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Ice Cream Sampling.
38 samples of Ice Cream were obtained during the year and
submitted to bacteriological examination. No pathogenic organisms
were isolated from the samples, but 7 shewed evidence of some contamination.
In three of these cases, it was found that contamination
was occurring at the place of manufacture, which in all cases was
outside this borough. With the co-operation of the local authority
concerned, the matter was put right.
In other cases, it was obvious that incomplete sterilisation of
storage and serving equipment was responsible, and the attention of the
Vendor was immediately drawn to the matter. Follow-up samples proved
satisfactory.
Waterways.
As I anticipated in a previous report, further complaints have been
received during the year of the pollution of the various waterways which
flow through the town. Every endeavour is made to satisfy the complainant
but I am afraid that we are not always able to trace the source
of pollution. It was found, however, that a Canteen attached to a
Factory building in the area was discharging its liquid wastes into the
stream. Following recommendations to the firm concerned, the waste
was properly connected to the foul water sewers.
Smoke Nuisances.
Many complaints have been received regarding the chimney of an
industrial premises in the area and at the close of the year there was no
doubt that many of the complainants were dissatisfied with the existing
position. Nevetheless, the Council has taken all possible action in the
matter and a great deal of the Sanitary Inspectors' time has been taken
in keeping close observation upon the offending chimney. It was not
possible on any evidence to recommend that the Council should
institute proceedings for the abatement of a statutory nusiance, it being
obvious that all practicable and reasonable measures were being taken
by the firm concerned to minimise the emission of smoke.
The assistance of experts from the Ministry of Fuel and Power and
from the Department of Industrial and Scientific Research was sought
and readily obtained, and the views expressed by the Council's Officers
were confirmed. The matter continues to receive the close attention of
the Department.
Disinfection.
The Council undertakes, free of charge, the disinfection of rooms,
articles of clothing and bedding after cases of Tuberculosis and
occasionally, other Infectious Diseases. Many requests are received
from residents for the steam disinfection of bedding etc. after cases of
illness other than infectious disease. The requests are met but a charge
is made for the service. During 1951, 76 applications were received and
accounts rendered for £72 2s. 6d.
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