
3. The area of the department is 664 kilometers and 9 hectometers.
City limits not given.
4. All buildings in the city, except industrial establishments, are
constructed of brick or stone.
5. The construction of wooden dwellings is inhibited by law.
6. The alarm of fire is given by the police force through telephone or
directly, as is most expedient.
7. Number of fires in brick and stone buildings in 1890, 28; in 1891,
26.
8. Number of fires in 1890 in frame buildings and so-called galpones, 15, besides 2 in railway stations; in 1891, 8.
9. The total value of property involved in the fires of 1890 was
$725,700; in 1891, $674,200.
10. The total loss tliereon in 1890 was $319,960; in 1891, $126,900.
11. The total insurance thereon in 1890 was $435,000; in 1891,
$523,000.
12. The total insurance loss thereon in 1890 was $113,700; in 1891,
$113,480.
13. Number of fires confined to floor where they originated in 1890,
25; in 1891, 18.
14. Number of fires confined to buildings where they originated in
1890, 44; in 1891,32.
15 and 16. Number of fires extending to adjoining property in 1890,
439
SOUTH AMERICA VENEZUELA.
1, being a conflagration which caused a loss of $260,000; in 1891, 2, one

of which was a fire started by an explosion in a powder factory, total
loss, $100,000; the other the burning of the station of the Central Uru
guay Railway, total loss said to be $55,000, but probably above that
figure.
17. The fire department consists of 1 chief, 1 deputy, 2 sergeants, 2
subordinate officers, 1 machinist, 1 fireman (engine), 1 trumpeter, and 60
firemen.
18. The water supply is taken chiefly from the city waterworks, owned
by an English company. There are hydrants in the streets with which
the hose of the fire department may be connected. Besides this source
of supply the department makes use of wells, cisterns, etc.
19. Investigations into the origin, etc., of fires are made by the po
lice, arrests being made in proper cases in order to bring incendiaries
to justice in accordance with the provisions of the penal code.
20. Incendiary fires in 1890, none; several suspected, but adequate
proof not adduced; in 1891, one proved to have been caused intention
ally, but was quickly subdued, so that loss was slight.
21. There are special deposits for explosives where such substances
must be stored immediately on landing. Storing gunpowder, dyna
mite, etc., within the city is prohibited. There are, besides, special
deposits for oil designated by the custom house authorities. The sale,
however, of such merchandise is free to all merchants, and every gro
cer, tor instance, is permitted to keep a few boxes of petroleum at his
store.
F e a n k
D .
H il l ,
Consul.
Montevideo, February 11, 1892.
VENEZUELA.
LAGUAYRA.
REPORT BY CONSUL HANNA.
Laguayra, the seaport of Caracas, has a population of about 15,000.

The streets are very narrow, and there is no vacaut land in the part
properly known as the city of Laguayra. The buildings are all of
stone, sun-dried brick and cement, with very thick walls, say, 18 to 30
inches, made so as to stand earthquakes. The partitions are also thick,
and made of sun-dried brick and cement. So closely are the buildings
joined and so narrow are the streets that to glance at the city from the
sea a stranger might easily conclude that Laguayra was composed of
one great stone building, the entire roof of which was made of brick
440
tiling. As there is no winter, no cold season here, 110 fires are built in
the houses except for cooking food, and the rooms where such fires are
built have floors of brick and walls of stone, generally 2 feet thick, so
that it is almost impossible to have a conflagration. For the year 1890
and 1891 no loss of buildings by fire was reported. There is no fire
department, as the people consider there is no need of one.
P h i l i p O. H a n n a ,
Consul.
Laguayra, May 31, 1892.
M A R A C A IB O .
REPORT BY CONSUL PL TIMAOSER.
The city of Maracaibo, capital of the State of Zulia, has an approxi

mate population of 40,000 souls, and its area is about 3 by l miles,
or 4 square miles.
The total number of houses, according to the census of 1891,
amounted to 5,363, of which number 1,575 were roofed with tiles, and
3,788 with thatch, this last being usually a species of reed or rush called
here u luea, although palm leaves are used as well by the poorer classes.
Of brick houses there are none; but of stone there are 594. Build
ings constructed of this material are very solid and massive, with exceed
ingly thick walls. The stone in use, called piedra de ojo, is a composite
material apparently welded together with lava, and the various inter
stices (ojos) allow the mortar to take such a firm grip as to render a
building thus constructed practically a solid mass.
The most common class of building, however, is the bahareque,
and its construction is as follows: Upright posts ( horcones) are set
in the ground at convenient intervals upon the outside lines of the
structure. On each side of these posts and extending from one to an
other are lashed wild canes (a small bamboo averaging about 1 inch in
diameter.) The lashings are not of twine or wire, but of the bejuco,
a parasitic creeper which answers admirably as rope, being very tough
and flexible. When the canes are thus lashed firmly on each side of
the uprights, thus forming a frame, the space between the outer and
inner row of cane is filled with mortar or mud, or a combination of
both, according to the means at the disposal of the builder.
Many of the poorer class of houses are constructed of mud only, mixed
with small stones, but the best bahareque edifices are filled in with a
composition of lime, sand, small stones, and a special class of earth.
When this is properly done, the walls when dry assume a hardness and
solidity almost equal to stone itself. A coat of plaster is then applied
inside and out, and when this is thoroughly dry the building is given a
coat of oil and then painted, after which its appearance in smoothness
and beauty is equal to that of houses of any type.
SOUT AMERICA---- VENEZUELA.
441
There are no frame houses in the city, principally on account of ants

and other insects which soon destroy even the exceedingly hard native
woods. Our pitch pine indeed is the only class of timber which seems
to resist their attacks, for which reason it is largely used for flooring,
window and door frames, and other cabinet and joiner work.
Respecting fires in the city, there is no record kept of their occurrence
except in the books of the insurance companies, and during the years
1890 and 1891 there were no fires upon which insurance was paid.
Fires in Maracaibo are indeed of rare occurrence, a circumstance
worthy of note, considering the number of thatched roofs and the care
lessness of the people. As no record is kept, the exact number of fires
during the past year is not known ; but, at the most, not more than a
half dozen small, unimportant houses were consumed, the value of
which and the loss thus incurred being very insignificant.
Respecting that part of the circular which treats of precautions
against fire and the means of combatting it, I have to report that
practically nothing of the kind exists. About a year ago tlie Govern
ment procured from New York a hand engine, with hose, hooks and
ladders, firemens axes, and all tlie usual paraphernalia for a small
outfit; but this has since been stored away in an inaccessible place,
and in case of a serious fire would be of no use whatever. Upon the
arrival of this machinery it was proposed to form a fire company and
organize a system of combatting conflagrations, but as yet the first
steps remain to be taken.
There are no laws relating to storage of explosives and highly in
flammable substances, nor as to construction of houses. These have
never been made subjects of legislation, although a multitude of muni
cipal ordinances have been issued from time to time none of which,
however, have been enforced in the slightest degree. For example,
the further construction of thatched houses is supposed to be prohibited
within the city limits, but this class of buildings is nevertheless going
up daily. The municipal council has also at various times forbidden the
storage of gunpowder, explosive oils, etc., in stores where combustible
materials were present, but this restriction is also a dead letter, and
no attempt whatever is made toward its enforcement.
Conflagrations, properly speaking, have never occurred, at least not
so recently as to be recorded, nor is there any reason to suspect that
any of the fires within late years has been the work of incendiaries.
The subject of the Departments circular is, as far as Maracaibo is
concerned, rather a barren one, as fire and its prevention have never
been subjects of legislation, nor indeed has public attention been given
to the matter; but I hope the foregoing remarks will cover satisfactorily
the requirements of the Bureau.
E. H. P l u m a c h e r ,
Consul.
Maracaibo, January, 20, 1892.
WEST INDIES.
BRITISH W E S T INDIES.
A N T IG U A .
REPORT B T YIOE OONSL GALBRAITH.
The city of St. John, Antigua, West Indies, had a population, accord
ing to the census of 1891, of 9,738, haying increased only 102 since last
census.
The city is built at the head of the harbor, in the form of a crescent,
occupying an area of 100 acres, and is very well laid out for a West
Indian town, the streets running east and west by north and south;
those running east and west having a width of about 00 feet; north
and south about 40 feet. Tlie buildings are, however, very irregular;
there is no attempt at uniformity; between two well-built frame houses
there often is a small wooden house of 5 or 6 feet square and of about
the same height, which invariably is in a very dilapidated and brokendown condition, spoiling the otherwise respectable appearance of the
streets. There are only about 29 stone or brick buildings in the city,
the roofs of which are for the most part covered with shingles. With
the exception of the 29 buildings already mentioned, the other build
ings, which number about 2,800, are wholly constructed of timber, with
a brick or stone foundation, which is used as a cellar, upon which the
timber edifice is built.
There are no fire alarms in the city.
For the past five years there have been only 7 fires in the city, 2 of
which occurred in stone or brick buildings, the remaining 5 in wooden
buildings. The estimated value of the property involved in these fires
was $45,000, and the estimated loss, which was mainly caused by water,
was $12,500. Owing to the freedom from fires and the very high rate
charged by fire-insurance companies, which was, prior to 1891, 2 per
cent, with an abatement of 25 per cent (it is now 1| per cent for build
ings in the city) the greater part of this property was not insured. I
am unable to get the exact amount paid by insurance companies on the
property burned which was covered by a fire policy, but consider
$7,500 would be about the amount paid. For about twenty years all
the fires which have occurred here were confined to the buildings in
which they originated. About twenty-one years ago a fire took x>lace
in a large store in which were stored bales of cotton goods, sugars, tar,
442
WEST INDIES BRITISH.
443
and pitch. The fire had complete hold of the place before the arrival
of the fire brigade, and on that account and the inflammable nature of
the contents of the building the fire was not subdued before another
building was partially destroyed. That was the nearest approach to a
conflagration experienced here since the completion of the reservoir for
supplying the city with water.
The fire brigade consists of 1 superintendent, 1 foreman, 2 subfore
men, and 4 staff men. These men are also the water-works staff and are
the heads of the fire brigade, which consists of 28 men. Only 8 of these
men are permanently employed; the remaining 20, who are tradesmen,
are drilled with the brigade twice a month, and are expected to keep
night guard from 7 p. m. to 6 a. m. in rotation, three men being detailed
off for A Station and two for B Station every night. For their serv
ices they are paid $1.20 per month, and a bonus is given to the car
riage which first lets on water on a burning building of $4.80. Fire
Brigade Station A is situated on a gentle rising about 40 feet above sea
level to the northeast center of the city; the other is situated west, on
the north side of the harbor. Both stations are connected by telephone
with the superintendents residence and with police office.
The city is supplied with water from two reservoirs, which are situ
ated on a hill to the south of the town, containing, when full, 3,300,000
gallons. These reservoirs receive a supply from four springs in the
hills to the south of the island, about 7 miles from St. John. In very
dry seasons an auxiliary steam pump is utilized to pump water from a
stream which runs at the base of the hills in the same district. From
the reservoirs there is a duplicate line of pipes of 12 and 15-inch bore
into the city, which can be served from either reservoir. To still fur
ther insure a good supply of water for the city, and also to supply water
to other parts of the island, there is now being constructed a reservoir
capable of holding, when completed, about 8,000,000 gallons.
There are hydrants throughout the city from 112 to 160 feet apart, of
2-inch couplings and 3-inch hose. Tlie force of water in the hydrants
is about 40 pounds to the square inch from the center of the incline of
the city to sea levee and central average of water level of the reser
voirs.
There are several acts in force to investigate and prosecute suspected
cases of incendiarism and crime : The fire brigade act, 27, of 1867 ; the
malicious injuries act, 23, of 1876 ; and the small charges act of 1891.
There was also passed an act in 1889, called the coroners act, which pro
vides for the holding of inquiries into the cause and origin of all fires.
This has not been brought into operation yet.
Kerosene oil is stored in a special warehouse, near the entrance to the
harbor, about 1 mile to the west of the city, and no kerosene oil of a
lower test than 150 is allowed to be imported, nor are retail shops or
wholesale merchants allowed to have more than 3 cases under one roof
in stock. Gunpowder, fireworks, and other explosives are stored in
444
a magazine at Fort James, a little farther west of the kerosene ware

house.
There was one incendiary fire in 1890.
There is a law regulating building, construction, heating, lighting, etc,
passed in 1784, amendatory of the law of 1771. It is disregarded, but I
send a copy. It maybe interesting as going to show the interest taken
in such things by the legislators of a hundred years ago.
Sa m l . G a l b r a it h ,
Vice-Consul.
Antigua, West Indies, March, 1892.
[Inclosure in Vice-Consul Galbraiths report.]
BUILDING REGULATIONS OF ANTIGUA*

Act of 1784.
A K A C T to alter and amend an act entitled An act for the better regulating of buildings and to pre
vent mischiefs that may happen from fire within the town of St. John, dated the first day of
June, in the year of Or Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-one.
Whereas, the houses and other buildings in the town of St. John, being chiefly
built of wood, are particularly liable to the danger of fire; and
Whereas this danger is made still more alarming from the many wooden kitchens
erected within the said town, and also from the many ovens or stoves which are
often erected immediately adjoining to wooden buildings, and are so negligently
set as greatly to endanger the safety of the said town, as hath lately been unhappily
experienced ; in order therefore to prevent, as far as may be, such mischiefs for the
future, we, your majestys most loyal and obedient subjects, the commander-inchief of your majestys Leeward Caribbee Islands in America, and the council and
assembly of your majestys island of Antigua, do humbly pray your most excellent
majesty that it may be enacted and ordained, and be it and it is hereby enacted and
ordained by the authority aforesaid, that from and after the publication of this act
every kitchen and every house, building, or edifice wherein any fire shall be used
for the carrying on the trade of a blacksmith or coppersmith, plumber and founder,
which shall be erected or built within the limits of the town of St. John shall be
erected and built in manner following, that is to say, the walls of such kitchens,
house building, or edifice wherein any fire shall be used for the carrying on the trade
of a blacksmith or coppersmith, plumber, and founder shall be built wholly of brick
or stone, and shall be at least 9 inches thick and 7 feet in height from the set-off of
such wall, and every such kitchen shall have a proper and sufficient chimney or fire
place, which shall likewise be built wholly of brick or stone, the inside of suoh
chimney or fireplace to be plastered or pargeted from the springing of the arch to
top, and shall be raised or carried np 4 feet at least above the ridge of the roof of
such kitchen or building.
2. That the roof of every house, building, or edifice wherein any fire shall be used
for the carrying on the trade or business of a blacksmith or coppersmith, plumber,
and founder, shall be wholly covered with slate or tile.
3. That all chimney jambs and backs that shall hereafter be erected or built within
the limits of said town of St. John shall be wholly of stone or brick, at least 14
inches in thickness from the hearth to the springing of tlio arch of such chimney or
fireplace, and in depth at least 3 feet from the front of such jamb to the back of snch
ohimney or fireplace, and all mantels between the jambs arched over with brick or
WEST INDIES---- BRITISH.
445
stone, and that no wainscot shall be placed or affixed to the front of any jamb or
mantel of any chimney nearer than 6 inches from the inside of such jamb or mantel.
4. That the insides of such chimneys as shall hereafter be erected or built within
the limits of the said town of St. John shall be at least 4 feet in breadth between
the jambs, and that no timber shall be nearer than 6 inohe to any chimney, funnel,
or fireplace.
5. That from and after the publication of this act all ovens or stoves which shall
be erected or built in any kitchen within the limits of the said town of St. John shall
have a flue or fnnel made wholly of brick or stone (the inside to be plastered or
pargeted), which shall enter into and communicate with the wing of the chimney or
fireplace of such kitchen, or every such oven or stove shall have a flue or funnel
built wholly of brick or stone (the inside to be plastered or pargeted), which shall
be equal in height to the chimney or fireplace of such kitchen.
6. That from and after the publication of this act every oven or stove which shall
be erected or built within the limits of the said town of St. John, and which shall
not be erected in a kitchen or some other brick or stone building having a proper
and sufficient chimney or fireplace according to the directions of this act, shall be
erected or built at the distance of 20 feet at least from any wooden building or edifice;
and every such oven or stove shall likewise have a chimney or flue built wholly of
brick or stone at least 4 inches thick (the inside of such flue or fnnel to be plastered
or pargeted), which shall be raised or carried up 15 feet above the crown of such
oven or stove.
7. That all kitchens, ovens, or stoves, and also all houses, buildings, or edifices
wherein any fire shall be used for the carrying on the trade of a blacksmith or copper
smith, plumber, and founder, already erected or built within the limits of the said
town of St. John, and which shall not be erected or built according to the directions
of this act, shall be pulled down by the owners or proprietors of the same, or altered
so as to be made conformable to the several regulations hereinbefore mentioned and
prescribed within the space of twelve calendar months next after the publication
hereof.
8. That the person or persons who shall be in possession of any kitchen, house,
building, or edifice, chimney, oven, or stove which shall be erected or built or shall
so remain contrary to the directions of this act, or shall receive or take the rents,
issues, and profits of the same, shall be deemed tho owner or proprietor thereof, and
shall be liable to the penalties and punishments hereinafter expressly inflicted against
the owners or proprietors of such irregular buildings as aforesaid.
9. That if the owners or proprietors of any land whereon any kitchen, chimney,
oven, or stove shall be erected or built contrary to the directions of this act, or where
upon any irregular kitchen, chimney, oven, or stove erected or built contrary to the
rules hereinbefore prescribed shall remain beyond the time hereinbefore limited for
altering or removing the same, shall not be resident upon this island, that then the
attorneys or agents of suoh owners or proprietors, or the person or persons who shall
direct the building of any such irregular kitchens, chimneys, ovens, or stoves, or shall
neglect or refuse to pull down or alter the same w itliin the time hereinbefore limited
for that purpose, shall be liable and subject to the same penalties and punishments
as the owners or proprietors of such land would have been liable or subject to if he,
she, or they were inhabitants of this island.
10. That if any tenant shall refuse to permit and suffer the owner or proprietor of
any such irregular building, or his, her, or their workmen and servants, at seasonable
times, and in the daytime, to enter upon the lands or buildings in the occupation o f
such tenant in order to comply with the rules and directions hereinbefore prescribed,
or shall refuse to permit and suffer such owners or proprietors, his workmen or serv
ants, to alter or pull down such irregular buildings as aforesaid, every person or
persons so refusing shall suffer the same penalties and punishments as the owner or
proprietors of such irregular buildings would have been subject and liable to if he,
she, or they had willfully neglected or refused to pull down or amend the same.
446
11. That if any action, plaint, sait, information, or indictment shall at anytime
be commenced or prosecuted against any person or persons for what he, she, or they
shall do in pursuance of or in execution of this act, such person or persons so sued or
prosecuted in any court whatsoever shall and may plead the general issue, and upon
any issue joined may give this act and the special matter in evidence ; and if the
plaintiff or prosecutor shall become nonsuit or suffer discontinuance, or if a verdict
pass against him or her, the defendant or defendants shall recover their treble costs,
for which they shall have the like remedy as in any case where costs by law are
given to defendants.
12. That it shall and may be lawful to and for any one of his majestys justices
of the peace for this island upon complaint, made to him of any offense committed,
done, or suffered against this act, to issue a warrant under his hand and seal, directed
to the provost-marshal of this island or his lawful deputy, thereby requiring him to
summon such offender or offenders to appear before him and one other justice of the
peace within two days after service of such summons to answer the complaint ex
hibited against him, her, or them, and if such offender or offenders shall not appear
within the time hereinbefore limited and enter into a recognizance in the sum of
100, conditioned for the observance and performing of the several rules and direc
tions hereinbefore mentioned and prescribed, within twenty days after the taking
or acknowledging thereof, or if such offender or offenders shall appear and deny the
charge and refuse to enter into the recognizance .aforesaid, that then the justice as
aforesaid, upon proof of the service thereof, shall and may issue another warrant
under his hand and seal, directed to the provost-marshal or his lawful deputy, there
by requiring him to summon twelve good and lawful men, being freeholders of the
said town of St. Jolm, to appear at the court-liouse in the said town of St. John upon
the day and at the hour in such warrant mentioned, to inquire of the truth of the
information exhibited as aforesaid, and also to summon uch person or persons a
the informer or prosecutor shall think proper to appear at the same time and place
and give evidence touching the same.
13. That the justice who shall issue such warrant shall immediately give notice in
writing to some other justice of the peace for the said -island of the time appointed
forsuch trial, which notice shall be served at least six days before the day of trial, and
if any such j ustice shall refuse or neglect to attend at the time and place appointed,
not having a sufficient excuse for such neglect or omission, he shall forfeit and pay
the sum of 50, to be recovered by action, bill, plaint, or information in His Majestys
court of common pleas or any other court of record held for this island, together
with double costs of suit, such penalty to be to the use of the person or persons who
shall sue for the same.
14. That, before any warrant shall be issued to summon the jurors and witnesses
as aforesaid, the justice who shall issue the same shall take the deposition of the in
former or prosecutor upon oath, which shall be signed by the party making the same
and shall set forth that the deponent doth verily believe that the person or persons
against whom such complaint or information is exhibited as aforesaid have offended
against this act, and such deposition shall be lodged by the persons taking the same
in the secretarys office of this island at least six days preceding the day of tràl.
15. That the mode and manner of trying such information shall be as follows,
that is to say, the jury summoned to try the same shall be sworn by either of the
said justices well and truly to try the matter in question between the informer and
defendant or defendants, and to give a true verdict according to the evidence; and
all witnesses, before they shall be permitted to give any testimony touching such
information, shall be also sworn in like manner to speak the truth according to the
best of their knowledge, and all verdicts found by tho jury shall be written or in
dorsed upon the back of the information in like manner as is used in the court of
common pleas held for the said island.
16. That the affirmation or affirmations of the people called Quakers shall be al
447
lowed and taken in all cases where any oath or oaths is or are directed to be taken
by this act instead of such oath or oaths, and shall be administered ; by the same per
son or persons as such oath or oaths is or are to be administered and every person or
persons making such affirmation who shall be convicted of willful and false affirm
ing liall incur and suffer the samo pains and penalties as are inflicted and imposed
by the common law of reat Britain upon persons convicted of willful and corrupt
perjury.
17. That the person or persons making such information shall be deemed and taken
as a good and competent witness or witnesses to prove any matter or thing upon the
trial of such information; and the said justices, or any two of them, at the request
of the iuformer or defendant, are hereby authorized and required to cause any irreg
ular building complained of as aforesaid to be viewed and measured by the jury
summoned to try the said information or any seven of them ; and if any person or
persons shall attempt to hinder such jurymen from viewing or measuring the same,
such person or persons shall be immediately committed to the common jail of this
island, by warrant under the hands and seals of the said justices, there to Tmain
until such view shall have been taken by the jury as aforesaid, without bail or main
prise.
18. That in case any person or persons shall make oath or give evidence in any
cause depending before tho said justices, according to this act, whereby he, she, or
they shall commit any willful or corrupt perjury and thereof be convicted according
to law, every such person or persons shall incur and suffer the same pains and pen
alties as are inflicted and imposed by the common law of Great Britain upon persons
convicted of willful and corrupt perjury.
19. That if any juryman or witness who shall be summoned to appear before the
said justices in pursuance of this act, shall neglect or refuse to appear according to
the directions of the summons, or appearing, shall refuse to be examined on oath
touching the premises, and no just excuse shall be offered for such neglect or refusal,
every person so offending, upon proof on oath of such summons having been served
on liim, her, or them, shall, for every such offense, forfeit and pay the sum of 20, to
be levied and recovered as hereinafter directed.
20. That it shall and may be lawful to and for any two justices of the peace of thi
island to hear and determine all offenses committed against this act, and upon trial
of any information if the jury shall find the defendant or defendants guilty of the
offense or offenses charged against him, her, or them, to issue a warrant under their
hands and seals directed to tho provost marshal of this island, thereby commanding
him to take the body or bodies of such defendant or defendants and keep him, her,
or them confined in tho common jail of this island until he, she, or they shall have
paid into the hands of the treasurer of this island or his lawful deputy the sum or
sums of money specified in such warrant, and upon a certificate under the hand and
seal of such treasurer or his lawful deputy that the persqn or persons so confined have
paid such penalty of forfeitures he, she, or they shall be immediately discharged.
21. That if a sufficient number of justices or jurymen shall not appear at the day
appointed to try the information, or if the informer or prosecutor shall declare upon
oath that a material witness or witnesses having been duly summoned is or are ab
sent, that then the said justices or any one of them shall adjourn the further hearing
of such information or complaint for any number of days not exceeding seven days,
and so from time to time as occasion shall require; and such witnesses or jurymen
neglecting or refusing to attend at the time appointed by such adjournment shall
incur and pay the same penalties and forfeitures as if he, she, or they had neglected
or refused to attend upon the original summons.
22. That if the jury upon such trial shall find the defendant or defendants guilty
of the offense charged in tho information, that then such defendant or defendants
so convicted as aforesaid shall forfeit and pay such sum of money as the said justices
shall think proper, so as such sum do not exceed 50 and be not under 10, to be
448
levied and recovered in manner hereinafter mentioned, such, penalty or forfeiture to

be paid into the hands of the treasurer of this island for the time being, to be ap
plied to such usee as the legislature of this island shall direct and appoint; and such
defendant or defendants shall likewise pay the cost and charges following, that is
to say, to each of the said justices the sum of 3 6 to the provost marshal or his
deputy for each person he shall summon the sum of 3., and for attending the trial
the sum of 3 ; to the secretary for receiving and filing each deposition or informa
tion the sum of 3s., for attending the trial the sum of 3, and to each juryman the
sum of 7. 6d., which said fees or sums of money shall be paid by the treasurer of
this island for the time being on an order signed by the said justices present at the
trial, and shall be added to and recovered, together with the penalty hereinbefore
imposed upon the defendant or defendants; and if upon such trial the jury shall
find the defendant or defendants not guilty, then the same fees shall be paid by the
treasurer of this island upon a like order under the hands and seals of the said justices
present at the trial, which orders or warrants with a receipt or receipts thereon in
dorsed shall be a sufficient voucher for the treasurer in passing his public accounts.
23. That it shall and may be lawful to and for the said justices sitting upon the
trial or bearing any plaint or information prosecuted according to the direction of
this act to punish all contempts committed against them by imposing upon such of
fender or offenders any fine or penalty not exceeding 5, and to commit such offender
or offenders to the common jail of this island, there to remain without bail or main
prise until he, she, or they shall have paid the same.
24. That the said justices, or any two of them, shall by warrant under their hands
and seals order and direct the provost marshal of this island to pull down and de
molish all such irregular buildings which a jury, upon any information exhibited
and prosecuted as aforesaid, shall find to have been erected or continued contrary
to the directions of this act, within ten days after the delivery or notice of such order
or -warrant ; and if any person or persons shall resist the said marshal or his lawful
deputy or those employed by him for that purpose in the execution of such order or
warrant, or if such provost marshal or his deputy shall refuse or neglect to execute
such order or warrant he, she, or they so offending shall forfeit and pay the sum of
50 for each offense, to be paid to the informer and recovered by warrant of any of
the said justices, who is hereby authorized and required to commit such offender or
offenders to the common jail of this island until he, she, or they shall pay the same.
25. That the costs, charges, and expenses attending the execution of any warrant
issued for the pulling down or demolishing of any irregular building as aforesaid
shall be paid by the treasurer of this island upon an order under the hands and seals
of the said justices, or any two of them, which order, with a receipt thereon indorsed
shall be a sufficient voucher for the treasurer in passing his public accounts.
26. That all penalties or forfeitures imposed upon the jurymen or witnesses for
neglecting or refusing to attend according to the direction of this act shall be recov
ered by a warrant under the hand and seal of the justice before whom the original
complaint or information was exhibited, directed to the provost-marshal or his law
ful deputy, thereby requiring him to take the body or bodies of such offender or of
fenders, and keep him, her, or them confined in the common jail of this island until
he, she, or they shall have paid the sum or sums of money specified in such warrant,
which said sum or sums of money are to go and be paid to and among such of the
jury as shall appear at the time appointed by such summons or adjournment; and if
none of such jury shall appear, then the informer or prosecutor and provost-marshal
or his lawful deputy is hereby authorized upon receipt of the said sum or sums of
money to discharge the person or persons paying the same out of his custody.
Sections to 27 to 29 expired or repealed.
30. That all recognizances taken by virtue of this act shall be immediately returned
into the secretarys office, and upon proof being made to the court of kings bench
449
and grand sessions of the peace held for this island that the person or persons enter
ing into each recognizances have broken or forfeited the same, such recognizances
shall be proceeded upon in like manner as other recognizances are by law directed
to be prosecuted and recovered.
H A M IL T O N , B E R M U D A .
REPORT B Y CONSUL SU LLIVAN .*
1. Name of city, Hamilton.

2. The population of Hamilton is unknown; that of the island of
Bermuda is 15,013.
3. The area of the city limits is 1 square mile.
4. All the buildings are stone except three.
6. There are three wooden buildings.
7. Fires in stone buildings, 2.
8. Fire in wooden buildings, 1.
9. Yalue of property involved in fires not known.
10. Total loss not known.
11. Total insurance not known.
12. Total insurance loss not known.
13. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated, all.
17. The fire department consists of 2 wardens, 26 assistant wardens,
1 hand and 1 steam engine.
18. No regular system of water supply.
19. Causes of fires are investigated by the coroner, who also prose
cutes in cases of incendiarism.
20. All the fires have been of incendiary origin so far as known.
21. No regulations exist for the storage and sale of oil or explosives
of any kind, except kerosene oil, the holding of which is limited to 100
gallons.
22. There is no law regulating building construction, heating, light
ing, etc.
W. K. S u l l i v a n ,
Consul.
HamiltonjBermuda, January 18, 1892.
K IN G S T O N , J A M A IC A .
RE PO R T B Y CONSUL ESTES.
The city of Kingston, the capital and chief town of the island of
Jamaica, has a population of about 50,000, of which about 10 per cent
are white and the others black and colored.
* Year 1890.
146A----- 29
450
Tlie exact area of the city limits can not be given from information
received. There are about 53 miles of streets and lanes or alleys.
There are about 7,C35 buildings in the city, but I can get no informa
tion as to how many are wood and how many are brick, but they are
mostly of wood, and the larger number of them poor and small.
During the year 1890 there were 24 alarms sounded, of which 12 were
false, indicating that 12 was the total number of fires for the year.
Fire not being used for heating purposes at any time of the year,
coupled with the fact that the food is usually prcj)ared in a building
separated from the residence, on a brick hearth or oven, with no pipes,
and almost without a chimney, will account for the small number of
fires.
There are 51 alarm boxes in the city.
The total value of property involved in the 12 fires was $9,553. To
tal loss thereon, $651.
I am unable to ascertain the amount of insurance or insurance loss
on the property involved.
Of the 12 fires for the year none extended to adjoining property but
were controlled within the buildings in which they originated.
The fire brigade consists of one superintendent, one chief, and 17
men. The appliances consist of two American two-horse hose carriages,
equipped with 1,000 feet of delivery hose each and the necessary stand
pipes and others; four hand reels each, equipped with 400 feet of deliv.
ery hose and the necessary appliances as a reserve, if required; one
telescope ladder, 40 feet, with an ambulance, grapplings, jumping
streets, fire hooks, and buckets attached, and a lull supply of other
ladders of various lengths ; two manual fire engines for 30 men, kept
ready for use on all occasions in the event of the failure of the water
supply.
The Gamewell fire-alarm system has been in use here for the past
seven and one-half years, the lines of which are divided into three cir
cuits, with a total of 34 alarm boxes therein, by which means the brig
ade can be summoned, and invariably are on the spot in between three
and four minutes, according to the distance from the central station.
The 19 members of the brigade reside on the j)i*emises, and can be
turned out during the day in forty or forty-three seconds for the first
company, and in one and a quarter minutes for the second company,
who have to harness the two pairs of horses, the horses of No. 1 com
pany being always in harness. At night, between 9 p. m. and 6 a. m.,
thirty or thirty-five minutes additional time to the above is required.
A constant water supply is obtained from the rivers that run from
the mountains, and only in cases of severe drought has it been found
necessary to curtail the supply. Over 400 hydrants are placed at con
venient distances, and the normal pressure is from 40 to 75 pounds to
the square inch.
451
The provisions for investigating causes of fire and prosecutions for

incendiarism are contained in law 23, of 1887, as follows:
Whereas it ia expedient that due inquiry should be made into the origin of fires
causing damage to person or property, and into the origin of occurrences resulting
in serious injury to person or property :
Be it enacted by the Governor and Legislative Council of Jamaica as follows:
1. In this law the term u inquiry means an inquiry under this law. The expres
sion chairman of tho parochial board, shall include vice-chairman or other per
son for the time being performing the duties of chairman.
2. Where any fire occurs causing injury to person or property, or in respect of
which there is reasonable ground to suspect that a crime has been committed, or
where any occurrence takes place resulting in serious injury to person or property,
and tlie origin of such fire or occurrence is unknown, the resident magistrate of the
parish in which such fire or occurrence has taken place shall, if he considers it expe
dient, or is required by the governor or the chairman of the parochial board of the
parish to do so, make inquiry into the origiu of such fire or occurrence.
3. The said magistrate may, by writing under his hand, summon such witnesses as
he may deem necessary, and shall examine them, and all other persons presented or
presenting themselves for examination, on oath or affirmation touching the matter of
the inquiry, and the evidence of every witness shall be taken down in writing by
the said resident magistrate, or by such other person as he may for the purpose ap
point, and distinctly read over to and subscribed by such witness in the presence of
the said resident magistrate.
4. If any person summoned as aforesaid âs a witness at any inquiry held under
this law shall neglect or refuse to appear at the time and place appointed by the said
summons, and otherwise to comply with the same, and if no just excuse shall be
offered for such neglect or refusal, then, after proof upon oath or affidavit of such
summons having been served upon uch person, either personally or by leaving the
same for him with some person at his place of abode, it shall be lawful for the resi
dent magistrate to issue a warrant under his hand to bring and have such person at a
time and place therein mentioned before him to testify as aforesaid, and if on the ap
pearance of the person so summoned, either in obedience to the said summons or upon
being brought up by virtue of said warrant, uch person shall refuse to be examined
upon oath or affirmation concerning the premises, or shall refuse to take such oath,
or to make such affirmation, or having taken such oath or affirmation shall refuse to
answer such questions concerning the premises as shall then be put to him, or shall
refuse to produce any document which he may be summoned or be required by the
resident magistrate to produce, or shall refuse to subscribe his deposition, the resident
magistrate may by warrant under his hand commit the person so refusing to any ordi
nary prison of the parish or district for any time not exceedi ng seven days, unless he shall
in the meantime consent to be examined and to answer concerning the premises, or to
produce such document, if any, or to subscribe his deposition, as the case may be :
Provided always , That no witness shall bo bound to answer any question, or to pro<luoo
any document, which would have a tendency to criminate such witnoos, or the wife
or husband of such witness, or expose such witness or wife or husband to a penalty
or forfeiture.
5. The attorney-general or anyone appointed by him, the chairman of the
parochial board or any one appointed by him, the inspector-general of police or any
inspector or subinspector of police may severally attend at tho inquiry and ex
amine and cross-examine any witnesses, and may require that any witnesses shall
be examined; and any person, or the agent of any company, society, or association,
who or which may be pecuniarily interested in any loss arising out of the fire or
occurrence the subject of the inquiry, and any other person whose conduct in the
opinion of the resident magistrate is or is likely to be called in question, or who in
the opinion of the resident magistrate may be affected by the result of the inquiry,
452
may also by leave of the resident magistrate attend at the inquiry and examine or
cross-examine any witness, or require that any witness shall be examined.
6. Any justice of the peace, on becoming aware of any fire or occurrence within
the parish for which he acts, the origin of which is or appears to him likely to be
the 8ubject of an inquiry under this law, may do all or any of the following things,
that is to say
(1) He may from time to time himself inspect, or by order in writing under his
hand authorize and direct any person or persons to inspect, the locality where the
fire or occurrence has taken place, and make such examination and take such photo
graphs, drawings, and measurements as he or they may deem expedient.
(2) He may, by order in writing under his hand, require that the place in and
near which the fire or occurrence has happened shall be left undisturbed, and that
no article or thing shall be removed therefrom for such reasonable time, to be speci
fied in such order, as may be necessary for the purposes of the inquiry. The time
mentioned in any such order may be extended by a like order in writing. While
any such order remains in force every member of the constabulary force shall have
full authority to remain in possession of such place, and to prevent any person
going thereon, and prevent any article or thing being disturbed or removed.
(3) He may, by an order in writing under his hand, authorize any members of the
constabulary force, without naming such members, to take and keep possession of
any article or thing which he deems it necessary should be safely kept for inspection
or production at the inquiry.
(4) Where any article or thing, the production of which there is reason to consider
is necessary for the purposes of the inquiry, has been removed or is concealed, and it
is made to appear to him, by evidence on oath, that there is reasonable ground for
believing that such article or thing is in a certain house or on certain premises, he
may, by warrant under hie hand, empower any members o f the constabulary force,
without naming such members, to search the said house or premises for uch article or
thing, and when found to keep possession of the same for production at the inquiry :
Provided a follows, That is to say, if any person feels aggrieved by any order made
as aforesaid under the provisions of this section, he may, on an affidavit of the facts
and without notice except as hereinafter directed, apply by motion to a judge of the
supreme court of judicature to vary or annul such order; and the judge is hereby
authorized to make such order a the circumstances may require. Every person
wishing to make any such application shall, twenty-four hours at least before mak
ing the application, leave at the office of the attorney-general, and with the justice
of the peace making such order, a notice in writing of his intention to make the same,
and a copy of every affidavit which he intends to use on making such application.
Any person obstructing any justice of the peace or other person or persons appointed
by him as aforesaid, or anyone acting under his or their order or direction while
acting under the authority of this section, shall be guilty of an offense, and, on sum
mary conviction thereof before any two justices of the peace, shall be liable to a pen
alty not exceeding 10, and, in default of payment, to imprisonment, with or without
hard labor, for any term not exceeding one month.
7. A witness attending an inquiry in obedience to a summons shall be entitled
to receive the like sum for his expenses as if he had been summoned to attend a cir
cuit court on a criminal trial, if the same shall be allowed by the resident magistrate ;
but the resident magistrate may disallow the whole or any part of such expenses in
any case if he shall see fit. Orders for the payment of such witnesses shall be made
as nearly as may be as orders are made for the payment of witnesses at a circuit
court, and shall be paid at such time and in such manner as the governor may direct.
8. Every inquiry under this law shall be conducted publicly.
9. After all the witnesses have been examined and the resident magistrate has
made fall investigation into the subject-matter of the inquiry, he shall record in
writing his opinion a to the origin of the fire or occurrence in respect of which the
453
inquiry is held, and shall sign such opinion, and as soon thereafter as may be prac
ticable shall transmit the same to the colonial secretary, together with all the depo
sitions taken, and the documents produced or a copy of them ; and the colonial sec
retary shall, as soon as possible thereafter, in cases where the inquiry has been held
on the requisition of the chairman of the parochial board, send to such chairman a
copy of the said opinion of the resident magistrate.
The chairman of the parochial board of the parish in which such fire or occur
rence has taken place, and every person allowed to appear at such inquiry under
section 5, shall be allowed, by their agents or otherwise, to procure copies of the
depositions and documents returned by the resident magistrate as aforesaid.
10. The forms of summonses and warrants in use for the time being by courts of
summary jurisdiction may, with the necessary modifications, be used for summonses
and warrants under this law.
11. Until resident magistrates shall be appointed for the several parishes of the
island under law 17 of 1887, or any law in substitution of or amendment of the same,
the powers and duties imposed by this law on the resident magistrate within his
parish shall vest in and be exercised by the district-court jit.'ge within his district.
No incendiary fires were discovered during the year.

