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Observations of the chimneys do not reveal that smoke in such quantity as to be a nuisance
is being emitted, but an examination of footpaths, forecourts, window sills, etc., in proximity to the
works gives proof that grit is being emitted.
Neither the electrostatic precipitation in use at one station, nor the water spray method adopted
at the second station to arrest this grit seems entirely to cope with the increased amount of grit
present in the flue gases during the process of " soot blowing."
Doubtless during dry weather and with fair to strong winds these minute particles are carried
a considerable distance whilst with light rain and fogs the particles are deposited in the vicinity
of the works.
Legal opinion on this matter appears to be that as the nuisance is brought about by the acts of
Statutory Undertakings, no action would lie unless negligence could be proved.
Chimneys of boiler plants other than the generating stations have given little trouble, and
in no instance was it necessary to serve a Statutory Notice.
PUBLIC MORTUARY.
The number of bodies that have been deposited at the mortuary during the year 1st January
to 31st December, 1933, were as follows:—Accommodations 17, Post-Mortems 54, Post-Mortems
and Inquests 11, Inquests only 54, making a total of 136.
The existing arrangements continue to give satisfaction to the Medical Practitioners attending
the mortuary for post-mortems.
MOTOR AMBULANCE SERVICE.
The demands on the Motor Ambulance Service continue to increase.
During the vear 5,633 calls were made for the Council's ambulances as compared with 5,497
in 1932, 5,171 in 1931, 5,016 in 1930 and 4,728 in 1929.
Altogether 132,168 miles were run in 1933 as compared with 132,208 in 1932, 131,564 in 1931,
125,528 in 1930 and 111,338 in 1929.
Approximately 300 defective children are on the lists for daily conveyance by the Council's
school ambulances to and from the special schools.
The detailed report of the 19th year of working of the Motor Ambulance Service appears
as Appendix C.
MUNICIPAL HOSPITAL.
The 42nd Annual Report on the Municipal Hospital written by Dr. Troup appears later in this
report.
Your obedient Servant,
GEORGE F. BUCHAN,
Medical Officer of Health.