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34
It is unnecessary for me to go through the whole of the
various works accomplished by the Inspectors, for they are
clearly shown by the tabulated statement (page 38). I should
like, however, to draw attention to the large amount of drainage
work which has been supervised by my department.
It will be remembered that some time ago important regulations
with regard to drainage work were adopted by the Board,
and the Sanitary officers were appointed to supervise all drainage
work except where new connections were made to the
sewers.
As a very large proportion of the drainage work comes under
this heading much time and labour has to be expended in
seeing it carried into effect. All drains are laid on a bed of
concrete, and, where possible, manholes and inspection
chambers are constructed, and proper ventilation provided;
and it is not until the water test has been applied that the
Sanitary officers are satisfied.
Factories and Workshops.
The Inspection and Re-inspection of both factories and
Workshops is becoming an important part of the work of my
department. During the last few years various Acts of Parliament
have been passed to ensure the working classes healthier
conditions whilst at work, and the responsibility of having them
carried into effect devolves largely on Sanitary Authorities.
The scope of the Factory and Workshop Acts of 1878-18831891
have been considerably extended by the Act of 1895,
which comes into operation on January Ist, 1896.
This Act is of great importance both to occupiers of workshops
and their employees, and throws many new obligations