The regulations for storage and sale of petroleum are contained in
sections 4, 6, 7, and 8 of law 23 of 1871, as follows:
(4) Licenses in pursuance of this law may be granted for a limited time, not ex
ceeding twelve months, and there may be annexed thereto any conditions as to re
newal or otherwise which the justices may think necessary, and also as to the quan
tity of petroleum which may at any one time be kept on the premises, and also any
other conditions for diminishing the risk of damage from explosion or fire that the
justices may determine. And if any licensee be convicted under this law of any
breach of his license, the district-court judge, or the justices by whom he is con
victed, may make an order that his license is determined, and therefrom his license
shall become void and of no effect.
(6) From and after the 1st day of October, 1871, no petroleum shall be kept, other
wise than for private use or for purposes of retail sale, except in such building as
may be specially appointed for the purpose by the governor, and under such condi
tions as to the mode of storage, as to the nature of the goods with which petroleum
may be stored, as to testing such petroleum from time to time, and as to the safe
keeping of petroleum, as may seem expedient to the governor. Any petroleum kept
in contravention of this section shall be forfeited, and in addition thereto the occupier
of the place in which petroleum is kept shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding
20 a day for each day during which petroleum is therein kept in contravention of
this law.
(7) No person shall sell or expose for sale by retail any petroleum, from and after
the 1st day of August, 1871, which gives off an inflammable vapor at a temperature
of less than 95 of Fahrenheits thermometer, unless the bottle or vessel containing
such petroleum have attached thereto a label in legible characters, stating as fol
lows : Great care must be taken in bringing any light near to the contents of this
vessel, as they give off an inflammable vapor at a temperature of 95 of Fahrenheit's
thermometer ; and any person otherwise selling or exposing for sale by retail any
petroleum which gives off an inflammable vapor at a less temperature than afore
said shall, for each offense, be subject to a penalty not exceeding 5; and after
the 1st day of January, 1872, no petroleum that shall give off an inflammable vapor
at a temperature of less than 95 of Fahrenheit's thermometer shall be sold by any
person whatever, whether by wholesale or retail, under a penalty of 50, to be re
covered in manner herein directed: Provided, That nothing in this section contained
shall apply to petroleum not used for burning and kept in close bottles not contain
ing more than 8 ounces.
454
If any pretrolenm shall be kept or shall be offered or exposed for sale contrary to
the provisions of this law the same shall be liable to be seized by any constable or
officer or nbofficer of police, and upon proof of such keeping or of such offering or
exposure for sale shall be adjudged by any district-court judge or any two justices
of the peace to be forfeited; and it shall be lawful for any officer, sergeant-major,
or sergeant of constabulary, or any other person appointed for that purpose by the
governor, at all reasonable times, to inspect and test all petroleum kept or offered
or exposed for sale : Provided, always, That if the person in whose possession such petro
leum shall be found as aforesaid shall claim to have a further test made on his
behalf, the judge or justices before whom complaint of the ai<l offense may be laid
shall cause such further test to be made by the island chemist, who shall certify the
result of such further test in writing, under his signature ; and a paper purporting
to be such certificate and so signed shall be accepted as evidence in the case unless
disproved.
The code of regulations issued by the colonial secretary upon this

subject are as follows:
C o l o n ia l Se c r e t a r y s O f f ic e ,
October 12, 1886.

347. The following information respecting the construction of buildings intended
for the storage of petroleum is published for the guidance of persons who may desire
to obtain licenses under the sixth claus of law 23 of 1871, for the wholesale storage
of the oil:
A building intended for the storage of petroleum must be isolated from all other
buildings, unless the entire block of buildings is of fire-proof construction and the
petroleum store be completely cut off from all communication with other parts of
the block by solid fireproof walls, ceiling, and floor.
A building intended for the storage of petroleum must be of fireproof construc
tion throughout if within 30 feet of any other building used as a dwelling house or
store.
A building not entirely of fireproof construction will be licensed when it is not
less than 30 feet distant from any other building used as a dwelling house or store
and is so situated with regard to other buildings in the neighborhood and when
those other buildings are of such a class that the store may be considered safe from
danger of ignition externally.
In order that the temperature of the oil may be kept low, and to permit as free a
perflation of air as possible, all buildings used for the storage of petroleum must be
provided with floor and roof or ceiling ventilation, constructed in such a manuer as
to prevent as far as possible the danger of fire being communicated to the contents
of the store from without.
It is to be noted that the vapor of petroleum mixed with air in certain proportions
is an explosive mixture. Such a mixture may be occasioued in a hot store with a
leaky cask in it if efficient ventilation be not provided.
Doorways of petroleum stores must be made of not less than 3 feet 6 inches clear
width, and the doors arc to open outwards, so as to permit of the contents of the
store being quickly removed if necessary.
For the information of persons building petroleum stores it may be stated that to
comply with the conditions as to the storage of the oil, and at the same time to
avoid waste of space, petroleum stores should be from 8 to 10 or from 16 to 20 feet in
width.
The following conditions in regard to the storage of petroleum are published for
the information of persons having buildings licensed for that purpose under the
sixth clause of law 23 of 1871 :
Petroleum, if in casks, shall be stored in tiers or rows ; the tier or row next any wall
shall be not more than one cask in depth and two casks in height, with a clear passage of
455
at least 4 feet between it and tlie next tier or row, wliich, as well as all the other tiers
or rows, may consist of two casks in depth and two casks in height, with a similar
passage of at least 4feet between every tier or row; and to every such passage between
tiers or rows there shall be access by a passage of at least 4 feet. If the petroleum
be in cases it shall be similarly stored in tiers or rows, the first tier or row next any
wall shall not be more than two cases in depth and four cases in height, with a clear
passage of at least 3 feet between it and the next tier or row, which, as well as all
the other tiers or rows, may consist of four cases in depth and four cases in height,
with a similar passage of at least 3 feet between each tier or row ; and to every such
passage between tiers or rows there shall be access by a passage of at least 3 feet.
No other goods of any kind shall be kept in any petroleum store.
Any officer or subofficer of constabulary or any officer of excise or customs shall
at all reasonable times have access to the petroleum store for the purpose of inspect
ing the store or of testing the petroleum whenever he may think it necessary to do
80.
Two lock shall be placed on the petroleum store, one a box lock and the other a
padlock, the keys of which are to be kept in the possession of the proprietor, or, in
his absence, by his head clerk or head man. Both these locks are to be kept closed
always at night, and one at least to be. kept closed always in the daytime, except
when petroleum is in process of being received into or removed out of the store.
No petroleum shall be received into or removed from any store except during day
light.
No lighted candle, lamp, or lantern, and no match shall be at any time, by day or
night, taken into the petroleum store under any pretense or for any purpose what
ever.
No smoking shall, under any circumstances, be permitted in any petroleum store.
In the event of petroleum becoming ignited, it should be borne in mind that the
application of water serves only to spread the fire more widely. The best plan is to
throw earth or sand on the burning oil.
By command.
E. N. W a l k e r ,
Colonial Secretary.
To tlie strict enforcement of these laws and regulations is undoubt

edly due in a great degree the small number of lires.
W . E. E stes,
Consul.
Kingston, Jamaica, February 22, 1892,
NASSAU, BAH AM AS.

R E PO R T B Y CONSUL W L A IN .
The name of the place is Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas.

The population of the city proper is 1,575 according to late census;
but the population of suburbs and of three adjacent villages included
numbers about 9,000. For fire purposes they are all one town and are
considered as one fire district.
The area of the city proper is 169 acres; that of the suburbs and adjacent villages is about 5 square miles.
456
In city proper nearly all buildings are of stone; outside they are
mostly frame. I have no means of ascertaining the number of either
kind, but outside of limits nearly all buildings are small and only one
story high.
There are no fire alarms. There have been no fires in any buildings
during 1891 in city proper. There were three fires in tlie contiguous
villages in 1891, but they were of small dwellings and did not extend
to adjoining property.
The fire department consists of two companies. One has a steam fire
engine of American manufacture, with an engineer and stoker. It is
managed by the police force, which consists of 3 officers and 70 men.
The other is a volunteer company of GO men having a manual engine of
fair capacity. There are several old hand engines which might be used
in an emergency. The two engines in use have a good supply of
American rubber hose.
The supply of water is furnished by the harbor, which is available
for buildings within 1,000 feet of the water front; and by ordinary wells.
The law providing for investigation of causes of fires and prosecu
tions in suspected cases is as follows :
Whosoever shall unlawfully and maliciously set fire to any building, whether the
same be in possession of the offender or any other person, shall be guilty of felony,
and being convicted thereof shall be liable, in the discretion of the court, to be sen
tenced to uudergo penal servitude for any term not less than one year nor more than
ten years.
These provisions extend to setting fire to woods, plantations, or any

thing of like nature.
No known incendiary fires occurred in 1891. The storage of more
than 25 pounds of powder in any one building within city limits is pro
hibited by law. No restrictions as to oils.
The only law pertaining to construction, heating, and lighting of
buildings is one that prohibits the erection of wooden buildings within
the city proper.
Thos. J. McLain, J r .
Consul.
Nassau, New Providence, February 5 ,1892.
DANISH W E S T INDIES.
ST. T H O M A S .
REPORT B T CONSUL HORNE.
1. Name of place, St. Thomas, Danish West Indies.

2. Population, 12,019, census of 1891.
3. Area, 6 square miles.
457
WEST INDIES---- FRENCH.
4,5. Number and kinds of buildings, unknown.

, 7. Number of alarms in 1891,1 ; 1 fire in a frame building.
9. Total value of propertv involved, $15,000.
17. The fire department consists of forty volunteers and 40 old-time
hand engines.
18. Cistern water; supply limited.
19. Investigation regarding causes of fire takes place before the po
lice court, presided over by the police master. Prosecutions in cases
of suspected incendiarism or crimes takes place before the town-court
after the investigation has been brought to an end in the police court
and the matter represented to the Government.
20. Incendiary fires during the year, none.
21. Petroleum, kerosene oil, and naphtha, whether in a crude or refined
state, shall not be stored in any warehouse, store, shop, dwelling, or
any other building in quantities of more than 40 gallons at a time.
Larger quantities than 40 gallons are not allowed to be kept within 75
Danish ells of any dwelling or of any depository for goods, produce,
etc.
The Danish law* covering this is herewith inclosed.
Sa m u e l B . H o r n e ,
Consul.
8t. Thomas, West Indies, March 10, 1892.
FRENCH W E S T INDIES.
P O IN T A P IT R E , G U A D E L O U P E .
REPORT S T C0N8TJL BARTLETT.
1. Name of place, Pointe a Pitre, Guadeloupe.

3. Area of city limits, about 200 hectares or 500 acres.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, 7 all stone or brick, 3 all iron,
and 650 half stone and half woodlower story stone wall and upper
story wood.
5. Number of wooden buildings, about 2,300.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, about $30,000.
* See report by Consul Ryder, of Copenhagen.
458

17. The fire department consists of 1 steam pump and 2 hand pumps.
18. Water supply for fire purposes and capacity of supply: Water
works, good supply, but capacity not as yet determined.
19. A thorough investigation is made by the Government into all
causes of fires. Incendiaries are severely punished.
20. Number of incendiary fires, none proved.
21. Oils, explosives, and fireworks are stored near the water front
in a stone building.
22. In the heart of the city all the buildings are to have a stone or
brick wall on each side, extending from the ground to the roof j if not,
the parts exposed to adjoining buildings; if of wood, must be cvred
with zinc or galvanized iron. The roofs are to be covered with slates,
galvanized iron, or tiles. In no part of the city is the roof permitted
to be covered with shingles.
Ch a r l e s B a r t l e t t ,
Consul.
Guadeloupe, May 14, 1892.
SPANISH W E S T INDIES.
CUBA.
HAVANA.
REPORT B Y CONSUL-GENERAL WILLIAMS.
1. Name of city, Havana, Cuba.

2. Population, about 218,000 inhabitants.
3. Area of city limits, about 2,027 acres, including the suburbs of
Jesus del Monte and Luyano.
4. Havana contains 18,000 houses (estimated). Almost without ex
ception the buildings of the city are of limestone and masonry, brick
being very little used. The erection of wooden buildings within the
city limits is prohibited.
5. There are still some wooden or frame buildings, consisting gener
ally of small dwelling houses, to be found in the suburbs of Havana.
6. 7, 8. During the six years ending December 31,1890, there have
been in Havana and suburbs 309 fires. In 1885 there were 70 fires; 50
extinguished without aid of the engines; the remaining 20 by the fire
men; 1 false alarm.
In 1886 there were 53 fires; 38 extinguished without aid of the en
gines; the remaining 15 by the firemen; 8 false alarms.
In 1887 there were 50 fires, of which only 12 were attended by the
firemen; 5 false alarms.
459
WEST INDIES SPANISH.
In 1888 there were 53 fires, the firemen attending 14; no false alarm
this year.
In 1889 there were 28 fires, only 7 of which required the assistance
of tlie firemen ; 2 false alarms.
In 1890 there were 55 fires, of which 35 were extinguished by the
firemen; 4 false alarms.
The firemen have also been employed in various other services, such
as the pulling down of weak walls, etc.
R E CAPITU LATION .
Years.
1885................................................................
188(j..................................................................................................
1887..................................................................................................
1888..................................................................................................
1881)..................................................................................................
18U0..................................................................................................
Fires.
Attempts.
False
alarms.
20
50
38
38
39
1
8
5
21
2
4
15
12
14
7
15
40
In
wooden
houses.
4
5
1
9. There is no means of getting at the value of property involved in

the fires.
10. It is estimated that during the past year losses by fire have not
reached $500,000.
11,12. The data regarding total insurance and total insurance loss
are kept by the insurance companies, which do not make them public.
There are some 23 companies or agencies of fire-insurance companies in
Havana, principally English and German. The insurance on private
dwellings is almost all in the hands of 2 Spanish companies, the Iris
and La Previsora.
13,14,15,16.
On account of the prevailing style of the construction
of buildings, fires are generally confined to the floors and buildings in
which they originate, and therefore but rarely extend to ad joining prop
erty. In the cases of fire in frame buildings, which may be said to ex
ist in groups in the suburbs, fires have sometimes extended beyond the
houses in which they originated.
17. There are two corporations. The old city fire department consist
ing of a battalion of about 650 men, subject to military duty; but of
this battalion there is one company composed of 150 men, that are as
signed only to fire duty. They have 2 Shand-Mason engines; 2 hose
tracks; 1 fire patrol wagon and 5 horses; 3 paid men.
The other is the so called Bomberos del Comercio. This is com
posed of about 700 of the young men of the city, clerks and others en
gaged in business, and its expense is supported by subscriptions of the
commercial community, the insurance companies, and private subscrip
tion. They have 2 Shand-Mason engines and 1 Silsby, 2d class; 3 hose
trucks and 2 fire patrol wagons; 11 horses.and 11 paid men.
Both are volunteer organizations, and so far have proved sufficient
460
for any emergency. There are also 2 other fire engines, one belong
ing to the arsenal and the other to the artillery, that are sent to fires
when their services are asked for by the chiefs.
Both institutions are under the immediate control of the city archi
tect, who represents at fires the mayor of the city.
18. At present the old part of the city within the walls (intramuros)
is dependent for its water supply upon the water front of the bay and
upon seven natural wells, in some of which 2 engines can work at the
same time, the water being inexhaustible.
The remainder of the city is supplied by 42 water wells with valves
connecting with the main pipe. When the water works, now in prog
ress, are finished there will be beside the water front and the 7 wells
some 300 water wells from the main pipe.
19. As to investigations into the causes of fires, the district courts
have jurisdiction. All investigation is carried on by the judicial au
thorities, assisted by the police.
20. The number of incendiary fires is not known, but the number of
arrests in 1890 for arson was 14.
21. There exist strict city ordinances regarding the storage and sale
of oils j only a limited number of cases are to be exposed for sale, kept
close to the entrances of the establishments, and the bulk is to be
stored outside of the city limits, but the regulations are not enforced.
The sale and storage of powder and high explosives is in the control of
the military authorities, and such are kept in the powder magazine.
The sale of fireworks is strictly prohibited.
22. The construction of buildings, extension repairs, and all matters
connected therewith are regulated by municipal regulations. All ap
plications for such are made to the city authorities.
R am o n O. W
il l ia m s ,
Consul-General,
Havana, Aj)ril, 1892.
CONTINENT OF ASIA.
ASIATIC T U R K E Y .
B E IR U T , S Y R I A .
REPORT B Y CONSUL BISSINER.
1. Name of city, Beirut, Syria, Turkey in Asia.

2. Population about 100,000, probably more; no official reliable sta
tistics exist.
3. Area of city limits, 350 square hectares (a hectare equals 10,000
square meters).
4. Number of brick or stone buildings unknown, no record being
kept.
5. There are no wooden buildings in Beirut.
. Number of alarms unknown, there being no fire department.
7. Number of fires not known, but a fire is a very rare occurrence in
Beirut, not more than one or two a year.
9. Total value of property involved in fires unknown, but it must be
very small as fires rarely occur.
11. Buildings in Beirut are not insured.
13. No fire statistics exist in Beirut as there is no fire department.
18. When a conflagration takes place in Beirut water is taken from
the Beirut Waterworks Companys water, brought into the city in
pipes in sufficient quantity. The supply is plentiful, but the exact ca
pacity is unknown, there being no data.
19. Fires being so very rare here, their causes are never investigated;
incendiarism is wholly unknown.
21. The following are the regulations for the storage and sale of pe
troleum, oils, etc., promulgated July 2, 1888 :
A rticle I. In every city there shall be special storehouses (depots) for the storage
of petroleum and alcohol. These storehouses shall be constructed by the munici
palities in localities least exposed to fire.
A rticle 11. Petroleum and alcohol arriving in places where storehouses exist,
whether for local consumption or for reexportation, must be stored in these store
houses. In shops not more than 6 cases of petroleum and 3 kantars (1,680 pounds)
of acohol are allowed.
A rticle III. The charges for storing petroleum and alcohol in these storehouses
hall be fixed by the different municipalities, and shall cover only the necessary ex
penses, such as rent for storehouses, salaries of employs, and insurance. These
charges shall not be more than 20 paras (1.8 cents) per case of petroleum and 1 pias
ter (3.6 cents) per old kantar of 560 pounds of alcohol for the period of from one day
to one month, such charges to have the sanction of the administrative councils. Pe461
462
troleum and alcohol remaining longer than one month in these depots shall pay the
same charges for every extra month.
- A rticle IV. Petroleum and alcohol deposited in these storehouses must be at once
entered on the books kept for this purpose. Receipts duly stampod will be furnished
to the owners. Petroleum and alcohol withdrawn in detail must also be recorded on
these books and receipts.
A rticle V. Whenever more than 6 cases of petroleum and 3 kantars (1,680 pounds)
of alcohol are found in a shop the same shall be confiscated and sold and the proceeds
thereof handed over to the municipal departments.
A rticle VI. The minister of the interior is charged with the execution of these
regulations.
22. No regulations for heating or lighting exist, heating being unknown

among the native inhabitants. The regulations concerning building
construction are very lax and especially adapted for Oriental cities.
They would be of no practical value to the Western Continent.
E r h a r d B is s in g e r ,
Consul.
Beirut) Syria, February 5, 1892.
J E R U S A L E M , P A L E S T IN E .
REPORT B Y CONSUL MERRILL.
1. Name of city, Jerusalem, Palestine.

3. City inclosed by a wall 2 miles in extent j half the buildings are
outside the walls.
4. Buildings almost universally of stone.
5. No large houses built of wood; only small shops.
6. Fire alarms, in 1889, 2 j in 1890, 1; in 1891,1.
7. 8. Number of fires, 2.
9. Yalue of property involved, $10,000.
10. Complete loss.
11. No insurance companies, and nothing ever insured.
14. All fires were confined to buildings in which they originated.
17. Under the military department. When called upon the soldiers
take axes, and march out just as they do when going to a parade.
They never run to a fire. They have in the barracks for use in the
city, one tub holding about half a barrel, and a little pump with 10 or
20 feet of leather pipe. This a steamer is never used, for they never
have any water. When the soldiers get to the fire they smash up every
thing they can with their axes. It is probable that not one in a hun
dred of the soldiers stationed here (the garrison is changed every year)
ever saw a fire, and when one occurs they simply do not know what to
do. A photographers shop was burned in 1891, and soldiers stood
463
ASIA BRITISH INDIA.
within 40 feet of the house, and did not move from their tracksdid
not even give any alarm.
18. Water system, etc., none whatever.
19. The city police can investigate the cause of fire j in general noth-.
ing is done.
20. Two of the four fires mentioned under No. 6, were incendiary.
21. Shopkeepers are allowed to keep four cans, 20 gallons in all, of
petroleum in their shops at a time. The rest of their stock must be
stored in a Government house outside the walls, and pay a certain sum,
a small amount, per month for storage. The same is true of what is
called spiritus, a cheap kind of alcohol used in lamps and in small
stoves j explosives are not allowed to be kept by shopkeepers.
22. No law regulating healing, lighting, etc. The city government
has rules for building which refer solely to the external portions as re
lated to the rights of neighbors; the character of structures, materials,
walls, etc., are not taken cognizance of by the rules referred to.
The introduction within the past few years of iron girders for roofs has
revolutionized the method of constructing houses in Jerusalem, so that
the old massive stone arches 4 and even 8 feet thick are done away with.
These girders come from England and Belgium. A few small shops
outside the city, one large bakery, and one flouring mill, are covered with
corrugated iron which is brought from England. Lumber of all kinds
is brought from Europe, and is very expensive. Formerly none was
used except for doors and windows. Now it is used for floors to some
extent, and one or two new houses, all small, with two or three rooms
each, are built every year, entirely of wood.
Se l a h M e r r i l l ,
Consul.
U n ited S t a t e s C o n su la t e ,
Jerusalem, January 18, 1892.
B R ITISH A S IA .
BOM BAY.
[H. A . KTworth, esq., municipal commission or to Consul Ballantlne.]
In answer to your letter of the 18th ultimo I have the honor to give
below the information asked for therein by you:
1. Name of city, Bombay.
2. Population, 821,764 (according to census of 1891).
3. Area of the city limits, 14,246 acres=26 square miles and 166 acres.
4,5. Most of the buildings are frame buildings, depending upon
timber framework for their stability, the spaces in the framework
being filled up with masonry, mostly brick work. No houses hav
ing the external walls of planks or other inflammable materials are per
464
f i r e a n d b u i l d i n g r e g u l a t i o n s i n FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
mitted to be erected {vide section 349 of the Mul. act). There are abont
33,393 buildings in Bombay.
6. Number of alarms during 1891, 9.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings during 1890,55j 1891,
68.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, none; in huts, hayracks,

cotton, coal, etc., during 1890, 54; 1891, 58.
9. Total value of property involved, not recorded.
10. Total loss thereon, during 1890,2,522,336.3 rupees; 1891,110,501.8
rupees.
11,12. Insurance and insurance loss thereon, not recorded.
13. Number of fires confined to floors in which they originated, dur
ing 1890, 39; 1891, 55.
14. Number of fires confined to buildings in which they originated
(inclusive of those confined to floors), 1890, 9; 1891, 9.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property, 1890,5; 1891,4.
property, 1890, 2; 1891, none.
17. Fire department consists of 7 steam fire engines, 7 manual fire
engines, 6 fire escapes, 7 tender carts, 15 hose reels, 1 brake, 13 horses,
an efficient supply of 2-inch hose fitted with patent instantaneous
couplings, and other small appliances necessary for fire extinguishing.
The whole of the staff are paid men, numbering 149, including 1 cliief
officer, 1 superintendent, 6 district foremen, all of whom are Europeans,
6 engineers, 135 natives of all ranks.
18. Water supply: In a portion of the city the mains are constantly
charged and the pressure is increased for fire purposes. In the other
portion of the city the supply is intermittent. The general supply
during 1890 and 1891 was not sufficient to meet the demands. New
waterworks are nearly completed and will be opened this year.
At fires, steamers and manuals are almost always used, but in some
localities the pressure is sufficient to give a supply direct from the fire
hydrants.
The local supply during 1890-91 was about 16,000,000 gallons daily,
being about 19 gallons per head on the population supplied. All grav
itation, maximum pressure 65 pounds per square inch.
19. Under Indian penal code, section 436, whoever commits mischief
by fire or any explosive substance intending to cause or knowing it to
be likely that he will thereby cause the destruction of any building
wliich is ordinarily used as a place of worship or as a human dwelling,
etc., shall be punished with transportation for life or with imprisonment
for a term extending to ten years and liable to be fined.
21. The storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks are licensed
in accordance with the rules framed under the petroleum and explosives
acts.
ASIA BRITISH INDIA.
465
22. The building by-laws recently passed by the corporation, and now
before Government awaiting sanction, regulating building construction
are as follows, but there are no regulations regarding the heating and
lighting oi buildings.
BOMBAY BUILDING REGULATIONS.
4. A person who shall construct a new building shall not construct any new foun
dation of such building on any site which shall have been filled up with, or shall have
been used as a place for depositing excrementitious matter, or the carcasses of dead
animals, or other filthy or offensive matter, until such matter shall have been prop
erly removed to the satisfaction of the commissioner, or shall in his opinion have
become innocuous: Provided that this by-law shall not apply to any site on which
public buildings, buildings of the warehouse class, or domestic buildings have pre
viously existed.
5. Every person who shall erect a new domestic building shall cause the same to
be built with a plinth not below such level as may be fixed by the commissioner in
this behalf.
6. Every person who, under the provisions of section 338 or section 343 of the act
may be required to furnish to the commissioner any plan or other document, shall
furnish duplicate copies of every such plan or other document which he may be so
called upon to furnish, and one of such duplicate plans shall be returned to the per
son signed by the executive engineer signifying his approval of the plan or other
wise.
7. Every person who shall erect a new building shall, save as hereinafter provided,
construct every external wall and party wall, and also every cross wall which, in
pursuance of the by-law in that behalf may, as a return wall, be deemed a means of
determining the length of any external wall or party wall of such building, of
brick, stone, or other hard and incombustible materials (not being littoral concrete)
properly bonded and solidly put together() with mortar compounded of lime and
sand or other suitable material; or (b) with cement; (c) or with cement mixed with
sand or other suitable materials.
Provided always: That the person erecting such new building may construct its
external walls and cross walls of timber framing, subject to compliance with the
following regulations and conditions, that is to say, the dimensions of posts shall
be in accordance with the requirements of the by-law in that behalf, and the spaces
between the timbers shall be filled in completely with brick, stone, or other hard and
incombustible materials properly bound together.
8. Every person who shall erect a new masonry-walled building shall cause every
wall of such building which may be built at an angle with another wall to be prop
erly bonded therewith.
9. Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct every wall of such
building so a to rest npon proper footings to the satisfaction of the commissioner.
He shall cause the projection at the widest part of the footings of every wall, on
each side of such wall, to be at least equal to one-half of the thickness of such wall
at its base, unless an adjoining wall interferes, in which case the projection may be
omitted where that wall adjoins.
He shall also cause the diminution of the footings to be in regular offsets, or in
one offset at the top of the footings, and he shall cause the height from the bottom
of the footings to the base of the wall to be at least equal to two-thirds of the thick
ness of the wall at its base.
10. Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the footings of every
wall and every post or posts of the ground floor of such building to rest upon the solid
ground, or upon a sufficient thickness of concrete, or upon some solid and sufficient
substructure as a foundation : Provided, That where solid rock is met with at or near
146A--- 30
466
the surface at the site of such building, that is, within 3 feet of the level of the
base of the wall, the footings may be omitted, if the surface of the rock be properly
cleaned and stepped or jagged to receive the first course of masonry.
11. For the purposes of the by-laws with respect to the structure of walls of new
buildings the measurement of height of stories and of height and length of walls
shall be determined by the following rules:
(1) The heights of stories shall be measured as follows: () The height of a top
most story shall be measured from the level of the upper surface of the floor up to
the level of the underside of the tie of the roof or other covering; or, if there is no
tie, then up to the level of half the vertical height of the rafters or other support
of the roof. (&) The height of every story other than a topmost story shall be
measured from the level of the upper surface of the floor of the story up to the level
of tho upper surface of the floor of the story next above it.
(2) The height of a wall shall be measured from the top of the footings to the
highest part of the wall, or, in the case of a gable, to half the height of the gable*
(3) Walls shall be deemed to be divided into distinct lengths by return walls.
The length of a wall shall be measured from the center of one return wall to the
center of another, provided that the return walls are external walls, party walls,
or cross walls of the thickness prescribed by the by-laws, and are bonded; or, if
the building be a frame building or framed into the walls, so deemed to be divided.
A wall shall not, for the purpose of this rule, be deemed a cross wall unless it i
carried up to the top of the topmost story, and unless in each story the aggregate
extent of the vertical faces or elevations of all the recesses and that of all the open
ings therein taken together shall not exceed one-half of the whole extent of the
vertical face or elevation of the wall in such story.
12. Every person who shall erect a new domestic masonry-walled building shall
construct every external wall and every party wall of such bnilding in nccordanoe
with tho following rules, and in every case the thickness prescribed shall be the
minimum thickness of which any such wall may be constructed, and the several
rules shall apply only to walls built of brick masonry.
() Where the wall does not exceed 10 feet in height (whatever i itslength) it
shall be 9 inches thick for its whole height.
(&) When the wall is more than 10 feet and does not exceed 15 feet high, it shall
be 14 inches thick for a height of 8 feet and 9 inches thick for the remainingheight(c) Whefe the wall exceeds 15 feet, but does not exceed 25 feet in height, its thick,
ness shall be as follows : If the wall does not exceed 30 feet in length, it shall be 14
inches thick for its whole height. If the wall exceeds 30 feet in length, it shall be
18 inches thick below the topmost story if it comprise more than one story, or if it
comprise a ground floor or first story only, then 18inches thick for a height of 15
feet above its base, and in either case 14 inches thick for the rest of its height.
(d) Where the wall exceeds 25 feet, but does not exceed 30 feet in height, it thick
inches thick below the uppermost two stories, if it comprises more than two stories,
or, if it does not comprise more than two stories, then 18 inches below the topmost
story and (in either case) 14 inches thick for the rest of its height. If the wall ex
ceeds 35 feet in length, it shall be 18 inches thick below the topmost story, and 14
inches thick for the rest of its height.
() Where the wall exceeds 30 feet, but does not exceed 40 feet in height, its thick
ness shall be as follows : If the wall docs not exceed 35 feet in length, it shall be 18
inches thick below the uppermost stories and 14 inches thick for the rest of it
height. If the wall exceeds 35 feet in length, it shall be 23 inches thick for the
height of one story, then 18inches thick for tho rest of its heightbelow the top
most story, and 14 inches thick for the rest of its height.
( ) Where the wall exceeds 40 feet, but does not exceed 50 feet in height, its thickness shall be as follows : If the wall does not exceed 35 feet in length, it shall be 18
ASIA BRITISH INDIA.
467
inches thick below the topmost story and 14 inches thick for the rest of its height.
If tho wall exceeds 35 feet in length, it shall be 24 inches thick for the height of one
story, then 18 inches thick for the rest of its height below the topmost story and 14
inches thick for the rest of its height.
(g) Where the wall exceeds 50 feet, but does not exceed 60 feet in height, its thick
inches thick for the height of one story and 18inches thick for the rest of its height.
If the wall exceeds 40 feet in length, it shall be 23inches thick for the height of two
stories and 18inches thick for the rest of its height, except the top story, which shall
be 14 inches thick. If the wall exceeds 50 feet in length, it shall be 28 inches thick
for the height of one story, then 24 inches thick for the height of the next two stories,
and then 18 inches thick for the rest of its height.
(h) Where the wall exceeds 60 feet but does not exceed 70 feet in height, its thick
ness shall be as follows : If the wall does not exceed 40 feet in length it shall be 23
inches thick for the height of two stories and 18 inches thiok tor the rest of its
height, except tho top story, which shall be 14 inches thick. If the wall exceeds 40
leet in length it shall be 28 inches thick for the height of one story and then 23
inche thick for the height of the nexttwo stories, and then 18inches thick for the
rest of its height, except the top story, which shall be 14 inches thick.
(i) Where the wall exceeds 70 feet in height, it shall in each case be of such thickness as shall be specially prescribed by the commissioner in that behalf. All the di
mensions of masonry in these by-laws are exclusive of external and internal plaster.
13. Every person who shall erect a new masonry-walled public building or a new
masonry-walled building of the warehouse class shall construct every external wall
and every party wall of such building in accordance with the following rules; and
in every case the thickness prescribed shall be the minimum thickness of which any
such wall may be constructed and the several rules shall apply only to walls built
of brick masonry.
(a) Where tho wall does not exceed 15 feet in height (whatever is its length), it
shall be 14 inches thick.
(b) Where the wall exceeds 15 feet, but does not exceed 25 feet in height, it shall
be 18 inches thick at its base.
(j Where the wall exceeds 25 feet, but does not exceed 30 feet in height, it shall be
of the thickness following. If the wall does not exceed 45 feet in length, it shall be
.18 inches thick at its base. If the wall exceeds 45 feet in length, it shall be 24
inches thick at its base.
(d) Where the wall exceeds 30 feet, but does not exceed 40 feet in height, it shall
be of the thickness following: If the wall does not exceed 30 feet in length it shall
be 18inches thick at its base. If the wall exceeds 30 feet, but does not exceed 60
feet in length, it shall be 24 inches thick at its base. If the wall exceeds 60 feet in
length it shall be 28 inches thick at its base.
() Where the wall exceeds 40 feet, but docs not exceed 50 feet in height, it shall
be of the thickness following : If the wall does not exceed 40 feet in length it shall be
24 inches thick at it base. If the wall exceeds 40 feet, but does not exceed 70 feet
in length, it shall be 28 inches thick at its base. If the wall exceeds 70 feet in
( ) Where the wall exceeds 50 feet, but does not exceed 60 feet in height, it shall
be of the thickness following: If the wall does not exceed in length 35 feet it shall be
24 inches thick at its base. If tho wall exceeds 35 feet, but does not exceed 50 feet
in length, it shall be 28 inches thick at its base. If the wall exceeds 50 feet in
(g)
Where the wall exceeds 60 feet, but does not exceed 70 feet in height, it shall
be of the thickness following: If the wall doe not exceed 30 feet in length it shall
be 24 inches thick at its base. If the wall exceeds 30 feet, but does not exceed 45 feet
in length, it hall be 28inches thick at its base. I f the wall exceeds 45 feet in length
it shall be 33 inches thick at its base.
468
(h) In any wall over 25 feet in height the uppermost 15 feet shall not be less than
14 inches in thickness, and the remainder of the wall below the uppermost 15 feet
shall not be less in thickness than the space contained between two straight lines
drawn from each outer side of the wall at its base to each outer side of the wall 15
feet below the top.
(*) Where the wall exceeds 70 feet in height it shall in each case be of such thick
ness as shall be specially prescribed by the commissioner in that behalf.
14. Every person who shall erect a new masonry-walled building shall construct,
in accordance with the following rules, every cross wall which, in pursuance of the
by-law in that behalf, may, as a return wall, be deemed a means of determining the
length of any external wall or party wall of such building; and in every case the
thickness prescribed shall be the minimum thickness of which any such cross wall
may be constructed, and the several rules shall apply only to walls built of brick
masonry.
The thickness of every such cross wall shall be at least two-thirds of the thickness
prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for an external wall or party wall of the
same height and length and belonging to the same class of buildings as that to which
such cross wall belongs, but shall in no case be less than 9 inches.
But if such cross wall supports a superincumbent external wall the whole of such
cross wall shall be of the thickness prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for an
external wall or a party wall of the same height and belonging to the same class of
building as that to which such cross wall belongs.
15. Every person who shall erect a new masonry-walled building and shall leave in
any story or stories of such building an extent of opening in any external wall which
shall be greater than one-half of the whole extent of the vertical face or elevation
of tlie wall or walls of the story or stories in which the opening is left, shall con
struct the wall or walls of every such story of such thickness that the maximum
pressure per square foot shall not exceed 5 tons for brickwork, 20 tons for ashlar
masonry, or 3tons for rubble masonry.
16. Every person who shall erect a new frame building shall employ and erect
therein posts in accordance with the following regulations and in every case the di
mensions prescribed for poets shall be the minimum dimensions for the posts which
may be employed, and the several rules shall apply only to posts erected and fixed at
distances not exceeding 10 feet from center to center.
() Where the building consists of not more than one story the dimensions of the*
posts shall be as follows : Height of posts not exceeding 10 feet, if square, 5 by 5
inches, or, if round, 6 inches diameter.
(6) Where the building consists of not more than two stories, the dimensions of
the posts shall be as follows :
Dimensions.
Height o f posts.
I f square.
Lowest or first story........................... Not exceeding 10 feet...........

