View report page

105
In all cases where impurity was found, the result was communicated to the
manufacturers, and they at once expressed a desire to ascertain the cause of
contamination and their intention of taking active steps to remove the same.
A large number of factories were visited at the request of the owners.
It was found, that in most cases the causes of contamination were defects in
the system of bottle washing and exposure of water to risk of pollution in
tanks constructed of wood (which it is practically impossible to keep at all
times in a cleanly condition) and to the absence or imperfection of covers to
the receptacles containing either the water or solution.
In every case where the water was found to be unsatisfactory, some
sufficient cause was found and pointed out to the manufacturers.
The above facts were reported to the Sanitary Committee on the 24th June,
and your Medical Officer of Health suggested that inasmuch as the makers were,
up to this time, unaware of the condition of their water, and were anxious to
do anything that was found necessary or advisable to improve the same, that
rather than run the risk of seriously damaging an important industry, instead
of at once publishing these results, he should be authorised to summon a
conference of the trade and, after laying the position before them, ascertain
their views as to the best course to adopt, both in their own and the public
interest.
This was agreed to, and a meeting of the Trade was held on the 18th July,
1907, which was attended by a large number of Mineral Water Manufacturers.
A statement was made by your Medical Officer as to the result of the
analyses, and the urgent need for immediate and effective action.
A series of Regulations was also laid before the meeting which it wae
suggested should be considered and adopted either in their entirety or with
such modifications as might be suggested.
SODA WATER FACTORIES.
SUGGESTED REGULATIONS.
Premises.—To be in good sanitary condition, Certificate from Medical
Officer of Health, Sanitary Authority.
Water.—Source of supply to be bacteriological ly examined at entrance
to works.
Filters.—If used, only Pasteur-Chamberland or Berkefeld filter.
Storage Tanks.—To be of impervious material, viz., slate, glass or
galvanized iron (not wood) and fitted with efficient, covers (glass or galvanized
iron, with flanges) not wood. Tanks to be cleaned periodically.