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45
Parks
Although some work was done for this department on fertilisers, soils and other matters
of horticultural interest, the major item of work was to ensure efficient water treatment
and pleasant bathing at the 16 open-air swimming baths provided for public use. The
condition of the water is tested daily by bath attendants and visits are made periodically
by officers of the branch.
School Meals, Education and Children's departments
In co-operation with the School Meals and Catering Department, typical meals were
analysed for fat, protein, carbohydrate, mineral content and calorific value in order
to ascertain that the standards aimed at were being provided by the kitchens. The
results showed a good approximation to the requirements of the various nutritional
factors for the age groups concerned.
Swimming bath waters at 24 schools and institutions were regularly examined
and advice was given on treatment.
Fire Brigade
Much of the work in this field is of a consultative and advisory nature. Investigations
were made of cases in which spontaneous ignition was suspected as the cause of fire and
where particular materials had caused a fire to spread rapidly. A prototype was developed
of a warning device for use by firemen wearing breathing apparatus, and tests were made
on other devices in conjunction with a Home Office sub-committee on breathing
apparatus.