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One shopkeeper was successfully prosecuted for selling an adults nightdress which did not comply with
the Nightdresses (Safety) Regulations 1967, because there was no label, warning that it should be kept
away from fire.
There were a number of minor infringements of statutory provisions during the year and these were dealt
with successfully by informal action.
Some difficulty has been experienced during the year due to the high lead contents in paint on toys and
toys containing cellulose nitrate (celluloid) imported from China and Japan. The lead contents were above
the maximum limits set by the Toy (Safety) Regulations 1967 and cellulose nitrate is not permitted in toys
(with the exception of "ping pong" balls). This matter is still actively being pursued.
The current trend towards the enactment of further safety provisions in Consumer Protection legislation
will mean an increased interest in this field of work by the Council.
DISINFECTION AND DISINFESTATION
DISINFECTION
Infectious Disease
Rooms treated 247
Clothing for export
Staff of the department supervised the disinfection by formaldehyde gas of clothing for export.
Visits
Clothing treated
on factory site
at disinfecting station
4
2.2 tons
8.5 tons
DISINFESTATION
Rats and Mice
Although the total number of complaints of rodent infestations during the year rose from 3,095 in 1969
to 3,576, there has been a reduction in complaints of rats.
The continued upward trend in complaints of mice infestations once again illustrates the lack of a
suitable alternative all purpose rodenticide to replace Warfarin, to which the mice have unfortunately,
become largely resistant.
Rodent Complaints
Domestic
Business
Local Authority
Rats 748 (35) 153 (-) 88 (2)
Mice 1969 (125) 408 (17) 27 (4)
Total 2717(160) 561(17) 115(6)
Figures in brackets are repeat complaints.
There were 19,526 visits made by rodent operatives dealing with infestations.
30 smoke tests of suspected defective drains were carried out and there were two treatments of sewers.
Vermin
Pigeons
Treatments by authorised catcher 11
Rooms treated 1870