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9
Improvements recently effected in matters connected with
the Disinfection of Infected Bedding, Clothing, &c.
On the 30th November last, I submitted a Report to the Committee
of Works on the desirability of making certain additions to
the means now in use for disinfecting bedding, &c.
In the first place it was suggested in my Report that there should
be erected, in addition to the disinfecting chamber, but forming no
part of the same, a building which should be provided with proper
means for the destruction by fire, without causing a nuisance, of such
articles of bedding, clothing, &c., as had become infected, but which
were so old and worn out as to render them perfectly useless. I
am pleased to add that this new building and appliances were suggested
and carried out by Mr. Struthers, a member of your Board, a
gentleman who has devoted much time and given great attention in
the perfecting of the furnaces used in the disinfecting of the several
articles which are submitted to the heat required, for the purpose of
effectually destroying the contagious matter contained in them, without
injuring their texture.
Secondly, it was recommended that there should be provided for
the use of the men engaged in the work of disinfecting, means for
washing their faces and hands.
Thirdly, that stout bags, made of tick, should be purchased for
enclosing the infected articles while they were being removed from
the house where infectious disease had recently existed, so that such
articles might be more safely conveyed to the disinfecting chamber.
Fourthly. that gloves should be provided for the use of the men
while engaged in the work of disinfecting; these gloves should be
disinfected after each time they are used.
Fifthly, that light overcoats or capes should be provided for the
use of the Inspectors while superintending the process of disinfection,
and some kind of dress should also be provided for the use of the
men while engaged in the same work.
All the above suggestions have been adopted and with satisfactory
results.
Overcrowding of a School Room-
Mr. Inspector Wrack, in the course of his visitation of houses in
Pelham Street, Spitalfields, found a serious case of overcrowding at