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81
Experience has shown that the working of the electrically-operated cold
chamber installed in 1933 was entirely satisfactory, and had in every way
justified its adoption. It was found, however, that the accommodation
provided in the single installation for nine bodies was not sufficient at all
times to accommodate the number of bodies received. A second unit
to contain six bodies was therefore installed at a cost of £210, £60 being
expended on the internal fittings. The temperature in the cold chamber
is maintained at 40°F. for ordinary purposes but where decomposition
has reached an advanced stage as is often the case where bodies have
been recovered from the Thames, it has been found necessary to lower the
temperature to 32°F., and this can be effected in a separate cell of the
chamber.
Works of decoration, alteration and renewal were carried out to the
premises generally at a cost of £386.
There were 275 bodies removed to the mortuary during the year by
order of the Coroner or to await burial. Inquests were held in 185 cases
but not in 81 while 9 bodies were received to await burial. Post-mortem
examinations were made in 147 instances.
The following is a list of the causes of death of 275 cases brought to the
mortuary:—
Drowning 10
Street accidents 44
Other accidents 20
Suicide 60
Natural causes 92
Misadventure 32
Other miscellaneous causes 17
Smoke Abatement.—The following table shows the extent to which
smoke has been a cause of complaint to the sanitary authority during
the past five years, and also a summary of the measures taken in
mitigation:—

There were no prosecutions in respect of smoke nuisances during 1934.