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21
Systematic sampling was carried out by the Department during
the year in conjunction with other local authorities obtaining their
supplies from the South Essex Waterworks Company. In all 13
samples were taken. A typical report is as follows:—
"This sample is practically clear and bright in appearance,
neutral in reaction and free from metals apart from a negligible
trace of iron. The water is hard in character but the hardness and
its content of mineral and saline constituents in solution are not
excessive and its organic quality is satisfactory.
These results are indicative of a water which, from the aspect
of chemical analysis, is pure and wholesome in character and suitable
for drinking and domestic purposes."
11 samples of well water were taken during the year and submitted
to the Counties Public Health Laboratories for bacteriological
and chemical examination.
Insect Pests.
From time to time complaints are received of insect pests
causing a nuisance in the district and during the year the following
specimens were sent to the Department of Entomology, British
Museum (Natural History), for identification. In all cases advice
was given to the complainants on eradication of the pests.
(1) Pachydrilus lineatus: Harmless red worms found in water.
(2) Thaumatomyia notata Mg: Small flies which live on vegetable
matter and during Autumn seek shelter in premises
in which to hibernate.
(3) Anthrenus Verbasci: Small "ladybird" type of beetle,
better known as "woolly bears", which attack articles
made of hair, bristle, wool, silk, etc., and can be quite as
serious as clothes moths when once established.
(4) Stegobuim paniceum: Small beetles belonging to the
family known as "furniture beetles". This beetle attacks
stored food.
(5) Ocypus Olens. L: These large black beetles approximately
one inch long are commonly known as the "Devil's Coach
Horse Beetle". It is thought to be harmless and does not
normally infest occupied premises.
In addition complaints regarding crickets, wasps and bees
were dealt with and advice given in respect of 19 premises infested
with bugs.