. . . . . . d o ..................................
Second story.
Inches.
6X 6
5X 5
Ifround.
7 inches diameter.
6inches diameter.
(c) Where the building consists of not more than three stories, the dimensions of
Dimensions.
Height of posts.
I f square.
Lowet or first story........................... Not exceeding 10 feet..........

Second story.............. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .........d o ..................................
T h ir d story........................................... .........d o ..................................
Inches.
7X7
6X 6
5X5
I f round.
8J inches diameter.
7 inches diameter.
6 inches diameter.
469
ASIA BRITISH INDIA.
(d) Where the bilding consists of not more than four stories, the dimensions of
Dimensions.
Height o f poets.
Lowest or first s to r y ...........................

Second story............ .
Third story...........................................
Fourth s to ry ............
Not exceeding 10 feet...........

.........d o ..................................
.........d o ..................................
.........d o ...................................
I f square.
Inches.
8X 8
7X 7
6X 6
5X 5
I f round.
9inches
8 inches
7 inches
6 inches
diameter.
diameter.
diameter.
diameter.
(e)
Where the building consists of not more than five stories, the dimensions of the
posts shall be as follows :
Dimensions.
Height o f posts.
Lowest or first sto ry ........................... Not exceeding J0 feet..........

Second story .......... .
.........d o ...................................
Third story .............
.........d o ..................................
Fourth story ..........
.........d o ..................................
Fifth story............ .
I f square.
Inches.
9X9
8X8
7X7
6X6
5X5
I f round.
10| inches diameter.
9inches diameter.
8 inches diameter.
7 inches diameter.
6 inches diameter.
() Where tlie building consists of not more than six stories, the dimensions of the
posts shall be as follows:
Dimensions.
Height o f posts.
I f square.
Lowest or first s to ry ........................... Not exceeding 10 feet..........

Second story.......................................... .........d o ...................................
Third sto ry ...........................................
Fourtli story .........................................
Fifth story............ ............ .................
Sixth story............................................ . . . . . . d o ............ .
Inches.
10 x 10
9X 9
8X 8
7X 7
6X 6
5X 5
I f round.
12inches diameter.
10| inches diameter.
9inches diameter.
inches diameter.
7 inches diameter.
6inches diameter.
(g) Where the height of posts exceeds 10 feet, the dimensions shall be increased by
three-sixteenths of an inch for each additional foot of height.
(h) Where the building consists of more than six stories or contains posts of a
greater height than 15 feet, the dimensions of the posts shall in each case be such as
shall be specially prescribed by the commissioner in that behalf.
17. Every person who shall erect a new frame building and shall cause the posts
or any of the posts of any story or stories of such building to be distant more or less
than 10 feet from center to center, shall comply with the following rule with respect
to the dimensions of such posts :
The dimensions of the posts so distant more or less than 10 feet as aforesaid shall
be greater or less in square or round sectional area than the dimensions prescribed
by the by-law in that behalf for posts erected and fixed at distances of 10 feet in pro
portion as the distance between such posts may exceed or be less than 10 feet meas
ured as aforesaid.
18. Every person who shall erect a new domestic frame building shall construct
every external wall and every party wall of such building in accordance with the
following rules, so far as the same may respectively be applicable, and in every case
the width for footings and thickness prescribed shall be the minimum width and
thickness respectively of which any such wall and footings may be constructed, and
the several rules shall apply only to walls built of brick masonry :
() Where the wall does not comprise more than three stories, it shall rest on foot
ings not less than 18inches wide, it shall be 9 inches thick for its whole height, and
470
FIRE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
(unless it be a party wall) it shall not exceed the following height : If the wall does
not comprise more than one story, its maximum height shall he 12 feet; if the wall
comprises two stories and no more, its maximum height shall be 22 feet; if the wall
comprises three stories and no more, its maximum height shall be 32 feet.
(b) Where the wall comprises four stories and no more, it shall rest on footings
not less than 24 inches wide, it shall be 14 inches thick for the height of one story
and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height, and (unless it be a party wall) it
shall not exceed 42 feet in height.
(c) Where the wall comprises five stories and no more, it shall rest on footings not
less than 28inches wide, it shall be 14 inches thick for the height of two stories and
9 inches thick for the rest of its height, and (unless it be a party wall) it shall not
exceed 52 feet in height.
(d) Where the wall comprises six stories and no more, it shall rest on footings not
less than 28 inches wide, it shall be 14 inches thick for the height of three stories
and 9 inches thick for the rest of its height, and (unless it be a party wall) it shall
not exceed 70 feet in height.
(e) Where the wall comprises seven stories and no more, it shall rest on footings
not less than 37 inches wide, it shall be 18 inches thick for the height of two
stories, then 14 inches thick for the height of the next throe stories, and then 9 inches
thick for the rest of its height, and it shall not exceed 85 feet in height.
() Where the wall comprises more than seven stories, it shall rest on footings of
such width and shall be of such thickness and height as shall in each case be spe
cially prescribed by the commissioner in that behalf.
19. Every person who shall erect a new public frame building or a new frame
building of the warehouse olas, shall construct every external wall and every party
wall of such building in accordance with the following rules, and in every case the
thickness prescribed shall be the minimum thickness of which any uch wall may be
constructed, and the several rules shall apply only to walls built of brick masonry:
() Where the wall does not exceed 22 feet in height (whatever is its length), it
shall rest on footings not less than 24 inche wide, and it hall be 14 inches thick at
its base and for a height of 13 feet above it base, and 9 inches thick for the rest of
its height.
(b) Where the wall exceeds 22 feet, bat does not exceed 44 feet in height, it shall
rest on footings not lees than 33 inches wide, and it shall be 18inches thick at its
base and for a height of 16 feet above its base, and 14 inches thick for the rest of its
height.
(c) Where the wall exceeds 44 feet, but does not exceed 78 feet in height, it shall
rest on footings not less than 38 inches wide, and it shall be 24 inches thick at its
base and for a height of 20 feet above its base, then 18 inches thick for a farther
height of 36 feet, and 14 inches thick for the rest of its height.
(d) Where the wall exceeds 78 feet, but does not exceed 100 feet in height, it shall
rest on footings not less than 48 inches wide, and it shall be 28 inches thick at its
base and for a height of 24 feet above its base, then 24 inches thick for a further
height of 40 feet, and then 18 inches thick for the rest of it height.
The breadth and width of footing to the interior poets shall be not less on each
side than the width specified for the footings of exterior walls of the same building.
In all cases these by-laws in which thicknesses are prescribed for brick walls the
following provision shall have effect.
Provided, That if approved bricks of the size of 8 inches long by 4J inches wide
are need
Inohe.
1 brick may be reckoned to be equal to............................................................... 9

l bricks..................................................................................................... .
14
2 brick s.......................................................................... ............................ .
18
2bricks................................................................................................................ 23
3 b rick s................................................................................................................ 28
3 bricks....................................................................................................................
ASIA BRITISH INDIA.
471
20. Every person who shall erect a new building and shall construct any external
wall, party wall, or cross wall of such building of rubble masonry or coursed rubble
masonry of approved quality or other material not being brick or ashlar shall com
ply with the following rule with respect to the thickness of such wall : The thick
ness of such wall shall be one-third greater in the case of rubble masonry, and onefifth greater in the case of coursed rubble masonry of approved quality than that
prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for a wall built of brick ashlar masonry, but
in other respects of the same description, height, and length and belonging to the
same class of building.
21. Every person who shall erect a new masonry-walled building shall construct
every external wall, party wall, or cross wall thereof of such thickness that the
superincumbent weight on the base of such wall, if built of brick, shall not exceed
5 tons per square foot of horizontal sectional area, or if built of ashlar masonry shall
not exceed 20 tons per square foot of horizontal sectional area, or if built of rubble
masonry or other material not being brick or ashlar shall not exceed 3 tons per
square foot of horizontal sectional area.
22. Every person who shall erect a new building, and who shall in the construc
tion thereof employ iron posts, girders, joists, or other ironwork for the support of
any portion of such building, shall employ and erect therein only such iron posts,
girders, joists, and other ironwork as aforesaid, and shall, in respect to quality and
strength, be approved by the commissioner in that behalf.
He shall also cause every gutter, shoot, or trough in connection with the roof of
such building to be constructed of incombustible materials.
23. Every person who shall erect a new building shall, except in such case as is
hereinafter provided, cause every chimney of such building to be built on solid
foundations and with footings similar to the footings of the wall against which such
chimney is built, and to be properly bonded into such wall.
Provided, nevertheless, that such person may cause any chimnoy of such building
to be built on sufficient corbels of brick, stone, or other hard and incombustible
materials, if the work so corbelled out does not project from the wall more than the
thickness of the wall measured immediately below the corbel.
24. Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause the inside of every
flue of such building to be properly rendered or pargeted as such flue is carried up,
unless the whole flue shall be lined with fire brick or fireproof piping of stoneware at
least 1 inch thick, and unless the spandril angles shall be filled in solid with brick
work or other incombustible material.
Such person shall also cause the back or outside of such flue, which shall not be
constructed so as to form part of tho outer face of an external wall, to be properly
rendered in every case where the brickwork of which such back or outside may be
constructed is less than 9 inches thick.
25. Every person who shall erect a new building shall cause every flue in such
building, which may be intended for use in connection with any furnace, copper,
team boiler, or close fire constructed for any purpose of trade, business, or manu
facture, or which may be intended for use in connection with any cooking range or
cooking apparatus of such building when occupied as a hotel, tavern, or eating house
to be surrounded with fire brick at least 4inches thick, for a distance of 10 feet at
the least in height from the floor on which such furnace, copper, steam boiler, close
fire, cooking range, or cooking apparatus may be constructed or placed.
26. Every person who shall erect a brick chimney in connection with any factory
or place in which steam, water, or other mechanical power is to be employed shall
cause the same to be built of good sound bricks, each capable of sustaining a pres
sure of not less than 600 pounds to the square inch, and incapable of absorbing as
much as 12 per cent of its own weight, and shall also construct such chimney in ac
cordance with the following rules, and in every case the thickness of brickwork
prescribed shall be the minimnm thickness of brickwork of which any such chim
ney may be constructed:
472
(a) He shall cause such chimney to be built of a diameter at the base of not less
than one-twelfth of the height, and for a height of at least 20 feet from its base snch
chimney shall be lined with fire brick.
(b) He shall cause the batter of such chimney to be not less than one-third of an
inch to the foot.
(o) Where the inside diameter of the chimney at the top does not exceed 4 feet 6
inches, tho thickness of the brickwork shall be as follows : From the top of the
chimney to tho level of 25 feet below the top it shall be 9 inches in thickness ; from
the level of 25 feet below the top of the chimney to the level of 50 feet from the top
it shall be 14 inches in thickness, and for each further space of 25 feet below the
level of 50 feet from the top, the thickness shall be in like manner further increased
to the extent of 4| inches.
(d) Where the inside diameter of the chimney at the top exceeds 4 feet 6 inches,
the thickness of tho brickwork shall be as follows : From the top of the chimney to
the level of 25 feet below the top it shall be 14 inches in thickness ; from the level
of 25 feet below the top of the chimney to the level of 50 feet below the top it shall
be 18 inches in thickness, and for each further space of 25 feet below the level of
50 feet from tho top the thickness shall be in like manner further increased to the
extent of 4inches.
27. Every person who shall erect a chimney of cut-stone masonry in connection
with any factory or place in which steam, water, or other mechanical power is to be
employed shall construct the same in accordance with the following rules, and in
every case the thickness of masonry prescribed shall be the minimum thickness of
masonry of which any such chimney may be constructed:
(a) He shall cause such chimney to be built of a diameter at the base of not less
than one-twelfth of the height, and for a height of at least 20 feet from its base
ucli chimnoy shall bo lined with firebrick.
(ft) He shall cause the batter of such chimney to be not less than one-third of an
inch to the foot.
(c) Where the inside diameter of the chimney at the top does not exceed 4 feet 6
inches the thickness of the masonry shall be as follows : From tho top of the chim
ney to the level of 25 feet below the top it shall be 12 inches thick ; from the level
of 25 feet below the top of the chimney to the level of 50 feet below the top it shall
be 18 incline thick, and for each further space of 25 feet below the level of 50 feet
from the top the thickness shall be in like manner further increased to the extent of
6 inches.
(d) Where the inside diameter of the chimney at the top exceeds 4 feet 6 inches,
the thickness of the masonry shall be as follows : From the top of the chimney to the
level of 25 feet below the top, it shall be 18 inches thick. From the level of 25 feet
below the top of the chimney to the level of 50 feet below the top, it shall be 2 feet
thick ; and for each further space of 25 feet below the level of 50 feet from the top,
the thickness shall be in like manner further increased to the extent of 6 inches.
28. Every person who shall erect a new open building shall construct the same in
accordance with the following regulations :
(a) The posts shall run down into the solid ground to snch depth as shall be pre
scribed by the commissioner in each case, or shall be securely built into a mass of
masonry constructed of suitable building materials set either in lime or cement.
(b) Two diagonal braces where necessary shall be provided, one from each side of
the post to tho post plate and securely fastened thereto.
(c) One diagonal brace where necessary shall be provided from one side of each
post to the tie beam and securely fastened thereto.
(d) The post plates shall be securely tied or braced across each angle.
() The roof shall be properly and securely framed with trusses or, with the writ
ten permission of the commiioner, supported by posts or cross beams.
29. Every person who shall erect a new bnilding shall be responsible that all the
ASIA BRITISH INDIA.
473
building materials used are sound, of good quality, and properly put together, so a
to insure safety. Any breach of this by-law shall be brought directly to the notice
of the commissioner, who shall in each case satisfy himself, either personally or by
an officer specially appointed for the purpose and not lower in rank than a superin
tendent of building, whether this by-law has been infringed or not.
With respect to the provision and maintenance of sufficient open space, either external or
internal, about buildings, to secure a free circulation of air and of other means for the
adequate ventilation of buildings.
30. A person who shall erect a new building which abuts on a street of less than
50 feet in width, or any part of which is within a distance of half the width of such
street from a street of less width than 50 feet, shall not, without the written permis
sion of the commissioner, erect such buildings to a greater height than one and a
half times the width between the point at which such building approaches nearest
to the street, and the opposite side of such street.
Provided, That nothing herein contained shall debar any person from building up
to the full height of any building (belonging to himself) which has stood within two
years on the same site, and on which he has not been precluded from building by any
injunction or order of a court.
31. Every person who shall erect a new dwelling house shall so construct such
dwelling house that the whole of at least one side of every room thereof intended to
be inhabited shall either be an external wall abutting on the open air or abut on
an interior open space having an area equal to not less than one-tenth of the ag
gregate floor area of all the rooms abutting thereon, and being not less in any direc
tion that 6 feet across.
He shall provide between at least two of the external walls and the boundary line
of the owners premises, except where either of such walls faces a street of not less
than 15 feet in width, an open space extending throughout the entire length of such
wall, at least 2 feet wide. He shall cause every interior open space required by this
by-law to be constructed and kept free from any erection thereon and open to the
sky, and no cornice, roof, or weather shade shall project or overhang the said open
space more than 6 inches on any side thereof, provided that such connecting passages
may be allowed as to the commissioner shall seem necessary, such passages being
open on one or both sides.
He shall construct every room intended to be inhabited in such building, except
a room in the roof thereof, so that tho same shall be in every part at least 8 feet in
height from the floor to the ceiling.
He shall so construct every such room in the roof of such building that tho same
shall have an average height of at least 7 feet from the floor to the ceiling.
He shall also construct every such room that the same shall have a clear superficial
area of not less than 80 square feet.
He shall so construct every such room that the same shall be ventilated by means
of doors or windows which open directly into the external air, and have an aggre
gate opening equal to not less than one-fourth of the superficial area of that side of
th*room which faces an open space.
32. Every person who shall erect huts or sheds, or ranges, or blocks of huts or
3heds, whether the same are to be used as dwellings or stables, or for auy other pur
pose, shall, if the commissioner so require, build the same (1) so that they may stand
in regular lines with a free passage or way in front of and between every two lines of
such width as the commissioner may direct for ventilation and for facilitating scav
enging; and (2) with such and so many privies, latrines, or urinals and such means
of drainage as the commissioner may require ; and (3) at such a level as will suffice
for the means of drainage required by the commissioner.
474
With respect to the construction of privies.

83. Every person who shall erect a new building shall, in connection with such
building, construct such number of privies as shall be prescribed in each case by the
commissioner.
34. A person who shall construct a new privy, whether in connection with a build
ing or not, shall construct such privy upon such site or in such position only as shall
be approved by the commissioner.
35. A person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building shall not,
without the written permission of the commissioner, construct such privy within
the distance of 20 feet from any well, spring, tank, or stream of water used or likely
to be used by man for drinking or domestic purposes, or for manufacturing drink
for the use of man, or otherwise in such a position as to render any such water liable
to pollution.
36. Every person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building shall
so construct the same as to leave an external air space of not less than 3 feet in width
and open to the sky surrounding such privy on every side thereof, except the entrance
ide, where any gallery or passage communicating with such privy shall be not le
than 2 feet in width, and shall be open to the external air on both sides.
37. Every person who shall construct a privy in connection with a building shall
provide such privy with a sufficient opening or with sufficient openings for ventila
tion to the satisfaction of the commissioner, and such opening or openings shall be as
near to the top as practicable, and shall communicate directly with the external air.
38. No person shall construct over a privy, whether old or new, any room or struc
ture of any description except another privy or a bathing place or bathroom.
As to the giving of certain notices by persons intending to construct buildings.
39. Every person who shall erect a building within the meaning of subsection (2)
of section 337 of the act, shall, before proceeding to cover up any foundation of a
building, deliver or send or cause to be delivered or sent to the engineer, at his
office, notice in writing in which shall be specified the date on which such person
will proceed to cover up such foundation.
40. In every case where a person, who shall erect a building, shall at any reason
able time during the progress or after the completion of the erection of such build
ing, receive from the engineer notice in writing specifying any matters in respect of
which the erection of such building may be in contravention of any by-law relating
to new buildings and requiring such person, within a reasonable time which shall
be specified in such notice, to cause anything done contrary to any such by-law to
be amended, or to do anything which by any such by-law may be required to be
done, but which has been omitted to be done. Such person shall, within the time
specified in such notice, comply with the several requirements thereof, so far a
such requirements relate to matters in respect of which the erection of such build
ing may be in contravention of any such by-law. Such person, within a reasonable
time after the completion of any work which may have been executed in accordance
with any such requirement, shall deliver or send or cause to be delivered or senlr to
the engineer, at his office, notice in writing of the completion of such work.
41. Every person who shall erect a building shall within one month after the
completion of the erection of such building, deliver or send or cause to be delivered
or sent to the engineer, at his office, notice in writing of the completion of the
erection of such building.
INTERPRETATION OF TERMS.
1.
In the construction of the by-laws hereinafter contained the following words
and expressions shall have the meanings hereinafter respectively assigned to them
unless such meanings be repugnant to or inconsistent with the context or subject*
matter in which such words or expressions occur; that is to say:
ASIA CEYLON.
475
Words importing the singular number shall include the plural and the plural the
singular, and words importing the masculine gender shall include females.
Person includes any body of persons, corporate or unincorporate.
The act means the city of Bombay municipal act, 1888, and includes any act
which may hereafter be passed in substitution for or amendment of the said act.
The commissioner means the municipal commissioner for the city of Bombay,
appointed under section 54 of the act, and includes an acting commissioner appointed
under subsection (3) of section 59 of the act.
The engineer means the municipal executive engineer, appointed under sec
tion 74 of the act, and includes an acting executive engineer appointed under the
act.
Base/ applied to a wall, means the underside of the course immediately above
the footing.
Topmost story means the uppermost story in a building, whether constructed
wholly or partly in the roof or not and whether used or constructed or adapted for
human habitation or not.
Party wall means: (a) A wall forming part of a building and being used or
constructed to be used in any part of the height or length of such wall for separation
of adjoining buildings belonging to different owners or occupied or constructed or
adapted to be occupied by different persons ; or (6) a wall forming part of a build
ing and standing, in any part of the length of such wall, to a greater extent than
the projection of the footings on one side on grounds of different owners.
External wall means an outer wall of a building not being a party wall, even
though adjoining to a wall of another building.
Public building, except where otherwise defined, means a building used or con
structed or adapted to be used, either ordinarily or occasionally, as a place of public
worship, or as a hospital, college, school (not being merely a dwelling honse soused),
hotel, restaurant (not being merely a shop so used), theater, public hall, public con
cert room, public lecture room, or public exhibition room, or as a public place of
assembly or entertainment for persons admitted thereto by tickets or otherwise, or
used or constructed or adapted to be ued, either ordinarily or occasionally, for any
other public purpose.
Building of the warehouse class means a warehouse, factory, manufactory,
brewery, or distillery.
Domestic building means a dwelling house or an office building or other out
building appurtenant to a dwelling house, whether attached thereto or not, or a
shop or any other building not being a public building or a building of the ware
house class.
Dwelling house means a building used or constructed or adapted to be used
wholly or principally for human habitation.
CEYLON.
COLOM BO.
THE MAYOR OF COLOMBO TO CONSUL MOREY.
Sib : I have the honor to return the annexed papers with as much of
the information required as I can supply. I beg to suggest that copies
of the enactment referred to by me under Nos. 19, 21, and 22 or ex
tracts from them be forwarded with this report.
1. Name of city, Colombo, Ceylon.
476

4, 5. The total number of houses in the town is roughly estimated
at 22,500, of which about one-tenth, perhaps, are thatched with plaited
coeoanut leaves (cadjans), the walls being constructed of wattle and
daub. About one fifth of the tiled buildings are made of wattle and
daub, the walls of the others being composed of brick or of a stone
(latcrik) called 11cabook.w
7. Number of fires in 1891, none recorded.
17. A small fire department is about to be organized, consisting of
four manual engines (Messrs. Wand & Mason).
18. A system of Sale hydrants throughout the town, at about 200
yards apart, drawing from a service reservoir in the town, containing
8,350,000 gallons.
19. Vide Ceylon criminal code.
21. Petroleum regulations:
*
14. No quantity of petroleum exceeding 50 gallons shall be kept by any one per
son or on the same premises, or shall be transported except under and in accordance
with the conditions of a license from the local authority.
15. The governor in executive council may from time to time make rules consist
ent with this ordinance as to the granting of licenses to possess or transport petro
leum in cases where such licenses are herein required. Such rules may provide for
the following among other mattersthat is to say: In the case of licenses to possess
petroleum(a) the nature and situation of the premises for which they may be
granted, and (ft) the inspection of such premises and the testing of petroleum found
tliereon; in the case of licenses to transport petroleum(e) the manner in which the
petroleum shall be packed, the mode and time of transit, and the routo by which it
is to l>e taken, and (d) the stoppage and inspection of it during transit; in the case
of both such licenses(e) the fee to be charged for it, () the quantity of petroleum
it is to cover, (g) the conditions which may be inserted in it, (A) the time during
which it is to continue in force, and (i) the renewal of the license.
16. Any officer specially authorized, by name or by virtue of his office, in this be
half by the local authority, may require any dealer in petroleum to show him any
place and any of the vessels in which any petroleum in his possession is stored or con
tained, to give him such assistance as he may. require for examining the ame, and
to deliver to him samples of such petroleum on payment of the value of such samples.
17. When any such officer has, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 16,
obtained a sample of petroleum in the possession of a dealer, he may give a notice in
writing to such dealer, informing him that he is abont to test such sample, or cause
the same to be tested, with the apparatus and in the manner described in the sched
ule hereto annexed, at a time and place to be fixed in such notice, and that such
person or his duly authorized agent may be present at such testing.
18. On any such testing, if it appears to the officer or other person so testing that
the petroleum from which such sample has been taken is or is not dangerous petro
leum, such officer or other person may certify such fact, and the certificate so given
shall be receivable as evidence in any proceeding which may be taken under this
ordinance against the dealer in whose possession each petroleum was found, and
shall, until the contrary is proved, be evidence of the fact stated therein ; and a
certified copy of such certificate shall be given gratis to the dealer at his request.
19. Any person who i licensed to keep petroleum may, subject to any enactments
ASIA -CEYLON.
477
for tlie time being in force with respect to hawkers and peddlers, hawk such petro
leum by himself or his servants, provided he observes the following regulations : ()
The quantity of petroleum conveyed at one time in any one carriage shall not ex
ceed 24 gallons ; (b) the petroleum shall be conveyed in a closed vessel so constructed
as to be free from leakage; (c) proper care shall be taken to prevent any petroleum
escaping into any part of a house or building or of the curtilage thereof, or into a
drain or sewer; (d) all due precautions shall be taken for the prevention of acci
dents by fire or explosion and for preventing unauthorized persons having access to the
vessels containing the petroleum, and every person concerned in hawking the petro
leum shall abstain from any act whatever which tends to cause fire or explosion and
is not reasonably necessary for the purpose of such hawking ; () no article or sub
stance of an explosive or inflammable character other than petroleum, nor any arti
cle liable to cause or communicate fire or explosion, shall be in the carriage while
such carriage is being used for the purpose of hawking petroleum.
20. Any person who in contravention of this ordinance, or of any rules made here
under, imports, possesses, or transports any petroleum, and any person who other
wise contravenes any such rules or any conditions contained in a license granted
hereunder, shall be punished with simple or rigorous imprisonment for a term which
may extend to one month, or with fine which may extend to 500 rupees, or with
both.
21. Any person keeping, transporting, selling, or exposing for sale petroleum in
vessels not marked or labeled as prescribed by section 8, shall be punished with a
fine which may extend to 500 rupees.
22. Any owner or master of a ship who fails to give the notice required by section
9 shall be punished with a fine not exceeding 5,000 rupees, unless it is shown to the
satisfaction of the court before which the case is tried that he did not know the
nature of the goods to which the proceedings relate, nor could with reasonable dili
gence have obtained such knowledge.
23. Any dealer in petroleum who refuses or neglects to show to any officer author
ized under section 16 any place or any of the vessels in which petroleum in his pos
session is stored or contained, or to give him such assistance as he may require for
examining the same, or to give him samples of suoh petroleum on payment of the
value of such samples, shall be punished with a fine which may extend to 200 rupees.
24. In the event of any contravention of section 19 with reference to any petroleum,
the licensee by whom or by whose servants the petroleum was being hawked shall
be liable, on summary conviction, to a penalty not exceeding 200 rupees : Provided,
That, (a) where some servant of the licensee or other person has in fact committed
tho offense, such servant or other person shall be liable to the same penalty as if he
were the licensee ; (5) where the licensee is charged with a contravention of section
19, he shall be entitled, upon information duly laid by him, to have any other per
son whom he charges as the actual offender brought before the court at tho time
appointed for hearing the charge, and if the licensee proves to the satisfaction of
the court that he had used due diligence to enforce the requirements of the said sec
tion, and that the said other person had committed the offense in question without
his knowledge, consent, or connivance, the said other person shall be summarily
convicted of such offense, and the licensee shall be exempt from any penalty.
25. Every prosecution under this ordinance or for the breach of any rules made
hereunder may be instituted before the police magistrate of the district in which
the offense was committed wholly or in part, or where the offender is found ; and it
hall be lawful for such magistrate to impose the full fine or penalty provided herein
or in any rule made under the the provisions of this ordinance, notwithstanding
that such fine or penalty may exceed the um which it is competent for him in the
exercise of his summary jurisdiction to award.
26. In any case in which an offense under sections 19,20, or 21 lias been committed,
the convicting police magistrate may direet that () the petroleum in respect of
478
which the offense has een committed, or (ft) where the offender is importing, trans
porting, hawking, or is in possession of any petroleum exceeding the quantity, if
any, which he is permitted to import, transport, hawk, or possess, as the case may
be, the whole of the petroleum which he is importing, transporting, hawking, or is
in possession of, shall, together with the tins or other vessels in which it is con
tained, be confiscated.
22. Building regulations:

Any person who shall commence to construct any house or building in or near a
street, without giving the municipal council the notice required by the 126th clause
of the ordinance No. 17, of 1865, shall be guilty of an offense, and be liable on con
viction to a fine not exceeding 10 rupees.
It shall not be lawful for any person to erect a house or hut for the purposes of a
dwelling place without giving seven days notice to the council, and except under
the following conditions :
The walls shall in no case be built of cadjan, but of mud and wattle or other suit
able material, to allow of being properly plastered and whitewashed.
Every such house or hut, or any room therein to be used for human habitation, shall
not be less than 120 superficial feet in area and not less than 10 feet in height and
the eaves at least 6 feet from the ground.
Every room to be used for human habitation shall have at least one door not less
than 6 feet by 3 feet, and at least one window not less than 3 feet by 2 feet.
The floor shall in no oae be lower thanl foot from tlie ground, provided the coun
cil shall be at liberty to require a higher standard according to situation. Between
any two ranges or blocks of huts there shall be a clear space of at least 8 feet.
It shall be lawful for the council to cause any house or hut erected contrary to the
provisions of this by-law to be taken down at the expense of the owner, if within
one month after written notice to him to alter or take down the same he shall fail
or neglect to do so.
Any person who shall, from and after the 1st day of January, 1882, without the
sanction of the municipal council, build, renew, or cause to be renewed any building
constructed of thatch, leaves, straw, grass, or shingle within the limits of the muni
cipality shall be guilty of an offense, and be liable on conviction to a fine not ex
ceeding 10 rupees, and to a further fine of not exceeding 10 rupees for every day after
notice or conviction during which such building is kept standing, and it shall be
further lawful for the council to take down such building at the expense of the
owner and to sell the materials thereof, if necessary, to defray such expense.
H. H a y Cam eron ,
Mayor and Chairman Municipal Council,

T h e T own H a l l ,
Colombo, February 11,1892,
HONGKONG.
C IT Y
OF
V IC T O R IA .
REPORT B Y CONSUL SIMONS.
1. Name of city: Victoria, British colony of Hongkong.

