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In result, that broadened outlook in Port and other Sanitation which was
sought on this occasion was amply derived amid physical conditions which are poles
apart from those obtaining in the home port.
The polyglot nature of an International Congress afforded difficulties which
were successfully overcome, as far as can be done, by the excellent arrangements
made by Dr. Menko.
HOSPITAL.
Smallpox Block.—It became evident during the year that the smallpox
block was becoming too dilapidated for use and even dangerous.
Considering the variety of the cases taken into Denton Hospital and the
obvious necessity of the strictest possible isolation of smallpox cases, your Medical
Officer has advised that a special pavilion be provided to replace the present
structure.
An arrangement had been made with the Military Authority at Fort Pitt,
Chatham, by which the Port Sanitary Authority would take care of a limited
number of military cases of smallpox, should such arise. This arrangement was of
necessity abrogated since it became evident that accommodation would be difficult.
Disinfector.—On an inspection of the boiler of the Washington Lyon Steam
Disinfecting apparatus in November, it was found that many of the tubes were
badly wasted, therefore, the whole of the tubes were renewed.
LAUNCHES.
The new motor launch, "Joseph White," was taken over by this Authority
on the 1st May; when brought from Wivenhoe in a very high wind she was able
to show some of her seaworthy qualities which have since been further proved.
The official dimensions are as follows:—
Length, 74.8 feet.
Breadth, 15.6 feet.
Depth from top of beam amidships to bottom of keel, 8.2 feet.
Length of engine room, 14.6 feet.
Engines—two, internal combustion, Thorneycroft's, 4 by 6 in.
Horse power, 104.
Speed of vessel, 9.5 knots.
Gross tonnage, 66.23.
Net tonnage, 27.19.
Register tonnage, 39.04.
The boat was christened by Mrs. White, in the presence of the Lord Mayor,
on the 2nd May.
This launch replaces the only remaining steam launch, "Lady Truscott,"
which is now laid up for sale.
STAFF.
The only changes made on the permanent staff, during the year, were as follows:—
Sanitary Inspectors.—Mr. William Ewart Smith, a sanitary inspector on
probation, resigned on the 30th June. Mr. Reginald Clifford was appointed
sanitary inspector to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr. Smith.
He was also appointed an assistant officer under the Public Health (Imported Food)
Regulations, 1925.
Hospital.—Mr. and Mrs. Rutland, handyman and laundress, who had been
on the temporary staff since the 24th March, 1924, were placed on the permanent
staff dating from the 6th June.
Several changes were made in the temporary staff of nurses and domestics at
the Hospital.