To carry out the provisions of Chapter II - "Water Supply" of the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines (P.D. 856), these rules and regulations supplementing the existing rules and regulations approved by the Secretary of Health on 24th November 1995, are hereby formulated for implementation of all concerned.

SECTION 1. SCOPE. - These supplemental implementing rules and regulations shall apply to the following:

1.1 Development of drinking water supply system;

1.2 Establishment and operation of retail water system (RWS) or refilling station;

1.3 Source and product water quality monitoring;

1.4 Drinking water in vending machines and dispensers and product water containers;

1.5 Household and commercial water purification equipment, gadgets and devices; and

1.6 Bulk water handling, storage and transportation.

SECTION 2. DEFINITION OF TERMS. - As used in these supplemental implementing rules and regulations, the following term shall mean:

2.1 AIRGAP - a clear vertical space through the free atmosphere between the opening of any pipe or faucet conveying water or waste to a tank, plumbing fixture receptor, or other device and the flood level rim of the receptacle. An air gap is used to prevent cross-connection between a water treatment device and a possible source of wastewater thereby preventing a reverse flow of water from the sewer into the water supply system.

2.2 APPROVED WATER LABORATORY - a Department of Health-accredited water analysis laboratory.

2.3 APPROVED SOURCE - source of the water whether it be from a spring, artesian well, drilled well, public or private water system, rain water reservoir, or any other source that has undergone a sanitary survey, issued site clearance, constructed, and the water sampled, analyzed, and found safe and potable, issued an operational permit and certificate of potability of drinking water.

2.4 BACKFLOW - flow of water in a pipe or line in a direction opposite to the normal flow; often associated with back siphonage of the flow of used water into a potable water system.

2.5 BACKFLOW PREVENTER - a device or system installed in a water line to stop backflow from a non-potable source.

2.6 BACKPRESSURE - pressure which creates resistance against the flow of water.

2.7 BACK-PRESSURE BACKFLOW - backflow due to an increased pressure above the supply pressure, which may be due to pumps, boilers, gravity or other sources of pressure.

2.8 BACKWATER VALVE - a device installed in a system to prevent reverse flow.

2.9 BULK WATER - water in container of five gallons or more in volume coming from refilling station establishment or water intended for potable uses which is transported via tanker truck or equivalent means from one area to another for the purpose of treatment and/or packaging and human consumption.

2.10 CERTIFICATE OF POTABILITY OF DRINKING WATER - a certification issued by the Secretary or his duly authorized representative certifying the potability and safeness of source drinking water for human consumption based on the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.

2.11 CROSS-CONNECTION - any connection or arrangement, physical or otherwise, between a potable water supply system and any plumbing fixture or any tank, receptacle, equipment or device, through which it may be possible for non-potable, used, unclean, polluted and contaminated water, or other substances, to enter into any part of such potable water system under any condition.

2.12 DEIONIZATION - the removal of the ionized minerals and salts (both organic and inorganic) from a solution by a two-phase ion-exchange procedure. First, positively charge ions are removed by a cation exchange resin in exchange for a chemically equivalent amount of hydrogen ions. Second, negatively charged ions are removed by an anion exchange resin for a chemically equivalent amount of hydroxide ion. The hydrogen and hydroxide ions introduced in this process unite to form water molecules. The term is often used interchangeably with demineralization.

2.13 DISTILLATION - the process of separating organic and inorganic solids from water by evaporation (vaporization) followed by cooling and condensation.

2.14 ESTABLISHMENT - a collective term construed to include buildings and premises where retail water system product water or refilling station product water is being processed.

2.15 FILTER - device installed as part of a water treatment system through which water flows for the purpose of removing turbidity, unpleasant taste, odor, iron or color. Filters can be loose media beds, in tanks or cartridge-type devices. Filter media may be used for mechanical, absorptive, neutralizing, or catalyst/oxidation filtration process.

2.16 FILTRATION - the process of separating solids from a liquid by means of a porous substance such as a permeable fabric or membrane or layer of inert media.

2.17 GOOD MANUFACTURING PRACTICE (GMP) - the detail requirements governing plant construction and design, sanitary facilities and operations, equipment design and construction, production and process controls specific to the production and purification of water.

2.18 HORIZONTAL PIPE - any pipe or fitting which is installed in a horizontal position or which makes an angle of less than forty-five (45) degrees with the horizontal.

2.19 HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE - a measurement of structural strength and ability to hold water pressure.

2.20 ION EXCHANGE - the reversible process in which ions are released from an insoluble permanent material in exchange for other ions in a surrounding solution; the direction of the exchange depends upon the affinities of the ion exchanger for the ions present and the concentration of the ions in the solution.

2.21 POINT-OF-ENTRY (POE) - a water treatment device that is installed at the main inlet to a building or mobile vehicle and acts as centralized water treatment.

2.22 POINT-OF-USE (POU) - a water treatment system designed to connect at the actual point-of-use for water; countertop or undersink treatment system.

2.23 PRESSURE - the normal force exerted by a homogenous liquid or gas, per unit of area, on the wall of the container.

2.23.1 STATIC PRESSURE - the pressure existing without any flow. 2.23.2

RESIDUAL PRESSURE - the pressure available at the fixture or water outlet after allowance is made for pressure drop due to friction loss, head, meter and other losses in the system during maximum demand periods.

2.24 PRESSURE BALANCING VALVE - a mixing valve that senses incoming hot and cold water pressures and compensates for fluctuations in either, to stabilize outlet temperature.

2.25 REFILLING STATION - another term for a retail water system (RWS) establishment.

2.26 REFILLED WATER OR PRODUCT WATER - source water that has undergone additional processing and the product of multi-stage purification technology (filtration, ion-exchange treatment, post carbon polishing, distillation, ultraviolet sterilization, reverse osmosis, air filtration, ozonation or other DOH-approved technology) and complying with the standard parameters and values for refilled water quality of retail water system or refilling station.

2.27 REFILLED WATER CONTAINER - food-grade quality container for the containment of processed drinking water from retail water system or refilling station establishment.

2.28 REFILLED WATER DISPENSER - an equipment used for dispensing processed drinking water either as a coin-operated machine, a monetary-driven equipment or manually operated machine.

2.29 REGULATING EQUIPMENT - includes all valves and controls used in a plumbing system, which are required to be accessible or readily accessible.

2.30 RESIDUAL - the amount of a specific material remaining in water following a water treatment process. It may refer to material remaining as the result of incomplete removal such as hardness leakage, or to a substance meant to remain in the treated water such as residual chlorine.

2.31 RETAIL WATER SYSTEM (RWS) - refilled water being sold and placed in the refilled water container or in customer's containers in refilling station.

2.32 REVERSE OSMOSIS OR HYPERFILTRATION - a process for the removal of dissolved ions from water, in which pressure is used to force the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which will transmit the water but reject most of the other suspended and dissolved materials. It is called reverse osmosis because mechanical pressure is used to force the water flow in the direction that is the reverse of natural osmosis, namely from the dilute to the concentrated solution.

2.33 SANITARY CLEARANCE - a clearance issued by the local health office to food or water delivery vehicles, mobile water tankers and similar vehicles, including its appurtenances that they comply with the design, construction, specification and other requirements of the Department.

2.34. SANITARY PERMIT - the permission or certification in writing of the city/municipal health officer or in his absence, the chief or head of the sanitation division/section/unit that the establishment complies with the existing minimum sanitation requirements upon evaluation or inspection conducted in accordance with Presidential Decree Nos. 522 and 856 and its implementing rules and regulations, and local ordinances.

2.35 SOURCE WATER - water from approved source that is conveyed or distributed to the refilling station through the public or private water mains or water tankers, containers or reservoir.

2.36 ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT STERILIZATION - the process of killing active bacteria and spores in water with the use of ultraviolet ray.

2.37 VERMIN - a group of insects such as flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches, lice, bedbugs or small animals such as mice and rats that are vector of diseases.

2.38 VERMIN ABATEMENT PROGRAM - a series of preventive and control procedures and activities in the control of vermin.

2.39 WATER HAMMER ARRESTOR - a device used to absorb hydraulic shock, either of the air chamber or mechanical device design.

2.40 WATER MAIN (STREET MAIN) - a water-supply pipe for public or community use.

2.41 WATER-DISTRIBUTING PIPE - in a building or premises, a pipe which conveys potable water from the building supply pipe to the plumbing fixtures and other water outlets.