2. Population: According to the census taken in May, 1891, the total
population of the colony is 221,441, composed of 10,446 British and
other foreigners and 210,995 Chinese. The population of the city of
ASIA HONGKONG.
479
Victoria is abont 144,300; that of the Kowloon Peninsula, about 20,600;

the remainder being distributed among the villages and the floating
population.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, December 31,1890,7,800; De
cember 31, 1891, 7,930.
5. Number of wooden buildings, not more than 20, the majority of
which are small sheds.
6. Fires and fire alarms : During the year 1891 there were 124 fires
and alarms of fire, as compared with 98 during the previous year.
The following table shows the number of fires at which the brigade
has been engaged each year during the last ten years:
Fires.
1890
1889
1888
1887
1886
... 16
...
21
... 45
... 35
... 11
Fires.
1885
1884
1883
1882
1881
... 11
... 18
...
...
...
11
8
The great decrease in the number of fires during the last two years
may, I thiuk, be attributed entirely to the greater caution on the part
of the fire insurance companies in the issue of fire policies and to the
effect of the firc-inquiry ordinance.
7,
8. There is no such classification of buildings in the report of the
acting superintendent of the Hongkong fire brigade; but I may state
that there are few, if any, frame buildings in the city. Nearly all the
buildings are of brick or stone, with the exception of a few structures
built with bamboo frames and covered with matting and known as
il mat sheds.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires. There are no data
available from which to frame a reply to this question.
10. Total loss thereon, $207,411 (Mexican).
11,12.
Total insurance and insurance loss thereon. Many of the in
surance companies involved in these fires are located in other coun
tries, and their agents here are not authorized to furnish this informa
tion, hence I can obtain but fragmentary data, which I have noted on
Inclosure No. 1 (a).
13,14,15,16. There are no statistics, notes, or any other data for a
reply to these queries.
17. The Hongkong fire brigade consists of 1 superintendent, 1 as
sistant superintendent, 1 engineer, 1 assistant engineer, 1 clerk, 2 en
gine drivers, 7 assistant engine drivers, 9 stokers, 1 overseer of water
works, 1 inspector of dangerous goods, 1 Chinese assistant inspector of
dangerous goods, 3 foremen, 4 assistant foremen, 28 firemen, 22 Chinese
firemen, 4 Chinese contingents, 15 Chinese, for cleaning engines, etc.,
and on night watch. This is the land force, amounting to 102 men.
The floating engine has 1 assistant foreman and 1 engine driver,
480
1 Chinese engine driver, 1 stoker, and 2 seamen, a complement of 6 men,

making the total force of the brigade on land and water, 108 men.
In addition there is a hose reel for each engine, carrying 1,000 feet of
hose; 4 ladder carts, each carrying 2 ladders of different lengths.
Eight so-called u fire dispatch boxes, which are simply large wheel
barrows, each containing 300-foot lengths of linen hose (each length
being folded flat, back and forth, in a compartment by itself), a brass
hydrant, to fit over an opening in the water main, and a branch pipe or
nozzle, with a spanner.
One man can transport one of these fire dispatch boxes, and they
are found very useful in the many narrow lanes which do not permit
the entrance of an engine.
There are also 8 small hose reels independent of those attached to the
engines, each carrying 500 feet of hose, a hydrant, nozzle, and spanner,
and manipulated by 2 men.
At each station is kept a hand pump or a chemical11extinguisher.
There is no protective association or, as it is called by the Eng
lish, salvage corps.
18. The fire department has the benefit of the whole general water
supply of the city, which is supplied with water from the Pokfolumand
Tytain reservoirs.
The former has a storage capacity of 74,000,000 gallons, while the
Tytam reservoir has an area of about 29 acres and a storage capacity
of 400,000,000 gallons.
From the Tytam reservoir the water is conveyed to the city by a tun
nel through the mountain l miles in length and a conduit along the
mountain side some 400 feet above sea level and nearly 4 miles in length.
This aqueduct has been built of granite in the old liomaii fashion, cross
ing the various gaps by stone bridges, one of which has 23 arches. A
fine road, called the Bowen road, has been formed on the summit of this
conduit and is one of the most attractive features of the island.
19. Investigating causes of fire: Whenever a fire shall have taken
place, or shall have been attempted, the captain superintendent of po
lice shall as soon as possible take possession of the premises where the
fire is supposed to have originated or have been attempted, to the ex
clusion, if he shall deem it necessary, of the owners and all others;
and shall make or cause to be made, personally or by some officer of
not lower grade than an inspector of police, a fall and minute inspec
tion of the said premises, and shall forthwith make a written report in
detail to a magistrate of the state of the said premises and of the con
tents, if any, thereof, furnishing also all such information touching the
origin and circumstances of tlie fire as he may be able to obtain.
Upon the receipt of such report the magistrate, unless upon a con
sideration of the facts stated therein he is clearly of opinion that the
fire was caused by accident, shall proceed to investigate the causes of
the fire and shall, within the shortest possible delay, take the deposit
481
ASIA HONGKONG.
tions npon oatli of all persons likely to know tlie facts and circum
stances and of all other persons who in his opinion may ftirnish infor
mation in respect thereof.
It shall be lawful for any inspector of police, or for any interested
person present at such investigation, with the leave of the magistrate,
to examine the witnesses, and to cause such persons to be examined as
may give due and proper information touching such case of fire.
If in the opinion of the magistrate the investigation does not dis
close any offense or, although it disclose an offense, does not show any
reasonable cause for giving the order in the next section mentioned,
the magistrate shall dismiss the information and order tlie release of
the premises, provided that such dismissal shall be no bar to a sub
sequent information of a like nature or to an information against any
person or persons for an offense against the law.
If in the opinion of the magistrate the fire shall have been the result
of a crime and there is reasonable cause to suspect and he shall suspect
any person or persons of such crime, he shall order a prosecution to be
instituted before another magistrate against such person or persons for
such crime.
21. Storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks'? There are
two ordinances covering this query. No. 1, of 1848, entitled an ordi
nance to regulate the manufacture and storage of a certain description
of gunpowder within the colony of Hongkong. [August 31,1848.]
Whereas, it has hitherto been a subject of public complaint that gunpowder has,
from time to time, been manufactured and stored within the said colony in a manner
endangering the persons and property of the inhabitants thereof; and, whereas, it
is deemed necessary to make provision against such practice
*
(1) No person shall manufacture or make, or cause to be manufactured or made,

any gunpowder, or any preparation of brimstone for tho purpose of employing it in
the formation of gunpowder, within the harbor or town of Victoria, or within 2
miles of the latter place, or within half a mile of any public road ; and any person
o making, or causing to be made, such gunpowder or brimstone witliin the limits
aforesaid, shall be liable for any such offense to pay a fine not exceeding $500, and
in default of payment of such fine, to imprisonment in one of Her Majestys gaols,
for any period not exceeding six calendar months, and such gunpowder or brimstone
shall be forfeited to the crown ; Provided, always, that it shall and may be lawful to
and lor any person to manufacture and make such gunpowder or brimstone without
the limits aforesaid, on having and obtaining a license in writing for such purpose,
from the colonial secretary of the said colony, who, it is hereby declared, shall have
it in his discretion to refuse the issuing of such license, if not staisfied as to the
character of the applicant for the same, or the probable purposes to which such
gunpowder may be applied.
(2) Nothing in this ordinance contained shall be held to extend to gunpowder im
ported from Europe; and no person shall have or keep in or upon his house or prem
ises within the said colony, at any one time, any quantity of gunpowder exceeding
in weight two pounds, if the same be not imported from Europe, without first hav
ing had and obtained a license for that purpose, to be procurable as is hereafter pro
vided; and every unlicensed person knowingly having in or upon his house or prem
ises such excess of unimported gunpowder shall, on due conviction, be liable to a
146 a ------ 31
482
FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOEEIGN COUNTEIES.
penalty not exceeding fifty dollars for every each offense, or, in default of payment
of the said penalty, to imprisonment in one of Her Majestys gaols, within the said
colony, for a period not exceeding three calendar months ; and it is hereby declared
that it shall be incumbent on every unlicensed person having such an excess of gun
powder so in his possession to adduce reasonable evidence that the same has been
imported from Europe, or that the same has not been manufactured in China, the
proof of which fact shall be deemed equivalent to the proof of such importation in
all proceedings under this ordinance.
(3) The provisions of the preceding section shall extend to and include gunpowder
made up into any manner of fireworks, except into crackers, commonly known by
the name of Chinese crackers.
(4) Since repealed.
(5) Proceedings under this ordinance to be summary.
(6) It shall and may be lawful to and for the said colonial secretary, by an order
in writing, to withdraw any license issued under this ordinance, on reasonable
grounds being laid before him for so doing.
(7) If information shall be given on oath to any magistrate that there is reasonable
cause for suspecting that any unlicensed person is either so manufacturing gunpowder
or brimstone for the formation of such powder in any place, or that any person has in
his house or premises a quantity of gunpowder prohibited by this ordinance, it shall
and may be lawful for such magistrate, by special warrant under his hand, to direct
any constable to cause any such dwelling house or other place to be entered and
searched at anytime of the day, or by night if po wer for that purpose be given by such
warrant ; and such magistrate may, if it appear to him necessary, empower such con
stable, with such assistance as may be found necessary (such constable having pre
viously made known his authority), to use force for the effecting such entry, whether
by breaking open doors or otherwise ; and if upon search thereupon made, any such
powder or brimstone shall be found, then to convey the same before a magistrate, or
place it in safe-keeping, and moreover to take into custody and carry before a
magistrate any person found in such house or place who shall appear to have been
making such gunpowder or brimstone, or to have had knowingly in his possession
such a prohibited quantity of gunpowder.
(8) Nothing in this ordinance contained shall be held to extend to government,
military, or naval stores, and that all licenses heretofore prescribed shall be issued
without any fee or charge.
(9) In the construction of this ordinance, unless there be something in the context
repugnant thereto, any word denoting the singular number and the male sex shall
be taken to extend to any number of persons or things, and to both sexes; and that
this ordinance shall come into operation and take effect from the first day of October
next. (1848.)
21. Building regulations :

Every wall constructed of brick, stone, or other hard and incombustible substance,
shall be solid across its entire thickness, and shall be properly bonded and substan
tially put together with good lime mortar or cement mortar, and, except where spe
cially permitted in this ordinance, no part of such wall shall be thicker than any part
underneath it, and all cross walls and return walls shall be properly bonded into
main walls. Sound black bricks may be exclusively used in the walls of the two up
permost stones of a building, but not in the walls of the other stories without the
approval of the surveyor-general.
Every person who shall erect a new building shall construct every external and
every party wall of such building in accordance with the following rules and in ev
ery case the thickness prescribed shall be the minimum thickness of which such wall
may be constructed, (.) Where the wall does not exceed 12 feet in height, it shall
be 9 inches thick for its whole height. (6.) Where a wall exceeds 12 feet in height
but does not exceed 40 feet in height, it shall be l inches thick for its whole
ASIA HONGKONG.
483
height, (c.) Where a wall exceeds 40 feet in height but does not exceed 50 feet in
height, tlie lowermost story shall be 18 inches thick and the remainder 13 inches
thick, (d.) Where a wall exceeds 50 feet in height but does not exceed 60 feet in
height, the two lowermost stories sliull be 18 inches thick and the remainder 13
inches thick, (e.) Where a wall exceeds 60 feet in height but does not exceed 70
feet in height, the lowermost story shall be 22 inches thick, the next two stories
above shall be 18 inches thick, and tho remainder 13 inches thick, (.) Where a
wall exceeds 70 feet in height but does not exceed 80 feet in height, the two lower
most stories shall be 22 inches thick, the next two stories 18 inches thick, and the
remainder shall be 13 inches thick.
No wall shall exceed 35 feet in length clear of any return or cross wall without the
approval of tho surveyor-general, nor shall any wall exceed 80 feet in height without
the approval of the surveyor-general.
The height of all walls shall be measured from tho top of the lootings to the high
est part of the wall, or in the case of a gable to half the height of the gable.
A wall shall not be deemed a cross wall for the purpose of determining the length
of any external or party wall unless it is carried up to the top of the topmost story,
and unless in each story the aggregate extent of the vertical faces or elevations of all
the recesses and that of all the openings therein taken together shall not exceed onehalf of the whole extent of the vertical face or elevation of the wall in such story.
If any story exceeds in height fourteen times the thickness of its walls as pre
scribed in section 11 the thickness of each external wall and of each party wall
throughout that story shall be iucreased to one-fourteenth part of the height of that
story, and the thickness of each external wall and of each party wall below that
story shall be proportionately increased. Such increase of thickness may be pro
vided for by piers. The disposition, width, and thickness of such piers shall be
approved by the surveyor-general.
The thickness of every cross wall shall be at least two-thirds of the thickness pre
scribed by sections 11 and 12 in that belialf for an external wall or party wall of the
same height and length, and belonging to the same class as that to which such cross
wall belongs, but shall in no case be less than 9 inches thick. But if such cross
wall supports a superincumbent external wall, the whole of such cross wall shall be
of the thicknes prescribed by the by-law in that behalf for an external wall or party
wall of the same height and length and belonging to the same class of building as
that to which such cross wall belongs.
Every person who shall erect a new domestic building or any other class of build
ing having a timber floor shall cause every wall of such building to have a proper
damp course of sheet lead, asphalt, or Portland ccment (such asphalt or Portland
cement to be not less than half an inch in thickness), or other impermeable material
approved by the surveyor-general, beneath the lowest timbers and as near the ground
as is possible, but in no case at a height of less than 6 inches above the surface of
the ground adjoining such wall.
Structures made wholly or partly of glass or iron or other material not provided
for in this ordinance or any amending ordinance, may be designed otherwise than
herein provided and shall bo deemed to be exceptional buildings, and shall be sub
ject to the approval of the surveyor-general in each particular case.
Every bressummer or lintel used in a building must have a bearing of at least 6 inches
at each end, and must rest upon a sufficient pier of brick or stone, or iron story post
fixed on a solid foundation, or upon an external or party wall ; and every bressummer
bearing upon any external or party wall must be borne by a template or corbel of
stone tailed through at least half the thickness of such wall and of the full breadth of
the bressummer.
The floors of all buildings, including verandahs, shall in all cases rest upon at least
inches of solid brickwork or stonework and abut against at least 9 inches of olid
brickwork or stonework, and in all cases where the wall supporting such floor is
484
of a less thickness than 18 inches, such wall shall be corbeled out in brick or stone
work immediately below the joists of tho floor.
Every kitchen and cook-house shall be provided with a properly constructed brick
fireplace and chimney or smoke flue. Every fireplace adapted for the use of char
coal shall be provided with a hood of sheet metal or of lath and plaster of sufficient
size connecting with a chimney shaft or smoke flue carried up above tho level of
the roof. The interior surfaces of every flue shall be smoothly rendered with mor
tar, and no flue shall have less than 60 square inches of sectional area.
No fireplace, kitchen, or cook house shall be constructed without a proper chimney or smoke flue, or in such manner as to allow the smoke to escape through any
side opening, window, or hole in the walls or roof, or through any vent other than
the smoke flue.
Tho upper surface of any floor under any oven, stove, or fireplace shall be of in
combustible materials, extending over the whole area covered by such oven, stove,
or fireplace and beyond to a distance of 12 inches at least on every side of such oven,
stove, or fireplace, and such floor shall have hearths of stone, tile, or other incom
bustible material laid before every chimney opening.
No bond timber or wood plate shall be built into the thickness of any party or
external wall.
No timber or woodwork shall be placed in any wall or chimney breast nearer than
12 inches from the inside of any flue or chimney opening, or under any chimney
opening within 18 inches from the upper surface of the hearth of such chimney
opening; nor shall any wooden plugs be driven nearer than 6 inches to the inside of
any flue or chimney opening.
Every arch under any public or private way used as a thoroughfare shall be
formed of brick, stone, or other incombustible materials. If an arch of brick or
stone is used, it shall, in cases where its span does not exceed 10 feet, be of a least
thickness of 12 inches ; where its span does not exceed 15 feet, it shall be of a least
thickness of 15 inches; and where its span exceeds 15 feet, it shall be of such thick
ness and built of such materials as may be approved by the surveyor-general. If an
arch, bridge, or platform of iron, concrete, or other incombustible material not being
brick or stone is used, it shall be deemed to be an exceptional structure, and shall
be constructed in such manner as may be approved by the surveyor* general.
It shall not be lawful for any person to ercct in the colony of Hongkong, whether
on private land or land the property of the Crown, or whether for temporary or for
permanent occupation, any shed or structure of wood, mats, palm leaves, thatch, or
other inflammable material except with the previous sanction of the surveyor gen
eral and except subject to the rules and regulations that may be made by the gover
nor in council under this ordinance, and no such shed or structure shall be erected
on any private land or land tho property of the Crown situated within the drainage
area of any public reservoir, nor without the special permission of tho governor in
council, on any hill-slope draining into the city of Victoria.
Every timber yard for the storage of timber other than timber in bulk situated
within the city of Victoria shall be inclosed on all sides by a brick wall at least 10
feet in height and 14 inches thick, and shall have a clear passage not less than 6 feet
in width between the exterior face of such wall and the nearest buildings adjoining.
After the passing of this ordinance it shall not be lawful to store more than 300 cubic
feet of timber on any premises within the city of Victoria unless such premises are
inclosed as herein provided, or unless such timber be stored at a distance of at least
50 feet from any building.
O. H . Sim ons,
Consul.
HongTcong, April, 1892.
485
ASIA CHINA.
CHINA.
N IN G P O .
R E PO R T B Y CONSUL F O W LE R .
It is quite impossible to answer the interrogatories conveyed in the

Departments instructions of December 1,1891.
I have made special efforts to ascertain the fire losses in this consular
district, even addressing the officials here, but they replied that they
could not give me any information. It is well known that the Chinese
of themselves keep no records or statistics relating to this subject.
In tlieNingpo consular district there are eleven cities with a population
of more than 250,000 each. The houses are generally not higher than
20 feet, and are crowded together.
The cities are to a certain extent protected by high walls, running
from one end of the city to tlie other at right angles with each other.
. gate of heavy wood connects these walls across the streets and
alleys.
When a fire starts in a certain locality these gates are supposed to
be closed, with a twofold object in view, checking the spread of the
fire and keeping the thieves out of the district.
Generally when a fire once starts it continues until there is nothing
left in the inclosure, tlie fire walls only checking its progress. Natu
rally fires are more common in winter, when the natives burn brush
wood for fuel.
The Chinaman has no insurance methods. When his house is burnt
he loses all; but sometimes his clan or family rebuild for him.
Last summer a fire occurred about 20 miles from this port at the town
of Nying Kong Gyao, by which some 1,500 houses were consumed. The
homeless inhabitants then determined that they would force the Taotai to help them out of their troubles. With this object in view they
started for Ningpo; but the Tao-tai, knowing full well what such a call
would mean, anticipated their wishes by sending to the advancing
visitors 1,500 taels; a tael for each house burnt. This appears to have
satisfied them, for they returned to Nying Kong Gyao.
W hen a house is burnt down it is an easy matter to commence re.
building, because the Chinese do not make foundations or cellars, and

the material of which the house is made is so combustible that nothing
is left the size of a brick and nothing is to be seen but a level spot cov
ered with crumbled tiles.
J ohn F o w l e b ,
Consul,
Ningj>o, April 19, 1892,
486
JAPAN.
REPORT B T CONSUL-GENERAL TILLOTSON, OF K A N A G A W A .
The cities of Japan are visited frequently by destructive fires. The

buildings burned by one fire very often are numbered by the hundreds
and sometimes by the thousands. Notwithstanding the enormous
destruction of property by that agency, none but meagre statistics can
be obtained. The statements of losses are nothing more than estimates.
The great fire in Tokio, April 10, 1892, is said to have completely
destroyed 6,000 houses, yet there is no probability that any reliable in
formation can ever be furnished as to even the approximate loss.
Japanese buildings are nearly all frail structures, attached to each
other or in close proximity, the partitions being largely of paper. No
building regulations are in force, in Yokohama at least.
The Government is giving considerable attention towards the suppres
sion of conflagrations, especially in Tokio, where many of the streets
are being widened, but until a radical change is made in the character
of the material used in the construction of their houses, it is not prob
able that preventive measures can be of much avail.
In view of this condition of affairs, I do not see how I can offer any
thing of value in response to the questions propounded.
W. D. T i l l o t s o n ,
Consul-General.
Kanagawa, April, 1892.
N A G A S A K I.
REPORT B T CONSUL ABERCROMBIE.
1. Name of place, Nagasaki, Japan.

3. Area of city limits, 505,112 tsubos, or 2,020,448 square yards.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, nil.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, $5,641.45.
10. Total loss thereon, unknown.
13. Number of fires confined co floor in which they originated, 5.
property, 1.
17. The fire brigade consisted of volunteers in this native town, di-
ASIA JAPAN.
487
vided into twenty-six companies, under the control of the city office.
Each company has a headman and a vice-headman, etc. * In case of fire
each company will hurry to the place of fire, carrying the fire requisites,
such as hose, hooks, etc., which are always kept in certain i)laces, and
have to work under orders of the police authorities.
18. Water for fire purposes is to be supplied by means of hydrants of
the waterworks. The diameter of their services is 2 inches, and be
sides which water from the neighboring creek and private wells can
be used at any time.
19. When fire occurs the police, even those not on duty, shall fall
in and go to the place of the fire, according to tlie regulations for un
usual police calls, and the police detectives have to investigate the cause
of the fire and to search for the offenders. In case any offenders are
found there the police will at once arrest them, or complain against
them to the public prosecutor, according to the procedure of the crimi
nal law.
21. Regulations for storing explosives, fireworks, and kerosene are
not published.
W. H. A b e r c r o m b ie ,
Consul.
Nagasaki, Japan, April 21, 1892.
H IO G O .
REPORT B T CONSUL SM1THERS. *
1. Name of place, Kobe Shi, Hiogo Ken.

3. Area of city limits, 6,506,83 Atsubos, or about 5,377 acres.
4. Number of brick and stone buildings, 148.
9-12. Total value of property involved in the fires, or insurance
thereon, impossible to state.
17. Fire department consists of two large pumps, with 50 firemen on
each pump, and four small pumps, with 40 firemen each, commanded by
police officials.
* Year, 1890.
488
18. Wells, water running from the hills in gutters, and sea water,
are used for fire purposes. The number of wells solely used for fire
purposes in the town is 24.
19. As soon as the fire notice is given the cause of the fire is care
fully investigated by the police inspector, and in case of suspected in
cendiarism the matter is at once reported to the public procurator for
examination, and the instruction is given for tlie arrest of the criminal.
20. Number of incendiary fires in 1890,14.
21. See regulations existing for storage and sale of oils and fire
works, translations of which herewith inclosed.
22. No law regulating building construction, heating, lighting, etc.
E . J. S m it h e r s ,
Consul.
Hiogo, February 15, 1892.
EXPLOSIVES REGULATIONS FOR HIOGO KEN.

[Translation.]
[Inclosure in Consul Sinitli<jrs report.]
Any person who stores petroleum oil in tlie eity of Kobe must observe the regula
tions hereto annexed, and any person who violates Nos. 4, 5, 6, or 7 of the said regu
lations shall be subject to imprisonment for not less than one day but not to exceed
ten days, or to a fine of not less than 5 sen but not to exceed 1 yen and 95 son.
U tsu m i T a d a k a ts u ,
Governor ofHiogo Ken.

D
ecem ber
19, 1889.
1. Any person who wants to erect godowns for the purposes of storing petroleum
oil shall make an application in writing to the keneko for a permission, attaching a
rough sketch showing the place where the godowns are intended to be erected and
the adjoining lands; also the construction of such godown.
2. The godown must be constructed of stone, brick, or mud, and there must be a
space of 20 ken (120 feet) between the godown and any other building or buildings.
3. The fireproof fence of not less than 8 feet in height shall be made around the
godown and a signboard marked Godown for storing petroleum" shall be placed
at the entrance : Provided, That it will be unnecessary to build a fence when there
are no buildings in its surroundings.
4. The petroleum oil of 5 koku (about 200 gallons) or under can be stored in the
house at tho safe place.
5. The dealers in petroleum oil shall be allowed to keep the oil in their own godown if not exceed 20 koku (about 893 gallons), with the permission of the police
station : Provided, That in no case tho permission shall be granted when it exceeds
above quantity.
6. The material containing petroleum must be of unburnable and free from leak
age.
7. No fire is allowed to be taken in the godown for storing petroleum, or any other
godown where the oil is kept: Provided, That in case when it is required to enter
into the godown during the night time a lantern with some protection must be used.
ASIA----JAPAN.
489
REGULATIONS FOR FIREW ORKS.
1. Any person who wants a license for manufacturing fireworks shall make written
application to the kencho, through the police station, stating tlie following particu
lars: Provided, That the application for storing fireworks and to buil<l godown for
the storage of gunpowder may be attached to the above application.
(a) Rough sketch showing the place where the fireworks are to be manufactured
and also the place where the powder and other materials for fireworks are to be
kept.
(b) Space between the place of manufacture or the place of keeping powder, etc.,
and the house or houses, or any other places where the fire is kept, must not be less
than 10 ken (60 feet).
(o) Kind or species of fireworks to be manufactured.
2. Any person who wants a license to sell fireworks shall make written application
to the police station stating the kind of fireworks, together with a sketch of the
place where such fireworks are to be kept.
3. Should any person who has a license of manufacturing fireworks want to buy
and sell tho fireworks manufactured by any other manufacturer shall make an appli
cation for a permission according to No. 2 of this regulation.
4. No license shall be granted to idiot, lunacy, or inan of under age having no
guardian.
5. When any person holding license changes his name or changes his place of resi
dence or give up his business in fireworks he shall report the matter to tho police
station within five days.
6. A signboard for manufacturing or sale of fireworks shall be placed at a con
spicuous place.
7. No fireworks are allowed to be kept out of the godown : Provided, That tho
fireworks of not exceeding 2pounds in weight may be stored at safe place, out of
tho godown.
8. Tlie quantity of gunpowder to be kept by the manufacturer of fireworks shall
not exceed 41 pounds in powder and 4pounds in explosive, and the dealer in fire
works shall not be allowed to keep powder more than 2pounds in weight.
&.
Any manufacturer who wants to keep the fireworks and powder as aforesaid,
shall make application according to Notification No. 31 (1884) and No. 99 (August,
1885).
10. No smoking allowed in the place of manufacturing fireworks or in the godown
where tho fireworks or tho gunpowder aro stored; also, it is not allowed to use any
kind of material made of iron or any other matter which may cause fire.
11. No fireworks are allowed to bo manufactured or sold before sunrise and after
sunset.
12. No fireworks are allowed to be sold to infant or any person to be recognized
as idiot or lunacy.
13. The manufacturer of or dealer in fireworks shall report tho following particu
lars to the police station on the fifth day of the next month :
() Date and weight of powder bought, and name and address of manufacturer or
dealer.
(ft) Quantity and kind of fireworks manufactured.
(c) Kind of fireworks sold and the name and address of tho person to whom they
are sold.
(d) Quantity of fireworks and powder on hand at the last day of the month.
14. Any person who wishes to set off fireworks shall make written application to
the police station for a permission, stating the date when and place where the fire
works are to be set off, and also number and kind of the fireworks : Provided, That
even after the permission is granted, it shall be suspended temporarily in case of
violent wind or storm.
490
15.
Any person who violates Nos. 1 and 2 of this regulation shall be punished ac
cording to 3, article 425* of Penal Code; those who violate acts 7,8, and 9 shall be
punished according to according article 28 of the regulations for storage, etc., of
gunpowder Notification No. 31 (1884), and those who violate articles 5,6,10,11,12, and
13 shall be punished according to 8, section 427 of the Penal Code.
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS.
M A N IL A .
1. Name of city, Manila, Philippine Islands.
3. Area of city limits, 7,200 meters north and south, 4,575 meters
east and west.
4. 5. No record is kept of the number of buildings.
6. Fire alarms, 7 in 1890, 10 in 1891.
7. Fires in brick or stone buildings, 1 in 1890, 2 in 1891.
8. Fires in frame buildings, none in 1890, 4 in 1891.
9. Value of property involved, $128,000 in 1890, $91,000 in 1891.
10. Total loss thereon, $90,000 in 1890, $9,880 in 1891.
11. Insurance thereon, $90,000 in 1890, $91,000 in 1891.
12. Insurance loss thereon, $90,000 in 1890, $9,880 in 1891.
13. Fires confined to floors in which they originated, none in either
years.
14. Fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 1 in 1890,
and 2 in 1891.
15. Fires extending to adjoining buildings, none in either year.
17. The fire department consists of companies of 12 natives (one
company in each district) called bomberos, who are supplied with
axes, ropes, and bamboo ladders. They are assisted at fires by the
police and squads of soldiers in their efforts to save surrounding prop
erty and in directing streams of water.
18. The city has an excellent water system, with plugs set along the
streets about 100 yards apart. The water comes from the San Juan
River, a crystal stream running among the foothills of the mountains,
about 3 miles from the city limits, and flows into settling basins about
a mile from the city and 100 feet above its level. It then flows into the
supply pipes, and a steady pressure and unlimited supply are secured.
A stream from an inch nozzle can be thrown about 50 yards.
None of the buildings, except some of the churches, are more than 50
feet high.
*425. Tho penalty shall l>o from three to ten days imprisonment or a fine of from
1 to 1 yen 95 sen in the case of (3) Those who have manufactured, sold, or placed
on sale, without authority of tlie administration, tlie fireworks.
Fine of from 2 to 50 yen.
427. The penalty shall he from one to three days imprisonment or a fine of from
20 sen to 1 yen 25 sen in tlie ease of (8) Those Aviio shall have infringed the regula
tions of the police relative to certain trade or industries.
ASIA PHILIPPINE ISLANDS.
491
19. The causes of fires are investigated by the city council or

ayuntamiento, when a complaint is made that incendiarism is sus
pected. Any one can make a complaint of this character, but it must
be filed in proper legal form, and the name of the complainant is kept
secret.
20. Incendiary fires, none, as far as is known.
21. The city ordinances prohibit the storage of more than 10 cases of
petroleum or 10 pounds of explosives in any one building within the
city limits. These cases of petroleum are of uniform size and contain
2 tin cans holding 5 gallons each. The location of the storehouses for
oils and explosives is designated by the city council, and is at least 2
miles from the city limits. The buildings are required to be con
structed of stone with corrugated iron roofs, and the entrances are so
arranged that, in case of fire, the walls will prevent the burning oil
from flowing out upon the adjoining property.
22. I have found it impossible to procure a copy of the law referred to ;
none of the local laws are printed in pamphlet form separately, but all
are arranged in large records. The requirements of tlie law regulating
the location and construction of buildings are, however, very simple.
No bamboo, nipa-thatched huts are allowed to be erected within the
city limits, and, according to a law passed in March, 1852, no wooden
building can be erected within less than 240 feet of any other structure
outside of the business part. Buildings inay be constructed of wood,
stone, iron, or brick, with tile or iron roofs in any shape the builder
may choose. As this country is frequently shaken by severe earth
quakes, no buildings are constructed entirely of brick or stone. The
usual form is a stone foundation, from 8 to 12 feet high, with a wooden
superstructure from 10 to 15 feet high. The superstructure is built
upon and firmly bolted to heavy posts planted 3 or 4 feet in tlie
earth in a bed of rock and cement. Thus, if an earthquake should
shake the lower wall down, the superstructure, which is the residence
proper, would still stand firmly. As the weather is never cold, this
superstructure is made of the lightest possible designs that can be
worked up in very hard wood. There are, of course, no arrangements
for heating and the kitchen is usually in a detached building of hard
wood and corrugated iron.
When a building permit is applied for the applicant is only required
to show proof of his location, and to declare that he will not construct
his building of any other material than stone, iron, brick, or wood, and
that it will conform in general shape and design, as near as is practi
cable, with the buildings in its immediate vicinity.
In the residence portion of the city, according to an old law, brick
and stone buildings are required to be constructed on one side of the
street and wooden ones on the other, but this law was ibund to be im
practicable, and is not now enforced.
A le x . R. W eb b ,
M a n ila , P h i l i p p i n e I s la n d s ,
February 8, 1892.
Consul.
492
FIBE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
SIAM,
BANGKOK.
REPORT B T OONSUL-GENERAL B O Y D .
1. Name of city, Bangkok.

3. Area of city limits, 75 square miles.
5. Number of fires 1891, 5.
10. Total loss, $300,000.
12. No insurance on buildings.
18. No system of water supply.
19. No law to investigate causes of fire, etc.
21. No regulations for storage of oil, etc.
22. No law regulating buildings, etc.
I obtain this information from the Borneo Fire Insurance Company.
Fire companies are not patronized.
In the walled city all buildings are built of brick and cement. No
fires have occurred within the same.
In all other parts of this city the buildings, indiscriminately, are
brick and bamboo structures.
I have witnessed two fires in the past year. They just burned, and
stopped only because they were tired.
Like Venice, the entire city is cut up by canals, business houses
fronting the canals, and travel and shopping by boats from place to place.
Houses nearly all one story; many floating houses; filled with im
mense stores of rich, fine, oriental goods.
Private guards are employed by well-established business houses.
The guards are always on the alert day and night.
There are three fire insurance companies; not much patronized;
charges enormous. The business is considered very risky.
In conclusion, I can only add, although this is a very old country,
no attention whatever has been bestowed upon this subject.
I. H. B o y d , Consul-General.
Bangkok, February 4, 1892.
M ISCELLANEOUS.
C A IR O , E G Y P T ,
REPORT* B T OONSUL- GENERAL ANDERSON.
1. Name of city, Cairo.

2. Population, 374,838 (census of 1882).
3. Area of city limits, IG,022,100 square meters (abont 19,162,431
square yards).
* Year 1891.
MISCELLANEOUS----EGYPT AND MADEIRA.
493
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, no record.
5. Number of wooden buildings, no record.

6. Number of alarms in 1890, 111 ; in 1891, 142.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, no record.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, no record.
9. Total value of property involved in tlie fires, not known.
11. Insurance tliereon, no record.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, no record.
13. Number of fires confined to floors in which they originated in
1891,133, of which 5 serious and remainder slight.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated in
1891, 5.
15. Number of fires extending to adjoining property in 1891 4.
17. Fire department consists of police officers and men, 5 steam en
gines, 3 large hand engines, and 42 small hand engines.
18. The engines are supplied with water by the street watering carts,
which are filled from the street plugs. The system is unsatisfactory.
No special provision is made, but in case of suspicion or complaint tho
police hold an inquiry.
21. All inflammable oils, explosives, etc., are stored in special stores
outside tho city limits. A limited quantity (fixed by law) is only
allowed to be brought into the city.
J no. A . A n derson .
Cairo, March 14, 1892.
F U N C H A L , M A D E IR A .
1. Name of city, Funchal.
3. Area of city limits, 0 square kilometers.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, not known.
6. Number of alarms, not more than 10.
17. The fire department consists of 4 fire engines drawn by horses
and a large volunteer fire company.
18. System of water supply for fire purposes in some parts good, in
other parts of city poor; few fires.
494

None. A regulation made by the municipal council. The commander
of the fire brigade is authorized to investigate and the judge punish.
21. There is a large stone building with iron doors and shutters close
by shore for storing oils.
J ohn F. H e a l e y ,
Consul.
U n ited S ta te s C o n su late ,
Funchal, March, 1892.
H O N O L U L U , H A W A I I A N ISL A N D S.
REPORT B T CONSUL-GENERAL SEVERANCE.
1. Name of city, Honolulu.

