London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Southwark 1969

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Southwark, Borough of]

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Lighting (Section 8)
Lighting standards generally in registered premises are considered to be of a
reasonable standard but in some cases there was difficulty in obtaining satisfactory
standards.
Sanitary Accommodation and Washing Facilities (Sections 9 and 10)
When inspections were made, the emphasis continued to be placed on maintenance
of fittings, cleanliness and the general state of repair of the sanitary accommodation and
washing facilities. Only 17 cases of insufficient sanitary accommodation were found and
in 15 of those additional facilities were provided and' in 63; cases improvement of washing
facilities was obtained.
Floors and Staircases (Section 16)
There was a marked increase in the number of instances where floors and staircases
needed attention —156 compared with 52 the previous year. The majority of defects was
due to worn floor coverings and in view of the likelihood of accidents, particular
emphasis was placed on obtaining improvements.
Dangerous Machinery (Sections 17, 18 and 19)
In 34 cases it was found necessary to advise occupiers of inadequate fencing of
machinery.
First Aid Materials (Section 24)
First aid materials were found to be inadequate or not provided in 268 premises
and this continues to be a common cause for action.
Notification of Accidents (Section 48)
52 accidents were notified and 36 were considered to warrant investigation. It is
pleasing to note that this is the lowest number reported since the formation of the
London. Borough of Southwark. The most common form of accident reported continues
to be of falls of persons and, as mentioned earlier, particular regard is giveTi to the needfor
the maintenance of floors and floor coverings. An analysis of reported accidents is
given in Tables E and F.
Display of A bstract of the Act (Section 50)
This is yet another common failing in registered premises. 311 cases were found
where the abstract was not displayed. However, verbal notice was usually sufficient to
remedy omissions.
Offices, Shops and Railway Premises (Hoists and Lifts) Regulations 1968
These regulations which came into operation in 1969, are welcomed. It became
evident towards the end of the year when Examination Reports were received that
manual hoists, particularly those in licensed premises, were frequently found to be in need
of maintenance. Occupiers were advised during inspection, following receipt of
Examination Reports of the general requirements of the Regulations particularly those
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