Public Baths Act 1846

The Public Baths Act 1846 was a UK law aimed at improving public health by regulating bathing facilities. It authorized local authorities to create and maintain public baths and washhouses, especially in areas where private provision was inadequate. The Act set standards for cleanliness and safety, making bathing more accessible and hygienic for the general population, particularly the working class. It marked an early effort to promote public sanitation, recognizing the importance of clean water and proper facilities in preventing disease and improving public welfare.