3. Area of city limits, about 8 square miles.
4. 5. Number and kinds of buildings, not obtainable.
6. In 1890, 60 alarms ; in 1891, 37 alarms.
7. Fires in brick or stone buildings in 1890, 4; in 1891, 3.
8. Fires in frame buildings in 1890,29; in 1891,17.
9. Yaliie of property involved, not obtainable.
11. Total insurance thereon in 1890, $137,650; in 1891, $54,000.
12. Total insurance loss in 1890, $35,006; in 1891, $34,115.
13. Not obtainable.
14. Fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 44 during
the two years.
15. Numberof fires extendingto adjoining property in 1899, 4 alarms;
in 1891, 5.
16. Number of conflagrations, not obtainable.
17. Fire department: 4 steamers, 2 hook and ladder companies, 1
chemical engine, 4 hose companies, 8,600 feet hose, 2,000 feet hose in
reserve, 440 firemen, including police force.
18. Water supply: 5 reservoirs, elevation 100 to 775 feet; capacity,
41,000,000 gallons; 15-inch main; 12-inch distributing pipes to business
portion of city and water front; 5 hydrants in city.
19. Investigating causes of fires : The minister of the interior, by and
with the approval of the cabinet, shall appoint the fire marshal.
The fire marshal shall be a competent civil and mechanical engineer and shall be
removed only for just cause or by action of the cabinet.
() To examine and inspect once every three months, and as much oftener as he
may deem proper, all dwelling houses, stores, structures, buildings, places of busi
ness or occupation, and all buildings in process of erection, repair, or construction,
and all other buildings and premises within the city of Honolulu, and also all fire*
MISCELLANEOUS---- HAWAIIAN ISLANDS.
495
places, hearths, chimneys, smoke pipes or stacks, stoves and stovepipes, seain boil
ers, and engines and machines for generating heat, gas, or electricity, or anything
likely or which may tend to endanger the proj>erty or the adjacent or neighboring
property or premises to fire or destruction, for the purposes of ascertaining their se
curity and stability and their security from danger to fire or destruction, or to loss
or damage from lire, or destruction or danger to life, and also that they are erected,
constructed, or maintained or used in accordance with the laws providing for fire
and explosion, destruction and protection of life and property, and also fire-proof
buildings; and if the fire marshal shall find any of the same to be defective or dan
gerous or in contravention of law he shall direct the owner or occupant by written
or printed notice to alter, remove, or amend the same, and in case of neglecting so to
do the offending party shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
But if the same be approved by him in accordance with law and not dangerous to
life and property, he shall give a certificate to that effect, for which a fee of $5 shall
be paid to the fire marshal as a government realization to be turned into the treas
ury through tho department of the interior.
(a) To make in triplicate at the end of every six months a true and correct report
of all fires that may have occured within the city of Honolulu, and the name of the
party or parties suffering loss or damage, the location and the nature of the property
destroyed or damaged, tho approximate amount of loss sustained and insurance up
on same if known, one copy to be filed with the minister of the interior, one copy
with the chief engineer, and one copy to be retained by the fire marshal as a record.
At the end of the biennial period such reports shall be embodied in the report of tho
chief engineer of the Honolulu firo department.
S e c t i o n 8 A. For tho purposes of this act and to perform the duties imposed upon him
by law, the fire marshal shall have the right and power to enter (after making known
his intention, if required, to the owner or occupier) and fully examine and inspect
all buildings and premises and property which he is required by law to inspect and
examine. Any person who shall willfully or without justification obstruct or impede
the fire marshal in the inspection and examination by him required by law of the
buildings, property, and premises and other structures and in the performance of
the duties imposed on him by law shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
20. Incendiary fires during the two years, 10.
21. Explosives:
All kerosene oil imported into this kingdom shall, immediately after being landed,
be delivered at and stored in tho government kerosene storehouse or in storehouses
set aside for that purpose: Provided, That lots may be transferred directly from tho
wharf where landed to any vessel, railroad station, or other place or premises autho
rized to receive the same, by furnishing the inspectors certificate of the proper test
of tho same to the customs guard or official in charge of the vessel of importation:
And provided further, That lots of not more than 10 cases or 100 gallons may be with
drawn from such storehouses and kept for consumption or sale on premises with an
area of at least 400squarefeet within distinct walls, other than partition walls which
are lire-proof ; and w h e n oil is kept on n e ig h b o r in g p re m ise s it h a ll b o so a r r a n g e d that
there shall be at least 20 1eet clear between any two lots: Provided, That whenever
on account of the close contiguity of wooden buildings or inflammable structures,
the storing of 10 cases of kerosene oil in each of such structures or separate pre
mises might be, in the discretion of the fire marshal, cause of special danger to the
neighborhood in case of fire, tho fire marshal may, with the approval of the minister
of finance, order the number of such cases reduced to any number not less than one
case by written or verbal notice to any person upon such premises, or posted upon
such premises, within such limits as the order shall specify; and for these purposes
the fire marshal shall have the power to enter upon any premises in the kingdom.
Any violation of duty under this act on the part of any inspector shall be a misde
meanor, puuishable by a fine of not less than $100 or more than $1,000, or imprison-
496
ment at hard labor for not more than one year, or both, at the discretion of the
court; and he shall bo removed from his position.
The minister of the interior may make such regulations for the storing, keeping,
and transportation of gunpowder in any town of tho kingdom as he may think the
public safety requires ; and no person shall store, keep, or transport any gunpowder
in any other quantity or manner than is prescribed in such regulations.
Whosoever shall violate any of such regulations shall be fined for each offense not
less than $20 nor more than $100.
All gunpowder introduced into or kept in any town contrary to said regulations
may be seized by any sheriff or any other oflicer of police, and the same shall be for
feited for the benefit of the public treasury.
22. Building regulations:

The minister of interior, after the approval of the superintendent of public works,
as herein provided, or such other competent officer as may be appointed by the min
ister of interior for that purpose, shall grant permission to erect, placo, or move any
building within the city of Honolulu upon the application of any person, firm, or
corporation, and upon compliance with the following conditions:
(1) That upon filing such application the applicant shall submit the plans and
specifications of the building as it is intended to be when so erected, placed, or
moved.
(2) That upon receipt of such plan and specifications the officer receiving the same
shall forthwith deliver tho same to the fire marshal, who shall inspect and examine the
same as to their construction and location, and security and stability, and their secur
ity from danger to fire, or destruction or loss from fire, or destruction or danger to life,
and also that they aro in conformity with the building and fire laws of the kingdom, and
also the location thereof, and he shall, if he approves of tho same, grant a certificate
thereof; but if he disapproves he shall sign a certificate with the grounds or reasons
of disapproval, and in each case shall return the plans and specifications with his cer
tificate to the superintendent of public works or other officer appointed for such pur
pose, who after examination as provided in the following section shall then indorse
his approval or disapproval with reasons or grounds and submit the same to the min
ister of interior.
(3) That if, upon the examination of such plans and specifications, it shall appear
to the satisfaction of the superintendent of the public works, or of such architect,
builder, or other person as shall be designated by the minister of the interior to exam
ine the same, that the materials of which such building is to be constructed, or to
consist when completed, aro of sufficient strength and size, and properly placed and
fastened, to make tho building strong and safe for the uses and purposes for which it
is intended, he shall also certify his approval of such plans and specifications.
(4) That for tho inspection and examination by fire marshal the applicant shall pay
' a fee of $5 for tho certificate, to be paid into the treasury through the department of
the interior, as a government realization.
The provisions of this act shall not apply to any building to cost less than $1,000
which may be erected, moved, or placed in the city of Honolulu outside or beyond the
following limit or boundary, that is. outside or beyond all the space within a circle
whose center is the present site of the bell tower of the Honolulu fire department and
whose radius is 1 mile.
H. W. S e v e r a n c e ,
Consul General.
Honolulu, May 6, 1892.
497
MISCELLANEOUS MELBOURNE.
MELBOURNE.
B E POllT B Y CONSUL-GENERAL W ALLACE.
Greater Melbourne, the metropolis of Victoria, is comprised of the

municipalities of Melbourne, Prahran, South Melbourne, St. Kilda,
Hawthorn, and Footscray, the towns of North Melbourne, Brunswick,
Essendon, Northcote, Williamstown, and Brighton, and tlie boroughs
of Flemington-Kensington, Port Melbourne, and Kew, covering an esti
mated area of 163,942 acres.
According to the census of June, 1891, it contains a population of
456,992; 49,443 structures of brick and stone, and 49,886 buildings of
wood, galvanized iron, etc. The great majority of these buildings are
roofed with either slate or corrugated galvanized iron.
The whole of this immense area has been reticulated with pipes by
the national board of public works, and water for the same is supplied
by gravity from the Yan Yean reservoir.
With the exception of the water supply there has been no general or
united action for protection from fire, and consequently no compilation
of statistics as to the number of alarms or of fires, of property involved,
of total loss or insurance, or of description or degree.
Up until last year the fire department was volunteer, supported by
contributions from various sources, but this has been superseded by an
act of Parliament (No. 1200 and 1207, hereto attached), organizing a
paid force, called tire brigades, under the control of the metropolitan
fire brigades board, having general authority over the whole area of
Greater Melbourne. There is no general law regulating building con
struction, heating, lighting, etc., each municipality enacting by-laws
for its own territory; that for Melbourne No. 92, as also No. 49, regu
lating the storage of petroleum, etc., is appended.
The rules adopted by the Victorian Institute of Engineers and the
Fire Underwriters Association are also sent.
Geo. H. W
allace,
Consul-General.
M e l b o u r n e , V i c t o r i a , April 8, 1892.
April 9.The first annual report of the metropolitan fire brigades

board is just to hand, and is inclosed herewith.G. H. W.
FIRE BRIGADE AND FIRES.

[Inclosure 1 in Consul-General Wallaces report.]
H ead Station , Melbourne, February 11,1892.

The President and Members of the Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board, Melbourne.
G entlemen : I have the honor to lay before you my first report, embracing the
period from March 6 to December 31, 1891.
146A--- 32
498
Directly your board was constituted tlie necessary steps were taken to disband
the brigades under the rgime of the Fire Insurance Companies Brigade Associa
tion and tho municipalities, also the volunteer and private brigades thon in ex
istence. Prompt measures were also taken to secure the necessary men and plant
to form the nucleus of a brigade suitable to the requirements of the metropolitan
area.
Tho members of the old brigades were invited to make application for permanent
or auxiliary service in tho metropolitan fire brigade, and in making appointments
consideration was given to the individual claims of applicants who had served un
der the old rgimo.
The bulk of the plant recently owned by the Insurance Companies Brigade Asso
ciation, municipal, volunteer, and private brigadesafter careful inspection and
valuationlias, under authority from your board, been purchased and taken over
by tho metropolitan fire brigade.
For the purpose of forming a basis of comparison for future years, I have included
fires for the whole of the year 1891, taking the Fire Insurance Companies Brigade
Associations figures from January 1 to March 5,1891.
The number of calls received during the year were 816, being an increase of 125
on the record of the Fire Insurance Companies Brigade Association for 1890. Of
the total number (816) of calls, 331 were false alarms, 80 were chimney fires,
and 107 were fires with but trifling damage, and the remaining 298 were fires of
which 110 were of slight damage, 84 of considerable damage, 20of very con
siderable damage, and 84 resulted in total destruction.
The fires, compared with the 1890 record of tie Firo Insurance Companies Brigade
Association, show the following results :
Total destruction, increase.....................................................................................21
Very considerable decrease..................................................................................... 16
Considerable increase..............................- ............................................................. 12
Slight increase........................................................................................................ 47
Trifling decrease..................................................................................................... 13
Chimneys increase................................................................................................. 20
False alarms show an increase of 54.
The large increase in tho number of calls (125) may be accounted for. to a great
extent, by the fusion of wires and the extension of the electrical fire-alarm system.
Though the water supply, during the period under review, has been good in many
cases, the supply generally has been very indifferent, and I consider it to have been
unsatisfactory throughout.
Statement of receipts and expenditure for period ending December 31, 1891.
To Commercial Bank of Australia
overdraft......................................... 15,045 19 1
Uupresented check...........................
4 15 0
Bills y)ay a b le .....................................
15,050 14 1
10,015 16 0
25,066 10 1
By purchase Apsley Place property 12,459 9 0

Purchase Hawthorn property.........
615 16 0
Purchase of plant.............................
Purchase of station buildings.........
Debenture charges...........................
Interest on overdraft........................
13,075
11,442
240
35
272
50
10 0
0 0
16 0
19 1
25,066 10 1
499
MISCELLANEOUS---- MELBOURNE.
Statement of assets and liabilities on December SI, 1891.

ASSETS.
LIABILITIES.
To freehold property, Apsley Place,

at cost to date...................... ........... 12,459 9 0 By Commercial Bank o f A ustralia.. 15,050 14 1
Freehold property, Hawthorn, at
Vendors of Apsley Place property
cost to date......................................
615 16 0
balance..................... 9,450 0 0
P lant....................................................
Buildings (stations)..........................
13,075 5 0
11,442 10 0 Yendore o f Hawthorn
240 0 0
propertybalance ..
565 16 0
10,015 16 0
Interest, Commercial Bank, and de

benture chargesrefund f r o m
maintenance account.....................
Contingent assets, as
per contra.............. 13,164 15 2
13,164 15 2
Contingent liabilities
City council plant..
855 0 0
308 15 1
Hawthorn plant___
151 12 8
Campbell, Gr u t li ridge & Co............ 1,158 2 6
Head station ........... 11,000 0 0
25,066 10 1
13,164 15 2
25,066 10 1
Tho strength of the brigade on December 31,1891, was as follows:

Stations.............................................................................................................
48
Permanent firemen, including all ranks.................... .......................................
59
Auxiliary firemen..............................................................................................
299
Steam fire engines..............................................................................................
4
Manual engines.................................................................................................
4
Horse hose reels.................................................................................................
25
Hand hose reels.................................................................................................
58
Extension ladder................................................................................................
1
Fire escapes........................................................................................................
4
Exercise carts....................................................................................................
5
Salvage van........................................................................................................
1
Ladder trucks....................................................................................................
3
Horses................................................................................................................
33
Feet of hose....................................................................................................... 71,000
Telephones..........................................................................................................
48
Firo alarms........................................................................................................
8
Brights fire-alarm circuit.................................................................................
1
It will be necessary for the better protection of the metropolitan aroa to increase
the number of the permanent firemen, and to purchase additional plant. A consider
able reduction will, however, be made in the auxiliary force.
An extension of the telephone and fire-alarm service will also be necessary.
The present system may be considered under trial, but I am pleased to report that
the discipline and general efficiency of the brigade is satisfactory, and good results,
so far as dealing with fires are concerned, have been attained.
I have the honor to be, gentlemen, your obedient servant,
D . J. S t e in ,
Chief Officer.
EXPLOSIVES IN MELBOURNE.
[Inclosure, in Conul-Genoral "Wallaces report.]
Whereas by the ninety-first section of the act of the governor and legislative
council of New South Wales, 6 Victoria, No. 7, intituled, An act to incorporate
the inhabitants of the town of Melbourne, it is enacted that the council of the town
(now the city) of Melbourne should have power to make by-laws for inter alia the
prevention and suppression of all nuisances whatever ; and whereas a practice has
recently arisen of storing in shops, warehouses, and buildings within the said city,
500
adjacent or contiguous to other shops, warehouses, dwelling houses and tenements,

large quantities of petroleum and other volatile fluids liable to ignite at low tem
perature and to explode, to the danger of the lives and property of the residents,
tenants, and owners in such other shops, warehouses, and tenements, and of other
the citizens of the said city, which practice is therefore a nuisance, and it is expedi
ent to prevent and suppress the same. Be it enacted by the council of the city of
Melbourne that from and after the date of this by-law coming into operation, no
greater quantity than 150 gallons, in the whole, of petroleum, naphtha, turpentine,
or other similar volatile fluid or fluids shall be placed or retained at any one and the
same time in any one building and the yards, offices, and appurtenances thereof, un
less in any building which shall be situated at a distance of not less than 100 feet
from any other building, and which shall be of the description following, that is to
say, either a shed divided into compartments of moderate dimensions, well venti
lated at the top, and having the floor thereof sunk to any dei>tli that may be preferred,
not being less than 3 feet, and being surrounded by an area of 2 feet wide, and of
depth and capacity sufficient to contain the surplus fluid contents of such shed over
and above the quantity thereof, which would be contained by the space between the
sunken floor and the ground level; or a ground-floor shed properly ventilated at the
top, surrounded by a trench 3 feet deep by 2 feet wide, at a distance equal to the height
of the walls of such shed, having guiding drains into the said trench, down which, in
case of fire, the burning liquid may flow into the said trench, and surrounded beyond
such trench by a brick wall without break or oj)ening, and of not less than one-half
the height of the walls of such shed.
Any person who being the occupier, or having the use and control of any building
or tenement, of whatsoever description, within the city of Melbourne (not being a
building situated and constructed in manner described in the first section of this
by-law), who shall place, or cause or permit to be placed, or allow to remain within
such building or its yards or offices, at any one and the same time, a quantity of any
one or more of the volatile fluids specified in this by-law, greater in aggregate meas
ure than 150 gallons, shall, upon conviction of every such offense, before any one or
more of the justices of the peace for the said city, forfeit and pay a penalty of not
more than 10 nor less than 5. Provided, that no second or after prosecution for
the placing or retaining of anyone and the same quantity of such fluids contrary to
the provisions hereof shall be commenced on the same day as the preceding com
plaint shall have been made.
Nothing herein contained shall apply to the storing of alcoholic spirits.
ROBERT B e NNET,
Mayor.
E. G. F itz Gibbon ,
Town Cleric.
Passed by tho council of the city of Melbourne the 29th day of September, 1862*
MELBOURNE BUILDING LAWS.

[Inclosure 3 in Consul-General Wallaces report.]
B. P a r t I.
Rules for determining the classes and rates to which buildings are to be deemed
to belong for the purposes of this act, and the thickness of the walls of buildings of
such rates.
CLASSES OF BUILDINGS.
For the purposes of this act all buildings, of whatever kind, subject to the provi
sions thereof, are to be deemed to belong to one or other of the following three classes,
that is to say:
501
First class.If a building bo built originally as a dwelling house, or for an office,

or suites or sets of chambers or offices, or be occupied or intended to be occupied as
such, then it is to be deemed to belong to the first or dwelling-house class.
Second class.If a building be built originally as a warehouse, storehouse, gran
ary, brewery, distillery, manufactory, workshop, or public stable, or be occupied or
intended to be occupied as such, or for a similar purpose, then it is to be deomed to
belong to the second or warehouse class.
Third class.If a building be built originally as a church, chapel, or other place of
public worship, college, hall, hospital, theater, public concert room, public ball
room, public lecture room, public exhibition room, or occupied or intended to be
occupied as such, or for a similar purpose, or otherwise used or intended to be used,
either temporarily or permanently, for the assemblage of persons in large numbers,
whether for public worship, business, instruction, debate, diversion, or resort, then
it is to be deemed to belong to the third or public-building class.
Alteration of class.And if any room, whether constructed within any other build
ing or not, and whether included in the aforesaid classes or not, be used at any time
for the public or general congregation of persons, then the building containing such
room is to be deemed a building of tho third or public building class.
Or if a building originally built, or subsequently altered so as to bring it within
any one class, be subsequently converted into or used as a building of auother class
then it is to be deemed to belong to such other class; and as to it all the conditions pre
scribed with regard to buildings of the same rate of such other class must be ful
filled as if it had been originally built of such other class, subject nevertheless to
such modifications as shall be sanctioned by the surveyor and official referees on
supervision thereof ; or if a building be used partly as a dwelling house and partly
for any purpose which would bring it within the second or warehouse class, then it
is to be deemed to belong to the said second or warehouse class ; and as to it all the
conditions prescribed with regard to buildings of the same rate of such class must
be fulfilled as if it had been originally built of such class, subject nevertheless to
such modifications as shall be sanctioned by the surveyor and official referees on
supervision thereof.
RATES OF BUILDINGS.
And the buildings included in the said classes are to be deemed to belong to the
rates of those classes, according to the condition of height, area, and number o f
stories set forth in the following tables, which conditions aro to be determined ac
cording to the following rules :
Buie for ascertaining height.Tho height of every building is to be ascertained by
measuring from the surface of the lowest floor of the building up to the top of the
wall plate for receiving the roof.
Rule for ascertaining area.And tlie area of every building (except the second or
warehouse class) is to be determined by tho number of squares contained in the sur
face of any floor, which shall contain tlie greatest number of squares at or above tho
principal entrance to such building, including in such surface the area of all tho ex
ternal walls and such portions of tho party walls as belong to such building, but
excluding from such surface the aroa of any attached building or office, area, bal
cony, or open portico.
Rule for ascertaining the capacity of any building of the second class.And the capacity
or cubical contents of any such building is to be ascertained by measuring within the
walls at the surface of the floor, at the principal entrance to such building, and from
the surface of the lowest floor to the top of the wall plate for receiving the roof.
Rule for ascertaining number of stories.And the stories of every building are to be
counted from the foundation upwards.
And if the space in height between the top of tho footings and the level of the
lowest floor do not exceed 6 feet, then the story nearest the foundation is to be con
502
sidered the lowest or first story; but if such space exceed 6 feet, then such space is
to be considered to contain the lowest or first story, and in that case the top of the
footing is to be considered the level of the lowest floor.
Rulefor ascertaining thickness ofwalls.And the thickness or width of every wall,
and of the footing thereof, is to be ascertained by measuring only the thickness or
width of such walls or footings which shall have been originally built.
B.P a r t
Conditions for determining theratesto which buildings ofthefirstor dwelling-house class

are to be deemed to belong, and the thickness of the external walls, of the party walls,
and of the cross walls thereof.
[All buildings above four stories or over 54 feet in height, or covering more than IG squares of area,
shall be deemed to belong to the extra first rate o f this class; and tlie thickness of the inclosing and
party walls must be at the least 13 inches for the two topmost stories, and for the next two stories
downward at the least 17 inches, and so on increasing by 4inches for each two stories or part of two
stories downward ; but every building having a greater area than 16 squares must have its external
walls held together bv cross walls, so that no area larger than 16 squares shall exist unless the same
be internally strengthened with cross walls.]
of build Requisite thickness of external
Height. Area. Stories. Rateing.
and party walls of each rate of
the first class.
Up to 54
feet.
Sqs.
16
Up to 42
feet.
Up to 29
feet.
16
First rate... The thickness o f the external and

party walls must be at least 17
inches from the top of the foot
ing to the under side of the
floor next below the topmost
floor, and 13 inches from thence
to the top of the wall plate.
3 -----d o ...........
16
Up to 15
feet.
Up to 15
feet.
16
12
Up to 40
feet.
10
Up to 27
10
Up to 12
10
Up to 36
Up to 24
Third-rate.. The thickness of the external

and party walls must be at the
least 8 inches from the top of
the footing to the top of the
wall plate.
Up to 12
feet
Fourth-rate.
feet.
feet.
le e t
feet.
Requisite thickness o f the

cross walls of each rate
of the first class.
. . . . d o ........... The thickness o f the external and

ing to the top of the wall p!ate.
. . . . d o ...........
Second-rate. The thickness of the external and

ing to the top of the wall plate.
3 First-rate... The thickness of the external
and party walls must be at
the footing to tho underside of
the floor next below the top
most floor, and 13 inches from
thence to the top of the wall
plate.
2
Second-rate. The thickness o f the external
least 13 inches from tho top of
wall plate."
1
Third-rate.. The thickness of the external
the footings to the top of the
wall plate.
3 Second-rate. The thickness of the external
the footing to the underside of
the floor next below the top
thence to the top of the wall
plate.
The thickness of the cross

walls of the first and
second stories must be
not less than 8 inches.
In the event of these
cross walls not being
built, then the external
or party walls of the
second story must be 13
inches in thickness.
The thickness o f the cross
walls of the first must be
not less than 8 inches.
In the event of these
cross walls not being
built, then the external
or party walls of the first
story must be 13 inches
in thickness.
503
B.P a r t 2 Continued.
Conditions for determining the rates to which buildings of the first or dwelling-house class
are to be deemed to belong, and the thickness of the external walls, of the party walls,
and of the cross walls thereofContinued.
thickness o f external
of build Requisite
and party walls of each rate of
Height. Area. Stories. Rate ing.
the first class.
Up to 36
feet.
Sq.
Up to 24
feet.
Up to
feet.
12
Requisite thickness of the

cross walls of each rate
of the first class.
Third-rate. - The thickness o f the external

least 13 inches from tlie top of
the footing to the underside of
of the floor next below the top
the underside of the floor next
below the topmost floor to the
top of the wall plate.
Fourth-rate. The thickness o f the external
and party walls must bo at the
wall plate.
Fifth-rate
........ do............................................
B.P a r t
3.
Conditions for determining the rates to which buildings of the second or warehouse class are
to be deemed to belong, and the thickness of the external walls and of the party walls
thereof.
Rate of build Requisite thickness of external and party
ing.
walls o f each rate of the second class.
Height.
Capacity.
I f the building be
in height more
than 55 feet and
not more than
76 feet.
Or if the building
contain m o r e
than 120,000 cu
bic feet and not
more than 200,000
cubic feet.
I f more than 33
feet and not more
than 55 feet.
Or if it contain
more than 80,000
cubic feet and
not more than
120.000 cubic feet.
Or if it contain Third-rate.. The thickness of the external and party walls
must be at tho least 13 inches from tho un
more than 40,000
derside of the topmost story to tlie top of the
cubic feet and
wall, and at the least 17inches from the un
not more than
derside of the story next but one below the
80.000 cubic feet.
topmost story to the underside of the top
most story.
Or if it contain Fourth-rate. The thickness o f the external and party walla
for their full height must be at the least 13
more than 10,000
inches for walls up to a height of 13 feet, and
cubic feet and
at the least 17 inches for walls above that
not more than
height.
40.000 cubic feet.
The thickness o f the external and party wa Is
Or if it do not con Fifth-rate
for their full height must be at the least 8
tain more than
inches for walls up to a height of 10 feet, and
10.000 cubic feet.
at the least 13 inches for walls above that
height.
I f more than 15
feet and not more
than 33 feet.
I f not more than 15

feet.
I f not more than 13

feet.
A ll buildings containing over
200,000
First-rate.
Tlie thickness of the external and party walls

must be at the least 13 inches from the un
derside of the topmost story to the top of the
wall, and at the least 17 inches from the
underside of the story next but one below
the topmost story to the underside of the
topmost story, and .so on in like manner for
every successive two stories or portion of
two stories reckoned from the top story
downward, an extra thickness of at least 4
inches.
Do.
Second-rate.
cubic feet to be considered as the extra first-rate of this class.
504
FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS IN FOEEIGN COUNTBIES.
B.P a r t IV.
RULES CONCERNING BUILDINGS OF THE SECOND OR WAREHOUSE CLASS.
Cubical capacity.With regard to any building of the second class hereafter built
or rebuilt, in reference to the capacity or contents thereof within the same inclosing
walls.
Such building must not contain more than 400,000 cubic feet between the inclos
ing walls of such building, excepting under the following conditions :
. If such building contain more than 400,000 cubic feet, then such building must be
divided into sections by walls to be constructed in every respect similar to party
walls, with the exception that openings may be made therein, as hereinafter pro
vided, so that there be not in any one section of such building more than 400,000
cubic feet.
And with regard to these sections, which, as above provided, must not contain
more than 400,000 cubic feet, if such section contain more than 200,000 cubic feet,
then the thickness of the external and party walls of the same must be increased from
the foundations upwards 4 inches more than the thickness prescribed in Schedule B,
Part III, for buildings having a capacity exceeding 120,000 and not exceeding 200,000
cubic feet, or, as an alternative, such section must be divided by cross walls, to be
carried up above the roof in the manner of party walls, into subsections in such man
ner that there be not in any one subsection more than 200,000 cubic feet.
And any building containing more than 200,000 cubic feet shall be deemed to be
long to the extra first rate of its class.
Openings in walls.And with regard to the openings to be made in walls to be con
structed as above mentioned, in other respects similar to party walls.
Such openings must not be made wider than 6 feet, nor higher than 8 feet (unless
in each case and upon special evidence of necessity the surveyor and official referees
shall previously authorize larger openings), and the floor and the jambs and the
head of every such opening must be composed of brick or stone or iron work, or other
incombustible material, throughout the whole thickness of the wall, and every such
opening must have a pair of strong wrought-iron doors, one on each side of the wall,
fitted and hung to such opening, without woodwork of any kind, and such doors
must not be less than one-fourth of an inch thick in the panels thereof, and each of
such doors must be distant from the other not less than the full thickness of the
wall.
Roofs.And with regard to the roofs of buildings of the second class. In order to
prevent the formation of curbed roofs to such buildings the plane of the surface of
the roof of every such building must not incline from the external or party walls up
wards at a greater angle than 40 degrees with the horizon.
B.P a r t V.
REQUISITES FOR DETERMINING THE RATE TO WHICH ANY BUILDING OF THE THIRD
OR PUBLIC-BUILDING CLASS IS TO BE DEEMED TO BELONG.
If any building of the third or public-building class correspond in form or struc

ture or disposition with a dwelling house, then the rate thereof is to be determined
by the same rule as the rates of the first or dwelling-house class, and tlie thickness
of the external and party walls and the width of the footings thereof are to be, at
the least, 4 inches more than is hereby required for the external and party walls, and
the footings thereof of buildings of the same rate of the first or dwelling-house class,
unless the surveyor and official referees in each case shall otherwise appoint ; but if
it correspond in form or structure or disposition with a warehouse or any building of
the second class, then the rate thereof is to be determined by the same rules as the
rates of the second or warehouse classj and the thickness of the external and party
505
walls and the width of the footings thereof are to be at the least 4 inches more than
is hereby required for the external aud party walls and the footings thereof of
buildings of the same rate of the second or warehouse class, unless the surveyor and
official referees in each case shall otherwise appoint; but if it do not correspond in
form and structure, or in either, with buildings of tho first and second class, or any
of them, then such building is to be subject, as to its walls or other construction, to
the special approval of the surveyor and official referees.
B.P a r t VI.
RULES CONCERNING ATTACHED AND DETACHED AND INSULATED BUILDINGS AS TO
THE RATES AND WALLS THEREOF.
Attached buildings and offices.With regard to buildings or offices now built, or

hereafter to be built (except greenhouses, vineries, and aviaries, or such like build
ings, and except any shed for the storage of dwelling-lioue fuel, which shall be roofed
with galvanized corrugated iron not higher than 7 feet 6 inches to top of the highest
roof plate, and the front of which shall be wholly uninclosed, and which in area shall
not cover more than one square), and that whether such buildings or offices be at
tached to or detached from the buildings to which they belong, every such building
is to be deemed, in respect of the walls thereof, and all other requisites, as a building
of the rate to which it would belong if it had been built separately.
Insulated buildings.And with regard to buildings of the first or dwelling-house
class, and of the second or warehouse class, which shall be insulated, so far as it
relates to the distance thereof from any street, lane, or alley.
Every such building must be distant from any street, lane, or alley one-third of the
height thereof, at the least, and if the building do not exceed 24 feet in height, then
it must be so distant at the least 8 feet. And with regard to such building so far as
relates to the distance thereof from any other building, or from ground not in the
same occupation or ownership, such building must be distant from such other build
ing at the least 20 feet, unless such other building shall have been built under the
provisions of this act, and shall have a proper parapet wall on the side next to such
insulated building in which case such insulated building may be distant from such
other building, and from such other ground at the least 10 feet. But if the external
walls of such building, which are nearest to such other building or those which are
nearest to such other ground, exceed 10 feet in height, then, and in every such case,
such building must have a distance from such other building, or from such other
ground, as the case may be, at the least equal to the height of its walls; and if such
building be so distant from a street, lane, or alley, as the case may be, and from any
other building, or from ground not in the same occupation or ownership, then the
external walls of such building may be built of wood, and covered with good sound
weatherboards or good galvanized corrugated iron, but the roof covering must be as
herein directed with regard to roofs.
Insulated buildings afterwards divided.Provided always, that if any such building
be hereafter divided into two or more distinct buildings, and tho several parts of such
buildings so divided be not at the aforesaid distance from each other, aud from other
buildings and ground, then such several parts must be separated from each other by
such party walls as are herein prescribed for the rate to which such soveral parts,
if adjoining, would belong ; and if such requisites be not observed, then such several
parts of such building in respect of which they are not so observed shall be deemed
a nuisance, and as such be taken down, according to the provisions of this act in
that behalf.
Buildings builtfor purposes of trade, etc.And with regard to certain buildings which
shall be built for the purpose of trade, or for similar purposes other than a dwellinghouse, and not otherwise herein particularly defined.
Such building must not cover an area of more than two and a half squares, and must
506
be (listant 15 feet at the least from any other building, unless siv h other building shall
have been built under the provisions of this act, and shall have a j)roper parapet wall
on the side next to such insulated building, in which case such insulated building
may be distant from such other building at the least 10 feet, and in either case it
must be distant at least 7 feet 6 inches from ground not in the same occupation or
ownership. But if the external walls of such building which are nearest to such
other building exceed 10 feet in height, or those which are nearest to such other
ground exceed 7 feet 6 inclies in height, then and in every such case such building
must be distant from such other building, or from such other ground, as the case may
be, a space at the least equal to the height of such wall. And every such building may
be inclosed with good sound weatherboards or good galvanized corrugated iron, but
the roof covering thereof must be as herein directed with regard to roofs, and the
chimney and flue (if any) must be built as herein directed with regard to chimneys
and flues ; and if such building be properly framed together of hardwood, and se
curely covered with good galvanized corrugated iron, then every such building may
be built so as not to cover more than 8 squares area.
C.P a r t I.
RULES CONCERNING WALLS OF WHATEVER KIND.
Foundations.With regard to tho foundations of walls: Every external wall, and

