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During November a report was received that several cases of
illness with symptoms of food poisoning had occurred at a business
premises. On enquiries being made, it was found that 22 employees
were ill or had been ill. Apparently all the employees who were ill
had eaten at the works canteen on the previous day. Samples of
food, specimens, etc., were taken and sent to the pathologists for
examination. Arrangements were made for visits to be made to
all persons away from the normal work. The illnesses were of short
duration and recovery was at a maximum of 48 hours.
The majority of the reports from the pathologists showed
negative, but in one case a food poisoning organism (Clostridium
Welchii) was isolated. The clinical symptoms of the illness showed
a marked similarity to the symptoms this organism would have
caused.
Every effort was made to trace the cause of the illness, no definite
conclusions were reached. The cause of the outbreak was probably
a pre-cooked meat dish which had been re-heated. Especially as the
dish had been stored in a cupboard all night, no refrigeration being
available. Advice was given on the storage of food and the lack of
adequate facilities for the keeping of cooked food was stressed.
Subsequently a refrigerator was installed. Up to the present time no
further reports of cases have been received from these premises.
Smoke Observations
It will be noticed that considerably more visits were made in
connection with observation of smoke from factory chimneys than
previously. The cause of this being several complaints that were
received from ratepayers regarding smoke and grit.
The matter was very thoroughly investigated and has since been
kept under observation. While no statutory nuisance was found,
co-operation was received from the owners of the factory; considerable
alterations and repair work were carried out in an attempt to
obviate the cause.
Regarding the rest of the visits made under this main heading,
they are normal routine inspections which follow the pattern of
other years.
HOUSING
At the beginning of the year to which this report refers there
were three outstanding Demolition Orders, these being:—
54, Edward Road, New Barnet—Order served February, 1952.
107, Leicester Road, New Barnet—Order served November,
1949.
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