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32. MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND WELFARE OF STAFF
The medical suite in the Town Hall Annexe now consists of three rooms, the plan
to add one further room having been implemented during the year. It is now, therefore,
possible to provide the full range of facilities which were intended, the suite being
used for the following purposes:-
1. As a first aid and rest room.
2. For the vaccination and immunisation of staff.
3. For the medical examination of staff and candidates for employment.
First aid and rest room
The requirements of the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act, 1963 include
the provision of first aid boxes in office premises, but exemption may be granted where
a properly maintained first aid room is in operation.
It was decided that a first aid room for use by members of the staff of all
departments in the Town Hall would be the most satisfactory arrangement. Equipment is
such as to satisfy the requirements of the Act and a state registered nurse is available
at all times. When required, a medical officer of the department is available to see
casualties.
During the year, a total of 672 attendances for treatment was made at the medical
suite. Cases included minor injuries incurred at work such as sprains, cuts and splinters
in the hand, and illness varying in degree from headaches and colds to a sudden heart
attack. It is not intended, nor is it possible, with the limited facilities available, to
carry out more than first aid, those patients appearing likely to require treatment or
continued supervision are referred to their own general practitioners.
Vaccination and Immunisation of Staff
Vaccination against smallpox and immunisation against typhoid fever and tetanus
are offered to members of the health department staff who are at risk.
The number of vaccinations and immunisations carried out during 1966 is as
follows:-
1. Vaccination against smallpox 157
2. Immunisation against typhoid fever 5
3. Immunisation against typhoid/tetanus 42
4. Immunisation against tetanus 11
Total 215
Medical Examination of staff
Prior to their appointment, all staff complete a medical questionnaire. From
the information given by the candidate, it is decided whether or not a medical
examination is required in order to determine his fitness to carry out the duties of the
appointment.
A medical examination is always necessary for candidates taking certain
appointments; these include residential staff in children's homes and staff at special risk.
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