every party wall, and every party fence wall, must be built upon a constructed foot
ing, based upon solid ground, or upon otber sufficient foundation.
Footings.With regard to footings of walls in reference to the materials thereof,
to the width thereof, to the height thereof above the foundation, and to the depth
below the surface.
(1) Materials.In reference to the materials thereof: Every footing must be built
of brick or stone, or of bricks and stones together, laid in and with lime or cement
mortar in such manner as to produce solid work, or of concrete composed as follows,
namely: Two parts basaltic bluestone metal of 2|-inch gauge, one part of such
metal screenings, one part clean sharp sand, and one part best Portland cement, the
whole to be free from clay or other foreign substance, and the mixing of such mate
rials and the using of such concrete must be carried out under direct supervision of
a competent overseer approved of by the building surveyor.
(2) Width.In reference to the width thereof: The footing of every external wall
and party wall of the extra first rate must be, at the least, 8 inches wider than the
wall standing thereon ; and the footing of every external wall and party wall of the
second and third rates must be, at the least, 6 inches wider than the wall standing
thereon; and the footing of every external wall and party wall of the fourth and
fifth rates, and of every party fence wall, must be, at the least, 4 inches wider than
the wall standing thereon ; and no footing of any external wall shall be built more
than 12 inches beyond the building line under the surface of any public street.
(3) Height.In reference to the height above the foundation : The footing of every
external wall and party wall must not be brought up nearer to the surface of the
ground area, or footway adjoining thereto, than 3 inches. The footing of every ex
ternal wall and party wall of the extra first rate must be, at the least, 11 inches high
above the foundation. The footing of every external wall and party wall of the
second and third rates must be, at the least, 8 inches high above the foundation. The
footing of every party fence wall, and of every external wall and party wall of the
fourth and fifth rate must be, at the least, 5 inches high above the foundation.
(4) Depth and thickness below lowest floor.In reference to the depth and thickness
thereof below the surface of the lowest floor adjoining or intended to adjoin thereto.
The top of the footing of every external wall and party wall must be, at the least,
6 inches below such surface, or in the case of an excavated basement below the bot
tom of such excavation. Wherever the external walls of the first story of any build
507
ing shall hay a thickness of not more than 8 inches then from the top of the foot
ing to the underside of the floor of the said first story, tho external wall shall have
a thickness of not less than 13 inches.
Damp course.Every wall of every building shall have a damp course throughout
its whole thickness, of asphalt, or other material impervious to moisture, and in
eases where it is not desirable to place the same throughout the building at one uni
form level, then the said damp course must be constructed in horizontal layers with
a vertical connection overlapping one another at least 6 inches, and touching.
Thickness of inclosing walls to stories of buildings of whatever rate.With regard to
the inclosing wall to stories of buildings of the tirst and second classes, each of the
inclosing walls of any such story throughout the whole height thereof, from the top
of the footiug up to the top of such story, to whatever rate it may belong, must be
of the following dimensions, that is to say :
As to first-class buildings, if the story be in height more than 11 feet (unless
the story shall be the first story of a two-storied building, such first story not being
a basement, or shall be the only story of a building, in which cases the height may
be 12 feet), the thickness of its inclosing walls must be, at the least, 13 inches; or
if the story be in height more than 15 feet, then the thickness of its inclosing walls
must be, at the least, 17 inches; as to second-class buildings, if the story be in
height more than 10 feet, then the thickness of its inclosing walls must be, at the
least, 13 inches ; or if the story be in height more than 13 feet, then the thickness
of its inclosing walls must be, at the least, 17 inches ; or if the story be in height
more than 20 feet, then the thickness of its inclosing walls must be, at the least, 21
inches.
Nevertheless, as to any external wall of any building of the first class, in which
there are no apertures or recesses, if there be another external wall, and a cross
wall, of not less than 8 inches thick, coursing and bonding with such external
wall, or if two such cross walls occur within a length of 24 feet of such wall, then
such external wall may be built of the thickness of 13 inches, of any height not ex
ceeding 18 feet within any story, although the rate of the building may require a
greater thickness; but always upon the condition that the substructure of such wall
is 4 inches thicker, at the least, than such superstructure, and vertically under it.
And also, if any such wall be abutted by cross walls, within a length of 12 feet,
and if not more than one aperture or recess occur within such length of 12 feet, and
not more than one-half the quantity of length be taken out of such compartment
of a wall by any such aperture or recess, then such external wall may be built of
any thickness not less than 13 inches, notwithstanding the rate of such wall may
require a greater thickness.
Cross walls.And with regard to cross walls, which must be internal walls subdi
viding a building, such walls must be built at the least two-thirds of the thickness
hereinbefore required for the external or party walls of the same building on the
same story, but never less than 8 inches in thickness, and must be properly bonded
throughout the full height of the story, with two opposite external walls, and must
not contain openings or recesses exceeding one-half of the superficial area of such
cross wall measured in each story.
C.P a r t II.
Component materials.And with regard to the component materials of external
walls to buildings of whatever class, excepting to insulated buildings provided for
in Schedule B, part 6, of these rules, every such wall must be built of bricks or
stone, or of bricks and stone together, laid in and with lime or cement mortar in
such manner as to produce solid work ; and every such wall must be carried up of
its full thickness to the under side of the plate under the roof.
Nevertheless, in such walls, besides all requisite openings for doors and windows,
recesses may be formed, so that the back thereof be of the thickness of 8 inches,
508
at the least, provided that such recess or recesses shall be arched ovet with an arch
having a rise at least equal to one-fourth of its span ; and provided further, that
such recess or recesses shall in no case exceed 5 feet in width and 8 feet* in height
measured to the springing, and that the aggregate of such recesses shall in no case
exceed one-third of the superficial area of the wall in which such recess or recesses
are constructed, and further, that the stability and sufficiency of the wall be not
injuriously affected by making such recesses.
Notwithstanding the above, nothing shall be therein interpreted to prevent the
adoption of hollow brickwork in the external walls of buildings of the first class,
or in the external walls of the basement story of buildings of the second class, pro
vided that the full quantity of brickwork requisite, in accordance with these rules
for the construction of such walls or story if hollow work were not adopted, be still
used therein, and that the method of construction be submitted to the official ref
erees and be by them approved.
And with regard to other substances as component materials of external walls
there may be such wood and iron as shall be necessary, and every plate, lintel, bond,
corbel, being of wood, and every wood-brick, laid into any external walls, and all
the ends of joists, of girders, and of the heads and sills of partitions running into
any external wall, must be fixed at a distance from the external face of the wall of
4 inches, at the least, except ceiling joists, which may go through tho wall, pro
vided a sufficient corbel be formed to separate one building from another at the
line of the party and external wall. And the frames of doors and windows must be
fixed in reveals, at a distance from the external face of the wall of 4 inches, at the
least. And shop fronts must be fixed in such manner as is herein specially directed.
And the tiers of doorcases to warehouses must be fixed in the opening left in such
walls, at a distance from the external face of tho wall of 2 inches at the least. But
no timber must be laid into any external wall in such manner, or of such lengths as
to render the part of the wall above it wholly, or in great part dependent upon the
wood for support, or so that any such wood might not be withdrawn without en
dangering the safety of the superincumbent structure.
Height and thickness of parapets.And with regard to external walls, in reference
to the height and thickness of any parapet thereon.
If an external wall be built within 5 feet of ground in another occupation, then
such external wall must be carried up and remain 1 foot at the least above the
highest part of its own adjoining gutter. And the thickness of an external wall, so
carried up above the level of tho underside of the gutter plate, and forming a para
pet, must be, at the least, in every such wall of the extra first rate of tho first class,
and in every such wall of the extra first rate of tho second class, 13 inches thick ; and
in every other external wall, of whatever rate or class, 8 inches thick.
If there be fixed upon the flat or roof of any building within 5 feet of the para
pet of an external wall, such external wall not abutting on a street, lane, or alley,
a n y turret, dormer, lantern-light, or other erection of combustible materials, then
every such external wall must bo carried up next to every such turret, dormer, lan
tern-light, or other erection, and must extend 1 foot 6 inches higher, and 1 foot 6
inches wider than any such erection on each side thereof.
With regard to parapets of any building which shall exceed 8 feet in height above
the underside of tho wall plate for receiving the roof, then the same shall be deemed
to be a story, and as such shall require a proper increase of thickness in tho stories
below, as required by the provisions of Schedule B, parts 2 and 3, of these rules.
Girders.With regard to every girder fixed to carry any wall of a building, such
girder must be constructed of wrought iron.
Every such girder must have a bearing in the direction of its length of 6 inches
at the least at each end upon a sufficient pier of brick or stone; and where the span
exceeds 14 feet between the bearings, the bearing must be increasod 1 inch at each
end for every 4 feet or portion of 4 feet by which the bearing exceeds 14 feet, in ad
MISCELLANEO US---- MELBOURNE.
609
dition to which the girder mast he supported, at tho discretion of the building sur
veyor, on one or more iron story posts or brick or stone piers, fixed upon solid foun
dations. Every girder bearing upon any wall must be borne by a template or corbel
of stone or irou, tailed through at least one-half the thickness of such wall and oi
the full breadth of the girder.
Mate>ials tobeused in repairs.And with regard to old external walls or other ex
ternal inclosures of any building already built, in reference to materials to be used
in the repair thereof.
If any such Avail or inclosure bo not built of tho materials required by these rules
for external walls or other external inclosures, then every part of such wall, or
other external inclosure (except tlie inclosure of roofs, and the flats, gutters, dor
mers, turrets, lantern-lighls, and other erections thereon), may be at all times re
paired with materials of the same sort as those of which such external wall or inclos
ure has been already built.
Materials to be used in rebuilding.But if any such external wall or inclosuro be at
any time hereafter taken down or otherwise demolished for the height of one story,
or for a space equal to one-fourth of the whole surface of such external wall, then
every part thereof, not built in the manner and of the several materials by these
rules directed for external Avails, must bo taken down ; and the same must be rebuilt
in such manner, of such materials, and in all respects as by these rules directed for
external walls hereafter to be built, according to the class and rate of the building
to which such external wall or inclosure shall belong.
External wallused as aparty uàll.And with regard to external walls to be used a
party walls to any building adjoining thereto (except an attached building or office,
as is hereinbefore described) : If the external wall of any building have not such
footings, or be not of such heights and thicknesses, or be not built in such manner
and of such materials a are herein directed for party walls of buildings of the high
est rate to which such wall shall adjoin, then such external wall must not be used
as a party wall for any such building; but there must be a distinct external wall,
built as herein described for external walls, of the rate to which it shall belong.
But if such external wall to any building already built, be, at the least, 13 inches
in thickness in every part, and be of sound and proper materials and in good condi
tion, then such wall may be used as a party wall; but if the house of which uch wall
forms a part be rebuilt, then such wall must become subject to the provisions of
these rules in respect to party walls according to the class and rate to which the
said wall did first belong.
C.P a r t
H I.
Division ofbuildings.And with regard to walls used to divide single buildings into
two or more.
If it be intended to divide any building into two or more distinct parts, then every
wall for that purpose must be built as a party wall, in the manner and of the mate
rials and of the several heights and thicknesses for party walls of the highest rate of
the building to which such party wall shall belong or adjoin, as prescribed in reference
to the thickness of party walls in Schedule B of these rules.
And if any building already built, or which shall be hereafter built, be converted,
used, or occupied as two or more separate buildings, each having a separate entrance
or staircase, such conversion, use, or occupation, not having been made or not having
taken place prior to the 1st day of January, 1850, then every such building shall be
deemed to be two or more separate houses, and such separate houses must be divided
from each other as follows: If they adjoin vertically, then so far as they adjoin ver
tically they must be separated by a party wall ; and if they adjoin horizontally, then
so far as they join horizontally they must be separated by a party arch.
Any internal wall, which by the conversion, use, or occupation of any building as
two or more separate houses, in the manner set forth in the preceding paragraph, shall
510
become a party wall, and that whether the same shall have been originally built as
an internal wall or otherwise, may be built of a thickness 4 inches less than is re
quired under the provisions of Schedule B, parte 2, 3, and 4, of these rules, for other
external or party walls on the same story of the same bnilding, but no such wall
shall have a thickness of less than 8inches.
Every passage through a bnilding leading to another building in other occupation
must be separated from tho said building by party walls and party arches.
Site of walls.And with regard to party walls in reference to the site thereof.
If tho buildings be of equal rate, then such party walls must be built on the line
of junction of such buildings, one-half on the ground of the owner of one of such
buildings and one-half on the ground of the owner of the other of such buildings.
If such buildings be of different rates, then such wall mnst be built on the line of
junction thereof, as follows: That is to say, one-half of the thickness of the wall
required for the building of the lower rate on the ground of each of the adjoining
owners ; and the whole of the additional thickness of the wall required for the build
ing of the higher rate on tho ground of the owner of such building of the higher rate.
And if such building of the lower rate be thereafter enlarged or altered so as to
become a building of a higher rate, then the owner of such first-mentioned building
of the higher rate for the time being shall be entitled to receive from the owner of
such building of the lower rate such sum of money as shall be a sufficient compen
sation for the ground occupied by that portion of the party wall which, according to
the rate of the building enlarged, ought to have been built by its owner on his own
ground, as well as tho value of so much of the wall itself as may be more than the
owner of such building of the lower rate had already paid for.
Construction and materials.And with regard to party walls in reference to the
component materials thereof. Every part of such party wall must be built of sound
bricks or of stone, or of such bricks and stone together laid in and with lime or ce
ment mortar in such a manner as to produce solid work.
And as to the woodwork which it may be desired to connect with the party walls
of any building, the bearing ends of wooden beams, girders, trimming joists, and the
ends of partition heads and sills, and the bearing ends of the main timbers of a roof,
may be laid into the substance of a party wall; but no such beam, girder, joist, par
tition head, or sill, nor any part of a roof being wood, must be laid or placed within
2 inches of the center of any party wall ; and no other woodwork of any kind must
be laid into, placed upon, or be run or driven into any part of the substance of any
party wall. But if the ends of timbers be carried on iron shoes or stone corbels, then
uch iron shoes or stone corbels must be built into the wall at the least one-half of
the thickness of such wall.
And the top of every such party wall must be finished with one course of sound
hard bricks set on edge, with good lime or cement mortar, or by a coping of any other
properly secured and sufficient waterproof and fireproof covering.
Height of party walls above roof.And with regard to party walls in reference to the
height thereof.
If a party wall adjoin to any roof, then such party wall must be carried up and
remain 1 foot, at least, above the part where the party wall and roof adjoin, measured
at a right angle with the back of the rafters of such roof.
And if any party wall, in any building of the first class, adjoin a gutter, then
such party wall must be carried up and remain 1 foot 9 inches, at the least, above
the highest part of any such gutter.
And if any party wall in any building of the second class adjoin a gutter, then
suoh party wall must be carried up and remain 3 feet, at the least, above the highest
part of any such gutter.
If there be fixed, within 5 feet of a party wall upon the flat or roof of a building,
any turret, dormer, lantern-light, or other erection of combustible materials, then
very such party wall must be carried up next to every such turret, dormer, lantern-
511
light, or other erection, and must extend 1 foot 6 inches higher and 1 foot 6 inches
wider than any such erection on each side thereof.
Openings in party walls.And for the purpose of regulating the making of open
ings through any party wall between one dwelling-house and another, whereby two
or more dwelling houses shall be united, with regard to any dwelling house of any
rate, such d welling house may be united by means of openings in the party wall.
But with regard to any such dwelling houses which, when so united, will contain
more than ten squares: If such dwelling houses shall be, and continue to be, in the
ame occupation, then upon its being declared by the surveyor that in his opinion
the stability and security from fire or any or either of such dwelling houses will not
be endangered by making such openings, they may be made accordingly, but no
buildings shall be united unless they are wholly in the same occupation, and wher
ever any buildings which have been united cease to be wholly in the same occupa
tion, any openings made in the party walls dividing the same shall be stopped up
with brick or stone work of the full thickness of the wall itself, and properly bonded
therewith.
Recesses and chases.And further, with regard to any party wall, as to recesses and
as to chases in such wall.
In every story recesses may be formed, but only with tho consent and authority of
the surveyor first had and obtained, and so that the back of any such recess be not
nearer than 4 inches to the center of the party wall, and provided that such recess
or recesses shall be arched over with an arch having a rise at least equal to onefourth of its span, and provided further, that such recess or recesses shall in no case
exceed 6 feet in width and 8 feet in height, measured to the springing, and that the
aggregate of such recesses shall in no case exceed one-third of the superficial area
of the wall in which such recess or recesses are constructed, and further, that the
stability and sufficiency of such party wall be not injuriously affected thereby ; if any
chases be required for the insertion of ends of walls, of piers, of chimney jambs, of
withes, of flues, of metal pipes, or of iron story posts, then every chase for any such pur
pose must not be left or be cut nearer than 4 inches to the center of a party wall,
nor within a distance of 9 inches from any front or back wall, and no two such
chases (except such as are required for the insertion of withes) must be made within
a distance of 7 feet 6 inches from each other on the same side of a wall, and no such
chase must be formed wider than 9 inches nor more than 4 inches deep from the face
of the wall, nor so as to leave less than 8inches in thickness at the back or opposite
side thereof.
Party arches.Every party arch shall be formed of brick, stone, or other incom
bustible material, set in cement mortar. If an arch of brick or stone is used it
shall, in spaces where the span does not sxceed 9 feet, be of the thickness of 4
inches at the least, but where the span exceeds 9 feet it shall be of the thickness of
8inches at the least. If an arch of concrete is used, such concrete must be com
posed of best approved cement, stone, and sand; or of the best approved cement,
crushed coke or other approved material, and sand, the cement being to the other
material in the proportion of not less than 1 to 4, and the arch shall be constructed
so that the upper surface being horizontal it shall have a thickness of not less than
6 inches over the crown, where the span does not exceed 9 feet, and 9 inches where
the span exceeds 9 feet, but does not exceed 14 feet. If Traegerwellblech or other
approved iron be used and remain as a permanent centering, then when the span
does not exceed 9 feet, the thickness over the crown may be reduced to 4 inches, and
when the span exceeds 9 feet, the thickness over the crown may be reduced to 6 inches,
such thickness being calculated to the average of the corrugations. All party arches
must have a rise of at least 1 inch to every horizontal foot of the span, and in the
case of brick or stone arches must have haunching leveled horizontally from the
crown. If a stone ceiling is used, then the same must be composed of approved
tone or slate flagging, not less than 3 inches thick for bearings under 3 feet 6 inches,
512
closely jointed with rebated joint, pointed in cement mortar, and supported on iron
girders in the event of an arch of any other construction or material than is men
tioned above being used, then it shall be constructed in such manner as may be
approved by the building surveyor and official referees.
C.P a r t IV.
PARTY WALI,8 AND PARTY ARCHES BETWEEN INTERMIXED PROPERTY.
And with regard to any building built prior to the first day of January, 1850, hav
ing rooms the property of different owners which lie intermixed, without being sepa
rated by any party wall.
If any such building be altogether rebuilt, or to the extent of one-fourth of the
cubical contents thereof, then such intermixed properties must be separated from
each other by a party wall constrxicted in conformity with these rules.
C.P a r t V.
BUILDINGS OVER PUBLIC WAYS.
And with regard to buildings extending over any public way, as to the part thereo
which extends over such way, so far as relates to the separation of such part from
such public way.
If such part be rebuilt, then it must be separated from such public way by an arch
as hereinbefore described for party arches, and the soffit of the arch must not be less
than 14 feet from the pavement of such public way ; and such arch, with its abut
ments, must be built in such manner a shall be approved of by the surveyor. And
no buildings shall be built over any street, lane, or public way.
D.
RULES CONCERNING EXTERNAL PROJECTIONS.
Projections from the face wall, etc.And with regard to buildings hereafter to be
built or rebuilt, in reference to projections therefrom, as to copings, parapets, cor
nices, blocking courses, piers, columns, pilasters, entablatures, facias, door and win
dow dressings, or other architectural decorations forming part of an external wall,
all such must be built of the same materials as are by this act directed to be used
for building external walls to which such projections belong, or of such other proper
and sufficient materials as the surveyor may approve and permit, and as to all
verandas, porches, porticoes, shop fronts, open inclosures of open areas, and steps,
and water pipes, and to all other projections from external walls not forming part
thereof, every such projection must be built of brick, tile, stone, artificial stone,
slate, cement, metal, or other fireproof material, and such projections must be so
built as not to overhang the ground belonging to any other owner, nor to obstruct
the light or air, or to be otherwise injurious to the owner or occupier of the buildings
adjoining thereto on any side thereof; nor shall any such projections extend beyond
the building line at any height less than 10 feet from the level of the public footway,
nor encroach upon the building line of any public footway, except balconies, which
may overhang the footway to the extent of 4 feet, and oriel windows, which may over
hang the footway to the extent of 3 feet, if at a height of at least 12 feet in streets
of 99 feet or upwards in width. And no projections, including steps, cellar doors,
and area inclosures, are to encroach upon the building line of any public footway ;
and no veranda to a building built to or to within less than 2 feet of the extent of its
frontage must approach nearer to the end of the house to which it belongs than 2
feet, unless built wholly of fireproof material or separated from any adjoining ve
randa or premises by party walls at least 8inches in thickness; and with regard to
513
the projecting eaves of any building built of brick or stone on either side thereof,
such eaves may project beyond the face of the external wall, provided such eaves be
at least 5 feet from ground not in the same occupation, and be at least 10 feet clear,
measured horizontally, from the eaves and walls of any other building built of brick
or stone, and 15 feet, measured horizontally, from the eaves and walls of any wooden
building. And no comice must project a greater distance than the thickness of the
wall of the story surmounted by the same, the extent of projection being measured
from the face of the wall to a line midway between the facia of the cornice and its
extreme projection, and every such comice must have one course of stone flagging
tailed through to the inside of the said wall, unless the method of construction of
such comice shall have previously been submitted to the official referees, and shall
have been by them approved, and wherever the projection of the comice shall exceed
9 inches any brickwork surmounting the projection of such flagging shall be set in
good cement mortar.
Projected buildings beyond the general line of buildings and from other external walls.
And with regard to buildings already built, or hereafter to be built, as to bow win
dows or other projections of any kind, such projections must neither be built with
nor added to any building on any face of an external wall thereof so as to extend
beyond the general line of building in any street (which general line may be deter
mined by the surveyor), except so far as is hereinbefore provided with regard to
projections from face walls and shop fronts ; nor so as to overhang the ground belong
ing to any other owner ; nor so as to obstruct the light and air or be otherwise in
jurious to the owners or occupiers of the buildings adjoining thereto on any side
thereof.
Projections from insulated buildings.Provided always, with regard to any insulated
buildings, that if the projections be at the least 8 feet from any public way, and if
they be at the least 20 feet from any other building not in the same occupation, unless
such other building shall have been built under the provisions of this act, and shall
have a proper parapet wall on the side next to such insulated building, in which case,
if uch projections from such insulated building be distant from such other building
at the least 10 feet, then such projections are excepted from the rules of this act.
Wooden shop fronts, shutters, sign and show boards.And with regard to shop fronts,
no portion of a shop front constructed of other material than of brick or stone shall
come nearer to the street than 4inches, except the facia and soffit lining to the gird
ers and the shutters.
I f the lane or alley in which such front is situate be of less width than 33 feet,
then no part of such shop front must be higher in any part thereof than 15 feet; nor
must any part except the cornice project from the face of the wall, whether there
be an area or not, more than 2 inches; nor must the comice project therefrom more
than 8 inches. If the street, lane, or alley be of the width of 33 feet or over, then no
part of such shop front except the comice must project from the face of a wall,
whether there be an area or not, more than 4 inches; nor must the comice project
therefrom more than 12 inches. And the woodwork of the facia and soffit lining to
the girder of any shop front must not be fixed nearer than 9 inches to the external
face of a side external wall, or nearer than 4inches to the center line of a party
wall. And with regard to uch woodwork, if it be put up at such distance of 4
inches, then a pier or corbel, built of stone, or of brick, or incombustible material,
to commence 3 inches below the under side of the soffit lining of the girder, and to
be of the width of 8 inches at the least, must be fixed in the line of the party wall
so as to be as high as such woodwork, and so as to project 1 inch at the least in
front of the face thereof. And the height of every shop front must be ascertained
by measuring from the level of the footway or pavement in front of the building.
And with regard to signboards :
Signboards may be erected, subject to the following conditions: Every signboard
affixed to the front of any building must bo placed vertically against the wall, either
14Ga ------ 33
514
above or below the cornice, and o as not to overhang or extend over any publio
footway, nor nearer than 2 feet to the ends of the building to which it belongs,
unless the ends of such signboard abut against brick, stone, or cement corbels, piers,
or pilasters at the least 9 inches wider on the face, and projecting not less than 1
inch in front of and 3 inches above and below such signboard, nor so that the top
edge of such signboard stand at a higher level than the top of the parapet at the
rear of the same.
And with regard to erections of incombustible material to be used in the manner
of signboards on the top of any portion of a building, the plans of such must, in
every case, be submitted to the official referees, to be by them approved.
And further, no signboard constructed of combustible material shall be permitted
to be erected on or over the roof or parapet of any building whatsoever.
E.
RULES CONCERNING CHIMNEYS HEREAFTER BUILT OR REBUILT.
Construction.With regard to chimneys and chimney stacks, except angle chim

neys, in reference to the construction thereof :
The foundations and footings of every such chimney and chimney-stack must be
built similar to those of the wall in or adjoining to which it shall be; but the jambs,
breast, and flue of any chimney may be built upon stone or iron corbels above the
ceiling of the first story of every such building, and no such corbels shall have their
beds upon timber, but the projection, both of such jambs and breasts, must not, in
any case, exceed 14 inches before the face of the wall to which the same shall adjoin.
And with regard to angle chimneys, such chimneys may be built in the internal angle
of any buildings so that the width of the breast thereof do not exceed 8 feet, and
so that it be properly supported on iron girders, with brick arches, or on strong
stone landings, not less than 4 inches thick, and tailed at least 9 inches into each of
the two walls forming such angle.
D im ensions and materials.And with regard to chimneys, in reference to the dimen
sions of the jambs thereof:
The jambs of every chimney must not be less than 8inches wide on each side of
the opening. And with regard to chimneys and flues, in reference to the thickness
of the brickwork thereof, the breast of every chimney, and the front, back, withe,
or partition of every flue must be, at the least, 4 inches in thickness of bricks, and
the joints of the work must be filled in with good lime or cement mortar, and all
the inside thereof, and also the outside or faco thereof next the interior of any
building, must be rendered or pargeted, and no flue or fireplace shall be nearer than
4inches to the center or middle of a party wall. And with regard to fines, in refer
ence to the dimensions thereof, no flue may be used for a smoke flue which is of less
internal diameter in any section than 8inches.
Timber or woodwork.And with regard to chimneys, in reference to timber:
No timber must be placed over any opening for supporting the breast of any
chimney, but there must be an arch of brick or stone, over the opening of every such
chimney, to support the breast thereof, and an iron bar or bars must be built into
the jambs, at the least 9 inches on each side, to tie in the abutments whenever the
breast projects more than 4inches from the face of the wall, and the jamb on either
side is of less width than two-thirds of the opening, except where semicircular or
pointed arches are built. And no timber or woodwork must be placed or laid in any
wall under any chimney opening within 18 inches at the least of the surface of the
hearth to the fireplace of such chimney opening. And as to any timber or wood
work, in reference to the fixing thereof in or against any wall containing flues, or
against any chimney-breast or chimney-jamb ; if timber or woodwork be affixed to
the front of any jamb or mantel, or to the front or back of any chimney or flue, then
it must be fixed by iron nails, or holdfasts, or other iron fastenings, which must not
515
be driven nearer than 4 inches to the inside of any flue or to the opening of any
chimney, and such timber or woodwork must not be nearer than 2 inches to the
opening of any chimney ; and no timber must be laid or placed within 3 inches of
the face or breast, back, side, or jamb or any flue, or of any chimney opening where
the substance or brickwork or stonework shall be less than 8inches thick, nor must
any flooring board, batten, ground skirting, or other lining or fitting of wood, nor
any wood staircase, nor anything else of wood, be fixed or placed against or near to
tho face or breast, back, side, or jamb of any flue, fireplace, or chimney opening,
unless and until the brick or stone work constituting the same shall have been
thoroughly and efficiently rendered or pargeted with proper mortar or stucco, and
such rendering must be in every case in addition to 4 inches at least of solid fire
proof structure.
Slabs and hearths.And a slab or slabs of brick, tile, stone, slate, marble, or other
proper and sufficient substance at the least 12 inches longer than the opening of
every chimney when finished, and at the least 18 inches in front of the arch over the
same, must be laid before the opening of every chimney ; and in every story, except
the first story, uch slab or slabs must be laid upon stone, iron, or wooden bearers or
upon brick trimmers, but where they are laid other than on brick trimmers, the slab
must rest at least 2 inohes on the chimney-breast, and be well bedded upon a proper
boxing; provided always that in the case of a chimney being built upon corbels, the
use of the brick trimmer to support the slab and inner hearth shall be imperative,
but in the first story they may be laid on a brick fender or bedded on the solid
ground.
And the inner hearth of every chimney must be laid and bedded wholly on briok
or stone or other incombustible substance, which must be solid for thickness of 9
inches at the least beneath the surface of any such hearth.
Backs.And as to the back of every chimney opening of every building every such
back must be at the least 8inches thick, to the height of 12 inches at the least
above the level of the mantel.
Chimney openings back to back.And as to backs of all such chimney openings. If
two chimneys be built back to back, then the thickness between the same must be,
at the least, of the thickness hereinbefore described for the baok of one chimney
opening.
Angles of fines.And as to all flues in reference to the angles thereof. If any flue
be built with sufficient openings in it of not less size than 9 inches square, and proper
loso iron doors and frames inserted in such openings, so that every part of such flue
may be swept by machinery, then every angle in such flue may be of any degree;
but if it be not so built, then every angle must be 135 at the least. And every sali
ent or projecting angle within a flue must be rounded off 4 inches at the least and
protected by a rounded stone or iron bar.
Closefires.And as to every oven, furnace, cokel, or dose fire used for the purpose*
of trade or manufacture. It must be 6 inches, at the least, distant from any party
or external wall, and must not be upon or within a distance of 18 inches of any tim
ber or wood work; and the floor on or above which such oven, furnace, cokel, or
close fire shall be built or fixed must be formed and paved under and for a distance
of 2 feet all round the same, with stone, brick, tile, or slate, at the least 2 inches thick,
or other proper incombustible and nonconducting materials.
Steam boilers.And as to any boiler used for the purpose of generating steam for
other than cooking or heating purposes, it must not be set or fixed inside any house
of the first or dwelling-house class, nor within a distance of 5 feet of the external
wall of any dwelling house, nor within 5 feet of any land not in the same occupation,
the said 5 feet being in every case measured from the external face of the setting o f
the said steam boiler.
Chimney shafts.And as to chimney shafts or flues. Every chimney shaft or flue
hereafter built, raised, or repaired must be carried up in brick or stonework all
516
rond at least 4 inches thick, to a height of not less than 3 feet above the highest
part of each portion of the roof, flat, or gutter adjoining thereto, measured at the
point of j unction. And as to any chimney shaft (except that of a steam engine, brew
ery, distillery, or manufactory), the brick or stone work of such shaft or flue mnstnot
be built higher than 8 feet above the slope, flat, or gutter of the roof which it adjoins,
measured from the highest point of junction, unless such chimney shaft shall be built
of increased thickness, or be built with and bonded to another chimney shaft, or be
otherwise rendered secure. And as to the chimney shaft for the boiler furnace of
any steam engine, or for any brewery, distillery, or manufactory, such shaft may be
erected of any height, but not less than 60 feet high, measured from the natural sur
face of the ground at the base of the said shaft, and in such manner and of such
strength and dimensions as shall be satisfactory to the surveyor, upon special appli
cation in each case; but if it shall be desired to erect the said shaft of a greater
height than 80 feet, measured from the natural surface of the ground at the base of
said shaft, then and in every such case the plans must be first submitted to the of
ficial referees and their assent thereto obtained.
Chimney pots, tubes, etc.And as to earthen or metal chimney pots, tubes, funnels,
or cowls of any description whatsoever. If such pot, tube, funnel, or cowl be higher
than 4 feet above the brick or stone work of the flue on which the same shall be
placed, then it must be fixed 2 feet, at the least, into the brick or stone work of the
flue on which it shall be placed.
Smoke pipes.And as to any metal or other pipe or funnel for conveying smoke,
heated air, or steam, in reference to the position thereof. Such pipe or funnel must
not be fixed against or in front of any face of any building in any street, lane, or
alley, nor on the inside of any building nearer than 14 inches to any timber or other
combustible material.
Cuttings into chimneys.And as to every chimney shaft, jamb, breast, or flue already
built, or which shall be hereafter built in reference to cutting the same. No such
erection shall be cut into for any other purpose than the repair thereof, or for the
formation of soot doors, or for letting in, removing, or altering stove-pipes, or mokejacks, except as directed for building an external wall against an old sound party
wall.
F.
RULES CONCERNING ROOF COVERINGS.
Materials-With regard to roof coverings, in reference to the materials thereof.

If the external parts of any roof, flat, or gutter of any building, or of any projection
therefrom, and of any turret, dormer, lantern-light, or other erection on the roof or
flat of any building be hereafter built or rebuilt, stripped, ripped, or uncovered,
then every such part (except the door frames and doors, window frames and sashes,
of such turrets, dormers, lantem-lights, or other erections) must be covered with
slates, tiles, lead, galvanized corrugated iron, or other approved metals, glass, arti
ficial stone, or cement, and such excepted parts may be made of such wood as shall
be necessary.
Rain-water pipes and eaves gutters.And with regard to the roof, flat, and gutter of
any building, and of any projection therefrom, and also balconies, verandas, and
shop fronts. They must be so arranged and constructed and so supplied with gut
ters and pipes as to prevent the water therefrom dropping onto or running over any
public way, and all such rainwater pipes and eaves gutters are to be made of metal.
G.
RULES CONCERNING DRAINS TO BUILDINGS AND DRAINS INTO SEWERS.
With regard to the drains of buildings of any class, and of every addition thereto.
Before the several walls of any such buildings shall have been built to the height of
10 feet from their foundations, the drains thereof must have been properly built and
517
made good, that i to say : If there be within 100 feet from any front of the buildings
or from the inclosure about the building, a common ewei into which it is lawful
and practicable to drain, then into such common sewer ; and if there be not in sch
situation, and within such distance any such common sewer, then to the best outlet
that can be obtained, so as to render in either case drains available for the drainage
of the lowest floor of such building, or addition thereto, and also of its areas and
offices (if any) ; and every such drain must be laid to a sufficient fall or current, so
as that the whole of every such drain, within the walls of such building, shall be
wholly covered over under the lowest floor independently thereof; and every such
drain within the walls of such building must be built and covered over with brick,
stone, or slate, and so as to render the drain airtight.
H.
RULES CONCERNING STREETS, LANES, AND ALLEYS FORMED OR WHICH MAY BE
FORMED HEREAFTER.
Width.With regard to every street, lane, and alley hereafter to be formed.

Every street must be of at the least 66 feet in width from front to front, in every
part thereof. Every thoroughfare or way which shall be of less than 66 feet and not
less than 20 feet in width from front to front in every part thereof, and which shall
have two entrances, each open from the ground upward from some street or from
some other lane of not less than 33 feet in width, shall be deemed to be a lane. And
every thoroughfare or way which shall be of lees width in any part thereof than 20
feet, or which shall in any other particular not have the dimensions and require
ments above-mentioned for a lane, shall be deemed to be an alley. No building of
the first or dwelling-house class shall be hereafter built unless the same have a clear
frontage, to a street or lane or to an alley which shall have been formed and built
to prior to the 11th day of March, 1872; and no building of any class shall be built
so as to deprive and leave without such clear frontage any dwelling house which
shall have been previously built with and continue to possess such clear frontage,
save and except it be a house built within an area of land which afterwards shall be
subdivided into allotments fronting to a street or lane and having a depth therefrom
of not less than 99 feet.
Measurement of width.And with regard to suoh streets, lanes, and alleys. The
aforesaid width is to be ascertained by measuring (at right angles to the course
thereof) from front to front of the buildings on each side of such street, lane, or
alley.
L
RULES CONCERNING DWELLING HOUSES HEREAFTER BUILT OR REBUILT, WITH RE
GARD TO BACK YARDS AND AREAS AND ROOMS UNDERGROUND AND |lN THE ROOF.
Back yard.With regard to back yards or open spaces attached to dwellinghouses. Every house hereafter built or rebuilt must have an inclosed back yard or
open space of at least two squares, exclusive of any building thereon, unless all the
rooms of such house can be lighted and ventilated from the street.
Lighting lowermost rooms.And with regard to the basements and cellars of build
ings, being rooms of which the surface of the floor is more than 3 feet below the
surface of the footway of the nearest street, lane or alley, and to oellars or bidd
ings hereafter to be built or rebuilt. If any such room or cellar cannot be otherwise
lighted, the same may be lighted by means of apertures or areas extending under
the footway, provided such apertures or areas be inclosed by solid masonry or brick
work, surmounted by a proper stone kerb, and such apertures or areas be covered
with an approved and immovable horizontal iron gratingthe same having open
518
bare, or being fitted with approved glass of sufficient thicknesslevel with tho sur
face of such footway and secured to the kerbing by being run thereto with lead or
zinc, to the satisfaction of the building surveyor, provided that no such aperture,
area, or grating do extend from the building line under the footway in streets, or in
lanes over 33 feet in width, more than 1 foot 6 inches; nor in lanes of less than 33
feet in width more than 1 foot, nor be more than 4 feet in length.
Privies.And every privy hereafter to be built in the yard of any building must be
built of brick or stone, or of both, and have roof covering as hereinbefore provided
for other buildings, and whether already built, or hereafter to be built, must have
a door and be properly inclosed, screened, and fenced from public view.
Attic rooms.And with regard to stories in the roof of any building hereafter built
or rebuilt, in reference to the number of stories in the roof, and to the height of such
stories. There must not be more than one story, and such story must not be of a
less height than 8 feet, except the sloping part, if any, of such roof, which sloping
part must not begin at less than 3 feet 6 inches above tho floor, nor extend more than
3 feet 6 inches on the ceiling of such room.
Rooms in other parts.And with regard to rooms in other parts of the bnilding, in
reference to the height thereof. Every habitable room hereafter constructed (ex
cept rooms in the roof, as hereinbefore mentioned), must be of, at the least, the
height of 9 feet from the floor to the ceiling.
J.
.LIST OF FEES PAYABLE TO THE SURVEYORS UNDER THIS ACT.
Fee for new buildings.

First
class.
I f the building be of the extra
First rate...................... ................................................ .
D o ..................................................................................................
Second ra te ............................................................... ...........................
Third rate....................... .............................................. ......................
Fourth rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . __. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fifth rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For every insulated building.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For very bnilding of one square or less . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second
class.
Third
class.
& 8.
6 0
3 10
3 3
d.
0
0
0
& 8.
6 0
3 10
3 3
d.
0
0
0
& 8.
6 0
3 10
3 3
d.
0
0
0
2 10
2 10
2 2
0
0
0
2 10
2 2
0
0
0
1 15 0
1 0
0
1 1 0
10 6
15
15
1 1 0
10 6
1 1 0
10 6
Second
class.
Third
class.
For inspecting and reporting on party walls, etc.

First
class.
I f the building be o f the extra
First ra te ................................................................................................
D o ..................................................................................................
Second rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third rate ............................................ ...................................... .
Fourth rate................................................. ........................... .
Fifth ratej............................................................................ ..................
& 8. d. & 8. d. & 8. d.

