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129
Schools.
During the year surveys of the sanitary condition of three schools
within the Borough were carried out. In each case the drains were
found to be defective, and the matter received the attention of the
responsible authorities, with the result that in two cases the drains have
been reconstructed, and in the third the work is now in progress.
Dust Receptacles.
By arrangement with the Borough Engineer, the Dusting Superintendent
now reports to the Public Health Department regularly the
existence of fixed brick dust receptacles, and also where moveable
receptacles of improper character are in use. with the result that the
sanitary inspectors are able promptly to deal with the cases. Fixed
dust receptacles are most insanitary, and afford a breeding place for flies
and pests of a similar nature. I think it is a matter of the utmost
importance, especially in view of the large increase in the use of gas
stoves and the corresponding increase in the amount of offensive matter
which is placed in the dustbins, that every house should be provided
with proper and suitable moveable metal dust receptacles.
Public Telephone Call Offices.
In July a letter was received calling attention to the state of the
mouth-piece of an instrument in a public telephone call office. The
complainant alleged that he found it both wet and dirty, and suggested
that some sanitary or disinfectanr covering should be provided to the
mouth-piece.
The matter is certainly one of public interest and public health, but
I am unaware of any statute that would enable a sanitary authority to
take action, probably for the reason that such things were not in vogue
when the Public Health Acts were drafted.
I sent a copy of the complaint to the Controller of the London
Telephone Service, and was informed by him that each cabinet and
instrument is thoroughly disinfected every nine days, and that the collectors
have instructions to wipe the mouth-pieces of the instruments
on each visit made by them to the boxes.
The following announcement appears in the Telephone Directory:—
"Attachment to Telephones—Attention is called to the fact
that Subscribers are being induced to purchase appliances