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There is no doubt that noise is detrimental to the environment
and the general public can help themselves to. a great extent by being
generally aware that noise upsets people and not slamming doors, playing
radios and musical instruments too loud etc., in effect practising good
neighbourliness
9. PETROLEUM
The Petroleum Acts encompass all matters concerning the safety
of the individual and the general public where petroleum is stored,
transported, delivered, sold or handled. Although the Home Office
gives guidance to the Local Authority, the ultimate responsibility for
establishing conditions in respect of petroleum installations, and their
enforcement, lies with the Council. The conditions introduced by the
Council and the non-licensing of installations which fail to reach the
required standard are having the desired effect of attaining safer conditions.
There are 41 premises licensed and routine visits were made to all
of them to ensure that safety precautions were being observed. Advice has
been given on the installation of new storage tanks, pumps and electrical
fittings, the rendering safe of disused storage tanks and matters concerning
the delivery of petroleum. Testing of all new installations was carried out
with satisfactory results.
10. PEST CONTROL
It is the duty of occupiers of lands and premises to notify the
Local Authority of infestations by rats or mice and their own responsibility
to destroy them. The Local Authority are obliged to see that this is done.
However, there is no doubt that the best results are achieved when the Local
Authority carry out pest control as a service, as is done in this district, to
ensure that only proper materials and methods are used. This service is
available to householders free of charge and to occupiers of business premises
for a small fee.
Warfarin resistant rats are present in various parts of the country.
The rise in numbers of such rats could have disastrous results on the efforts
to control the rat. Warfarin properly used is an extremely efficient poison
giving little hazard to man or domestic animals and is used almost exclusively
in carrying out treatments. The alternative poisons used to treat warfarin
resistant rats are more difficult to use and can be hazardous to man and
domestic animals. It is of utmost importance that should the presence of
warfarin resistant rats be suspected the Department be notified in order that
appropriate action may be taken. Although no such rats have been discovered
in the district, in common; with many areas warfarin resistant mice have been
found and successful treatment by narcotics has been possible.
358 complaints of rats or mice were made during the year and all
were promptly investigated and the appropriate treatment carried out. 309
complaints of other pests were received, including 229 of wasps. The
Department helps in these complaints whenever possible by practical assistance
or advice.
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