2.42 WATER PURIFICATION DEVICE - any DOH-certified equipment, apparatus, device or gadget whose purpose is to purify water, either for household, commercial or other uses.

SECTION 3. SANITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF DRINKING WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM.

3.1 DRINKING WATER SITE CLEARANCE

3.1.1 Requirements - Persons or entities intending to develop drinking water supply system shall submit the following initial requirements to the local health office.

a. Application letter addressed to the local health officer or duly accomplished application form.

b. For waterworks, a copy of the water permit issued by the National Water Resources Board (NWRB).

3.1.2 Sanitary Survey

a. A sanitary survey shall be conducted by the local health office on all proposed water supply source location. It shall be done under the supervision of a sanitary engineer. Such sanitary survey (EHS Form No. 121) shall be a prerequisite for the issuance of the Drinking Water Site Clearance.

b. The sanitary survey shall include the evaluation of the site location, type of water supply source (well, spring, etc.), type of water use and the following:

i. Ground water supply: the slope of the ground surface, depth of the water table (maximum drawdown), nature of soil and underlying porous strata as determined from well log test, distance of the nearest well, yield of the nearest well, direction of surface run-off.

ii. Wells: distance of the well from possible sources of contamination.

iii. Springs: type of spring, geologic location, free flowing or with the use of external force, possible upstream sources of pollution, characteristic of water.

iv. Fresh Surface Water Supply: area of the watershed/drainage, grassland area, area greater than 3% slope, average annual rainfall, estimated annual run-off, length of main stream, drainage density, channel gradient, perimeter of river basin and rain water impounding reservoir.

v. Other required technical data that may influence the development of the water source.

3.1.3 Issuance of the Drinking Water Site Clearance - After the result of the sanitary survey has been evaluated and found to be satisfactory, a Drinking Water Site Clearance (EHS Form No. 122) Shall be issued by the local health authority as recommended by the local health officer. The amount of fees for the clearance shall be set through city/municipal ordinance.

3.2 INITIAL PERMIT ("Notice to Proceed")

3.2.1 Requirements - Persons or entities intending to develop drinking water supply system shall submit the following to the Regional Health Office concerned:

a. A copy of the Drinking Water Site Clearance issued by the local health office.

b. Engineering report and/or feasibility study, including assessment of water source and system capacity and pressure to meet the water demands of intended beneficiaries or clients.

c. Plans and specifications and other required document signed and sealed by a privately practicing licensed sanitary engineer.

3.2.2 Review and Evaluation - The plans and specifications and other necessary documents for the construction of the water source shall be reviewed and evaluated by the Supervising Sanitary Engineer at the Regional Health Office. He shall submit his findings and recommendation to the Regional Health Director.

3.2.3 Issuance of the Initial Permit ("Notice to Proceed") - The Regional Health Director shall issue or deny the issuance of the Initial Permit to the applicant based on the findings and recommendation of the Supervising Sanitary Engineer. No construction, installation and operation of the water source shall be done without an approved Initial Permit issued by the Regional Health Director.

3.3 OPERATIONAL PERMIT

3.3.1 Requirements - After completion of construction works on the water supply system, the following shall be submitted to the Regional Health Office concerned:

a. Report of inspection of completed construction works and complete disinfection of the system from the local health office.

b. Report of inspection verifying completeness of construction works and disinfection from the regional and/or provincial sanitary engineer.

c. Result of the water sampling and testing conducted by a DOH-accredited water analysis laboratory.

3.3.2 Issuance of Operational Permit - The Regional Health Director shall issue or deny the issuance of the Operational Permit to the applicant based on the findings and recommendation of the Supervising Sanitary Engineer. The applicant shall be informed on the permit status and action to be taken, in case negative findings were noted. No water supply source shall be operated for drinking purposes without an Operational Permit issued by the Regional Health Director.

3.3.3 Grounds for Revocation/Suspension of the Operational Permit

a. Errors found in the plans and specifications.

b. Incorrect or inaccurate data or information found in the application.

c. Non-compliance with terms and conditions of Permit.

d. Repair was not done as prescribed, rendering the water unsafe for human consumption.

e. Disinfection of the water system was not done after disruption of water service or disinfection was not done after a recent repair work in the water system. The drinking water system shall be flushed and disinfected before being placed in service after construction, repair or modification and after emergency situation such as flood, that may introduce contaminants to the system.

f. Unauthorized change, modification or alteration in the approved plans and specifications and/or in the type of construction.

g. Other causes that may be discovered during the operation of the water system, which is not in accordance with these rules and regulations and the DOH standards.

3.4 CERTIFICATE OF POTABILITY OF DRINKING WATER

3.4.1 Requirements - The issuance of the Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water shall be based on the following:

a. Results of the water sampling and testing conducted by a DOH-accredited water analysis laboratory.

b. Reports and recommendation of the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee (LDWQMC).

3.4.2 Issuance of the Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water (CPDW)

a. The city or municipal health officer is hereby deputized by the Secretary of Health to issue Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water.

b. The frequency of the evaluation and re-validation of the CPDW shall be in accordance with the standard interval or frequency of sampling specified in the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.

c. Fees for the certification shall be in such amount as set through city/municipal ordinance.

3.4.3 Grounds for Revocation of the Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water

a. Non-compliance with maximum contaminant level set by the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water as shown in the result of most recent water analysis.

b. The result of the water analysis was not evaluated and recommended by the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee.

c. The laboratory where the water sample was submitted and analyzed is not a DOH-accredited laboratory.

d. Other compelling reasons (e.g. false or misleading results of water analysis, etc.).

e. The Operational Permit was revoked/suspended earlier by the Department.

3.5 REQUIRED MEASURES FOR THE OPERATOR OF THE WATER SYSTEM IN CASE WATER IS FOUND OR DECLARED UNSAFE FOR DRINKING. The operator of the water supply system shall:

3.5.1 Immediately stop the operation of the part of the water distribution system that was detected to be hazardous for human consumption.

3.5.2 Immediately inform the Department and the local health office of the condition of the water system. In such cases, the local health office shall immediately inform the local health authority who shall convene the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee. The Committee shall announce to the public:

a. The status of the drinking water and the precautionary measures that should be done by the public during the crisis.

b. The limited usage of the water being supplied (e.g. for bathing, washing clothes, watering plants, washing cars, etc.).

3.5.3 Refrain from unauthorized declaration of the quality of the drinking water to the public without any prior clearance from the Department or the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee.

3.5.4 Assume the obligation of print and media expenses in the pronouncement of the situation to the public.

3.5.5 Institute immediate repair of the affected portion/s of the water supply system.

3.5.6 Provide substantial quantity of drinking water to the affected consumers.

3.5.7 Conduct complete disinfection of the affected portion of the water system and collect water samples for laboratory analysis.

3.5.8 Wait for the clearance from the Department or the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee and the re-issuance of the Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water by the city/municipal health officer before the full operation of the water system.

3.5.9 Submit to the Department and the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee the water supplier's contingency plans for such situation.

3.6 DISTRIBUTION LINES, DELIVERY AND RETENTION

3.6.1 Water Distribution Lines

a. All openings through floors over the water distribution areas shall be provided with sleeves securely bonded to the floor construction and projecting not less than 19.1 mm ( inch) above top of the finished floor with space between sleeve and pipe or duct sealed.

i. All pipes and fittings used for water conveyance shall be made of materials acceptable to the Department.

ii. All plastic pipes and fittings that are or will be exposed to ultraviolet light (UV) shall be provided with protective coating or UV protector.

iii. All valves that are used in water conveyance systems shall be of food grade quality.

iv. All water distribution systems shall be provided with isolation valves in branch lines or grid lines.

v. Appropriate control and regulating valves shall be provided where needed.

3.6.2 Diameter

a. Fittings shall be of the same materials used for piping. For dissimilar piping materials, appropriate adaptors shall be used.

b. Floor and shower drains installed above such areas shall be equipped with integral seepage pans.

i. For mechanical flanges and joints, food grade rubber seals shall be used.

ii. For threaded joints, teflon seal shall be used.

3.6.3 Water Supply Metal Pipes and Fittings

a. Metal pipes and fittings shall be rigid, high strength and food grade. Acceptable metal piping shall include ductile iron pipes, centrifugally cast iron pipes, stainless steel pipes, copper pipes, galvanized iron pipes.

b. Other metal pipes and fittings intended to be used for potable water conveyance shall be subject to the approval of the Secretary.

