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A small X-ray plant was installed to assist the medical officer in
diagnosis, and in order that every contact, particularly children could
be screened.
Housing.—It was decided to accelerate house-to-house inspections
and accordingly 3 additional temporary sanitary inspectors and 2 clerks
were appointed for the purpose. In October preparations were made
for the overcrowding survey to commence on November 1st, and an
additional temporary staff of clerks and survey assistants numbering 60
in all were appointed.
Health Propaganda.—The scope of this part of the work has been
increased by the issue of a handbook to every householder which gives
in detail the activities of the Health Services of the Borough and other
useful hints for the health of the household; likewise by the systematic
distribution of handbills from suitably placed containers in the various
municipal libraries and public baths.
Rats and Mice Destruction Act.—An intensive rat campaign was
commenced in October, a Sanitary Inspector being wholly occupied in
the duty of inspecting premises, vacant, land, etc., and taking all
necessary action under the Act. A vast amount of work has already
been done in rat-proofing of premises and the relaying or abolition of
defective drains, etc.
Disinfection.—The work of disinfection and cleansing of verminous
persons and effects has so enormously increased during the past few
years that the station in King James's Street was totally inadequate to
meet the demands made upon it. Accordingly the Council decided upon
a plan of re-construction and this is now in oourse of progress.
Mortuary, Colliers Rents.—As a result of a report I made on the
inadequacy of the post-mortem room and doctor's accommodation at the
mortuary, the Council carried out certain improvements both to the
structure and equipment, and they are to be congratulated on the
fact that they possess a mortuary unequalled in London.
Lastly, but not least, it has become increasingly evident that the
present Health Department was inadequate for the housing of the staff,
and abundantly so during the last twelve months. My staff seeks shelter
in vacant committee rooms, cloak rooms and passages, and is scattered
over the Town Hall. As a result the Council decided upon a bold plan
of erecting a new building adjoining the Town Hall, on the site at
present occupied by shops fronting on to Walworth Road and houses