T.N.T. WORKERS
SIR,—On April 19th young women of zo are required to register for National Service. Many of these will undoubtedly be drafted to work in shell-filling factories. The decision will in most cases rest with the Local Employment Exchange manager. In view of the heavy death-rate due to poisoning by T.N.T. and its derivatives in the early days of the last war, and the subsequent improvement result- ing from the various preventive measures introduced by 1918, the following questions are pertinent:
r. Are the preventive measures of 1918, or improvements upon them, being enforced in all shell-filling factories?
2. Since early diagnosis is of paramount importance, what measures are being taken for thorough and periodic medical examination?
3. Is any attempt being made to eliminate susceptibles?
4. Is any provision being made for alternation of work in these factories to give regular and adequate periods of freedom from the possibility of poisoning?
It has been stated on reliable medical authority that experience in industry shows when a poison is absorbed by the skin the applica- tion of preventive measures is most difficult. If it is true that perma- nent damage may be done before diagnosis is probable, is it in the best national interests to use the future mothers of the race for this type of work?—Yours faithfully, IRENE F. HILTON, M.Sc., F.L.S.
DIANA M. M. MACDONALD, M.A., A.I.H.A.
Jonx WILD, M.A.(Cantab).
16 Queen Anne's Grove, Bedford Park, W.4.
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