View report page

During 1956, 67 samples were obtained for bacteriological examination
by this test. The results were as follows:—
Grade I 22
Grade II 25
Grade III 9
Grade IV 11
The 20 samples reported in Grades III and IV must be regarded
as unsatisfactory, although it is stressed that in no case was there
evidence of contamination by pathogenic organisms. These unsatisfactory
samples came mainly from one manufacturing plant outside
Beckenham, and the high number arose from the fact that, having
found one such sample, we continued to take further samples at very
frequent intervals until we were satisfied that the efforts which had
been introduced to reduce contamination in this plant were successful.
We acted in this matter in very close liaison with the Health Inspectors
of the Authority in whose area the manufacturing plant was situated.
Dustbin Accommodation.
It was necessary to report 16 cases of insufficient or unsuitable
dustbin accommodation in properties in the Borough.
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 1956 39 applications were
received and accounts rendered for £30 0s. 0d.
During the year 90 Library books were collected from homes
where infectious disease had occurred, disinfected and returned to the
Library of origin.
Drainage.
As will be seen from the Table of nuisances remedied, 305 instances
of choked drains were discovered during the year. A great many
of these chokages related to public sewers, i.e., drains receiving wastes
of two or more houses.
The Council accepts as a legal responsibility the clearance of
public sewers, and the work is undertaken without any charge being
made to the owners or occupiers of the properties. Of the 305 cases
discovered, however, 226 related to private drainage, and in these
cases a charge is made for the work undertaken. Accounts were
rendered for £87 2s. Od. for this work. The Smoke Testing of the
house drains of eight properties was undertaken at the request of
owners desirous of selling their properties and satisfying prospective
purchasers that the drainage was sound. A charge is made for this
service and Accounts were rendered for £15 15s. 0d.
40