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Refuges.
There are 2 Refuges in the Borough, one at Wanless Road,
and the other at the Wharf (Belvedere Road). Neither Refuge
has been used during 1905.
Disinfecting Station.
From January 1st, 1903, the whole of the disinfecting work
has been carried out at Wanless Road, where, since January 1st,
1904, the horses and vans have also been kept, instead of at the
Wharf as hitherto—stabling, etc., having been erected for that
purpose. From an administrative point of view this new
departure is a great improvement. There are 2 Equifex Machines
in use, and these have given satisfaction during the year, no
single genuine complaint having been received as to damaged
goods, etc. The Staff has, colleclively and individually, given
satisfaction during 1905.
During 1905, an application was received from the Lambeth
Guardians asking if arrangements could be made for the disinfecting
work required in connection with the Norwood Schools
and Schools Infirmary, to be undertaken at the Disinfecting
Station belonging to the Council situated in Wanless Road,
Herne Hill. The application was, however, refused by the
Council, on the ground that administratively (1) such an arrangement
would be impracticable as well as fraught with danger to
the inmates of the Schools, (2) and an efficient disinfecting
machine is an absolute necessity at the Norwood Schools. Once
the principle were admitted of the Borough Council doing this
disinfecting work for the Guardians, it is probable that many
applications would be received from other large public Institutions
throughout the Borough, asking for a similar concession.
Some urgent private work was done during 1905 for the India
Office, in connection with a smallpox infected troopship "Sicilia"
—bedding, clothing, etc., being disinfected and afterward washed
and laundried. The charge made was £17 6s. 7d., which was
paid into the Council's account.
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