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by thick material into which heat penetrates slowly, the time
necessary to reach the disinfecting temperature may be long,
and hence the necessity for spreading clothing and opening
out bedding in hot-air chambers when the heat ought not to
be less than 220° F., nor more than 250° F.
Permanganate of Potassium is non-poisonous and a true
-disinfectant, oxidizing and destroying contagia as well as
putrid matters; it is very suitable for the sick-room, as when
dissolved in water and a large surface of solution exposed to
the air, it will absorb gases to some extent. It forms the
basis of Condy's Fluid.
Carbolic Acid. A solution of this substance of the strength
of 1 in 20 is the best for use in the disinfection of linen. For
fine clothing the solution should be made from crystals.
Carbolic Acid restrains purification and limits the growth of
low forms of animal life. It decomposes Permanganate of
potassium, and cannot, therefore, be used in conjunction with
it or with chlorine.
Chloride of Lime gives off Chlorine easily, which explains
its disinfecting power. It is very cheap and manageable.
On account of the unfortunate circumstances connected
with the late Inspector, I am unable to give you a detailed
account of the sanitary works executed during the year, as I
have hitherto done, but so far as I can ascertain about 190
miscellaneous notices have been served upon the owners of
property for the abatement of various nuisances in the District.
Thirty-six rooms have been disinfected and effectually
cleansed and lime-washed after infectious diseases, 17 in
St. Saviour and 19 in Christchurch.
Six hundred and twenty-six articles of bedding and clothing
have also been disinfected at the Disinfecting Chamber in
Ewer Street.
One thousand one hundred and eighty-seven applications
for the removal of dust have been made at the offices during
the year, and received attention, 561 in St. Saviour and 626 in
Christchurch.