2
1 15 0
1 15 0
1 15 0
1 11
1 11
1 11
15
17
10
6
0
6
0
15
6
0
1 1 0
1 5
6
0
1 1 0
15 0
15 0
Fees for additions or alterations.

If the building be of the extra
First rate..............................................................................................
D o .....................................................................................................
Second rate...........................................................................................
Third rate.............................................................................................
Fourth rate...........................................................................................
Fifth rate.............................................................................................
2
1
1
1
15
10
.
2
15
10
5
0
d.
0
0
0
0
519
Fees for special duties.

For the following special duties performed by the surveyor where such duties shall
not be performed incidentally to the building or rebuilding of, or adding to, or alter
ing any building in respect of which any other fees may be payable, that is to say:
& s. d.
For attending to the cutting away chimney breasts, etc............................ 1 1 0
For condemning party fence w alls............................................................
10 6
For the inspection and removal of ruinous buildings................................. 2 2 0
For surveying party walls, e tc ................................................................... 1 1 0
For inspecting arches of floors, e tc ............................................................ 1 1 0
For inspecting formation of opening in party or external w a lls............... 1 10
Fees for special services not expressly provided for.
For any service performed by the surveyor, which is required by this act but not
comprehended under any of the foregoing heads, such fee, not exceeding 5 guineas,
a the council of the said city, by resolution duly arrived at, may appoint and fix.
MELBOURNE FIRE RULES FOR ELECTRIC-LIGHT INSTALLATIONS AND
ELECTRICAL-POWER INSTALLATIONS.
1. All conductors in a building must be so placed a to be easily accessible
and capable of being thoroughly inspected or tested whenever required. It is desir
able, therefore, that conductors be not run out of sight, as between floors and ceil
ings, under roofs, behind skirting-boards, wainscoting, etc.
2. Conductors may be of any metal which does not melt below a red heat. The
maximum current which any conductor may be allowed to carry must not exceed
the value given by the formula C
where R represents the resistance of 600
feet of the conductor at 120 F. ; D the external diameter of the conductor in mille
(=.001 inch).
When the conductor is stranded the diameter D may be taken as that of the small
est round hole through which the bare conductor can be passed.
Where a number of small conductors are grouped together the multiple cable so
formed must be treated as a stranded conductor. All conductors of a larger sectional
area than No. 14 S. W. G. shall be composed of strands.
N o t e . The table appended to these rules gives the safe current for a number of
tranded conductors of copper wire of 96 per cent conductivity according to formula.
3. No naked conductor shall be allowed in a building.
N o t e .The framework of arc lamps is not always included under the term con
ductor, so far as this rule implies; but the framework of an electrolier or gas
fitting i included.
4. Within buildings all conductors must be sufficiently insulated, and this rule
applies equally to all conductors and parts of fittings which may have to be handled.
Whatever insulating material is employed it must not soften until a temperature
of 170 F. has been reached, and in all cases the material must be damp proof.
When leads pass through roofs, floors, walls, or partitions, and where they cross
or are liable to touch metallic substances, such as bell wires, iron girders, or pipes,
they must be thoroughly protected by suitable additional covering; and where they
are liable to abrasion from any cause, or to the depredations of rats or mice, they
must be encased in some suitable hard material.
5. Conductors must be kept as far apart as circumstances will permit, the spacing
between them being governed by their potential difference.
N o t e .Conductors which are protected on the outside by lead or metallic armor
of any kind require the greatest care in fixing, on account of the large conducting
surface which would become connected to the core in the event of metallic contact
between them.
520
6. All conductors passing through the exterior walls of buildings must in addition to
being insulated be inclosed in separate earthenware (or metal) tubes or laid in cement.
The arrangement must be such as not only to prevent moisture entering, but also
fire penetrating from the outside by running along the conductors.
7. All conductors which are exposed to moisture in a building must have water
proof insulation. All wood casing, under similar conditions, in or about a building,
must be made waterproof.
8. External conductors passing over or attached to a building must, unless permis
sion to the contrary be given, be insulated, and the insulation must be of a water
proof and durable character, calculated to resist deterioration from atmospheric
influences.
Conductors passing over a building come under this rule and must be at least 6
feet above the roof.
9. The fastenings of conductors not exposed to the weather, where practicable,
must be saddles or cleats of wood or of some other suitable nonconducting materiaL
Where, however, metal staples are permitted, a suitable nonconducting substance
must be inserted between the head of the staple and the insulation of the conductor.
External conductors must be supported by glass or porcelain insulators in addition
to their ordinary insulating covering.
10. All joints must be soldered and made in all respects, mechanically and elec
trically, perfect. When soldering fluids are used in making joints, the joints must
be carefully washed and dried before insulation is applied. If acid be employed to
form a flux it must be thoroughly neutralized before being used.
11. Under all circumstances complete metallic circuits must be employed. Gas
and water pipes must never form part of the circuit and should be kept at a distance
if possible.
12. In the case of overhead wires, every main must have a lightning protector at
each point where it enters or branches into a building. Lightning protectors must
in all cases be effectively preserved from moisture and must be so arranged that on
no account may the main have to be cut.
13. The insulation of a system of distribution must be such that the greatest leak
age from any conductor to earth (and in case of parallel working, from one conductor
to the other, when all branches are switched on, but the lamps, motors, etc., removed)
does not exceed one five-thousandth part of the total current intended for the supply
of the said lamps, motors, etc., the test being made at the usual working electro
motive force.
N o t e . It will often be found a great convenience and assistance in the prevention
of accidents if the positive lead be colored differently to the negative or made oth
erwise distinguishable.
14. Wherever a branch is led off any conductor to supply current for one or more
incandescent lamps or for any other purpose, a short length of lead, tin, or other fusi
ble wire or substance must be inserted between tho main conductor and one end of
the branch ; and the lead, tin, or other fusible wire or substance must be of such sec
tion, length, and nature that, if the current passing through it exceeds the normal
current by 50 per cent, then it will fuse and disconnect the branch.
When the normal current sent down a branch does not reach half of the safe
carrying capacity of the said branch, then the cut-outs may be arranged to fuse
at a higher percentage than that stated in the above paragraph, provided such
amount of current does not exceed 100 per cent of the normal current of the branch
and that the margin of safety is not lessened thereby. They must never be placed
under floors, nor behind wainscoting, nor skirting boards, etc., unless special precau
tions be taken and special permission be obtained. They must be so mounted that
no danger could arise in the event of their heating or fusing.
The fusible cut-out must be placed as close to the root of the branch as prac
ticable. By branch is meant any conductor issuing from another of greater
sectional area.
521
I f any conductor, by reuniting witb any other conductor or by any other arrange
ment, becomes technically part of the main or otherwise, it will still be considered
as a branch if the sectional area is less than the conductor it issues from, and must
be protected as such.
The mains themselves, both positive and negative, must be protected in a similar
manner by cut-outs, which must be placed as near the dynamo (or source of elec
tricity) as possible.
N o t e .If, however, a branch is already protected by cut-outs on the mains or
on a superior branch, then it may not be necessary to again protect it by other
cut-outs, unless required to do so by the inspector.
It is as well to protect all positive and negative principal branches by fusible
cut-outs. This must be done when transformers, accumulators, or primary bat
teries are used; also when small branches are taken directly off mains.
With regard to aro circuits or when incandescent lamps are arranged in series,
the question as to whether fusible cut-outs or what other kind of cut-outs
should or should not be used, will be decided as each particular case arises, so much
depending upon the arrangement of the lights and the system of lighting; means,
however, must be taken for maintaining the constancy of the current whatever
number of lamps may be burning.
Should it be desired to use magnetic cut-outs or any other kind of cut-outs w
in lieu of fusible ones, permission must first be obtained.
When lights are grouped, as upon electroliers, etc., the small wires to each light
can not always have cut-outs. Care should be taken, however, that the last con
trolling cut-out carries as small an amount of current as practicable and that it
will act before the smallest wire runs any risk of getting unduly heated.
In connecting wires and mains care must be taken that the two branch wires be
joined to mains at such a distance from each other as to prevent the possibility of
short circuiting through their coming together or touching the safety fuse; also,
that the wires connected to the safety fuses be so fixed that they can not come into
contact should they become disconnected or disarranged.
15. Every switch or commutator must be so constructed that when the handle is
moved or turned to and from the positions of on and off it is impossible for it
to remain in any intermediate position or to permit of a permanent arc or heating.
The handles of all switches must be completely insulated from the circuit.
16. The main switches of a building must be placed as near as possible to the point
of entrance of the conductors when the current is generated externally or to the
generators of the current if they are within the building itself. Switches must he
provided on both leads.
Switch boards must bear clear instructions for their use.
The switch board must be composed of a nonconducting fireproof material. The
switch board should be in a dry place and most carefully fixed.
17. All lamps, switches, resistances, and bare connections must be mounted and
placed in such a secure manner that no danger can arise in the event of their heat
ing. They must also be so mounted that any leakage of electricity from them is re
duced to a minimum. All connections must be as perfect as possible.
N o t e .Switches, for instance, must always have an incombustible base. Resist
ance coils must be mounted on an incombustible material and kept well away from
inflammable substances. Lamp sockets should be as incombustible as possible.
18. No naked lights allowed inside buildings, nor elsewhere (unless authorized).
If arc lights are used the globes must be inclosed at the base, and so arranged at
the top that no sparks or flame can escape. The globes must be covered round with
wire netting.
All parts of the lamps and lanterns which are liable to be handled (except by the
persons employed to trim them) must be insulated.
19. The armatures and field-magnet coils must bethoroughly insulated. Dynamos
must always be fixed in dry places, and they must not be exposed to dust flyings or
522
other industrial waste products carried in suspension in the air. They must not be
placed in the working rooms of mills where the liability to such danger exists or
where any inflammable manufactures are carried on or inflammable materials are
stored.
Motors must be subject to the same conditions, but, when it is necessary to use
them in positions such as those above referred to, they must be securely cased in,
such cases having a noncombustible lining.
N t e . By working room is meant any room or place in which the raw material
is undergoing any process tending to convert it into a more finished condition.
The steam-engine room or the mechanics shop for this purpose would not be con
sidered as a working room.
Wherever a dynamo (or other apparatus for generating electricity) be placed, es
pecial care should be taken to see that the dynamo be thoroughly well insulated
from earth. The same rule must be observed with regard to motors.
20. Both primary and secondary batteries must be placed and used under the same
precautions as prescribed for dynamos, and the room in which they are placed must
be well ventilated. The batteries themselves must be well insulated.
21. When these are used to transform either direct or alternating currents of high
electromotive force, that is, from or to an electromotive force of, say 200 volts, they
together with their switches and cut-outs, must be placed in a fire and moisture
proof structure, preferably outside the building for which they are required. The
primary conductors must be furnished with an interlocked double-pole switch, and
also with a cut-out on both the lead and return, which will act at 25 per cent
above the normal current. No part of such apparatus must be accessible except to
the person in charge of their maintenance.
In all cases conductors conveying currents of high electromotive force inside
buildings must be specially and exceptionally insulated, cased in, and the casing
made fireproof.
The positive and negative terminals connected to such conductors should not be
nearer each other than 12 inches unless specially insulated.
Transformers which, under normal conditions of load, heat above 130 F., must
not be used.
Transformers should be so constructed that aleak between primary and secondary
coils is rendered (as far as practicable) impossible; when, however, this is not the
case then the secondary work should be protected by an approved automatic ap
paratus (or arrangement) at or near the transformer, so that in the event of the
difference of potential between the secondary conductors and the earth, rising at
any time to 400 volts, then the apparatus will instantly act and cut off the current.
No repairs nor alterations may be made when the current is on.
N o t e . The value of frequently testing and inspecting the apparatus and circuits
can not be too strongly urged as a precaution against fire. Records should be kept
of all tests, so that any gradual deterioration of the system may be detected.
Cleanliness of all parts of the apparatus and fittings is essential to good main
tenance.
22. When the multiple parallel (or "multiple series ) system is intended to
be used in any building special permission must first be obtained.
23. In any eleotric-light installation in which the current is continuous, and has
an electromotive force of 200 volts or under, the insulation resistance over the whole
circuit inside any buildings must be kept up to 10,000 ohms. With currents of 1,000
volts the insulation resistance must be kept up to 50,000 ohms, no matter how wet the
weather may be. The minimum insulation resistance for currents of higher electro
motive force will be decided with regard to each particular case as it arises. For
alternating currents the minimum insulation resistance must be twice the above
number of ohms respectively, according to the E. M. F.
N o t e .Wherever electricity is supplied from a central station to one or more
buildings, accurate insulation tests should be made at least once daily over the whole
52a
system, inoluding every building on the circuit or circuits, and a record be kept of
the same.
Too much attention can not be bestowed on this matter, especially where trans
formers are employed, or the multiple parallel system is used.
Nothing is here stated a to what the insulation resistance should be when an
installation is first put up, so many instances having occurred of the insulation
breaking down after a short period. A statement of the insulation tests must be
supplied if required. All tests should be regularly entered into a book kept for the
purpose.
The best rule to follow when laying the conductors is to so arrange them that they
would still be practically insulated in the event of their insulating coverings getting
worn away or removed.
24. Before the electric light is used notice must be sent to the fire office in order
that an opportunity may be given for the installation to be inspected with regard to
its fire risk. Full particulars of any proposed installation in all its details must be
supplied; the particulars must include a statement of the maximum current to be
sent down the various conductors, and the electromotive force of the current; also
whether the current is to be direct or alternating. Samples of the conductors must
be sent that their conductivity and the quality of their insulation may be ascer
tained. Specimens of the cut-outs, protectors, switches, and ceiling roses may be
required should the description of them be obscure or unsatisfactory.
These particulars must be sent before the work of the installation is commenced,
and if any subsequent alteration is desired to be made due notice must be sent to
the inspector.
No departure from any of these rules will be allowed unless permission is given by
the inspector from the fire office. The whole of the work and materials must be to
his entire satisfaction.
Safe carrent for stranded conductor.
33o. o f
No. o f
wires in eaohwire
strand. S. W .G .
3
3
3
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
19
19
10
19
19
19
19
19
19
37
37
37
37
37
61
61
25
23
22
25
23
22
21
20
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
16
15
14
13
12
13
12
Resistance.
Safe cur
Per
mile
at Per 600 feet rent in
Of strand.
60o p .
at 120 o F. ampres.
Diameter in mils.
Single
wire.
20
24
28
20
24
28
30
33
36
40
48
56
64
72
80
36
40
48
56
64
72
80
92
104
64
72
80
92
104
92
104
42
51
59
60
72
84
90
99
108
46.79
32.50
23.87
2 0 .0 1
13.89
1 0 .2 0
8.893
7.342
6.175
120
5 .0 0 2
144
168
192
216
240
180
3.473
2.552
1.953
1.543
1.253
2.261
1.831
1.271
1.079
.7154
.5652
.4579
. 3462
.2709
.3661
.2892
.2343
.1772
.1386
.1072
.0839
200
240
280
320
360
400
460
520
448
504
560
644
728
828
936
5.99
4.16
3.06
2.56
1.78
1.31
1.14
.988
.791
.641
.445
.327
.250
.192
.161
.290
235
.161
.138
.0919
.0724
.0587
.0444
.0347
.0469
.0371
.0300
.0227
.0178
.0137
.0107
2 .6
3.5
4.4
4.8
6 ,3
8 .0
8.9
1 0 .2
11.7
13.7
17.9
2 2 .6
27.7
33.0
38.0
24.9
29.2
38.4
45
59
70
82
102
122
97
117
136
168
202
245
295
Calculated from the formula C = yfx>

W here D represents the external diameter o f the copper conductor in mils = 0.001 inch.
W here B represents the resistance in ohms o f 000 feet at 120 F .
Where C represents the safe current in Ampres.
524
N E W C A S T L E , N E W SOUTH W A L E S .
REPORT B Y COMMERCIAL AGENT BAGG8.
1. Name of place, Newcastle, New South Wales.

2. Population of city proper, about 12,000 j including suburbs,
60,000.
4. 5. Number of buildings, 2,608; kinds not ascertainable.
6. Number of alarms, 26 in 1890 ; 35 in 1891.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 12 in 1890j 11 in 1891.
8. Number of fires in frame buildings, 14 in 1890; 24 in 1891.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, $34,067 in 1890j
$43,799 in 1891.
13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated, 11 in
1890; 19 in 1891.
14. Number of fires confined to buildings in which they originated, all.
17. The fire department consists of three brigades in the city proper.
18. The water supply for fire purposes is from mains with hydraulic
average pressure of 70 pounds.
19. The investigation of causes of fire and to provide for prosecu
tion in cases of suspected incendiarism or crime, is entirely in the hands
of the police.
20. Number of incendiary fires, 3 in 1890; 3 in 1891.
21. By act of parliament not more than 200 cases of kerosene are
allowed in any store unless a special license is granted, and 200 pounds
of powder in approved magazines.
22. No building act is at present in force.
G e o r g e T. B a g g s ,
Commercial Agent.
Newcastle, New South Wales, March 19, 1892.
ST. H E L E N A .
REPORT BY OONSUL COFFIN*
1. Name of place, Jamestown, St. Helena.

2. Population, Jamestown and the country, 3,900.
3. Area of town limits, 1 mile.
4. 5. All buildings are built of stone and mud; no wooden buildings.
6. Number of alarms in 1890, 2; in 1891,1.
7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 1 in 1890 and 1 in 1891.
9. Total value of property involved in fires, 400 in 1890 and 800
in 1891.
Year 1890.
525
MISCELLANEOUS ST. PAUL DE LOANDA.
10. Total loss thereon, for 1890, 400; for 1891, 800.
11. Total insurance thereon, for 1890, 400; for 1891, there was an
insurance for 800, which was paid.
12. Total insurance loss thereon, 1,200 for 1890 and 1891.
14. Number of fires confined to building in which they originated, 1
in 1890 and 1 in 1891.
17. The fire department consists of two or three very primitive hand
fire engines, worked by the garrison here and subject to their orders,
and as the civilian can not move an engine to fires without an order
from the commanding officer, who lives a mile from town in the garri
son quarters, it gives a fire a chance to get well under way, and in no
case have they ever been in time to save the building, since my resi
dence, and it is fortunate for all concerned that they have no large con
flagrations, as they have not the material here to subdue it.
18. Water supply. The ordinary supply to the town, with three
storage tanks at the head of town and one in the lower parts, with total
capacity of about 20,000 gallons.
19. The governor can order an investigation.
20. Number incendiary fires, 1 in 1890 and 1 in 1881.
21. No especial regulations exist for the storage and sale of oils,
explosives, and fireworks.
22. There is no law regulating building construction, heating, and
lighting.
J a m e s B . C o f f in ,
Consul.
St. Helena, March 29, 1892.
ST. P A U L D E L O A N D A .
REPORT B Y COMMERCIAL AGENT CHATELAIN.
1. Name of city, St. Paul de Loanda.

3. Area of city limits, about 2 square miles.
4. Number of brick or stone buildings, a few hundred.
5. Number of wooden buildings, none; but hundreds of wattle and
daub huts.
9. Total value of property involved in the fires, trifling.
11. No insurances.
17. The fire department consists of one hand pump with company of
volunteers.
20. Number of incendiary fires, scarcely any.
21. There is a large stone magazine for powder about 2 miles from
city.
526
Loanda, being only half civilized in some respects, can give no light
to America on the above subject. There are no statistics giving num
bers required in some of the questions.
Fires are so scarce that nobody insures property. This relative
exemption from fire is principally due to the fact that there are no
stoves, because of tropical climate, and that the kitchen fires are always
made in the yard, which makes part of every European or native house.
Although many hundreds of thatch-covered huts are crowded in one
place and there is always a strong wind blowing, no conflagration is
remembered. This shows how carefully the natives handle fire.
B E L ! CHATELAIN,
Commercial Agent.
U n it e d S t a t e s C o m m e r c ia l A
gent,
St. Paul de Loanda, April, 1892.
S IE R R A LEON E.
REPORT B T CONSUL BOWSER.
I have to report to the National Board of Underwriters of the United

States the following :
Population of SierraLeone, 60,000. Buildings are of stone, wood, and
thatch, and mud, in some parts huddled together; the streets are nar
row and crooked. There is no kind of fire apparatus here, not even a
hook and ladder company. Fires are very rare, only one in twelve
months, that could be called a fire. No law or regulation regarding fire
in the colony.
B o l d in g B o w s e r ,
Consul.
Sierra Leone, January 12, 1892.
SYDNEY, N E W
SOUTH W A L E S .
REPORT B T ACTIN CONSUL CAMERON, TEAR 1890.
Name of place, Sydney.

Population: city proper, 100,152; with suburbs, 120,800; total, 220,952.
Number of brick buildings, 19,203; stone, 1,303; iron buildings, 219j
wooden buildings, 965.
Public street alarms, 47, in addition to complete telephone communi
cation.
Number of fires in brick or stone buildings, 195.
Number of fires in frame buildings, 82.
MISCELLANEOUS SYDNEY, N. S. W.
527
Total loss by insurance tliereon, no statistics obtainable.

Number of fires confined to buildings in which they originated, 267.
Number of fires extending to adjoining property, 9.
Number of fires extending beyond adjoining property, 6.
The fire brigade consists of board worked under supervision of the
government. Brigade has a strength of 34 paid men, with superintend
ent, besides 336 members of volunteer brigades.
Water supply for fires: city mains are used; supply unlimited.
Provision made by law to investigate causes of fire, and to provide
for prosecution in cases of supposed incendiaries : Inquests are held
under the supervision of the city government coroner and a jury, and
the authorities take steps in accordance with the verdict given.
Number of incendiary fires, 1.
Regulations for the storage and sale of oils, explosives, etc. Act
entitled Gunpowder and Explosives. Consolidated act of 1876, limit
ing supplies to be kept on premises. The following cover the manu
facture of explosives :
It shall not be lawful for any person to establish or to oarry on either in any
building or vault or in the open air any business tor the manufacture of gunpowder
or detonating substances or of matches ignitable by friction or otherwise or other
substances liable to sudden explosion.
It shall not be lawful for any person to establish or to carry on, either in any
building or vault or in the open air at a less distance than 40 feet from any publio
way or than 50 feet from any other building or any vacant land belonging to any
other person than the landlord, any business for the manufacture of vitriol or tur
pentine or naphtha or varnish or fireworks or oil or oil-cloth or other things danger
ous on account of the liability of materials or substanoes employed therein to cause
sudden fire or explosion, and if any person shall establish or carry on any such
business contrary to this act he shall be liable for every day during which such
business shall be so carried on to a penalty of a sum not exceeding 20 pounds nor
less than 10 pounds, and the prosecutor shall be entitled also to such costs as shall
be deemed reasonable.
SYDNEY BUILDING EEGULATIONS.
Sc h e d u l e
A.
RULES FOR DETERMINING THE CLASSES AND RATES TO WHICH BUILDINGS ARE TO BE
DEEMED TO BELONG FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS ACT, AND THE THICKNESS OF THE
WALLS OF BUILDINGS OF SUCH RATES.
P a r t I.
Classes of buildings.For the purposes of this act all buildings of whatever kind
subject to the provisions thereof are to be deemed to belong to one or other o f the
following three classes, that is to say :
First class.If such building be built originally as a dwelling house, or to be o c
c u p i e d or intended to be occupied as such, then it is te be deemed to belong to the
first or dwelling-house class.
Second class.If a building be built originally as a warehouse, storehouse, granary,
brewery, distillery, manufactory, or workshop, or to be occupied or intended to be
occupied as such, or for a similar purpose, then it is to be deemed to belong to the
second or warehouse class.
528
Third class.If a building be built originally a a church, chapel, or other place of

public worship, college, hall, hospital, theater, public concert room, public ball
room, public lecture room, public exhibition room, or occupied or intended to be
occupied as such, or for a similar purpose, or otherwise used or intended to be used
either temporarily or permanently for the assemblage of persons in large numbers,
whether for public worship, business instruction, debate, diversion, or resort, then
it is to be deemed to belong to the third or public-bxiilding class.
Alteration of class.If a building originally built, or subsequently altered so as to
bring it within any one class, be subsequently converted into or used a a building,
if of another class, then it is to be deemed to belong to such other class, and as to it
all the conditions prescribed with regard to buildings of the same rate as such other
class must be fulfilled as if it had been originally built of such class, subject never
theless to such modifications as shall be sanctioned by the surveyor on supervision
thereof; or if a building be used partly as a dwelling house and partly for any pur
pose which would bring it within the second or warehouse class, and as to it all the
conditions prescribed with regard to buildings of the same rate of such class must
be fulfilled as if it had been originally built of such class, subject nevertheless to
such modifications as shall be sanctioned by the surveyor on supervision thereof.
Part
II.
Rates of buildings.All the buildings included in the said classes are to be deemed
to belong to the rates of those classes according to the conditions of height and num
ber of stories set forth in the following table, which conditions are to be determined
according to the following rules :
Buie for ascertaining height.The height of every building is to be ascertained by
measuring from the top of the footings thereof to the top of the wall.
Buie for ascertaining number of stories.The stories of every building are to be
counted from the foundation upwards, and if the space in height between the top of
the footings and the level of the lowest floor do not exceed 6 feet, then the story
nearest the foundation is to be considered the lowest or first story, but if such space
exceed 6 feet, then suoh space is to be considered to contain the lowest or first story,
and in that case, the top of the footings is to be considered the level of the lowest
floor.
Sc h e d u l e
B.
P a r t I.
CONDITIONS FOR DETERMINING THE RATES TO WHICH BUILDINGS OP THE FIRST OK
DWELLING-HOUSE CLASS ARE TO BE DEEMED TO BELONG, AND THE THICKNESS OF
THE EXTERNAL WALLS, AND OF THE PARTY WALLS THEREOF.
Thickness of walls of dwelling houses.The external and party walls of dwellinghouses shall be made throughout the different stories of the thickness shown in the
following table, arranged according to the heights and lengths of the walls, and cal
culated for walls up to 100 feet in height, and supposed to be built solid of bricks
not less than 8 inches and not more than 9 inches in length, the heights of the
stories being subject to the condition hereinafter given.
Explanation of tables.In using the above table, the height of the wall is to be
reckoned on the first vertical column on the left hand of the table, and the length
of the wall on the corresponding horizontal column. The thickness of the wall in
each story is given in inches and begins with the wall from the base upwards.
Qualifications in case of certain walls.K any external or party wall, measured from
center to center, is not more than 25 feet distant from any other external or party
wall, to which it is tied by the beams of any floor or floors other than the ground
529
floor or the floor of any story formed in the roof, the length of such wall is not to be
taken into consideration, and the thickness of the wall will be found in the second
vertical column in the above table.
Condition in respect of stories exceeding a certain height.If any story exceeds in
height sixteen times the thickness prescribed for the walls of such story in the above
table the thickness of each external and party wall throughout such story shall be
increased one-sixteenth part of the height of the story, but any such additional thickness may be confined to piers properly distributed of which the collective widths
amount to one-fourth part of the length of the wall.
Restriction in case of certain stories.No story inclosed with walls less than 13
inches in thickness shall be more than 10 feet in height.
Thickness of walls built of materials other than such bricks as aforesaid.The thick
ne of any wall of a dwelling house, if built of materials other than such bricks a
aforeaid, hall be deemed to be sufficient if made of the thickness required by the
above tables or of uch less thickness as may be approved by the city of Sydney im
provement board, with this exception, that in the case of walls built of stone in which
the bed of the maonry are not laid horizontally no diminution shall be allowed in
the thickne required by the foregoing rules for such last-mentioned walls.
Rule as to buildings not being of the public buildings or buildings of the warehouse
class.All buildings excepting public buildings and such buildings a are hereinafter
defined to be building of the warehouse class shall, as respecte the thickne of
their wall, be ubject to the rule given for dwelling houe.
Table referred to under Part /.
Height up to 100 fe e t .. Length up to 45 : One tory, 26 inches ;
two stories, 22 inches ; three stories,
18 inches ; remainder, 13inches.
Height up to 90 fe e t ...
Height up to 80 fe e t..
Height up to 70 f e e t ..
Height up to 60 fe e t ..
Height up to 50 f e e t ..
Height up to 40 fe e t ..
Height up to 30 feet - Height up to 25 fe e t . -
Length up to 45 feet : One story, 26

inches; two stories, 22 inches; three
stories, 18 inches; remainder, 13
inches.
Length up to 45 feet: One story, 22
inches ; three stories, 18 inches ; re
mainder, 13 inches.
Length up to 45 feet: One story, 22
inches ; two stories, 18 inches ; re
mainder, 13 inches.
Length up to 45 feet: Two stories,
18 inches ; remainder, 13 inches.
Length exceeding 45 feet: W all to be

increased in thickness in each o f the
stories below the uppermost two
stories by 4 inches (subject to pro
visions respecting distribution in
piers).
Length exceeding 45 feet, same a
above.
Do.
Do.
Length exceeding 45 feet: One story,

22inches ; two stories, 18 inches ; re
mainder 13 inches.
Length up to 30 feet: One story, 18 Length exceeding 45 feet : One story,
inches ; to below topmost story, 13
22inches; one story, 18 inches; re
inches ;
remainder, 9 inches.
mainder, 13 inches.
Length up to 45 feet: Two stories
18 inches ; remainder, 13 inches.
Length up to 35 feet: To oelow top
Length exceeding 35 feet: One story,
most 8tory, 13 inches ; remainder
18 inches; to below topmost story,
9 inches.
13 inches; remainder,9 inches.
T o below topmost story, 13 inches
Length up to 30 feet: I f two stories, Length exceeding 30 feet: To below
9 mche ; i f more than two stories
topmost story, 13inches; remainder,
9 inches.
to below topmost story, 13inches ;
Part
II.
RULES FOR THE WALLS OF THE PUBLIC BUILDING AND WAREHOUSE CLASS.
Definition of warehouse class.The warehouse class hall comprie all warehouses,

manufactories, breweries, and distilleries.
Thickness at base.The external and party wall of building of the warehoue class
hall at the base be made of the thickne hown in the adjoining table (Part ii) cal
culated for wall up to 100 feet in height and uppoed to be built olid of bricks not
less than 8inches and not more than 9inches in length*
16A ..34
530
Explanation of table.The above table is to be used in the same manner as the table
previously given for the walls of dwelling-houses and is subject to the same qualifi
cations and conditions respecting walls not more than 25 feet distant from each other.
Thickness at top of walls and through intermediate space.The thickness of the walls
of buildings of the warehouse class at the top and for 16 feet below the top shall be
13 inches and the intermediate parts of the wall between the base and such 16 feet
below the top shall be built solid throughout the space between straight lines drawn
on each side of the wall and joining the thickness at the base to the thickness at 16
feet below the top as above determined ; nevertheless in walls not exceeding 30 feet
h height the walls of the topmost story may be 8inches thick.
Conditionin respect ofstories exceeding a certainheight.If in any story of a building
of the warehouse class the thickness of the wall as determined by the rules hereinbe
fore given is less than one-fourteenth part of the height of such tory, the thickness
of the wall shall be increased to one-fourteenth part of the height of the story, but
any such additional thickness may be confined to piers properly distributed of which
the collective widths amount to one-fourth part of the length of the wall.
Thickness of walls builtof materials other than such bricks as aforesaid.The thick
ness of any wall of a building of the warehouse class if built of materials other than
such bricks as aforesaid shall be deemed to be sufficient if made of the thickness re
quired by the above tables or of such less thickness as may be approved by the City
of Sydney Improvement Board, with this exception that in the case of walls built of
stone in which the beds of the masonry are not laid horizontally no diminution shall
be allowed in the thickness required by the foregoing rules for such last-mentioned
walls.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Cross walls.The thickness of a cross-wall shall be two-thirds of the thickness

hereinbefore required for an external or party wall of the same dimensions and be
longing to the same class of building, but never less than 8 inches, and now all sub
dividing any building shall be deemed to be a cross wall unless it is carried up twothirds of the height of the external or party walls and unless the recesses and open
ings therein do not exceed one-half of the vertical surface of the wall in each story.
Extra thickness of certain stone walls.The thickness of every stone wall in which
the beds of the masonry are not laid horizontally shall be one-third greater than the
thickness prescribed in the rules aforesaid.
Table referred tounder Part II.
Height up to 100 feet -. Length up to 45 feet. Base, 26}
inches.
Height up to 90 feet
Height up to 50 fe e t .
Length up to 45 feet. Base, 26

inches.
inches.
........ d o .................................................
.........d o .................................................
Length exceeding 45 feet. Wall to he

increased in thickness from base to
within 16 feet of the top by 4inches,
subject to provision respecting piers.
Length exceeding 45 feet. Same as
above.
Do.
Do.
Length exceeding 45 feet. Base, 26
inches.
Do.

