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struction and equipment. Obsolete hand-washing basins are being replaced by properly fitted
traditional fixed basins in moulded plaster. Several of the bars have been modernised and in one
instance the working space behind the bar has been increased to promote a higher standard of
hygiene while another of the larger vessels has been considerably modernised.
Sanitary accommodation is a major issue in the Regulations which, inter alia, require that
every sanitary convenience shall be so placed that no offensive odours therefrom can penetrate
into any food room. There are, however, some launches on which the sanitary accommodation is
inside the saloon and the bar is an integral part of the saloon. Any attempt to isolate the sanitary
accommodation by building additional structures has been frowned upon by the Ministry of Transport
which is seriously concerned with the emergency evacuation of passengers at short notice.
In order to overcome the difficulty, the idea has gained favour to move the sanitary accommodation
from the lower deck to the upper deck and set it into the superstructure when carrying out modernisation
and refitting. This has been effected in two launches already and is in the process in
another.
The three large vessels engaged on excursions to coastal resorts and to the Continent have
been re-fitted generally to a standard in excess of the minimum requirements of the Regulations.
The problem of adequate fresh water storage to meet peak demands however remains a major
obstacle since the vessels were not designed to meet the requirements of the Regulations.
Therefore, the Exemption Certificates which were granted by this Authority some three years ago
will remain valid.
During the year, 47 inspections were made to ensure compliance with the Regulations and
food hygiene practice in general. Only a few minor infringements were observed and promptly
corrected. It is expected that the steady improvement achieved this year will be continued and
the modern amenities increasingly demanded by the public will soon be provided.
One 'Hovercraft' and two 'Hydrofoils' made an appearance during the summer in King's Reach
and the Upper Pool for commercial reasons. To what extent they may become passenger-carrying
transports remains to be known.
FOOD INSPECTION