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34
In the course of visits paid by the Department's Fly Squad to
streets where pig bins are deposited, 403 treatments were carried
out with good results.
Disinfestation of Verminous Premises.—The disinfestation
of verminous houses has been conducted on similar lines to that of
the previous year, D.D.T. being the vermicidal agent in general use.
There was a striking decrease this year in the number of cases
of verminous or dirty rooms dealt with by the Sanitary Inspectors
in the course of their duties. During 1948 there were only 151
instances where action was necessary, compared with 531 for the
previous year. In addition, the Disinfestation Staff sprayed 614
rooms and contents with D.D.T., whilst in 32 cases bedding, etc.,
was removed to the Council's Disinfecting Station and treated by
steam disinfection.
Rent and Mortgage Interest (Restrictions) Acts, 1920.—
Under the provisions of these Acts landlords are permitted to make
certain increases of rent, and tenants whose houses are not in all
respects reasonably fit for human habitation may apply to the
Sanitary Authority for a certificate to this effect enabling them to
suspend payment of the increased rent until the necessary works
shall have been completed to the satisfaction of the Sanitary
Authority.
During the year 7 applications were received and 7 certificates
were duly granted.
Landlords may also apply to the Sanitary Authority for a
report that the necessary works had been executed to the satisfaction
of the Council. Two applications were received and reports duly
granted.
Shops Act, 1934.—Under the provisions of the above Act, 140
visits were made and in only seven cases was it necessary for notices
to be served. Of these, six concerned the installation or alteration
of W.C.s and one the improvement of ventilation.
No applications for Certificates of Exemption in regard to the
provision of sanitary convenience accommodation were received.
Drainage and Sewerage.—Fifty-six plans of drainage and
other sanitary works relating to existing and new buildings were
examined and approved.
A few complaints were received in this department regarding
emanation from the sewers and these were referred to the Borough
Engineer for necessary action. As a matter of interest, the Borough
Engineer informs me that there are now only four cesspools in use
in the Borough.