manner, so as perfectly to control all the operations of the moving apparatus.

Assuming that the work to be fabricated is miscellaneous bridgework, including movable spans, there are certain factors relating to major operations and numerous others that pertain to specific parts of the work; and all of them, according to their effectiveness, influence more or less the general economics of the shopwork.

Principal Economic Factors

The most important factors covering all operations are light, heat, ventilation, space, handling of work, and management of men. The first four are, of course, dependent upon shop design; but if they did not receive proper consideration at the time the shop was planned, a study should be made in relation thereto; and any resulting proposed changes that promise to provide more economic fabrication should be inaugurated with the least possible delay. A relatively small amount of money saved every day will warrant the expenditure of a considerable sum.

Similarly, it is truly an economic policy to scrap any tool, machine, or apparatus which can be replaced by one of decidedly greater efficiency, even if the one condemned be practically new. Economic results are what should be striven for, regardless of the difficulties and expenses that are inevitably inherent in the making of changes. It is this willingness of the American manufacturer to scrap all apparatus that can advantageously be replaced by something more effective, which has often given him the supremacy over his foreign competitors. It is the truly-up-to-date operator who proves most successful in his business.

Light

A well-lighted shop is necessary to enable the men to read the drawings readily, to decipher the marks on the metal, to find the material expeditiously, and to assemble it properly. Good light makes it possible to handle the metal rapidly, to inspect the work effectively, and to detect errors. It makes the shop safer and more pleasant to work in; and it has a beneficial psychological effect upon the spirits of the men, because, when everything about the place is bright and cheerful, they not only operate to greater advantage but their brains function better, with the ultimate result of a largely increased output.

By painting the interior of the shop throughout in white and keeping the paint comparatively clean through frequent washings and occasional renewal, the visibility of everything which it contains is greatly augmented, both in daylight and after dark, provided that a proper system of electric lighting is installed and maintained. It does not pay to retain old, dim lamps; hence a supply of fresh ones should be constantly on hand and installed whenever necessary. Moreover, powerful lamps should always