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33
One of the problems arising from these water courses is the pollution
that is caused by foul water being diverted into the surface water drains
of properties which often happens when waste pipes from sinks, baths
and lavatory basins are connected to rain water down pipes. Many such
waste pipes were found and dealt with during the year.
PUBLIC CLEANSING
The cleansing services are under the administration and control of
the Borough Surveyor.
The weekly collection service provided in the district is undertaken
by direct labour and involves the handling of over 82,000 bins. There was
no change in the method of disposal during the year, the collected refuse
being conveyed to Harefield where it was disposed of by tipping.
SWIMMING BATHS
There are two open-air swimming baths in the district, one at Charles
Crescent, Honeybun Estate, Harrow, and the other at Christchurch Avenue,
Wealdstone. The former, constructed in 1923, measures 165 feet by seventyfive
feet, with a depth of seven feet to three feet six inches. The water,
after being filtered, is treated by chlorination. Dressing accommodation,
shower and foot baths and sanitary conveniences are provided. The
Wealdstone bath, constructed in 1934, measures 165 feet by seventy-five
feet, with a depth of eight feet six inches to two feet six inches; in addition,
there is a shallow semi-circular beginners' pool. Suitable dressing accommodation,
with shower and foot baths, and sanitary conveniences, are
provided. The water is treated by passing through filters and is then
chlorinated by the break-point method.
The duration of the turn-over varies according to the extent the baths
are used, but it is at least once a day, and at busy times is every eight
hours.
Daily tests are carried out for the presence of free chlorine and to
determine the pH value.
DISPOSAL OF THE DEAD
Burial Grounds.
There were no changes during the year in the provisions for the
burial of the dead.
Mortuary.
The mortuary for the district is situated at Peel Road and is under
the care of a full-time mortuary attendant, Mr. C. Russell.
Towards the end of 1961 the disinfecting unit was transferred to this
site from Honeypot Lane and the new arrangements have functioned
satisfactorily.
During the year 317 post-mortem examinations were undertaken
and inquests were held on 58.
The arrangements with the Borough of Wembley whereby when
their mortuary is out of use bodies are received in Harrow and viceversa
again worked very satisfactorily.