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In all 459 manholes were dealt with and of this number 132
were found to be infested and were baited and poisoned.
The takes of poison baits in the infested manholes were good
and the results obtained at both sewer treatments were very satisfactory.
SMOKE ABATEMENT.
Richmond, being residential in character, has few large works
or factories, but the investigation of complaints alleging nuisance
from smoke emission remains an important duty of the Inspectors.
Twenty-seven complaints were received during the year, and 50
observations for excess smoke were made. Generally, interviews
with managers and advice to stokers resulted in improved conditions,
and no grounds were found to justify statutory action.
Revised legislation for combating atmospheric pollution had
not been passed by Parliament by the end of the year, although it
was known that a Clean Air Bill was under consideration.
The major difficulties facing factory managements who wish to
co-operate with the Local Authority in preventing smoke emission
from coal-burning plants, are the varying quality of the coal received
and, in winter months, the uncertainty of supplies. For these
reasons, an increasing number of Companies are considering the
relative advantages and costs of installing oil-fired plants.
From the public health view-point, such changes would lessen
the risk of air pollution, for the conditions under which oil is fired
remain constant over long periods, and given regular plant
maintenance, no serious smoke emission should arise. It must be
emphasised, however, that continued improvement can only be
sustained if efficient servicing is available for oil-firing plants. It is
likely, therefore, that the next few years will mark a gradual change
from coal to oil fuels in the larger factories.
RAG FLOCK AND OTHER FILLING MATERIALS
ACT, 1951.
This Act came into force on the 1st November, 1951 and briefly
its provisions call for the registration of all premises in which Rag
Flock or other filling materials, as defined in Section 33 of the Act
(i.e. : Kapok; Woollenfelt; Cotton flock, etc.) are used, in the
manufacture of bedding, toys, babycarriages and other articles of
upholstery.