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Three cases of gross contamination of drinking water on ships occurred during the year.
These were attributed to the use of the wash-deck pipe line as a supply extension to reach the
drinking water tank. The Shipping Companies concerned were notified and chlorination of storage
tanks was carried out. Strong disapproval of this procedure has been expressed by the Authority
on numerous occasions. The Ministry of Transport issued a circular No. M410-1957 to Shipowners
and Masters deprecating any link between potable water supply lines and sea-water installation.
Unfortunately, there are such occasions when this precept is ignored, usually as a matter of
expediency mingled with ignorance.
3. Precautions taken against contamination of hydrants and hosepipes:—
During the year the opportunity has been taken, whenever possible to reduce possible
contamination of existing water mains and pits by more advantageous locations of the mains.
During reconstruction work in the Docks and in keeping with modern practice, main services
including fresh water mains are contained where possible in a concrete duct incorporated in the
quay construction. Individual hydrant pits are not required in this system and therefore, the
previous problems of cleaning, drainage and flood preventions associated with the older pits have
been eliminated.
The replacement of the old type water meter boxes by stand pipes incorporating a water
meter has been initiated as renewals have become necessary.
4. Number and sanitary conditions of water boats and powers of control by the Authority:—
There has been no change in the powers of control of water boats by this Authority and the
general standard of cleanliness of the water-boats in service is very satisfactory.
Every endeavour has been made to comply with the aims of the Code of Practice by the
Port of London Authority and by personnel engaged in fresh water operations.
The percentage of "Satisfactory," "Good" and "Excellent" samples was 95.71. This
indicates the high standard of purity of drinking water supplied in the Port and that progress has
been maintained.