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The repair of combined drains is also undertaken by the Conncil
in accordance with statute, the cost of works being recovered from
the owners of the properties concerned.
Water Supply.
The water supply of the area has been satisfactory in quality
and quantity, the Metropolitan Water Board supplying all properties
in the area by main.
Bacteriological examination has been regular, 36 samples being
taken during the year. All proved to be satisfactory.
Movable Dwellings.
Sixteen families occupied movable dwellings under licence from
the Council during 1956.
Sixty inspections of the sites of the caravans were made, and in
no instance was a Public Health nuisance discovered.
Factories Act, 1937.
Five hundred and ninety-eight visits of inspection were made to
factories in the area, and the following nuisances were remedied
following the service of Intimation Notices:—
Want of cleanliness 7
Unsuitable or defective sanitary conveniences 34
Mortuary.
The administration of the Beckenham Mortuary is the responsibility
of the Public Health Department, the Mortuary Attendant
being a member of the Medical Officer's staff.
During 1956 107 bodies were brought to the Mortuary, where
post-mortem examinations were conducted by a Home Office Pathologist.
Twenty Inquests were held in the Town Hall.
The Mortuary Attendant is responsible, under supervision, for
the maintenance and cleanliness of the building, the reception and
collection of bodies, assistance at Post-Mortems, and the preparation
and arrangement of a Town Hall room for the purposes of Inquest.
Charge is taken of any clothing or valuables found on deceased persons
and next-of-kin are immediately informed.
National Assistance Act, 1948.
Burial and Cremation of Dead.
Section 50 of this Act places responsibility on a local authority
for the burial of persons who have died, or been found dead, in their
area where it appears that no suitable arrangements for disposal have
been made.
During 1956 it was unnecessary to take any action under this
Section.
Infestation by Rats and Mice.
Sewer Infestation.
The extent to which sewers harbour rats is probably not generally
appreciated.
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