3.6.4 Water Supply Plastic Pipes and Fittings

a. Plastic pipings subject to operation at temperatures that will form condensation on the exterior of the pipe shall be thermally insulated.

b. Plastic pipes and fittings shall be food grade, chemically stable against water purifying and disinfecting agents, and shall be of adequate thickness. Acceptable plastic piping and fitting materials shall include polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, and polypropylene. The use of other plastic pipes shall be subject to the approval of the Secretary.

3.6.5 Water-Distributing Pipe

a. Where pipes are installed in ceilings above such areas, the ceiling shall be of the removable type, or shall be provided with access panels in order to form a ready access for inspection of piping.

b. Water shall be received by the refilling station establishment from the source through the use of the public water main or one or more of the following that shall be constructed, maintained and operated in accordance with these rules and regulations:

i. Private water system, water pumps, pipes, hoses, connection and other appurtenances.

ii. Mobile bulk water tanks.

iii. Water containers.

iv. Rain water catchment reservoir.

3.7 MONITORING OF DRINKING WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

3.7.1 The city/municipal health office shall cause the monitoring of the operation of the drinking water supply system and the quality of drinking water produced and distributed within the system through the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee.

3.7.2 Report from the water supplier of the following shall be obtained and reported to the Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring committee:

a. Description of the vertical and horizontal extent of the source aquifer using existing data that will be used to define the recharge area of the aquifer.

b. Report on any additional improvement or constructions of the spring or well, well installation, surface catchment and intake structures.

c. Watershed survey of the recharge area or zone of influence of the water source that identifies and evaluates actual and potential sources of contamination which shall be updated every three years, including any reported discharge that may affect the source.

d. A plan for special monitoring of any significant contaminant source and the appropriate corrective measures to protect the water source.

e. Regular monitoring of quality of water supplies.

SECTION 4. SANITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OPERATION OF RETAIL WATER SYSTEM OR REFILLING STATION.

4.1 SANITARY PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

4.1.1 No person or entity shall operate a retail water system (RWS) or refilling station for commercial purposes without securing a Sanitary Permit from the city/municipal health office. The following documents shall be submitted as requirements for the issuance of the permit:

a. Operational Permit and Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water for retail water system or refilling station where raw water is sourced from private water supply system.

b. Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water for retail water system or refilling station where raw water is sourced from public water supply system. However, validation water samples shall be required to confirm that there is no cross-connection in the main lines and/or seepage from the water main.

c. Plans and specification for the complete multi-stage water purification design of the plant prepared by a privately practicing licensed sanitary engineer (R.A. 1364 and P.D. 1096) shall be submitted with each application for a sanitary permit. Such plans and specifications shall be subject for review and approval by the city/municipal health officer as recommended by a government employed licensed sanitary engineer.

4.1.2 Any additional construction, alteration or renovation in the establishment or any alteration, addition or deletion or any changes in the water treatment process, which is not indicated in the approved as-built design, shall require a new sanitary permit. Violation of this provision shall be a ground for the immediate revocation or suspension of the sanitary permit.

4.1.3 Application or Renewal of Sanitary Permit

a. The application or renewal of the sanitary permit shall be filed with the city or municipal health office having jurisdiction over the establishment. Existing establishment operating before the issuance of these rules and regulations shall be evaluated by the local health office and shall be required to conform to these rules and regulations before the renewal or issuance of the sanitary permit.

b. The sanitary permit shall be issued only upon compliance to at least a satisfactory rating of the establishment and its product quality, utilizing the sanitary inspection form.

c. Fees shall be paid to the local government unit upon application or renewal of sanitary permit. The amount of fees shall be set through city or municipal ordinance.

4.1.4 Noting of Permit. If there is a change in ownership of the establishment, the new owner shall apply at the city/municipal health office within fourteen (14) working days to have such change noted in the records and sanitary permit and shall pay the corresponding fee in respect of such noting.

4.1.5 Validity. The sanitary permit shall be valid on the day of issuance until the last day of December of the same year, unless otherwise revoked, and shall be renewed every beginning of the year, thereafter.

4.1.6 Revocation/Suspension. Upon the recommendation of the local health officer, the sanitary permit shall be suspended or revoked by the local health authority upon violation of any sanitary rules and regulations.

4.1.7 Posting. The sanitary permit shall be posted in a conspicuous place of the establishment for public information and shall be available for inspection by authorized health and other regulatory personnel.

4.1.8 Record of Sanitary Permit.

a. Every city or municipal health office shall keep a record of all establishments that have been issued sanitary permit and renewal thereof.

b. The record shall in every case show the following:

i. The name and address of the holder of the sanitary permit;

ii. The location of the establishment;

iii. The nature/kind of business for which the permit has been issued;

iv. The registered business name of the establishment;

v. The date the first permit was issued and the dates of any renewal thereof;

vi. Any alteration, renovation, additional construction in the establishment;

vii. Any alteration, addition, deletion or any change in the water purification process;

viii. Every change of management of the establishment since the first permit was issued;

ix. Sanitary conditions under which the permit was issued or any renewal thereof granted; and

x. Any revocation of the sanitary permit.

c. The record shall be available at all reasonable times for inspections by any authorized officer of the Department or the local government unit concerned.

4.2 SANITARY STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS

4.2.1 Location

a. The establishment shall be located in areas or zones designated by existing laws or local ordinance.

b. The establishment shall be at least twenty-five (25) meters away from direct sources of pollution.

c. The site shall not be subject to flooding. In areas where frequent flooding occurs, the establishment shall be designed in such a manner that the water purification process will not be contaminated by flood water.

d. Source water and power shall be available.

4.2.2 Plans and Specifications

a. The plans and specifications of the retail water system or refilling station establishment shall be signed and sealed by a privately practicing licensed sanitary engineer and submitted to the local health office for review and approval.

b. The design, construction and specification of delivery vehicles, mobile water tankers or bulk water tankers shall be submitted by the applicant to the local health office for approval. On-site visitation, where necessary, shall be conducted by the local health office.

4.2.3 Plant Construction and Design

a. In the design of the plant, rooms or facilities shall be provided for the refilling, selling, purification equipment (enclosed room), container washing and sanitizing, container storage (separate for filled and empty), production or source water storage facilities, toilet room and other rooms and facilities (e.g. parking area), as may be required by the city/municipal health office. Rooms that should be under positive pressure of purified air (e.g. filling room) shall be determined by the city/municipal health office.

b. Room/Facility Area Allocation.

Refilling and Selling Room

9.50 square meters (minimum)

 

 

Water Purification Room

3.10 square meters per person (clear of all equipment)

 

 

Container Washing andSanitizing Room

6.00 square meters (plus 3.10 square meters for every additional personnel)

 

 

Container Storage Room:

 

 

 

1. Filled

1. Sufficient area; per approved plan

 

 

2. Empty

2. Sufficient area; per approved plan

 

 

Production/Source Water Storage Facilities

Sufficient space that will allow free movement during the conduct of inspection

 

 

Office Space

1.77 square meters per person (clear of all furniture and equipment)

 

 

Changeroom

2.80 square meters per person (inclusive of lockers or other facilities)

 

 

Toilet Room

Per Toilet Structural Requirement

 

 

Parking Area (optional)

30 square meters plus 10 square meters for each additional car

c. All doors and partitions shall be of see-through finished materials (e.g. glass, approved plastic materials) for the purpose of transparent product processing and satisfactory supervision.

d. All customer service openings shall be so designed and constructed as to minimize the entrance of dust, seepage and other contaminants and to protect against entrance of insects and rodents.

e. All rooms used for processing, handling and selling shall be constructed in accordance with the following requirements:

i. Floors. Floors shall be constructed of concrete or other impervious, non-skid and easily cleaned material and shall be adequately graded and drained. Store or selling area, if provided with floor drain, shall be of the "closed' type.

ii. Walls. The internal surface of walls shall be smooth, even, non-absorbent and easily cleaned without damaged to the surface. It shall be painted with light color or finished with light colored materials. All angles between the floor and walls shall be rounded off to a height of 7.62 centimeters. All angles between walls and ceilings shall be sealed as to leave no spaces or cracks which would permit accumulation of dust and dirt or provide harborage for vermin. Walls of toilet, bath and other rooms/premises subject to wetting shall be constructed of impervious, non-absorbent materials to a height of not less than two (2) meters from the floor.

iii. Ceilings. Ceilings shall be constructed of smooth, non-absorbent and easily cleaned material and painted with light color.

iv. Doors. Doors shall be self-closing and tight fitting with smooth and non-absorbent surfaces.

v. Lighting. All rooms shall be provided with a minimum illumination intensity of 20 foot-candle (215.20 lux).

vi. Ventilation. Each personnel shall be allotted a room volume of at least twelve (12) cubic meter.

