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59
laying on the flock pillow registered 340°, the central temperature
being 280°. Feather pillows were subjected to the same
treatment, but it was found impossible to raise the central heat
much above 200°, while the water remained in the stove there
was no scorching.
By these experiments the following conclusions were arrived
at, viz.:—
That flock bedding could be safely and efficiently disinfected
by means of moist heat.
That feather bedding by the same process was imperfectly
disinfected.
At this time some alterations being in progress at the wharf,
and the site of the stove being required for other purposes, it was
determined to rebuild upon another site, a good opportunity thus
presenting itself of improving its construction.
The stove is now a very perfect disinfecting apparatus. By a
system of perforated pipes arranged round the walls steam can be
thrown into the interior at pleasure, and a sufficient moisture produced
to prevent scorching. It is lined with perforated asbestos,
and all articles for disinfection are subjected to a moist heat of
300° to 320°, maintained for 20 minutes. Over 200 observations
have been made with the new disinfector upon various articles
of bedding, and the result has been eminently satisfactory, viz.:—
Articles subjected to disinfection have not been discolored.
The temperature to which the articles have been exposed has
been sufficient to destroy the germs of disease.
RETAIL BAKEHOUSES.
The provisions of the Factory and Workshop Act, 1878, which
relate to cleanliness, ventilation, freedom from overcrowding, and
other sanitary conditions in bakehouses, were prior to the Act of
last Session, enforced by Her Majesty's Inspectors of Factories.