Men wearing gas masks at the British Library construction site, Camden, London

Three men wearing gas masks during a safety course at the British Library construction site. The deep excavations for the book vaults at the British Library meant that there was a risk of workers being overcome by fumes. Before construction began, emergency respirators were supplied and workers instructed in their use at a week-long safety course. It is clear that safety standards were adhered to when the Library was constructed. In earlier photos of Laing building sites, many workers are pictured in dangerous places wearing no protective clothing. The contrast between the earlier and later images demonstrates how, as the 20th century progressed, health and safety became more important in Britain.

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