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Use of Standard Mark The extension of the use of the Standard Mark to 5 further industries during the year, and the issue of 161 new licences within the industries previously covered, shows its growing recognition as a hall-mark of quality. It can now be used in connection with 43classes of commodities, processes, and products. Although, in many cases, only a few licences have been issued in respect of each industry, these cover nearly all units operating within the industry concerned. From this it is clear that use of the Standard Mark is more widespread than might appear from the figures in Table A. In addition,, there is ample evidence that trading interests are using the Standard Mark more actively, and consumers are showing more and more appreciation of this attitude on the part of manufacturers. The inspection of commodities bearing the Standard Mark was continued during the year. Again, it was found that such commodities seldom failed to conform to specification and that the exceptions were generally due to oversight or misunderstanding. The relationship with trading interests using the Standard Mark has continued on a co-operative and constructive basis. BUILDING STANDARDS Advantage of Standard Codes. - The adoption by local bodies of standard codes in connection with all aspects of building will do away with the need for manufacturers and merchants to make and stock a wide range of types and sizes, a diversity which tends to reduce output and increase production costs. Similarly it will reduce the service charges of architects, builders, plumbers, and others by eliminating the need to work to varying requirements. Adherence to a national standard will facilitate the manufacture, distribution, and installation of this class of equipment. In addition, the national standard will save great trouble and expense on the part of individual local bodies. Building Code Sectional Committee The parent committee has reviewed and co-ordinated the work of the committees under its direction--namely, the Building Code Technical Committee, the Floor Loading Panel, the Fire Prevention Committee, the Fire Doors Panel, the Theatre By-law Subcommittee, and the Panic Prevention By-law Committee. Conferences were arranged to discuss county building by-laws and the Counties Building Code. Further consideration was given the question, of a national survey of existing buildings, but it was decided to defer this matter until the committee was requested to participate in the preparation of a scheme for the classification of buildings. Chimneys. —The revision of Section IX (Chimneys) of the standard model building by-law, sections I-X, published in 1936 by the original Standards Institution, was completed in draft form during the year, and circulated to interested parties for comment. It is hoped that the review of this part of the code, which will cover all aspects of chimney construction, will be completed this year. -Reinforced Concrete Bearing-wall Construction. -Consideration was given to the suitability of this class of construction for use in buildings not exceeding three stories in height. When the investigation is completed, the finding will be issued as a further part of the Standard Code of Building By-laws. This should be welcomed by architects and builders, because it offers both greater scope and economy of materials. Fire Prevention By-law. —This by-law, completed during the year, supplements the fire-protection provisions of the Standard Code of Building By-laws by laying down essential requirements relating to the control of fire in its early stages. These provisions, while not part of the building by-laws, are necessary to ensure full protection against fire hazards.

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