inches. Length up to 45 feet. Base,
22inches.
Length up to 35 feet. Base, 13 Length exceeding 45 feet. Base, 22
inches. Length up to 45 feet.
inches.
Base, 18 inches.
Length up to 45 feet. Base, 13 Length exceeding 45 feet. Base, 18
inches.
inches.
Length unlimited. Base, 13 inches.
531
Part III.
Rules concerning buildings of the second or warehouse class.No stack of warehouses
or stores shall contain more than one hundred squares of building on any floor in
cluding respectively all the external and internal walls and so much of the party
walls (if any) as shall belong thereto, and no building for stables shall contain mor
than twenty-five squares of building on any floor including respectively all the
external and internal walls and so much of the party walls (if any) as shall belong
thereto, and no enlargement shall be at any time hereafter made to any such stack of
warehouses, stores, or stables so as to increase the size of such buildings above the
respective dimensions aforesaid unless such building shall be separated and divided
by one or more party walls (built in every respect according to the directions con
tained in this act) into divisions not exceeding such dimensions a aforesaid and no
stack of warehouses, stores, or stables shall communicate with any other warehouse,
store, or stable, or other building whatever through a party wall unless the door
case and sill of every such communication be of brick and unless there be to every
uch communication a door of wrought iron on each side of the wall of the thickness
of a quarter of an inch at least in the panels thereof, and no timber bond or lintel
shall be laid into any wall in any such stack of warehouses, stores, or stables nearer
than 18 inches to the opening of such communication, and no opening shall be broken
through the external or party wall of any adjoining building for the purpose of con
necting two or more buildings without the sanction of the surveyor, and any such
opening shall have a door of wrought iron on each side of the wall and shall be com
pleted in every respect to the satisfaction of the surveyor.
Part IV.
Rule concerning drainage.If there be within 50 feet of any building or the inclosure
or fences about the building a common sewer into which it is lawful and practicable
to drain, then such building shall be drained into such common sewer, and if there be
not within such distance a common sewer, then to some other outlet approved of by
the city council, but in either case the drains shall be so laid or constructed so as to
drain (if practicable) the lowest floors of such building and also of its areas, waterclosets, offices, stables, or cow sheds, etc. And all such drains shall be constructed
of such internal dimensions and of such materials and in such a manner as shall be
satisfactory to the surveyor. All drains hereafter to be laid or constructed under
any building shall not be covered up or hidden until they have been examined and
approved by the surveyor. And any opening upon any premises leading to any
drain or sewer now laid or constructed or hereafter to be laid or constructed which
ought, in the opinion of the health officer, inspector of nuisances, and the surveyor
to have a gully with stench trap and grating to such opening, shall have a gully built
and completed with stench trap and grating to. such opening in such manner as
ahn.ll be atifactory to the surveyor. Any drain or sewer now laid or constructed
or hereafter laid or constructed which shall be deemed a nuisance by the health
officer, inspector of nuisances, and the surveyor shall be removed, abolished, recon
structed, repaired, or amended in such manner as such officers may direct.
Sch edule
C.
Rule concerning walls of whatever kindfoundations.Every wall must be built

upon a constructed footing based upon solid ground or upon other sufficient founda
tion unless such wall be built upon a rock foundation: Anti-damp courses formed
of slate, cement, or other approved materials, shall (when required by the surveyor)
be built in the foundations of any building hereafter to be built.
(1) Materials of footings.Every footing must be built of bricks or stone or of
bricks and stone together and laid in mortar or cement so as to produce solid work
or of concrete of such quality as shall be approved by the surveyor.
532
(2) Width of footings.The bottom of the footing of every external wall and party
wall of the first and second rate must be at least 8 inches wider than the wall stand
ing thereon, and. the bottom of every external wall and party wall of the third,fourth,
and. fifth rate and. of every party fence wall must be at the least 4 inches wider than
the wall standing thereon.
(3) Height and depth of footing.The footing of every external and party wall must
be wholly below the upper surface of the pavement and flooring of the cellar or
ground story.
Soil to be removed belowjoists, etc.All soil shall be removed to a depth of at least
9 inches below the under edge of all joists forming the basement or ground floor of
any building hereafter to be built or rebuilt, and all such floors shall be ventilated to
the satisfaction of the surveyor except in the case of the space between the floor and
the ground being solidly filled m with concrete, on which tiles, boards, or cement may
be laid to form a floor.
Construction of materials of external walls.Every external wall or external inclos
ure to buildings of every rate or class and of every addition or enlargement here
after to be made to any building now erected or hereafter to be erected shall be
erected with reference to height and thickness, subject to the provisions of this act
and of schedules A, B, and C, and every external wall or external inclosure and.
every chimney breast-jamb shaft, and flue whatsoever shall be built of brick, stone,
artificial stone, or partly of brick and partly of stone, or of brick and stone to
gether, which material shall be laid with mortar or cement in the beds and joints
thereof, so as to produce solid work, except such work in iron or other metal as may
be necessary in such walls, and except such piling, bridging, and planking as shall
be necessary for the foundation of the same, and also except the necessary templets,
chains, bond timbers, and also except the doors, sashes, window-shutters, and
blinds and doors and window frames to such buildings, and the tiers and stories of
door cases and doors to all such warehouses as are or shall be now erecting or
shall hereafter be erected, all which window and door frames shall be set in reveals
and recessed at least 4 inches from the external surface of any external wall belong
ing to the bnilding in which such window frames and door frames shall be fixed,
and also except the breastsummers or story posts and plates which may be made on
the ground story only, and. no breastsummers or story posts whatever shall be fixed
in the external wall of any building above the ground, story thereof, except the
ends of girders and story posts for the internal support of floors and also except all
stall boards, entablatures, and other trimmings or dressings necessary for shop
fronts, and no part of the woodwork of any shop front shall be fixed nearer than 4
inches in the woodwork of any adjoining premises unless a pier or corbel of stone,
brick or other fireproof material 4inches wide, at the least, is built or fixed next to
such adjoining premises as high as such woodwork is fixed, and. projects 1 inch at
least in front of the face thereof, and all breastsummers, story posts, and the tiers
or stories of door case and doors to all warehouses, as before mentioned, are not
hereby required to be fixed in reveals, but may be fixed 2 inches within the external
surface of such external wall, and. no timberwork whatever other than and. except
such breastsummers, story-posts, and such tiers or stories of door cases, doors, and
the timber necessary for verandas and balconies shall be laid in any such external
wall nearer than 4 inches to the external surface thereof, and every such story post
which shall be fixed as a support to two fronts, being the comer of any street, sqnare,
place, court, or way, shall be of brick or stone or iron or hard wood.
Nevertheless, in such external walls, besides all requisite openings for doors and
windows, recesses may be formed, so that the back thereof be of the thickness of 8
inches at the least and does not exceed 8 feet in width.
2) Materials deemed dangerous to health not to be used in erection of buildings.No ma
terials that have been used in the construction of any cesspit, drain, or sewer, or that
may be considered by the health officer dangerous to health, shall be permitted to be
used in the erection or repair of any bnilding.
533
(3) Breastsummers. With regard to any breastsummers to befixed to carry anyfront wall
of any building.If such breastsummers have a hearing at one end upon a party wall
or external wall, then it must he laid npon a templet or corbel of stone or wood or
iron and the end of such breastsummer must not have its bearing solely upon such
party wall or external wall, but must bear upon a constructed return (or pier) in the
direction of the length of the breastsummer of 4inches at the least, and of the full
width of such breastsummer coursed and bounded with the substance of such party
wall or external wall, or by any iron column or iron or timber story posts standing
in and clear of such party walls or external walls and fixed upon a solid foundation.
And if any such breastsummer have its bearings at each end upon a party wall
or external wall, then it must be laid upon a templet or corbel of stone or wood or
iron, and the end of such breastsummer must not have its bearing solely upon such
party walls or external walls, but must bear upon two constructed returns (or piers)
in the direction of the length of the breastsummer of 4 inches at the least and of
the full width of such breastsummer coursed and bounded with the substance of such
party walls or external walls or by iron columns or iron or timber or story posts
standing in and clear of such party walls or external walls and fixed upon solid
foundations, and there shall be a thickness of 4inches at the least of solid brick or
stonework between the end or ends of every such breastsummer and the end of any
breastsummer or other timber of any adjoining building unless such breastsummer
be constructed of iron or other equally fireproof material.
(4) Materials to be used in repairs and in rebuilding walls or external inclosures.
Every wall or other external inclosure begun or built before the passing of this act,
though not built of the materials required by this act, maybe at all times thereafter
repaired with materials of the same sort as those of which such wall or external
inclosure have been already built, provided such wall or external inclosure do not
encroach upon a public thoroughfare beyond the building line of any street, and if
any such wall or external inclosure be at any time thereafter taken down or otherwise
demolished for a space equal to one-fourth of the whole surface of such wall or ex
ternal inclosure, then every part thereof not built in the manner and of the several
materials by this act directed for walls or external inclosures must be taken down,
and the same must be rebuilt in such a manner and of such materials and in all re
spects as by this act directed for walls or external inclosures hereafter to be built or
rebuilt, but not so as to extend beyond the building line.
(5) External walls shall not become party walls except under certain conditions.If the
external wall of any building be not of such height and thickness or be not built in
such manner and of such materials as are herein directed for party walls of build
ings of the highest rate to which such wall shall adjoin, then such external wall must
not be used as a party wall for any such building, but there must be a distinct ex
ternal wall built as herein described for external walls of the rate to which it shall
belong. But if such external wall to any building already built be at the least 13
inches in thickness in every part and be of sound and proper materials and in good
condition, then such wall may be used as a party wall subject to the approval of the
surveyor.
P a r t I.
Division of building by party walls.Any wall used to divide single buildings into
two or more distinct parts must be built as a party wall in the manner and of the
materials and of the several heights and thickness for party walls of the highest
rate of building to which such party wall shall belong or adjoin as prescribed in
reference to the thickness of party walls in this act and in schedules A, B, and C.
And if any building already built or which shall be hereafter built be converted,
used, or occupied as two or more separate bnilding, each having a separate en
trance or staircase, such conversion, use, or occupation not having been made or
have taken place prior to this act coming into operation, then every such building
534
shall be deemed to be two or more separate buildings, and such separate buildings
must be divided from each other by a party wall or party arch built in the manner
and of the materials required for party walls or for party arches for the class and
rate to which the largest of the buildings divided shall belong.
(1) Sites of party wall. Walls.If the buildings be of equal rate then such party
wall must be built on the line of the junction of such building, one-half on the
ground of the owner of one of such buildings and one-half on the ground of the other
of such buildings.
If such buildings be of different rates then each wall must be built on the line of
junction thereof as followsthat is to say, one-half of the thickness of the wall re
quired for the building of the lower rate on the ground of each of the adjoining own
ers and the whole of the additional thickness of the wall required for the building
of the higher rate on the ground of tho owner of such building of the higher rate.
And if such building of the lower rate be hereafter enlarged or altered so as to be
come a building of a higher rate then the owner of such first-mentioned building of
the higher rate for the time being shall be entitled to receive from the owner of such
building of the lower rate such sum of money as shall be a sufficient compensation
for the ground occupied by that portion of the party wall which, according to the
rate of building enlarged, ought to have been built by its owner on his ground, a
well as the value of so much of the wall itself as may be more than the owner of such
building of the lower rate has paid for.
(S) Construction and materials of party walls.All party walls to buildings of every
rate or class and of every addition and enlargement thereafter to be made to any
building already erected or hereafter to be erected shall be erected with reference to
height and thickness subject to the provisions of this act and of Schedules A, B, and
C, and every party wall, chimney, breast, j amb shaft, and flue whatever shall be built
of brick, stone, artificial stone, or partly of brick and partly of stone, or brick and
stone together, which materials shall be laid with mortar or cement in the beds and
joints thereof so as to produce solid work except such work in iron or other metal
as may be necessary in such walls, and no timber shall be laid into any party arch
except for bond to the same, nor into any party wall other than such templets, chains,
and bond timbers as shall be necessary for the same, and other than the ends of gir
ders, beams, purlines, brest-summers, trimming joists, the ends of partition heads or
sills, and the bearing ends of the main timbers of a roof, and wood bricks may be
laid into the substance of a party wall, but no such templets, chains, bond timbers,
girders, beams, purlines, brest-summers, trimming joists> partition heads, or sills, or
other principal timbers shall be laid in such party wall without having at least 4
inches of solid brick or stonework between the ends and sides of every such piece of
timber and any timber of any adjoining building; and if the ends of timbers be car
ried on iron shoes or stone corbels then such iron shoes or stone corbels must be built
into the wall at least one-half the thickness of such wall.
(4) Height and thickness of parapets to external walls.If an external wall of any
building or addition adjoin a gutter or the external wall or roof of an adjoining
building then such external wall must be carried up and remain 1 foot 3 inches,
at the least, above the highest part of such gutter or the roof of such adjoining build
ing, and the thickness of such parapet to a first-rate building shall be 12 inches at
the least, and the thickness of the parapets to all other rates shall be 8 inches at
the least.
(5) Height and thickness of parapets to party walls.Every party wall, and every
addition or enlargement thereto shall be carried up and remain 1 foot 3 inches at the
least above the roof of the highest building which shall adjoin thereto, measuring
at a right angle with the back of the rafters of such roof, and shall be corbelled out
to the extent of 2 inches at least beyond the external face of any projecting eave if
such projecting eave is constructed of wood or other inflammable material, and every
such party wall shall be carried up and remain 2 feet above the highest part of any
535
gutter in the flat of any roof of any rate or class of building adjoining thereto, and
shall be covered or coped on the top with stone or brick or other sufficient water
proof and fireproof covering.
If there be fixed within 4 feet of a party wall upon the flat or roof of any bnilding
any turret, dormer, lantern light, or other erection of combustible materials, then
every such party wall must be carried up and remain next to every such turret, dor
mer, lantern light, or other erection, and must extend 1 foot 6 inches higher and 1
foot 6 inches wider than any snch erection on each side thereof.
Openings hereafter to be made in external or party walls of dwelling houses of
any rate whereby two or more buildings shall be united may be united by doors or
openings made through tho party walls thereof, provided the consent of the surveyor
shall first be obtained. Provided such openings continue only so long as such prem
ises shall be in one and the same occupation, and no longer, and when not so occu
pied shall be built up with brick or stone of the full thickness of such party wall
and properly bonded into same.
(6) Recesses and chases inpartywall.In every story recesses may be formed so that
snch recesses be arched over in every story and that the backs of such recesses are
not of less thickness than 8inches.
No chase shall be made in any party wall wider than 14 inches nor more than 4
inches deep from the face of the wall, nor so as to leave less than 8inches in the
back or opposite side thereof, and no chase may be within a distance of 7 feet from
any other chase on the same side of the wall.
P art
VII.
Party arches and party walls not to be maimed, and for what uses party walls may be
outinto.No person shall cut into or maim any party arch or any party wall, nor the
shaft of any chimney now built or hereafter to be built, other than for tho purposes
and in the manner hereafter mentioned, that is to say, when the front or back wall
of any house or bxiildiug being in a line with tho front or back wall of the house or
bnilding adjoining thereto shall at any time hereafter be built, it shall be lawful to
cut or break not more than 9 inches deep from the external face of such front or back
wall and to the center of such party wall for the purpose of inserting piers therein,
and the end of such new front or back wall, and it shall be lawful to cut into any
party wall for the purpose of tailing in stone steps or stone landings, or for placing
in such party wall timber for bearers to wood stairs so as no such timber bearer be
laid into any party wall nearer than 8 inches to any chimney or flue whatever, or
nearer than 4 inches to any timber of the adjoining house or building or to the inter
nal finishing of such adjoining house or building for the purpose of laying therein
stone corbels for the support of chimney jambs, girders, beams, purlines, binding or
trimming joists, or of other principal timbers; but every person who shall cut into
any party wall for any of the purposes aforesaid shall immediately, and without de
lay, make good and well and effectually pin up with brick, stone, slate, tile, or iron
bedded in mortar every defect which shall be occasioned by the cutting of any such
party w all; and no party wall shall be out for any o f the purposes aforesaid if the
cutting thereof will injure, displace, or endanger the timbers, chimneys, flues, or in
ternal finishings of the adjoining buildings.
Sch ed ule
D.
Rule concerningprojections beyond building line of street.No bow window or other

projection shall be built or added to any building fronting any public street, square,
court, or way so as to project beyond the building line of such street except such pro
jections as may be necessary for copings, cornices, fascias, door and window dress
ings, pilasters, strings or other architectural decoration, water pipes and balconies,
and no cornice or covering thereof to any shop window shall in any street or way 30
feet wide or more project more than 18 inches, nor in any street or way less than 30
feet wide more than 13 inches from the upright line of the building to which snch
536
hop window belongs ; and no cornice or covering to any shop window shall be built
lower than 9 feet in the clear, measuring from the level of the footpath of such street
over which it projects, and no pilaster, architraves, window sills, down pipes, 01
architectural decorations shall below the said height of 9 feet project more than 3
inches beyond the building line of any such street, court, or way, and no steps shall
be placed so as to project beyond the building lino of any street, and no other pro
jection whatever, except as above specified, shall project beyond the upright line of
the building, and no coping, cornice, or other projection shall overhang the ground
belonging to any other owner, or obstruct the light and air, or be otherwise injurious
to the owners or occupiers of the buildings adjoining thereto, or any side thereof.
(2) Buie concerning grates, doors, etc.No gate or door shall be permitted to bo con
structed to open beyond the building line of any premises fronting any street unless
the lowest part of such gate or door is 10 feet at the least above tho level of the road
or footway of such street.
(3) Buie concerning verandas andporticoes.Open verandas and porticoes may be con~
structed to buildings, provided no part thereof project beyond the building line of
any street, court, or way, and shall not be built nearer than 1 foot to the angle of
the building to which they belong, or than 9 inches to the center line of a party
wall unless wholly separated from any adjoining premises, veranda, portico, or bal
cony by a party wall of brick or stone not less than 9 inches in thickness and 12
inches above the roof and every part thereof.
Sc h e d u l e
E.
(1) Buie concerning chimneys hereafter built or rebuilt.All chimneys and chimney
stacks shall be built of brick or stone or other incombustible materials, and chim
neys built on corbels of brick or stone may be introduced above the level of the
ceiling of the ground story, if the work so corbeled out does not project from the
wall more than the thickness of the wall, but all other chimneys shall be built on
solid foundations, and with regard to angle chimneys such chimneys may be built in
the internal angles of any building, provided that it is properly supported on iron
girders with brick arches, or on strong stone landings, or on other strong and suffi
cient foundation to the satisfaction of the surveyor. And every chimney shaft or
flue hereafter built, raised, or repaired must be carried up in brick or stone work all
round at least 4 inches thick to a height not less than 3 feet above the highest part
of such portion of the roof, flat, or gutter adjoining thereto measured at the front
of junction, and as to any chimney shaft (except that of a steam engine, brewery,
distillery, or manufactory), the brick or stone work of such shaft or flue must not
be built higher than 8 feet above the slope, flat, or gutter of the roof which it ad
joins, measured from the highest point of junction, unless such chimney shaft be
built of increased thickness, or be built with and bonded to another chimney shaft
orbe otherwise rendered secure, and as to the chimney shaft for the boiler furnace of
any engine, or for any brewery, distillery, or manufactory, such shaft may be erected
of any height, so that it be built in such manner and of such strength and dimen
sions as shall be satisfactory to the surveyor upon special application in each case.
And every chimney, chimney stack, pipe, or funnel which shall be deemed by the
surveyor dangerous, by fire or otherwise, to any premises or building, or a nuisance
to the occupants thereof, shall be rebuilt, prepared, altered, removed, or amended as
may be directed by the surveyor.
(2) Dimensions and materials.The jambs of every chimney must not be less than
8inches on each side of such opening, and the breast of every chimney and the
front back or partition of every flue must be at the least 4 inches in thickness, of bricks,
and the joints of the work must be filled in with good mortar or cement, and all the
inside thereof and also the outside or face thereof next the interior of any building
must be rendered or pargeted, and no flue may be used for a smoke flue which is of
lees internal diameter in any section than 8inches.
(3) Timber or woodwork.No timber shall be placed over any opening for support
MISCELLANEOUS---- SYDNEY, N. S. W.
537
ing the breast of any chimney, but there mnt be an arch of brick or stone over the
opening of every such chimney to support the breast thereof.
No timber or woodwork shall be placed or laid in any wall under any chimney
opening within 18 inches at the least of the surface of the hearth of the fireplace ol
each chimney opening, and if timber or woodwork be affixed to the front of any
jamb or mantel or to the front or back of any chimney or flue, then it must be fixed
by iron nails or holdfasts or other iron fastenings, which must not be driven
nearer than 2 inches to the inside of any flue or to the opening of any chimney, and
such timber or woodwork must not be nearer than 2 inches to the opening of any
chimney, and no timber must be laid or placed within 3 inches of the face or breast,
back, side, or jamb of any flue or of any chimney opening whero the substance of
brickwork or stonework shall be less than 8 inches thick, nor must any flouring
board, batten, ground skirting, or other fitting of wood, nor wood staircase, nor any
thing else of wood, be fixed or placed against or near to the face of breast, back, side,
or jamb of any flue, fireplace, or chimney opening unless and until the brick or
stonework constituting the same shall have been thoroughly and efficiently rendered
or pargeted with proper mortar or stucco, and such rendering must be in every case
in addition to 4 inches at least of solid fireproof structure.
(4) Slabs and hearths.A slab or slabs of brick, tile, stone, slate, marble, or other
proper and sufficient substance, at the least 12 inches longer than the opening of
every chimney where finished, and at the least 18 inches in width, must be laid be
fore the opening of every chimney, or upon brick trimmers, or upon iron bars of
size and strength to the satisfaction of the building surveyor, but in the lowest floor
they may be on brick, stone, or other sufficient foundations.
The inside hearth of every chimney must be laid and bedded wholly on brick or
stone or other incombustible substance of a thickness of 9 inches, at the least, be
neath the surface of any such hearth.
(5) Backs.The back of every chimney opening, from the hearth up to the height
of 12 inches above the mantel, must at the least be 8 inches thick.
(6) Chimney openings back to back.If two chimneys be built back to back, then the
thickness between the same must be at the least of the thickness hereinbefore de
scribed for the back of one chimney opening.
(7) Angles of flues.Chimneys and flues having proper doors of not less than 6
inches square may be constructed at any angle, but in every other chimney or flue
hll be constructed of an obtusenes of not less than 130, and shall be properly
rounded.
(8) Close fires.Every oven, furnace, cockle, or closed fire used for the purpose of
trade or manufacture must not be upon nor within a distance of 18 inches of any
timber or woodwork, and the floor on or above which such oven, furnace, cockle, or
close fire shall be built or fixed must be formed and paved under and for a distance
of 2 feet all round the same with stone, brick, tile, or slate, at the least 2 inches
thick, or other proper incombustible and nonconducting materials.
(9) Chimney pots, tubes, etc., and as to earthen and metal chimney pots, tubes, funnels,
or cowls of any description whatever.A n y pot, tube, funnel, or cowl which shall be
fl-r</to any chimney or flue shall be fixed or secured to the satisfaction of the sur
veyor.
(10) Smoke pipes.The following rule shall be observed for conveying smoke,
heated air, steam, or hot water: No pipe for conveying smoke, heated air, steam,
or hot water shall be fixed against any building on the face next to any street, alley,
or public way. No pipe for conveying heated air or steam shall be fixed nearer than
6 inches to any combustible materials. No pipe for carrying hot water shall be
placed nearer than 3 inches to any combustible material. No pipe for conveying
smoke or other products of combustion shall be fixed nearer than 9 inches to any com
bustible material.
(11) Cutting into chimney.No chimney, shaft, jamb, or breast, or flue shall be out
into exoept for the purpose of repair or doing some one or more of the following
i>38
things : Of letting in or removing or altering flues, pipes, or funnels for the convey
ance .of smoke or hot air or steam, or of letting in, removing, or altering smokejacks.
Of forming openings for soot doors, such openings to be fitted with a close iron door
and frame. Of making openings for the insertion of regulating valves, subject to
the following restrictions : That no opening shall be made nearer than 12 inches to
any timber or combustible substance.
Sch ed u le
F.
(1) Rule concerning roof covering.Every flat, gutter, and roof of every building and.
of any projection therefrom, and of every covered veranda, balcony, or passage, and
every turret, dormer, lantern light, or other erection, which shall be in the flat or
roof of any such building and every external part of any flat, gutter, roof, dormer,
and lantern in any building now built, or hereafter to be built or rebuilt, stripped,
ripped, or uncovered, shall in every such part except the door frames and. doors,
window frames and sashes of such turrets, dormers, lantern lights, or other erection
shall be covered with glass, iron, copper, lead, tin, zinc, or other metal, slate, tile,
or artificial stone, or cement.
(2) Rain-water pipes.The roof, flat, or gutter of every building, and every balconj', shop front, or other projection, must be so arranged and constructed, and so
supplied with gutters and pipes made of metal on other incombustible material as
to prevent the water therefrom from dropping upon or running over any publio
way, but the water therefrom must be conducted, underground through an earthen
ware or cast-iron pipe to the gutter or place where the same is intended to be placed,
or to the nearest sewer or drain.
(3) Basement or cellar rooms.All lowermost rooms of buildings, being rooms of
which the surface of the floor is more than 3 feet below the surface of the footway
of the nearest street shall (if such rooms can not otherwise be lighted to the satis
faction of the surveyor) be lighted by means of apertures or areas extending under
the footways, and shall be inclosed by solid masonry, and be covered with iron grat
ing level with the surface of such footway. Provided that no such aperture, area,
or grating do extend from the building line under the footway more than 1 foot 8
inches, nor more than 4 feet in width, and no other opening shall be permitted to
be made in or under any footway without the sanction of city council.
(4) Ventilation and lighting, etc., of dwelling houses.Every room, not being a store
room or bathroom, in any dwelling house, hereafter to be built or rebuilt, or in any
addition, shall be ventilated by means of an opening communicating with the ex
ternal air, or in any other manner that may be approved of by the surveyor and
health officer, and all window-sasbes casements shall either be double hung, made
to slide horizontally, or hung with hinges, to the satisfaction of the surveyor.
(5) Height of rooms.There shall not be more than one floor of rooms in the roof of
any building hereafter to be built or rebuilt and such rooms shall not be of less
height than 7 feet 6 inches, except the sloping part of such roof, and such sloping
part shall not begin at a less height than 3 foot 6 inches above the floor, and with re
gard to rooms in any other parts of the bnilding such rooms shall not be of less
height than 8 feet from tho floor to the ceiling.
(6) Rule concerning construction of privies.There shall be a cesspit to every privy,
and such cesspit shall be constructed of good sound bricks, bedded, jointed, flushed,
and grouted in cement ; and the walls of such cesspit shall not be less than 9 inches
in thickness, and there shall be a bottom thereto not less than 9 inches in thickness
built of good sound bricks (on edge) in two courses of 4inches, each course bedded,
jointed, flushed, and grouted in cement (constructed of such shape as the surveyor
may direct) and the interior dimensions of such cesspit when completed shall not be
less than 4 feet by 3 feet 6 inches wide by 4 feet deep, measuring from the bottom of
he cesspit to tho under edge of the joist forming the floor, and the walls thereof
hall be built to a height of at least 6 inches above the highest part of the surface
539
of the ground surrounding the same. And the whole of the interior face of the walls
and the bottom of such cesspit shall be rendered and floated in cement to a thickness
of at least five-eighths of an inch. And every cesspit shall be made perfectly water
tight. The cement to be used shall be the best English Portland cement (or any
other cement approved of by the surveyor), well mixed with clean sand in the propor
tion of one of cement to one of sand. And no pipe or drain of any description what
soever shall be connected with any cesspit. And every privy and closet shall be in
closed with improved materials and shall have a rain-proof roof, a door properly
hung with latch and bolt, a floor, a riser, and a seat, and shall be lighted, ventilated,
and screened from public view, and shall be built in every respectto the satisfaction
of the surveyor.
S c h e d u le
G.
SCHEDULES OP FEES PAYABLE TO SURVEYOR.
I.Fees for new buildings.For evory building not exceeding 400 square feet in
area and one story only in height, the fee shall be 2.
For every additional story, 5 shillings.
For every additional square of 100 feet or a fraction of such square, 5 shillings.
But no fee shall exceed 10.
II.Fees for additions or alterations.For every addition or alteration made to any
building after the roof thereof has been eovered in, the fee shall be half of the fee
charged in the case of a new building.
For inspecting the formation of openings in party wall, 1.
For the inspection and removal of projections and dangerous buildings, 2.
N. B.In this schedule area shall not include the area of any attached build
ing.
*
If the chimney of any building or premises shall take fire by reason of the occu
pant of such building or premises having neglected to cause such chimney to be
sufficiently swept or cleaned, or from any other neglect of such occupant, then and
in every such case such occupant shall be liable to a penalty of a sum not exceeding
5 and not less than 1. And in every case the proof that such chimney did not
take fire through the neglect of such occupant shall rest upon such occupant.
If any person employed in any building, or in the alteration, fitting up, or decora
tion of any building shall willfully and without the direction, privity, or consent of
the person causing such work to be done, do anything in or about such building con
trary to the rules and directions of this act, and if such person shall not immediately
when required by the surveyor desist from doing such irregular work or thing he
shall for every such offence be liable to a penalty of a sum not exceeding 40 shillings
or to imprisonment for any period not exceeding one month if the said penalty be
not paid immediately upon conviction.
In the case of any fire within the limit of the city of Sydney the city treasurer
shall on the order of the mayor make the following payments : To the turncock be
longing to the waterworks whose water shall be found on and shall first come into
the main or pipe where any plug shall be opened at such fire, any sum not exceeding
20 shillings. To the engine-keeper who first brings a fire engine to help to extinguish
any fire, if in good order and complete with a good socket hose leather-pipe standcock
and suction pipe, any sum not exceeding 40 shillings. To the keeper of the next
engine which shall be next brought in such order and so complete to help to extin
guish any such fire, any sum not exceeding 30 shillings ; and to the keeper of any
other engine which shall be third of such engines brought in such order and so com
plete to any such fire, any sum not exceeding 15 shillings.
A lex an d e r C ameron,
Acting Consul.
U n it e d St a t e s C o n su l a t e ,
Sydney, March 18, 1892.
I NDEX.
The reporte from the consuls are published in the order demanded by the cir
cular, viz : 1. Name of town or city. 2. Population. 3. Area of city limits. 4.
Number of brick or stone buildings. 5. Numberof wooden buildings, . Num
ber of alarms. 7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings. 8. Number of
fires in frame buildings. 9. Total value of property involved in the fires. 10.
Total loss thereon. 11. Total insurance tnereon. 12. Total insurance loss
thereon. 13. Number of fires confined to floor in which they originated. 14.
Number of fires confined to building in which they originated. 15. Number of
fires extending to adjoining property. 16. Number of conflagrations, i. e., fires
extending beyond adjoining property. 17. Of what does the fire department
consist ? 18. What system of water supply for fire purposes is used and what
is the capacity of the supply? 19. What provision is made by law to investi
gate causes of fire and to provide for prosecutions in cases of suspected incend
iarism or crime ? 20. Numberof incendiary fires. 21. What regulations exist
for the storage and sale of oils, explosives, and fireworks ? 22. Copy of law
regulating building construction, heating, lighting, etc.
The index i made out by continente, countries, and cities.
CONTINENT OF EUROPE.
Austria-Hungary :
Vienna---------------------------------------------------------------------- ------ -------Trieste________________________________________________________
Belgium :
Antwerp............................ .................. ........ ........ .................................
Brussels......... .......................................... - ........ - ................................
Ghent....................... - .................- ........ ........ - ....................................
Liege........................................................................................................
Denmark:
Copenhagen------------ ----------------------------------------------------------------France:
Calais.................. ......................... ........................- .............................
Cognac............................................... - .....................................................
Havre------ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------Marseilles.................................................................................................
Nantes......................................................................................................
Paris-------------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------Rheims_________________________________ _____ ________________
Roubaix....................... ........................................................ ...............
Rouen--------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------St. Etienne.............. .............................................................. .................
Germany :
Annaberg.......................... ........ .................................... ........................
Dresden_____ _________ _____ _______ ___________________________
Hamburg................ ........ .......................................................................
Magdeburg.......................................................................................... .
Stettin......................................................................................................
541
*.
5-14
14
15-17
18-22
22-24
24
25-28
28,29
30
31
31-33
33-35
36-39
40
40-42
42-50
50-52
52
52-56
56-58
58
59
542
INDEX.
Pag.
Leghorn................................................................................................
61
Milan..................... ...... ..........................................................................
62
Rom e....... - ........................................................................ .................
63
Turin........................................................ ............................... ............
64-70
Portugal :
Horta, Fayal, Azores............................................................................
70
Russia :
74-79
Moscow............................................................................. ....................
Odessa........................................................ ...... .....................................
79
R ig a .......................................................................................................
80
St. Petersburg.......................................................................................
81-85
Warsaw............................- .....................................................................
85
Spain :
Barcelona................- ....................- .......................................................
86-88
Carthagena..................................... .............................................. 88
89-91
Malaga......... .................................................................................. ......
Sweden :
Gothenberg............................................................................................
91
Switzerland :
Berne.......... ..........................................................................................
92
H orgen...................................................................................................
93,94
Turkey:
Constantinople--------- ---------- - .................................. ........... ...............
95
United Kingdom:
British explosives acts................................ ........................ ............... 231-278
Petroleum....................... - ............................................ ............. 278-283
Reports of inspectors...................................................................... 284-346
Belfast.................................................................................................... 96-104
Bristol....................................................... ................. ........................ 105-107
Dublin.................................................................................................... 108-122
227
Gibraltar--------------------------- ---------------- -------- --------- ------------ ----Glasgow...................................................................................................122-147
Huddersfield.................................... ..................................................... 147-156
Leeds...................................................................................................... 157-161
L eith ...................................................................................................... 161-177
Liverpool....... .................................................................................. 178-195
London............ .....................................................................................196-210
Building regulations.................................... ................................. 347-389
210
Newcastle upon T y n e..................................................... .....................
Sheffield............ _^.................................................................................211-227
CONTINENT OP AMERICA.
British North America :
Amherstburg............................................................... ........................
390
Bellville.................................................................................................
391
Charlottetown........................................................ ...................... ......
391
Chatham..................................................- ........... - ................................
392
Port Erie.............. ..................... - .............................. --------- ----------393
Gasp Basin............................................................................................
394
Guelph.................................................................................................... 397-401
Halifax................................................................................................... 394-396
Hamilton.................................................................................... .........
396
Kingston................................................................................................. 402-406
London................... - .............................................- ........... ........ 406-409
Morrisburg------ -------- ------------- -----------------------------------------------401
Ottawa.................................................................................................. 409-416
Pictou.............. ............................... - ....................................... ...........
417
Quebec....................................... ....................................................... 419,420
Sherbrooke.................................. .......................................................417-419
Three Rivers......... ..................... ............................ ........... ........ .....
421
Victoria, British Columbia.................... ........ ...... ......................... . 422-424
Windsor______________________________________________________
424
INDEX.
Mexico :
Acapulco..........................................
Durango ...........................................
Nogales............................................
Piedras Negras . . ............................
Tampico. . ......................................South America :
Argentine Republic, Buenos Ayres
Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul..............
Colombia :
Colon.........................................
Panama.............. ........... ......
Ecuador, Guayaquil......................
Paraguay, Ascunsion.............. .........
Paramaribo, Dutch Guiana---------Uruguay, Montevideo----------------Venezuela :
Laguayra . . ------ ------------ ------Maracaibo..................................
West Indies
British West Indies :
Antigua---------------- -------- ------Hamilton, Bermuda..................
Kingston, Jamaica......... .........
Nassau........... ..........................
Danish West Indies :
St. Thomas.............. ................French West Indies :
Point a Petre, Guadeloupe.......
Spanish West Indies :
Havana............................... ......
543
Page.
426
426
426
427
428
429
432
433
434
435
436
436
438
439
440
442-449
449
449
455
456
457
458
CONTINENT OF ASIA.
Asiatic Turkey :
Beirut, S y ria ................................. , ........ ........
Jerusalem........... ................ ........ ........ .............
British Asia :
Bombay.............................................................. .
Colombo, Ceylon.................................... ...... ,
Hongkong ..............................................................
China :
N ingpo..................- ........ - ......................................
Japan :
Cities of (Tokio and Yokohama)........................
H iogo......................................................................
Nagasaki.................................................................
Philippine Islands :
Manila.................................................................... .
Siam:
Bangkok................... ........ ........- ........ - ................
461
462
463
475
478
485
486
487
486
490
492
MISCELLANEOUS.
Cairo, E gyp t... ..........................................................
Funchal, Madeira______________________________
Honolulu, Hawaiian Islands.....................................
Melbourne, Australia .............. ............................... .
Newcastle, New South W ales................................. .
St. Helena......... .......................................................
St. Paul de Loanda...................................................
Sierra Leone..............................................................
Sydney, New South W ales...................................... .
492
493
494
497-523
524
524
525
526
526-53

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52d C on gress,

) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. ( Mis. Doo.

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

SPECIAL OONSULAE REPORTS.

ISSUED FROM THE BUREAU OF STATISTICS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE.

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS CIRCULAR.

Washington, December l y 1891.

In conformity with the foregoing, you are requested to prepare a report

Name of place (city or town in which the consular office is located).

PIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS CIRCULAS.

7. Number of fires in brick or stone buildings.

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

SUPERINTENDING B Y AUTHORIZED PERSONS.

Sec. 35. The superintendent of the building is obliged:

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

A.Stoves and range, kitchen floors.

FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

Sec. 77. In these buildings there is permitted:

PIKE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

Vienna, May 13, 1892,

11. Unable to obtain amount of insurance.

21. According to law all explosive materials are stored in isolated,

Triest, June 7, 1892.

It is to be regretted that, owing to the want of complete official sta

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

12. Total insurance loss thereon unknown by the city authorities.

Antwerp, May 5 ,1892.

FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

1. Fame of city, Brussels.

Between the curves 25 and 50 .........................................

Houses Population Pressure in

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

prisonment, and from 26 to 200 francs fine* All person convicted of

Brussels, February 12,1892

FIEE AND BUILDING EEGULATIONS

Losses by fires occurring at Brussels from 1887 to 1890.

The suburbs of Brussels, being distinct municipalities, have volunteer firemen or

of the city fire department. Besides the central headquarters of the

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

years 1889 and 1890 a number of depots of petroleum and matches

Ghentj January 20, 1892.

1. Name of place, Lige.

decree of December 1,1891, regulates the manipulation and storage of

Lige, February 10,1892.

I have herewith the honor to present a report, with replies to a series

PIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

returned as 257, and 262 as those confined to the building. No cases

filling of cartridges with explosives, such as gun cotton, dynamite, etc.,

FIRE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

Copenhagen, April 4,1892.

1. Name of city, Calais.

Calais, January, 1892,

FIBE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

1. Name of city, Cognac.

Cognac, April, 1892,

1. Name of city, Havre.

Hamre, April 15 1892.

FIEE AND BUILDING REGULATIONS

5. The number of wooden buildings is very insignificant.

LA W CONCERNING BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.

The law concerning building construction is to this effect:

Total for the five years................

1 captain, commanding officer...