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To the Chairman and Members of the Chigwell
Urban District Council
THE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS,
I have pleasure in presenting the Annual Report of the Medical
Officer of Health for the year 1967, which includes the Annual Report of
the Chief Public Health Inspector. This report is compiled in accordance
with the Public Health Regulations 1959 and Ministry of Health Circular 1/68.
The main new development of benefit to the health of the District
has been the opening of the Council's Loughton Swimming Pool, which is
being extensively used and much appreciated in all seasons.
In August, 1967, the Children's Department of the Essex County
Council introduced sessions at Loughton Hall at which advice, guidance and
assistance can be obtained from the Child Care Officer.
An Adult Training Centre for the mentally handicapped was
established by the Essex County Council at St, Gabriel's Church Hall,
Grosvenor Drive, Loughton. Children who previously attended the Junior
Training Centre for the mentally handicapped at the above premises were
transferred to the more modern centre at Harlow.
Also during the year, Toc H introduced a scheme whereby
emergency warning window lights are being installed in the homes of aged
and incapacitated persons living alone. So far, about 70 homes have
been so equipped.
Health Education was continued as opportunities arose, and in
particular, talks and demonstrations on various aspects of public health
and on the work of the department have been given to parents, teachers
and children in schools and to students engaged in social studies.
I received a report which suggested that the test in general
use for estimating chlorine in swinming pools (Ortho-tolidine Test) could
be potentially dangerous to persons carrying out the tests. Further
enquiries from The Chester Beatty Research Institute (Royal Cancer Hospital)
confirmed the validity of the report. Steps were therefore taken to
withdraw the test from use locally, and to substitute a safe alternative
(D.P.D. test). The Society of Medical Officers of Health were also
informed, so that the matter could receive attention in other districts.
VITAL
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