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53
Certificates were granted under the provisions of the Public Health
(London) Act, 1891, as to dwelling houses having a proper and sufficient
supply of water with respect to 9 houses and 154 tenements.
Water
Certificates,
Annual certificates are granted respecting Hairdressers' Shops in the
Borough, which come up to a certain standard of cleanliness. Six
certificates were granted during the year.
Hairdressers
Shops.
The number of bodies deposited in the Mortuary during the year was 259.
31 Jewish bodies were officially "watched." 161 inquests were held in
the Coroner's Court, and 159 post mortem examinations were made.
Mortuary
and Shelter.
The shelter is used for the accommodation of contacts of infectious disease
while their homes are being disinfected. During the year there were 4 persons
admitted to the shelter; 2 adults and 2 children.
Modernisation of the Mortuary.
Up to last year there were no proper and adequate means for the retention
of dead bodies for more than a few days and owing to the spells of very hot
weather during recent years it became necessary to provide such means. At
the same time it was necessary to reorganise the post-mortem room which
contained one old-fashioned slate table which was dilapidated.
In October a new refrigerating plant was installed which consists of two
chambers—one the chiller, accommodates 15 bodies at a temperature of
34°F. to 38°F., and the other—the freezer—accommodates 3 bodies at a
temperature of 18°F. to 22°F.
The Chambers are fitted with galvanized iron trays with handles and the
bodies are arranged in 3 tiers and internal lighting is provided. The method
of producing the refrigeration is by cold air circulation, created by means of
the passage of methyl chloride (CH3Cl) through coils, the circulation of a
fan and a compressor. A 2½ H.P. electric motor, which is automatic, is
used for the purpose of producing the circulation. It is now possible to retain
bodies if necessary for long periods. A new rack is also provided for the keeping
of bodies to be viewed by friends and the Coroner when inquests are held.
With reference to the post-mortem room, two new post-mortem tables
were installed in place of the old one, additional sinks and gulleys were provided
and the lighting and water arrangements improved.
This is a great improvement and facilitates the work of the Mortuary
Keeper and of the doctors conducting the post-mortems.