1 When only natural ventilation is provided, all rooms shall have a window opening of at least 10% of the floor area. Windows shall be kept clean and in good condition.

2. In the absence of effective natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation with airflow from a clean area and discharged in such manner as not to create nuisance, shall be provided with the following:

a. Air-conditioning Unit - provide 1.5 HP (6,000 BTU/hr) air-conditioner for every 50 cubic meter room volume.

b. Exhaust Fans or Blower - provide 25.40-cm diameter blower fan per 35 cubic meter room volume.

c. Toilet and Bathroom - provide a 15.24-cm diameter exhaust fan per 10 cubic meter room volume. Mechanical exhaust systems shall be connected to the light circuits of windowless bathrooms.

3. All selling and filling and water purification rooms shall preferably be air-conditioned.

4. All rooms shall be provided with odor absorber or with an installed air purifier.

5. Air circulated in the room of the establishments shall be supplied through air inlets arranged, located and equipped so that the personnel and customers are not subjected to air velocities exceeding 1.02 meter per second. Not less than three (3) changes of air per hour shall be provided.

f. No room or space shall be used in connection with the purification of water, handling, capping, sealing, storage, sale and other related activities which is at anytime used as a sleeping quarter or directly connected to a toilet or in which animal is kept or which is or has been used for any purpose that would likely contaminate the water. Persons not directly involved in the process, including children, shall be allowed in these service areas.

g. It is strictly prohibited for RWS or refilling station establishments, particularly in the water processing, refilling and selling rooms, to conduct other business (e.g. selling grocery items, dry goods, cosmetics, etc.) or allow to display or store their items in the establishment other than the RWS materials.

4.3 SANITARY FACILITIES REQUIREMENTS - The retail water system or refilling station establishment shall provide adequate sanitary facilities including, but not limited to, the following:

4.3.1 Water Supply

a. There shall be an adequate supply of water for the operations and maintenance of the establishment and its facilities.

b. The water source shall be protected from possible contamination that will adversely affect its potability and palatability.

c. The water supply going to the water purification machines/equipment shall be protected from backflow and backpressure from in-machine water.

d. Booster, pneumatic, pressure or other pumps shall be prohibited to be connected directly to main water lines when water source is from public water supply system.

e. The plumbing system, water piping, connections, fittings and hoses conveying water shall be constructed, installed and repaired with in accordance with the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines.

f. Air Gap. The air gap between the water supply inlet and the flood rim of the plumbing fixture, equipment or non-water equipment shall be at least twice the diameter of the water supply inlet or as per the following schedule:

Fixture

Minimum Air Gap (cm)

 

When not Affected by Near Wall

When Affected by Near Wall

 

 

 

Lavatories with effective opening not greater than 1.27 cm diameter

2.54

3.81

 

 

 

Sink, laundry, trays and gooseneck bath faucets with effective openings not greater than 1.91 cm diameter

3.81

5.72

 

 

 

Over rim bath fillers with effective openings not greater than 2.54 cm diameter

5.08

7.62

 

 

 

Effective opening greater than 2.54 cm

2 x Effective Opening

3 x Effective Opening

g. Backflow Prevention Device. The backflow or backsiphonage prevention device installed on a water supply system shall meet the National Plumbing Code of the Philippine's standards for construction, installation, maintenance, inspection and testing for that specific application and type of device.

h. Cross Connection.

i. No person shall install any water operated equipment or mechanism, or use any water treating chemical or substance, if it is found that such equipment, mechanism, chemical or substance may cause pollution or contamination of the domestic water supply. Such equipment or mechanism may be permitted only when equipped with an approved backflow prevention device or assembly.

ii. Approval of Devices or Assemblies. No device or assembly used for the prevention of backflow shall be installed, removed, relocated, or substituted without the approval of the local health office. Devices or assemblies shall be tested for conformity with recognized standards or other standards acceptable to the Department.

iii. The person or persons having control of such devices or assemblies shall maintain them in good working condition. The local health office may inspect such devices or assemblies and if found to be defective or inoperative, shall require the repair or replacement thereof.

i. Conditioning Device. Water filters screens and other water-conditioning devices installed on water lines shall be designed to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and clearing. Water filters shall be of the replaceable type.

j. Prohibited Connections.

i. No installation of potable water supply piping or part thereof shall be made in such a manner that it will be possible for used, unclean, polluted or contaminated water, mixtures or substances to enter any portion of such piping from any tank, receptacle equipment or plumbing fixture by reason of back-siphonage, by suction or any other cause, either during normal use and operation thereof or when any such tank, receptacle equipment or plumbing fixture is flooded or subject to pressure in excess of the operating pressure in the hot or cold water piping.

ii. No person shall make a connection or allow one to exist between pipes or conduits carrying domestic water supplied by any public or private water service system, and any pipes, conduits or fixtures containing or carrying water from any other source or which has been used for any other purpose whatsoever, or any piping carrying chemicals, liquids, gases or substances whatsoever, unless there is provided a backflow prevention device approved for the potential hazard.

iii. No plumbing fixture, device or construction shall be installed or maintained or shall be connected to any domestic water supply when such installation or connection may provide a possibility of polluting such water supply or may provide a cross connection between a distribution system of water for drinking and domestic purposes and water which may become contaminated by such plumbing fixture, device or construction unless there is provided a backflow prevention device approve for the potential hazard.

iv. No water piping supplied by any private water supply system shall be connected to any other source of supply without the approval of the local health office.

k. Potable Water Piping

i. Whenever a water filter, water softener or water treating device, or other similar device is installed in any water supply line, the pressure loss through such devices shall be included in the pressure loss calculations of the system, and the water supply pipe and meter shall be adequately sized to provide for any such pressure loss.

ii. No water filter, water softener, backflow prevention device, or other similar device shall be installed in any potable water supply piping when the diameter of the inlet or outlet of any such device or its connecting piping is less than the diameter of such water supply piping or when the installation of such device produces an excessive pressure drop in any such water supply piping.

iii. All such devices shall be approved by the local health office and shall be tested for flow rating and pressure loss by an approved laboratory or recognized testing agency in accordance to standards consistent with the intent of these rules and regulations.

iv. The quantity of water required to be supplied to every plumbing fixture shall be represented by fixture units.

v. In localities where there is fluctuation of pressure in the main throughout the day, the water piping system shall be designed on the basis of the minimum pressure available.

4.3.2 Toilet Facilities

a. Adequate and clean toilet facilities shall be provided for personnel use.

 

Number of Personnel	Water Closet		Urinal	Lavatory
	Male	Female		Male	Female
5 -29	1	1	-	1	1
30-49	1	2	2	2	2
50-99	2	2	2	3	3
For every 100 - up, one (1) fixture for each additional 50 personnel

b. The toilet shall not open directly into spaces where product water is being purified and handled.

c. The toilet door shall be tight fitting and self-closing.

d. Toilet room shall be completely enclosed, properly lighted and ventilated.

e. RWS employing less than five (5) personnel shall provide at least one (1) water closet and one (1) handwashing lavatory.

f. Toilet room for women shall be provided with receptacle for sanitary napkins.

g. Toilet Structural Requirements: The approval of the city/municipal health officer as recommended by the sanitary engineer shall be required on the following:

i. Plans of the toilet;

ii. Individual sewage disposal system, sub-surface absorption system or other secondary or waste water treatment device;

iii. Minimum space requirement:

Unit	Sq.m ./Unit	Sq.ft ./Unit
Water Closet	1.50	16
Lavatories	1.11	12
Urinals	1.11	12
Showers	1.11	12

1. Minimum height of ceiling = 2.5 meters

2. Lighting = not less than 10 foot-candle (107.6 lux)

3. Natural ventilation window space shall be at least 25% of the floor area of the toilet room

4. Mechanical ventilation = use of exhaust fan

h. At least one (1) service sink or one (1) curbed cleaning facility equipped with a floor drain shall be provided and conveniently located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet cleaning tools and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste for the retail water system establishment or refilling stations.

