The tar industry generally is not an unhealthy one. Much of the work is done in the open air and requires a sturdy type of workman, but there are two accepted elements of danger: (1) the action of pitchdust on the conjunctivæ, (2) the action of tar or pitch-dust on the skin. In cold and windy weather the effects on the eyes are most unpleasant: lacrimation and severe smarting, all degrees of conjunctivitis, and even corneal ulceration may be met with among these workers. The irritant effect of pitch on the normal skin is shown by the intense dislike these employees have to washing immediately after work. It is commonly stated that the result of going out into the open air within an hour of washing is to produce a subjective burning sensation of great pain. The men appear to avoid hot water when washing, especially in the warmer months,