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10
An appeal to the Consul of their country was quite sufficient to convince
them of the equal liability of all nations to the provisions of the Public
Health Act while in British waters.
Ten vessels were fumigated on account of infectious disease having occurred
on board : two for small-pox, three for enteric fever, two for malaria, two for
intermittent fever, and one for measles.
On reference to Appendix E it will be seen that a very large number of
structural alterations have been ordered and carried out.
214 such alterations have been made on 180 vessels, several often being
required on the same ship.
These, which comprise improvements for the sake alike of seamen and
owners, involve the important question of ventilation, water storage, lighting,
and heating.
Thus, on an average, it will be seen that one structural alteration has been
carried out every working day : some of these trifling it may be, some involving
a considerable expense, but all alike tending to improve the hygienic condition
of ships. Moreover, when it is remembered that in no single case has
it been necessary to take any proceedings to enforce these requirements to be
carried out, the valuable assistance and co-operation of shipowners will be
at once self-evident. And, as I have frequently remarked in previous Reports,
the tendency is for owners to pay increased attention, not only to demands
for alterations, but also to suggestions, knowing, as they do, that these are
only made when considered really necessary for the health and comfort of
those concerned.
The merchant seaman of the present day is far more cared for and looked
after than he ever was, and, if sufficient care be taken to prevent his being too
much spoiled, there can be no doubt that the owner in the long run will reap
the benefit.
In connection with this subject of improvements I would mention the great
advantage that results to the crews of barges by the substitution of slate or
galvanized-iron water tanks for the old cask so frequently in use.
It is our rule, whenever calling upon an owner to cleanse or condemn a
water cask, to insist upon the economy and sanitary benefit of a properly
constructed tank, with the result that these are gradually coming into
common use. A considerable number of sailing and other barges have
already adopted them.
From Appendix F it will be noticed that in 64 vessels 70 alterations have
been ordered but not yet carried out, for various reasons.
Some few have been lost sight of, and, in the majority, we know by
experience that the work has been done, though not officially reported.