4.3.3 Hand-Washing Facilities

a. Wash-hand basins shall be provided and installed in convenient location and as near as practicable to where the person for whose use they are provided.

b. There shall be adequate supply of soap, nail brush, clean towels or other suitable hand-drying facilities.

c. Handwashing lavatory shall not be used for purposes other than handwashing.

4.3.4 Liquid Waste Management

a. Waste water treatment and disposal shall be strictly enforced in accordance with the provisions of the IRR on Chapter XVII - "Sewage Collection and Disposal, Excreta Disposal and Drainage" of the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines, P.D. 856.

4.3.5 Solid Waste Management

a. Indoor Storage Area and Receptacles. If located within the establishment, storage areas for refuse, recyclable, and returnable and refuse receptacles shall comply to the requirements of Sec. 4 - "Sanitary Requirements for the Segregation and Storage of Refuse/Solid Waste" of the IRR of Chapter XVIII, "Refuse Disposal" of the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines, P.D. 856.

b. Outdoor Storage Surface. An outdoor storage surface for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be constructed of non-absorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable and sloped to drain.

c. Outdoor Enclosure. If used, outdoor enclosures for refuse, recyclables and returnables shall be constructed of durable and easy to clean materials.

d. All waste materials shall be handled in such a manner as to avoid contamination of water.

e. All other pertinent provisions of the IRR of Chapter XVIII - "Refuse Disposal" of the Sanitation Code of the Philippines, P.D. 856 is hereby adopted and made an integral part of these rules and regulations.

4.3.6 Vermin Control

a. A vermin abatement program shall be maintained in the establishment by the operator/owner. The methods and procedures for vermin control shall be in accordance with the implementing rules and regulations of Chapter XVI-"Vermin Control" of the Sanitation Code of the Philippines, P.D. 856.

4.3.7 Changeroom

a. RWS or refilling station establishment shall provide a changeroom and suitable lockers or other facilities for the orderly storage of clothing and personal belonging of employees and where personnel could change from their street clothes before working and vice versa. It is prohibited to have any clothing, including gowns and aprons, in other places in the establishment except in the places abovementioned.

b. The facilities shall be so situated and arranged that there is no contamination of refilled water.

c. Where the number of persons engaged or employed is five (5) or more of either sex, there shall be provided separate changing room for each sex.

d. Changeroom shall be cleaned and disinfected at least once a week, or more frequently as may be necessary.

4.4 SANITARY PROCESSING AND OPERATION PROCEDURES

4.4.1 Water Purification Process

a. The water treatment or purification process shall be capable of producing drinking water that is clear, colorless and free from objectionable taste and odor. The product water shall not contain any substance, organism, chemical or radioactive material at a concentration which could endanger the lives of the consuming public.

b. The design of the water treatment or purification process shall be based on the characteristic of the source water and the availability of appropriate purification technology. The design shall be environmentally sound, ecologically safe and cost-efficient. The water purification process shall include an air filtration to minimize the recontamination of the product water.

c. The product water shall show "No Residual" of any disinfectant used.

d. An appropriate quality monitoring program for the water treatment or purification system shall be established in accordance to manufacturers' requirements. The program shall include recording the conditions and performance of equipment.

4.4.2 Washing and Sanitizing of Water Containers, Caps and Dispensers

a. Containers, caps and dispensers for refilled water provided by the RWS shall be of non-toxic, non-corrosive and food grade quality materials.

b. Water containers or dispensers for sale or lease from the RWS or refilling stations shall be subject to testing and certification by the Department.

c. Product water operators shall submit to the local health office the certification by the Department indicating the acceptability of the container.

d. All water containers and caps provided by the establishment or provided by customers shall be thoroughly washed with water from approved source prior to sanitizing. Warm water with a temperature range of 46 C to 49 C (115 F - 120 F) or a strong alkaline solution with pH of 10.5 may be used to aid in the cleaning process.

e. Sanitizing solution and/or process shall be applied to all water containers and caps after washing. It shall be the responsibility of the RWS or refilling station operator to see to it that washing and sanitizing of containers are conducted before filling it with product water. The sanitizing process may be by means of chemical, dry or moist heat agent or other approved procedures. Chemical sanitization using 60%-75% available chlorine shall be based on the standard attached as Annex 1.

f. Only DOH-approved sanitizing solution and/or process shall be permitted. The following data regarding the sanitizing solution shall be submitted for evaluation by the Department:

i. Health Hazard Data (signs and symptoms; first-aid procedures and medical conditions generally recognized as aggravated by exposure);

ii. Reactivity Data (stability, stability-conditions to avoid, hazardous decomposition products, hazardous polymerization, hazardous polymerization-conditions to avoid);

iii. Spill or Leak Procedures (steps to be taken in case material is released or spilled, waste disposal information);

iv. Special Protection Information (respiratory protection, ventilation, protective gloves, eye protection, other protective measures);

v. Special Precautions (precautionary labeling);

vi. Other Handling and Storage Conditions;

vii. A clear statement of the types of water purification systems intended for sanitizer treatment is also necessary to enable the Department to estimate probable chronic human exposure to a sanitizer and its component; and

viii. The manner in which the sanitization is performed (e.g., clean-in-place, immersion, etc.) and the types of equipment intended for treatment (e.g. containers, utensils, conveyer, belt, tanks, flat work surfaces, etc).

g. Treatment of containers or surface shall not be followed by a water rinse prior to its contact with the refilled water. Where rinsing is done, refilled water shall be used for rinsing.

h. There shall be "adequate draining" of the treated containers, equipment or contact surfaces.

i. There shall be no residual of the sanitizer in the product water (sanitizing solutions are considered as indirect food additives).

4.4.3 Filling and Capping

a. Before being used, filling equipment (designed to be cleaned in-place) shall be thoroughly cleansed and sanitized in-place.

i. An alkaline solution of appropriate strength shall be recirculated through the filler to provide effective cleaning of all product water contact surfaces, with a minimum recirculation time of 20 minutes at a temperature between 60 C and 76.67 C.

ii. The cleaning solution shall be drained and followed with potable water rinse-to-drain for the removal of all residual alkalinity. The step may be supplemented by the application of an acidified rinse prior to the potable water rinse in order to neutralize any residual alkalinity on product contact surfaces.

b. Immediately following completion of filling operations, the filler shall be thoroughly rinsed internally and externally with potable water.

c. Parts of the filler that are not designed to be cleaned in-place shall be disassembled and removed. All these parts shall be cleansed and sanitized prior to reassembly using DOH-approved cleansing and sanitizing procedure.

d. All surfaces of the filler that do not come in contact with the water shall be cleaned manually so as to render all surfaces free of residues.

e. Any other cleaning, rinsing, or sanitization operations or processes not mentioned above shall be subject to the approval of the city/municipal health officer.

f. Filling of containers with water shall be in a manner that it will not come in contact with hands or other surfaces that may contaminate the water.

g. The rim of the container when filling shall be pointed directly to the water-dispensing nozzle during filling.

h. The container shall be properly and immediately capped after filling. Precautions shall be observed when workers manually cap the container.

i. Sanitary Cap or equivalent cap for 5-gallons bulk water container shall be used to prevent the contamination of the neck of the container before placing it to the dispenser.

j. Five-gallon bulk water containers shall preferably be provided with handle or "ears" or a carrying strand attached to the container's groove or in the neck. Bulk water containers shall be carried only with the use of a container's grabber or handler.

4.4.4 Storage of Water

a. Storage tank/sump/reservoir design, materials, specification and location shall be reviewed and approved by local health office before its construction/installation.

b. The design of the steel tank shall include the manhole/opening, drainpipe, and vermin proofed vent and inlet and outlet pipes.

c. Materials that are used in the construction of a steel storage tank shall be made of non-toxic materials, durable, corrosion-resistant and non-absorbent and finished to have smooth, easily cleaned surface. Soldering joints materials shall be based on DOH approved materials and procedure.

d. Concrete sumps, tanks and reservoirs shall be tested for water tightness. Internal finishing construction materials shall be approved by the local health office.

e. All water storage facilities shall be cleaned and sanitized at least once a month.

f. Refilled water in containers awaiting delivery shall be stored in cool room temperature (26 C-28 C) and relative humidity of 60%.

g. Refilled water shall be stored in dry environment away from chemicals and solvents (e.g. household cleaning products, gasoline paint thinners) and other toxic materials and contamination.

h. Refilled water in containers shall preferably be stored in a separate storage room.

i. Refilled water containers shall be stored in slated platform with a height of 20 cm from the floor to allow air circulation, easy cleaning and inspection of vermin infestation.

j. Holding time of stored refilled water shall not go beyond 24 hours.

