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unsatisfactory results and the airline supplied with the majority of the flasks which were unsatisfactory
has agreed, in spite of the cost, to dispense with the use of flasks and is providing proprietary
brands of water in disposable containers.
Vermin Control
Following last year's more intensive survey successful treatments for rats on land were carried
out by the British Airports Authority contractors. The same contractors are employed by most
occupiers and carry out inspections on a routine basis for rodents and insects. The cockroach
situation was extremely bad but maintainance of continuous treatment resulted in such an
improved position that on routine inspections of catering establishments little evidence was found.
Not only does the daily intake of catering supplies entail the continual risk of cockroach
introductions but passengers' baggage and animals in transit are added hazards. In addition, flight
cateiing units are also at risk when insects may be found in container equipment from pick-up
points abroad.
On the slightest suspicion of a rat or mouse being present in an aircraft hold the operating
company immediately arranges for the whole aircraft to be treated with poison gas.
OTHER SERVICES
DEPARTMENTAL LABORATORY
Facilities in the laboratory were further extended during the year to include a rapid method for
the detection of lead and approximate indication of the amount in the range of 1.0% to 1.50% of
lead and also to determine the presence of cyanide and fluoride in water. Laboratory facilities are
invaluable in providing quick and positive identification of foreign bodies in food, insect identification
and for supplementing the services available through the Public Health Laboratory Service
and the Public Analyst. A summary of the tests and determinations carried out in the laboratory are
set out in the following table: