London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Penge 1959
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Penge]
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As in previous years the foul water sewers were treated on two occasions.
In April 169 manholes and side entrances were baited and takes recorded in 57.
The figures for the October treatment were 147 manholes baited and takes
recorded in 11.
One full-time rodent operative is employed and the following is a summary of work carried out by him at premises in the district:—
| Inspections and re-inspections made | 2,659 |
| Premises treated for rats | 446 |
| Premises where rat poison baits taken | 146 |
| Premises subject to post-baiting treatment for rats | 296 |
| Premises treated for mice | 130 |
| Premises re-treated for mice | 27 |
| Number of "block controls" carried out | 157 |
RAG FLOCK AND OTHER FILLING MATERIALS ACT, 1951
The object of the Act is to secure the use of clean filling materials in
upholstered articles and other articles which are stuffed or lined. Three premises
are registered in connection therewith.
Samples of materials used at each of the registered premises were obtained
and the prescribed Analyst under the Act reported the tests showed the samples
to be satisfactory and complied with the requirements of the regulations.
MOVABLE DWELLINGS
The camping and caravan site of nearly three acres in the Crystal Palace
Grounds, established in 1951, continues to be occupied.
Suites of waterclosets and lavatory basins and hot and cold shower baths
are provided in a brick building on the site, and there are suitable arrangements
for the collection and disposal of refuse.
Periodic inspections were made of the camp.
The question of fire risk at the site was referred to the Kent County
Council Fire Service, who made several useful suggestions which were acted
upon.
PET ANIMALS ACT, 1951
This Act came into force on 1st April, 1952, and regulates the sale of pet
animals. Licences were granted to four applicants subject to conditions laid
down by the Council, these conditions being based on those recommended bv
the R.S.P.C.A.
Legal proceedings were taken against the proprietor of Kennels in the
district for keeping a pet shop without being licensed. There was a conflict of
evidence and the case was dismissed.
From the experience gained as a result of this case, it would appear to be
almost impossible to secure a successful prosecution in a case where a dog of
mixed breed is concerned, having regard to the provision in the Act relative to
pedigree animals, and the definition of pedigree animals, which as far as dogs
are concerned includes crossbreeds.