4.4.5 Transporting of Refilled Water

a. All refilled water shall be transported in sanitary transporting facilities inspected and approved by the local health office.

b. All refilled water containers to be transported shall be properly arranged, crated or boxed and the containers properly capped and protected from contamination. All vehicles shall be kept clean, and no substance capable of contaminating the product water shall be transported in such a manner as to permit contamination.

c. A Sanitary Clearance shall be required for every refilled water delivery vehicle. Sanitary Clearance Fee shall be in such amount that the city/municipality may impose through a local ordinance. The clearance shall be posted in all delivery vehicles.

d. Delivery personnel in vehicles carrying refilled water shall see to it that the water is maintained at room temperature (25 C-28 C).

e. All deliveries of refilled water, in so far as the containers and vehicles are concerned, shall be subject to the inspection and approval of the local health office having jurisdiction on the area of origin.

f. The local health offices concerned at the receiving point of deliveries may also conduct inspection of the containers and vehicles and findings referred to the counterpart local health office as mentioned above.

SECTION 5. SANITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR MOBILE WATER TANKS AND BULK WATER FOR DRINKING.

5.1 SANITARY CLEARANCE

5.1.1 A Sanitary Clearance shall be required for all water tankers. Fee for the clearance shall be in such amount that the city/municipality may impose through a local ordinance. The Sanitary Clearance shall be posted in each individual water tanker vehicle.

5.1.2 All deliveries of bulk water for drinking shall be subject to the inspection and approval of the local health office having jurisdiction of the area of origin.

5.1.3 The local health offices concerned at the receiving point of deliveries may also conduct inspection of the bulk water and findings referred to the counterpart local health office mentioned above.

5.1.4 Except during exigencies (e.g., disasters, calamities) and subject to the guidelines issued by the Department, no mobile water purification plant (e.g., Point-Of-Entry and Point-Of-Use) shall be allowed to operate. The operation of the mobile plants shall also require a Sanitary Clearance from the local health office.

5.2 MOBILE WATER TANKS

5.2.1 Materials for Mobile Water Tanks. Materials that are used in the construction of a mobile water tank and appurtenances shall be safe, made of or finished internally with non-toxic materials, durable, corrosion-resistant, non-absorbent and finished to have a smooth, easily cleaned surface.

5.2.2 System and Drain. The mobile water tank shall be enclosed from the filling inlet to the discharge outlet and sloped to an outlet that allows complete drainage of the tank.

5.2.3 Access Port. If a mobile water tank is designed with an access port for inspection and cleaning, the opening shall be in the top of the tank and flanged upward at least 13 mm and equipped with a port cover assembly that is provided with a gasket and a device for securing the cover in place; and flanged to overlap the opening and sloped to drain.

5.2.4 "V " Type Threads. A fitting with "V" type threads on a water tank inlet or outlet shall be allowed only when a hose is permanently attached.

5.2.5 Tank Vent. If provided, a water tank vent shall terminate in a downward direction and shall be covered with 16 mesh screen or equivalent when the vent is in a protected area, or a protective filter when the vent is in an area that is not protected from windblown dirt and debris.

5.2.6 Inlet and Outlet. A water tank and its inlet and outlet shall be sloped to drain. The inlet shall be positioned so that it is protected from contamination such as grease, road dust or waste discharge.

5.2.7 Hose. A hose used for conveying drinking water shall be safe, durable, non-absorbent, resistant to pitting, chipping, crazing, scratching, scoring, distortion and decomposition and shall be finished with a smooth interior surface, and clearly and durably identified as to its use if not permanently attached.

5.2.8 Filter. A filter that does not allow passage of oil or oil vapor shall be installed in the air supply line between the compressor and drinking water system when compressed air is used to pressurize the water tank filter.

5.2.9 Protective Device or Cover. A cap and keeper chain, closed cabinet, closed storage tube or other approved protective cover or device shall be provided for a water inlet, outlet and hose.

5.2.10 Small Mobile Water Tank. The water tank inlet shall have a 19.1 mm inner diameter or less and provided with a hose, with a hose connection of a size or type that will prevent its use for any other service.

5.2.11 System Flushing and Disinfection. The water tank pump and hoses shall be flushed and sanitized before being placed in service after construction, repair, modification and period of non-use.

5.2.12 Backflow Prevention. Persons operating the water tank and hoses shall prevent that backflow and other contamination of water supply.

5.2.13 Fitting. If not in use, a water tank and hose inlet and outlet fitting shall be protected using a cover or device.

5.2.14 Water tank pump and hoses used for conveying drinking water shall not be used for other purpose.

5.3 BULK WATER FOR DRINKING

5.3.1 Product water shall not be transported or stored in bulk tanks, or processed or placed through equipment or lines for non-food products.

5.3.2 Bulk water shall be from approved source.

5.3.3 Bulk shipment of water prior to transporting to RWS or to consumers shall be disinfected. Free residual, chlorine reading shall be maintained between 0.20 to 0.50 ppm until water reaches the plant or the household.

5.3.4 Representative samples shall be taken from shipment of the bulk water for the analyses of coliform and Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC). The minimum frequency of sampling shall be one sample from each tanker on a weekly basis. Record of the deliveries and laboratory results of water sample shall be available for inspection by the Department or the local health office.

SECTION 6. SANITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR WATER VENDING MACHINES AND DISPENSERS. -

6.1 No person shall operate a water vending machine or dispenser for commercial purposes without securing a sanitary permit from the local health office.

6.2 The local health office may in writing, exempt establishments from securing a separate sanitary permit for the water vending machine or dispenser when the same is located inside a food establishment. The class of vending machine shall be specified in the exemption form.

6.3 Commercial water vending machines or dispensers located in other establishments (e.g., drug stores, bowling alleys, billiard halls, schools, hotel lobby, cockpit arena, hospitals, theaters, service stations and other public places establishments) shall not be exempted from securing sanitary permit.

6.4 These machines shall be located only in specific places approved by the local health office. A transfer of location shall need a new sanitary permit.

6.5 Cups used in commercial water vending machines or dispensers shall be made of recyclable single service materials.

6.6 Water vending machines or dispensers shall be registered only in the name of the operator.

6.7 Operators and employees of vending machines and dispensers shall secure the necessary health certificate.

6.8 A refuse receptacle shall be located adjacent the vending machine or dispenser.

6.9 Design of Vending Machines and Dispensers.

6.9.1 Vending machines shall be so designed that practically all parts, including the nozzles, can be cleaned and sanitized daily.

6.9.2 Drinking water dispensers shall be so designed that the nozzles are detachable for easy cleaning and sanitizing. The top most area where the bulk water container are placed, shall be provided with a sanitary, protector shield or equivalent device to prevent the contamination of the drinking water from the neck and other parts of the bulk water container.

6.9.3 Vending machines and drinking water dispensers shall not contain parts that are made of lead or other toxic materials or will promote the growth of microorganisms.

6.9.4 No vending machines or drinking water dispensers shall be sold or placed for household or commercial purposes without a certification from the Department.

SECTION 7. SANITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE AND SALE OF WATER PURIFICATION EQUIPMENT, GADGETS AND DEVICES. -

7.1 Any person or entity, firm or company involved in the manufacture and sale of water purification equipment, gadgets and devices, including household water filters and water purifiers and similar apparatus (imported or locally made), shall submit an application to the Department through the Environmental Health Service for review, testing and certification, before they could market the said equipment, gadgets or devices.

7.2 Expenses that will be incurred by the Department on laboratory examination and testing of the water treatment equipment, gadgets and devices shall be charged to the applicant.

7.3 Fees for the Certification shall be in such amount that the Department will impose.

SECTION 8. WATER QUALITY MONITORING. -

8.1 SOURCE WATER MONITORING

8.1.1 The operator and the local health office concerned shall monitor regularly the quality of the water source based on the following:

a. Bacteriological quality - at least monthly

b. Physical quality - at least every six (6) months

c. Chemical quality - at least every six (6) months

d. Biological quality - at least once a year

e. Monitoring of radioactive contaminants shall be done only if there is significant input of radiation from the surrounding environment.

