Disability History Month 2024: Commemorating 50 Years Since the Fire at The Royal Glasgow Workshops for the Blind

This year, Disability History Month marks the 50th anniversary of a significant and tragic event in the history of Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (RSBi), formerly known as the Royal Glasgow Workshops for the Blind. On 1st July 1974, a devastating fire broke out at the Saracen Street factory in Glasgow, claiming the life of 62-year-old Thomas Craig. This tragedy is remembered as a profound moment of resilience and solidarity among the disabled community and their allies.

On that fateful day, many workers were enjoying their lunch break, sunbathing on the flat roof of the building. When the fire erupted, chaos ensued as thick smoke and flames engulfed the factory. Despite these overwhelming conditions, the bravery and unity of the workers shone through. Sighted and blind workers formed a human chain, navigating the treacherous environment to ensure the safe evacuation of more than 250 people.

Amidst the rescue efforts, 19-year-old Edward Coutts displayed extraordinary courage. Risking his own life, Edward smashed a window to save 61-year-old blind colleague Andrew Scully, who had become trapped in a toilet. Edward sustained a deep injury to his hand, requiring seven stitches, but his heroic act ensured Andrew’s survival.

Unfortunately, Thomas Craig was unable to escape and tragically lost his life on the fourth floor of the building. His death remains a poignant reminder of the risks workers faced at the time. To this day, the cause of the fire remains unknown, and no blame has been assigned to workplace safety standards.

The event was significant enough to be debated in Parliament the very next day, on 2nd July 1974. Parliamentary contributions highlighted the bravery of the workers and called for a thorough investigation into the tragedy. MPs also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of disabled workers, underscoring the urgent need for systemic changes.

The fire coincided with the introduction of the 1974 Health and Safety at Work Act, a landmark piece of legislation that has since transformed workplace safety in the UK. While the fire was not directly attributed to lapses in safety protocols, the tragedy underscored the importance of the Act’s principles: the duty of care owed by employers to their workers and the establishment of robust safety standards across industries.

Ten years later, in 1984, the business was relocated to a purpose-built, single-storey, state-of-the-art facility in Springburn, Glasgow. This move was a significant milestone, providing a safer and more accessible working environment for employees. RSBi continues to operate from this location to this day, upholding its proud legacy as a key employer of disabled workers and a symbol of resilience and innovation

As President of the Community Trade Union, which incorporates the National League of the Blind and Disabled (NLBD), I feel a deep sense of responsibility to honour the memory of Thomas Craig and to celebrate the courage displayed by the workers that day. Their resilience and solidarity are a testament to the strength of the disabled community, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.

This Disability History Month, we reflect not only on the tragic loss of Thomas Craig but also on the bravery of individuals like Edward Coutts and the workers who united to save lives. Let this anniversary serve as a reminder of the ongoing need to fight for safer, more inclusive workplaces for disabled people. By preserving these stories and learning from the past, we can continue to advocate for a future where the contributions of disabled workers are valued, their rights protected, and their safety prioritised.

In remembrance and solidarity, let us commit to building a fairer and safer society for all.