SANITATION. 19 



or irrooves where waste can accumulate, nor any places beneath where 

 material ran be stored. Hard wood, such as maple or ash, is prob- 

 ably the best material for the majority of factories. These woods 

 will absorb little water or juices, they show soil quickly, and clean 

 ( a-i 1 v with soap, water, and scrubbing brush. Opal glass or porcelain 

 makes excellent table tops but is expensive. Enamel-coated metal 

 has come into use, and under certain conditions gives excellent re- 

 sults. The important point is that the tables may be cleaned easily, 

 and that it be done often. The machinery used should be of the most 

 sanitary type, and set in such a manner as to be accessible from all 

 sides for cleaning. Conveyers for fruits, tomatoes, and all other 

 products should have automatic washers and brushes in their course 

 to keep them clean. The amount and kind of equipment varies 

 greatly, depending upon the product. Peas, corn, and beans require 

 the most, fruits the least. The details of the special requirements 

 will be considered under each product. Water and steam pipes, with 

 hose attachment, should be conveniently placed about the factory for 

 cleaning tables, machines, floors, walls, and ceilings. This is a neces- 

 sary part of a modern equipment. 



Provision should also be made for the cleanliness and comfort of 

 the employees. Water should be placed at convenient places that the 

 workers may wash their hands often, and sanitary drinking fountains 

 installed to take the place of the common cup. A factory is not 

 complete without proper toilet and clothes rooms. The toilet should 

 have facilities for washing the hands with soap and water and hand 

 brushes should be provided. There should be lockers for storing 

 the outer clothes, as wearing apparel should not be hung about the 

 factory. Providing special suits and a manicurist are refinements 

 which are found at some factories and are not so much of an 

 extravagance as less progressive firms would argue. For factories 

 running continuously and employing the same help, there is no ques- 

 tion but that uniforms are advantageous. For such operations as 

 picking, peeling, and pitting fruits, etc., which can be done as well 

 sitting as standing, stools should be provided. Standing all day at 

 tables is more than tiring, it is exhausting and decreases efficiency. 

 This is clearly evident to every factory inspector, especially after 

 the season has advanced. The stool is to be preferred to the common 

 bench, so that the individual may stand or sit as may be most com 

 fortable. If standing in one place over cement floors is necessary, 

 wooden springboards should be provided for the restful effect upon 

 the feet. The various States provide the general conditions under 

 w T hich labor can be performed, age limit, number of working hours 

 in the day or week, physical condition, etc. No person affected with 

 communicable disease should be employed in a food factory. 



