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68
Present Position in Leyton.
The three rodent operatives employed in the Public Health
Department work in close liaison with the Sanitary Inspectors in
investigating complaints received and locating the source of rodent
infestation. They also assist Inspectors in carrying out smoke tests
when drains and sewers are suspect. The operatives follow up this
procedure with pre-bait and poisoned bait treatment as appropriate.
Groups of premises in which there is a common infestation are
disinfested as one unit—block control. No charge is made to
occupiers of domestic property. Occupiers of business premises are
charged on a labour and material basis.
Periodic visits are paid to Council property including the refuse
destructor works. Schools are also visited.
The duties of the rodent operatives include sewer maintenance
treatment in conjunction with the Borough Engineer and Surveyor.
The administration of this Section of the Department and methods
used for disinfestation are in accordance with the requirements of
the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Rodent Control work carried out during 1952.
During 1952 some 463 complaints relating to rat and mice
infestation were investigated by the Department, as a result of
which 369 private houses and 80 business premises were treated.
The total number of visits in connection with these investigations
and subsequent disinfestation work amounted to 1,387.
The Council's sewers were baited in June and December, 1952.
Each maintenance treatment was of 4 to 5 weeks duration, involving
some 1,265 manholes, each of which was baited on three
successive days.
Conclusions and Observations.
From available records and personal observations I am
satisfied that the Department is fulfilling its statutory obligations
under the provisions of the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act,
1949, as outlined earlier in this Report. The Divisional Rodent
Officer of the Ministry is clearly satisfied, otherwise the Council
would not qualify for Exchequer grant in aid.