London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Merton 1966
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Merton]
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Brought forward 1,738
Clubs 79
Restaurants and cafes 140
Works canteens 54
School canteens and kitchens 100
Food stalls/vehicles 33
Places of public entertainment 84
2,228
The information required by Circular 1/67 in connection with
the provision of ablution facilities, sinks and hot and cold water supplies
has not yet been compiled.
The number of food premises registered in accordance with
Section 16 of the Act is as follows:—
Registered for the storage and sale of ice-cream 470
Registered for the manufacture and sale of ice-cream 6
Registered for the preparation or manufacture of
sausages 72
Registered for the preparation or manufacture of
potted, pressed, pickled or preserved food 157
The number of inspections of registered food premises during
1966 was 874.
Bacteriological Examination of Equipment.
During the year 397 swabbings of articles of equipment used in food premises and catering establishments were submitted to the Public Health Laboratory for bacteriological examination. The results were as follows:—
| Article. | No. of swabs taken. | Result. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Satisfactory. | Unsatisfactory. | ||
| Beer mugs and glasses | 37 | 37 | — |
| Wine and spirit glasses | 17 | 17 | — |
| Plates | 94 | 90 | 4 |
| Cups and beakers | 72 | 63 | 9 |
| Saucers | 2 | 2 | — |
| Knives | 50 | 46 | 4 |
| Forks | 66 | 62 | 4 |
| Spoons | 58 | 53 | 5 |
| Vending machine nozzle | 1 | 1 | — |
In addition 17 samples of ice-cream server water were submitted
for bacteriological examination, six of which were unsatisfactory.
Special visits were made to premises from which unsatisfactory
swabs were taken, and the occupiers were advised upon principles
of hygiene to effect an improvement.
Food Inspection.
Unsound food which is surrendered to the Health Department
is destroyed at the refuse disposal works by arrangement with the
Greater London Council.
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