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Employment of Children Bye-laws.—Observations in connection
with the employment of children have been maintained
throughout the year, but few breaches have been observed.
Practically the whole of the work is done outside office
hours, on Sundays and public holidays. It was deemed
advisable in five cases to report the circumstances to the Education
Authority and as a result, in one case affecting the employment
of a child under age, proceedings were instituted against the
employer and the parent.
The employer was fined 10s. and the parent was fined 5s.
Fouling of Footways by Dogs.—It is a matter for regret that
persons exercising their dogs are not mindful of the comfort of
other foot passengers. We must all agree this nuisance is a
disgusting one, but it is extremely difficult for offenders to be
detected by your officers. Every endeavour is, however, being
made to enforce the Bye-law and to maintain the Borough's
standard of cleanliness.
Small Pox Contacts.—In connection with the small-pox
cases occurring in the district and local contacts of cases occurring
outside the district, 290 visits of enquiry were made. As
the majority of these contacts are persons employed in London
it necessitated the visits being paid during the evenings and
week-ends, after they had returned from their business or occupation.
Mosquitoes.—Lakes, pools, ditchee and other breeding
places of mosquitoes have been thoroughly sprayed on
several occasions during the early months of the year. From
various enquiries made, and in consequence of visits paid, I am
of opinion that this spraying has been beneficial. In a number
of instances, tenants of houses with cellars have complained of
mosquitoes and after adopting the advice given considerable
improvement has been noted.
Offensive Trades.—During the year an inspection was made
of all the fish-frying premises in the Borough. A number of
alterations were necessary in order to comply with the Bye-laws
and these points were explained to the occupiers concerned. In
all 69 inspections and re-inspections were made and I am able to
report that the Bye-laws are being well observed.
I again take this opportunity of recording my appreciation
of the loyal support and assistance rendered by the staff generally,
and to acknowledge the kind co-operation of Dr. Ellis, the
Medical Officer of Health, and my colleagues of other Departments.
HENRY JOHNSON, M.B.E., F.R.San.I., F.S.I.A.
Chief Sanitary Inspector.
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