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The approximate number of shop assistants within the
meaning of the Act is: male 1,292; female 1,034; total 2,326,
which number includes 390 young persons under 18 years, the
latter being subject to special legislation.
(v) Smoke Abatement.
Having regard to the large number of factories and industrial
concerns situated within the Borough, the number of
complaints of, or smoke nuisances observed, were remarkably
small. Most were of a minor character due to carelessness in
stoking or the breakdown of plant. The newer type of factory
in the Great West Road area gives little trouble in this respect.
In all cases of complaint, factory owners have always
shown willing co-operation to overcome and remedy the trouble.
(vi) Swimming Baths and Pools.
The covered swimming bath at Brentford and the two
open-air pools at Chiswick all have efficient purfication plants,
comprising a process of continuous filtration and chlorination.
(vii) Eradication of bed bugs.
The eradication of this pest is, of course, the source of much
trouble, an experience common with most other Authorities.
The following particulars are set out in accordance with
the requirements of Circular 1561.
Houses found to be infested and treated for bugs:
(a) Council Houses 58
(b) Other Houses 70
In addition to the above, a certain number of Council
houses were found to be infested when redecorations were being
carried by the Council's workmen. Unless the infestation was
really bad, the spraying with an insecticide was undertaken by
the Works Department, but actual details of these are not
available.
(a) Methods Employed.
The usual method employed for dealing with these pests is
the removal or the loosening of all possible woodwork and the
thorough spraying of the rooms with an insecticide which may