WATERSIDE ACCIDENTS COMMISSION.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LII, Issue 114, 18 May 1918, Page 8

WATERSIDE ACCIDENTS COMMISSION.

EVIDENCE AS TO INSPECTION OF GEAB. (United Tress Association.) AUCEXAND, May 16. •The Commission of Inquiry into waterside accidents concluded its sittings to-day. Further evidence of workersi regarding conditions was given and then officials were examined. Captain Ties, wharfinger for the Union Company, said he knew of no case of victimisation for reporting defective gear. It was the duty of an officer, on reaching .port to inspect the gear before cargo was worked. Other witnesses also denied the allegation of victimisation. Inspectors examined Home and coastal boats and also had a right to inspect the gear o n foreign ships. '. Harold Sergeant, harbourmaster, -stated that at one time tfie Harbour Board appointed an inspector of gear, but owing to overlapping with • the Marine Department, which appointed purveyors, the _ beard*p inspector was withdrawn. The inspection o n ships, hnlks, and shore should- be under> one control. - ,/>!'- ~ The Union Company's ha r finger, Captain Jlcs, agreed that nets, for hatchways, and safety neta would, minimise accidents. , :.':'.

Tlie representatives of various com panies stated that gear was frequentJy examined and all found to be defective was replaced immediately. Samuel Dalrymple, inspector, ..pf, machinery under the Department, said" that all gear on hulks and ships was inspected once a year, and a further examination was made if defect's Avere reported. He always viewed overhead gear.

The Commission resumes at Wellington on Wednesday.