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34
To overcome this trouble a milder alkali — sodium bicarbonate,
was used. This proved to be too expensive as it was necessary to use
much larger quantities of this chemical. Further experiments were
carried out with sodium carbonate and this time sodium metaphosphate
was added to the alkali solution, before injecting it into the pipeline,
the metaphosphate preventing the precipitation of calcium carbonate
above referred to, and for several months this method has been employed
and highly satisfactory results obtained.
In addition to the tests for free chlorine residual and pH value,
previously mentioned, a quantitative test is made from time to time
to determine the bicarbonate alkalinity.
Apart from the above tests, which are carried out three times
each weekday, the Council's sampling officers frequently visit the
Baths and take samples for submission to the laboratories for chemical
and bacteriological examination. The reports on these tests have
never once indicated, an adverse condition of the water.
It can be said that the standard of purity and all round quality of
the swimming bath water at the Council's baths has never been higher
than at the present time, but the acme of perfection has by no means
been reached and it is hoped in the near future to achieve still better
results from a wider knowledge and experience in this new treatment.
The colorimetric tests referred to for free residual chlorine and
pH value, are taken at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays and at
9 a.m. on Sundays and the results are recorded on log sheets kept
for the purpose.
The following is a summary of samples taken by the health
department staff for submission to the public analyst for chlorine
content, during the year:—
Ladywell—first class 5
—second class 7
Forest Hill—first class 2
—second class 5
Downham 4
Bellingham 3
Washing facilities at public conveniences
In the previous report I stated that there were many reasons why
free washing facilities should be available and that although little
progress had been made in the previous year, the matter was again
being brought before the appropriate committee. The ideal system
would be to provide a constant supply of hot water, together with
free soap and towels. Unfortunately in existing public conveniences
of the Council no constant hot water is on supply and it was stated that it
would be a very costly business to provide this. Members of the public
can, however wash their hands at the conveniences in cold water free
of cost, but it is unlikely that this facility will be much used, particularly
during the colder months.
The matter was considered by the appropriate committee on more
than one occasion in 1950, but the committee felt that it would be