556 NICHOLLS'S SEAMANSHIP AND NAUTICAL KNOWLEDGE
Port Sanitary Authority unless at the discretion of the medical
officer or chemist in charge of the fumigation
The tune required to clear the ship of gas varies from two to
four hqurs depending upon the weather conditions, the clearance
being expedited if there is a good breeze to create an active
circulation of air throughout the ship. When a clearance certificate
has been procured from the chemist of the fumigation contractor
it will be safe for persons to go on board. Caution should be observed
in opening any compartments adjacent to those fumigated that
have remained locked for any reason, and a good airing should be
given before such compartments are considered habitable
"The Principle of Hygiene" on board ship is the same
as on land, and is just the observance and practice of health laws
in the prevention of disease. These laws may be summed up in
bhe one word " Cleanliness." Cleanliness in person, clothing,
accommodation and surroundings ; good ventilation in sleeping
quarters, good sanitary and drainage arrangements, good food and
temperate living.
A carbolic disinfectant should be used when washing out crews'
quarters and cleaning up bilges, privies, etc. Bedding and clothing
should be brought on deck for airing and ventilation when
opportunity ofiers. Care should be taken with regard to under-
clothing when passing quickly from one climate to another,
especially in damp and warm weather, so as to protect the body
from sudden changes of temperature. It is asking for trouble to
lie out on deck on a close sultry evening wearing thin cotton
underwear and little else on, then to fall asleep and wake up chilled
during the early hours of a dewy morning. Woollen underclothing
is best. Eating tainted food or too much fruit in tropical countries
is a frequent cause of gastric troubles and feverish disorders.
If infectious disease breaks out on board, such as measles,
diphtheria, fevers, etc., the patient should be isolated from the
rest of the crew and the ventilating, disinfecting and cleansing of
all living accommodation more stringently exercised, and fumigated
if need be to prevent the outbreak spreading.
The patient's clothing and bedding should be disinfected in
boiling water with a little carbolic acid in it, and, after a few hours'
soaking, they should be exposed to the sun to dry.