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Revised Guidelines on Class and Work Suspension in Schools During Disasters and Emergencies

On December 23, 2024, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2024 , providing comprehensive guidelines for class and work suspension during disasters and emergencies. This order reaffirms DepEd’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of learners, teachers, and personnel while emphasizing the importance of learning continuity during such events. Key Highlights of DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2024 1. Rationale DepEd upholds its dual mandate of safeguarding the welfare of learners and personnel while maintaining academic continuity. This policy recognizes: The vulnerability of disaster-prone areas. The necessity of adopting flexible learning modalities, such as modular or online learning, during in-person class suspensions. The importance of balancing safety and academic progress. 2. Scope The guidelines are mandatory for: All public schools. DepEd-operated Community Learning Centers under the Alternative Learning System (ALS). Private schools and educati...
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🧼 Constructing Effective Group Washing Facilities in Schools: A Comprehensive Guide 🛠️

Creating group washing facilities in schools is a practical yet impactful move toward improving hygiene and reducing disease transmission among learners. Whether your school is located in an urban center or a rural area with limited access to water, establishing these handwashing stations is not only feasible but also crucial. This detailed guide walks you through designing, building, and maintaining effective and affordable group washing facilities that meet the standards for school health and safety.

🧼 Constructing Effective Group Washing Facilities in Schools

💧Why Group Washing Facilities Are Essential for Schools

With the rise of health awareness, particularly after the global COVID-19 pandemic, group handwashing stations have become a vital component of school infrastructure. They promote daily hygiene routines, reduce absenteeism caused by communicable diseases, and teach students lifelong sanitation habits.

To comply with standard benchmarks like the Three-Star WASH in Schools (WinS) rating system, schools must scale up their efforts. At Star 1, a single facility is sufficient, but to reach Star 2, the school should maintain a 1:200 facility-to-learner ratio. For Star 3, a 1:100 ratio is required.

🏗️ Key Design Considerations for Group Washing Facilities

When planning your group handwashing facility, consider the following:

  • Water Access: Not all schools have piped water. A refillable bucket system or reservoir ensures usage even during interruptions. A self-contained bucket with tap outlets is a good starting point.

  • Drainage: Avoid stagnant water by installing proper drainage systems. In areas without existing systems, build soak pits or use plant beds to absorb wastewater.

  • Materials: Cost-effective options like tippy taps, punched pipes, or hollow bamboo are ideal for budget-conscious schools. These materials are both indigenous and sustainable.

  • Location: Install the facility close to classrooms. This minimizes transition time and increases usage. Ensure safe walkways and overhead protection for all-weather access.

🧒 Features of a Child-Friendly Group Washing Facility

A well-designed child-friendly washing station includes:

  • A height of 80 cm to accommodate children comfortably

  • 10 outlets accessible from both sides, enabling 20 learners to wash simultaneously

  • Refillable water buckets (20 liters) for manual operation

  • Optional basins and roofs for added utility and protection

  • Soap holders, 1.5 mm punched holes for controlled water flow

  • Drainage options: sloped concrete, troughs, or gravel beds

🔧 Types of Group Washing Facilities by Budget Level

1. Low-Budget Solution (DIY Hanging Bottle System) 💸

  • Best for: Schools with no water access or low pressure

  • Materials: Used bottles, bamboo or wood frames, nylon string

  • Water Source: Learners bring water from home

  • Cost: ₱150 for materials, labor via volunteer work

  • Durability: 1–2 years

  • Maintenance: Daily refilling, replacement of broken bottles

💡 Not in use? Simply hang the water bottles upright to prevent leaks.

2. Midrange Budget Solution – “WASHALOT” System 🚿

  • Best for: Schools with irregular water supply

  • Materials: PVC or galvanized iron pipes, covered plastic container, wooden/metal posts

  • Water Source: Piped water + refillable container

  • Cost: ₱3,500 + minimal labor

  • Durability: 5–8 years

  • Maintenance: Water refilling, cleaning, valve unclogging

💧 Includes an additional valve for personal handwashing when needed.

3. High-Budget Solution – Permanent Infrastructure 🏢

  • Best for: Schools with regular and strong water supply

  • Materials: Cement, steel bars, tiles, PVC or GI pipes

  • Water Source: Direct piped system

  • Cost: ₱10,000 per 6-meter section + ₱5,000 for labor

  • Durability: 5–8 years

  • Maintenance: Professional cleaning, water budget, valve replacements

🌼 Drainage can be incorporated into flowerbeds for eco-friendly water disposal.

🤝 Community Involvement: A Key to Sustainability

No facility is sustainable without community support. Engage parents, teachers, and local leaders from the beginning. Let them participate in planning, fundraising, and construction. This not only reduces costs but also strengthens ownership, ensuring long-term maintenance and use.

🧼 The 30-Minute Challenge: Efficient Washing for 400 Learners

A school can enable 400 learners to wash their hands in 30 minutes by:

  • Using 10 group washing facilities, each with 10 outlets

  • Coordinating learners to take turns at 5 faucets per group

  • Organizing time efficiently and ensuring soap availability

This setup promotes speed, efficiency, and hygiene—while aligning with the WinS indicators.

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