8.1.2 Samples for water analysis shall be submitted to water analysis laboratory accredited by the Department.

8.2 PRODUCT WATER MONITORING

8.2.1 The quality of product water shall conform to the requirements stipulated in these implementing rules and regulations.

8.2.2 The local health office shall monitor the product water quality at the same frequency as the source water monitoring.

8.2.3 The local health office may require operators of RWS or refilling station, bulk water suppliers, or operators of water vending machines to test and submit result for any substance, including organic chemical contaminants at anytime the local health office believes the substance may be present in the water source and threaten the public health.

8.3 STANDARD PARAMETERS AND VALUES FOR DRINKING WATER

8.3.1 Source water and product water for drinking purposes shall conform to the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.

8.3.2 Product or refilled water from RWS or refilling station shall, however, contain no residual of any disinfectant used.

SECTION 9. REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL. -

9.1 HEALTH CERTIFICATE

9.1.1 No person shall be employed in any water refilling station, delivery vehicles, water tankers and bulk water tankers, and other establishments processing, dispensing or selling water without an up-to-date health certificate issued by the local health officer. The certificate shall be issued only after the required physical and medical examinations and immunizations.

9.1.2 The health certificate (EHS Form 102-A or B) shall be clipped in the upper left front portion of the employee's garment while working. This will include all the personnel and driver of delivery vehicles and mobile tankers and bulk water tankers.

9.1.3 The health certificate shall be renewed at least every year or as often as required by local ordinance.

9.1.4 Health certificates are non-transferable.

9.1.5 Regulatory fees in the processing of the health certificate shall be in accordance with local ordinances.

9.2 PERSONAL HYGIENE AND PRACTICES

9.2.1 All personnel of the establishments including delivery and transport personnel shall observe good personal hygiene.

9.2.2 Personnel shall wear uniform or clean working garments (street clothes shall not be considered as working garments) and hair restrain for those who are handling the refilled water.

9.2.3 Washing of hands and arms before working shall be observed. Such washing shall be repeated during working shift and after smoking, visiting the toilet, coughing or sneezing into hands, or as often as may be necessary to remove the contaminants.

9.2.4 Using, chewing or smoking tobacco in any form while processing, selling or while in the equipment and container washing and disinfecting, is not allowed.

9.2.5 No person afflicted with a communicable disease or a carrier of such disease which includes boils or infected wounds, infected pimples, colds or respiratory infection, diarrhea or gastrointestinal upsets and other related illnesses, shall be allowed to handle the water processing and vending activities.

9.2.6 The operator of the establishment shall notify the city/municipal health officer or the company physician (if available) when any employee is known to have a notifiable disease.

9.3 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

9.3.1 Personnel working in the purification of water and those that are using chemical disinfectant shall wear the approved type of respiratory protection. All other personnel handling water (filling, capping, sealing, selling, etc.) shall wear a cough mask.

9.3.2 Personnel shall wear the approved type of safety glasses where the process is using unsealed UV light.

9.3.3 All personnel working in the water purification room shall wear water-resistant shoes like rubber or plastic boots, which shall only be worn inside such room.

9.3.4 Other personal protective equipment (e.g. body, hearing, face, head, hand protection, etc.) may be required depending on the equipment, chemicals and other variations and conditions present in the establishment.

9.4 ERGONOMICS

9.4.1 The operator of the establishment shall ensure that all work procedures shall be in such a manner that it will not produce undue stresses to the musculo-skeletal system of personnel.

9.5 HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

9.5.1 Plant operator or persons directly involved in the management or supervision of RWS or refilling station shall undergo a 40-hour basic certification course on ecology, hydrology, microbiology and parasitology, water demand and treatment, sanitary chemistry, plumbing, public health engineering, hazard analysis critical control point, and environmental laws conducted by the Department or any DOH-accredited professional organization and institution.

9.5.2 Other employees in the establishment shall attend a 20-hour water sanitation classes to be conducted by the local health office as a pre-requisite for the issuance of the health certificate.

9.5.3 Operators, managers, supervisors or employees who have undergone such training course or equivalent courses in their formal academic course shall be exempted from taking the basic certification course or water sanitation classes, provided they show certification from the academic institution.

9.5.4 The plant operator and/or manager shall be responsible for the quality of product water processed in RWS or refilling station for sale and distribution to the public. He shall be liable to any litigation that may arise as a result of negligent manufacture, storage, handling or distribution of refilled product water.

SECTION 10. INSPECTION AND EVALUATION. -

10.1 RESPONSIBLE OFFICER - It shall be the duty of the city or municipal health officer to cause the evaluation and inspection of every water refilling station establishment and other similar establishments, facilities or equipment processing, dispensing or selling drinking water at least once every three (3) months and to cause additional inspections and re-inspections and evaluation as deemed necessary for the enforcement of these rules and regulations. Inspection of the establishment shall be conducted within seven (7) days after payment of the inspection fee to the city or municipal treasurer concerned.

10.2 SANITATION AND INSPECTION FEE - The fees payable for every inspection shall be of such amount prescribed by local ordinance.

10.3 MISSION ORDER

10.3.1 The city or municipal health officer or the chief of sanitation division/section/unit of the local health office, as the case may be, shall issue a mission order (EHS Form No. 112) for every sanitary inspection that will be conducted by the sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector.

10.3.2 The mission order must contain the date, mission order number and series, the name of the inspector and I.D. number, the business names, addresses, categories of establishments to be inspected and the scheduled dates of inspection. This must be shown to the owner/operator of the establishment before any inspection is conducted. The immediate supervisor of the inspector shall monitor the enforcement of the mission order.

10.3.3 Sanitary inspection conducted without a mission order is prohibited.

10.3.4 The owner/operator of the establishment shall report to the local health officer or chief of sanitation division/section/unit the unauthorized inspection that was conducted.

10.4 UNIFORM OF THE INSPECTOR AND AIDS TO INSPECTION

10.4.1 The sanitary engineer or sanitation inspector shall wear the prescribed uniform of the office with the proper identification card while conducting the inspection.

10.4.2 He shall likewise bring all the equipment and supplies needed in the inspection such as the inspection forms, clipboards, thermometers, flashlight, measuring tape, camera, light meter, water pressure gauge, sampling bottles, residual chlorine and pH comparator kits, blacklight, etc., and copy of the sanitation laws and other materials.

10.5 RECORDING OF INSPECTION

10.5.1 The sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector shall keep a record of all his inspections or evaluation reports in an inspection form (EHS Form 103-R).

10.5.2 The sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector shall furnish the original of such report to the owner/operator.

10.5.3 Demerits entered in the appropriate column of the inspection form shall indicate that the item does not conform with the requirements of these rules and regulations.

a. The inspection form has twenty (20) items. Non-complying items are indicated with an (X). Every such item is weighted with a demerit 5. The rating of the establishment is therefore: 100 less (number of demerits x 5). The result is expressed as a percentage (%) rating.

10.5.4 Sanitation Standard

a. The percentage rating has an equivalent sanitation standard as follows:

Percentage Rating	Sanitation Standard	Color Code
90%-100%	EXCELLENT	Luminous Green
70%-89%	VERY SATISFACTORY	Luminous Yellow
50%-69%	SATISFACTORY	Red-Orange

b. The sanitation standard rating sticker (SSRS) (EHS Form No. 104-A/C) shall be posted in a conspicuous part of the establishment, preferably at the door of the RWS or refilling station, for guidance of the customers. It shall be updated once every three-(3) months, unless revoked earlier.

10.5.5 The average sanitation standard of every refilling station shall be evaluated by the local health officer/chief of sanitation division/section/unit every year-end to determine its improvement/maintenance of rating.

10.6 REPORT OF INSPECTION

10.6.1 The sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector who conducted the inspection shall complete the sanitary inspection report, and whenever an inspection form issued indicates non-complying items, he shall notify the owner/operator of the corrections to be made and indicate a reasonable period for its compliance.

a. The recommended corrective measures shall be specific in nature or easy understanding of the owner/operator of the establishment.

b. Reasonable period for compliance or grace period shall be inclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

10.6.2 The sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector who conducted the inspection shall likewise prepare a sanitary order (EHS Form No. 107) for approval by the city or municipal health officer or chief of the sanitation division/section/unit as the case may be.

