Type Founding and Compositors’ Work
(See also pp. [138] and [139])
Fumes which may carry up lead dust are generated in the casting of letters. Dust arises also in setting the type. General hygienic measures are especially called for such as healthy conditions in the workrooms. Much can be done by exhaust ventilation locally applied to the type cases and to letter (mono- and linotype) casting machines. Vacuum cleaning of printing workshops and type cases is strongly advised.
As some lead poisoning in printing works is attributable to lead colours or bronze powder containing lead their use should be limited as much as possible.
The German Imperial Regulations for printing works and type foundries are as follows:
Order of the Federal Council of July 31st, 1897, regulating Letterpress Printing Works and Type Foundries, in pursuance of Section 120e of the Industrial Code
I. In rooms in which persons are employed in setting up type or manufacture of type or stereotype plates the following provisions apply:
1. The floor of workrooms shall not be more than a half a meter (1·64 feet) below the ground. Exceptions may only be granted by the higher administrative authority where hygienic conditions are secured by a dry area, and ample means of lighting and ventilating the rooms.
Attics may only be used as workrooms if the roof is provided with a lathe and plaster ceiling.