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The water used for these baths is supplied by the Metropolitan Water Board and is
sterilised by the breakpoint chlorination method, sodium carbonate and sodium
metephosphate being used to control acidity and to keep the pH above 7.2. Colorimetric
tests for free chlorine and pH value are also made at the baths at 9 a.m.,
1 p.m and 6 p.m. on weekdays and at 9 a.m. and 12 noon on Sundays, the results
being recorded on log sheets kept for the purpose. The aim is to achieve a circulation
of water every four hours, although it is rather more prolonged at the open-air
baths.
RAG FLOCK AND OTHER FILLING MATERIALS ACT, 1951
The Rag Flock and Other Filling Materials Act is designed to secure the use of clean
filling materials in upholstered articles and other articles which are stuffed or lined.
Four premises are registered for the use of filling materials for upholstery purposes.
Samples of these materials proved satisfactory on examination.
DESTRUCTION OF PIGEONS
The complaints received during 1969 showed that nuisance caused by pigeons is
increasing and that most of the Borough is affected, although heavier concentrations
appear to be present on sites in Catford and Forest Hill. The pigeon catchers, who
are employed on a part-time basis, investigated the complaints and also paid regular
visits to particularly badly affected sites, especially railway bridges and churches.
2,868 birds, as well as many nests and eggs, were destroyed during the year. Destruction
was carried out principally by shooting and this makes the treatment of some buildings
difficult owing to the large area of glass used in construction. No treatment by a
narcotic was used during the year but trapping was carried out by a firm of contractors
at one site in Catford and two in Forest Hill. 315 birds were destroyed
at the Catford site and 153 at one of the Forest Hill sites, but there was little success
at the other site. The contractors will be engaged on similar work during 1970,
The feeding of the birds by the public is a problem and some of the larger infestations
are due to this fact, particularly the site in Rushey Green, Catford. Damage to
crops occurred during the year due to wood pigeons and some help was given to
allotment holders in dealing with the nuisance.
PET ANIMALS ACT, 1951
During the year 20 premises were licensed as pet shops. In the main, the sale of pets
at these premises consists of cage birds and tropical and coldwater fish. In general
it has been found that pets are kept for sale under conditions which do not call for
any particular comment and in no case has it been found necessary to attach special
conditions for any licence which has been issued.
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