10.6.3 Within 48 hours of the inspection or evaluation, the original copy of the inspection report (EHS Form No. 103-R) and the sanitary order shall be furnished and acknowledged by the holder of the sanitary permit or the owner/operator of the establishment. The inspection report shall be personally delivered, or shall be sent through postal service, registered with return card.

10.7 RE-INSPECTION

10.7.1 If upon re-inspection of the establishment after the deadline, the sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector finds that correction has not been affected, he shall report to the local health officer who shall recommend to the local health authority the revocation of sanitary permit.

10.7.2 A copy of the inspection form and any notice served shall, in all cases be filed and kept by the local health office and be available for inspection by authorized officials.

10.8 SERVICE OF NOTICE

10.8.1 Whenever an inspection or evaluation form indicates non-complying items, the city or municipal health officer shall serve the owner or operator a sanitary order requiring him, within the grace period stated in the order, to take such remedial action as may be specified therein.

10.8.2 In the event of non-compliance of the first sanitary order by the owner/operator, the health officer may serve a second notice:

a. Second Sanitary Order

i. If the owner of the establishment needs additional time to comply with the first sanitary order, he shall request the city or municipal health officer in writing, prior to the expiration of the sanitary order, for an extension of the grace period. The local health officer, upon the recommendation of the sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector who conducted the inspection, will act on such request.

ii. Notice of Hearing (EHS Form No. 118). The city or municipal health officer shall call the holder of the sanitary permit to show cause, at a time and place stated in the notice, why the permit issued in respect of the establishment should not be revoked.

10.9 REVOCATION OF PERMIT

10.9.1 After prior notices and hearing as provided above, the local health officer, if satisfied that the terms of the two notices have not been complied with or failure to comply therewith is not excusable, shall recommend the revocation of the said permit, or;

10.9.2 After the second sanitary order on an extended grace period, a re-inspection was conducted and still the owner/operator fails to comply with such order as reported by the sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector, the local health officer shall recommend to the local health authority the revocation of the sanitary permit without delay and shall inform other related agencies of the city or municipality of such revocation.

10.9.3 Lifting of suspension of permit may be recommended when the owner/operator of the establishment complies with the notices.

10.9.4 The owner of the establishment may file a motion for reconsideration to the local health authority if he is not satisfied with the action of the local health officer.

10.9.5 The local health authority may file court proceedings against any establishment for continuously operating after the evocation of its permit.

10.10 SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF PERMIT - Whenever the city or municipal health officer finds unsanitary or unhealthy conditions in the operation of the establishment which constitute a substantial hazard to public health, the local health officer shall recommend the immediate suspension of the sanitary permit. Any person to whom such order is issued may file a written petition and shall be afforded a hearing within 48 hours.

10.11 APPEALS - The person or panel conducting the hearing may confirm, modify or reverse the decision appealed from which decision shall be final.

10.12 POWER OF ENTRY - Any sanitary engineer/sanitation inspector or duly authorized officer of the Department of Health or of the provincial, municipal or city health offices, upon presentation of proper credentials may at all reasonable times enter into any establishment for the purpose of inspection or any other action necessary for administration of these rules and regulations.

10.12.1 Sanitary inspections shall be conducted by officials in accordance with these rules and regulations.

10.12.2 Sanitary inspections shall be done preferably during the time while the establishment is in operation.

10.13 HEARINGS - The local health authority may conduct hearings regarding erring establishments. The decision of the local health authority shall be deemed final and executory.

10.14 VISITORIAL POWER

10.14.1 The Local Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee may visit any water supplier under its jurisdiction, for the purpose of verifying the conduct of collection of water sample, interpret the result of the laboratory analysis, assist in the mitigation of water-borne outbreaks, and recommend to the local health authority the immediate stoppage of a water supply system found operating to the detriment of public health, the imposition of fines to the water supplier and the announcement to the public of the status of the drinking water of the locality in accordance with these rules and regulations.

SECTION 11. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OPERATORS OF RETAIL WATER SYSTEM OR REFILLING STATIONS, BULK WATER SUPPLIERS, OPERATORS OF WATER DISPENSER OR VENDING MACHINE. - The operator shall:

11.1 Submit the plans, specification and other required documents of private water sources before its construction to the DOH for review and approval.

11.2 Secure the necessary permits for the establishment, water dispenser or vending machine and transport/delivery vehicles and health certificate from the local health office.

11.3 Submit periodically the result of the required water samples for laboratory analysis.

11.4 Secure the Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water at frequencies prescribed in these rules and regulations.

SECTION 12. RESPONSIBILITY OF MANUFACTURER/SUPPLIER OF WATER PURIFIER. - The manufacturer/supplier shall:

12.1 Submit the product particulars for review and certification of the DOH before the same will be offered for sale.

12.2 Submit result of laboratory analysis of treated water passing the water purifier.

SECTION 13. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LOCAL HEALTH OFFICER. - The local health officer shall:

13.1 Conduct or cause the conduct of sanitary inspections and evaluation of every refilling stations, water dispensers or vending machines, delivery vehicles and mobile water tankers and validate the water quality of RWS if complying with the standard parameter and values for refilled water.

13.2 Issue Sanitary Permit to establishments, water dispensers or vending machines and issue Sanitary Clearance to mobile water tankers and delivery vehicles complying with the minimum sanitation requirements.

13.3 Issue Health Certificates to all personnel, including drivers of delivery vehicles of the establishments.

13.4 Cause the conduct of sanitary survey for the development of a drinking water supply source and issue Drinking Water Site Clearance to applicants.

13.5 Issue Certificate of Potability of Drinking Water in accordance with these rules and regulations.

13.6 Validate from the DOH approved water purification apparatus, devices and similar gadgets being sold or peddled to the public.

13.7 Cause the conduct of investigations of any claim on advertised product water or water purification equipment, which in his judgment, may be detrimental to public health and safety.

13.8 Enforce the provisions of these rules and regulations.

SECTION 14. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LOCAL HEALTH AUTHORITY. - The local health authority shall:

14.1 Certify the passing of an ordinance consistent with these rules and regulations to strengthen its enforcement.

14.2 Provide the necessary supplies and materials to the local health office for the enforcement of these rules and regulations.

14.3 Issue directives upon the recommendation of the local health officer for the closure of establishments operating without the necessary sanitary permit and/or whose operation is inconsistent to the DOH standards and these rules and regulations.

14.4 Prohibit the selling of water purifiers or equivalent apparatus if found not conforming to the DOH requirements.

14.5 Enforce the provisions of these rules and regulations.

SECTION 15. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE REGIONAL HEALTH DIRECTOR. - The regional health director shall:

15.1 Issue Initial and Operational Permit to water suppliers in accordance with these rules and regulations.

15.2 Coordinate with other government agencies, NGOs, professional associations on the new technology of drinking water purification.

15.3 Conduct surveillance of the proliferation of water refilling stations and household and commercial water purifier operating or being sold in the market without the certification from the DOH.

15.4 Enforce the pertinent provisions of these rules and regulations.

SECTION 16. PENAL PROVISION

16.1 Any person who shall violate, disobey, refuse, omit or neglect (including implementors) to comply with any of the provisions of these rules and regulations, shall be guilty of misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by imprisonment for a period of not exceeding six (6) months or by a fine of not exceeding Php 1,000.00 or both depending upon the discretion of the court.

16.2 Any person who shall interfere with or hinder, or oppose any officer, agent or member of the Department of Health or the bureaus and offices under it, or of the local government units or local health offices in the performance of his duty as such under these rules and regulations, or shall tear down, mutilate, deface or alter any placard, or notice, affixed to the promises in the enforcement of these rules and regulations, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punishable upon conviction by imprisonment for a period not exceeding six (6) months or by a fine of not exceeding Php 1,000.00 or both depending upon the discretion of the court.

SECTION 17. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE - In the event that any rule, section, paragraph, sentence, clause or words of these implementing rules and regulations is declared invalid for any reason, the other provisions thereof shall not be affected thereby.

SECTION 18. REPEALING CLAUSE - All laws, orders, rules and regulations which are inconsistent with the provisions of these rules and regulations are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

SECTION 19. EFFECTIVITY - These rules and regulations shall take effect after fifteen (15) days from date of publication in the official gazette or newspaper of general circulation.

Adopted: 25 June 1999

(SGD.) ALBERTO G. ROMUALDEZ, JR., M.D.
Secretary of Health