Second Public Health Act

What was the Public Health Act of 1875?

The second Public Health Act of 1875 was the government's attempt to enforce action to reduce some public health-related illnesses and diseases, such as cholera.

Why did the government pass the Public Health Act 1875?

The second Public Health Act of 1875 was passed as the government began to realise that public health was part of their responsibility.

What measures were in the 1875 Public Health Act?

The Public Health Act of 1875 made local authorities responsible for 3 main areas of public health measures.

• ❖ There must be provision of clean water and proper disposal of rubbish and sewage.
• ❖ Medical Officers of Health should be appointed in every area.
• ❖ There were standards for new housing, and lodging houses should be checked.

Why was the 1875 Public Health Act an improvement on the 1848 Public Health Act?

The 1875 Health Act was different from the 1848 Health Act because it was compulsory - local authorities were forced to carry out the improvements.

Why was the 1875 Public Health Act significant?

The second act signified a change in the government's laissez-faire attitude. Laws were now being passed to improve public health and they had to be obeyed.