DOLE sets proper ventilation guidelines for workplaces

In support to the national government’s continuing efforts to prevent and control the spread of COVID 19 virus, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Sec. Silvestre H. Bello III signed Department Order No. 224-21 (DO No. 224-21) which sets the guidelines for the strict implementation of adequate ventilation inside the workplaces and in public transport.

DO No. 224-21 specifies proper ventilation as a preventive measure against the spread of the virus in all commercial and industrial establishments, projects, sites, and all other places, where work is being undertaken indoors.

“This is also to enforce the Occupational Safety and Health Standards in all workplaces. We want to protect the workers and the clients by providing adequate ventilation that flushes out the COVID 19 virus which is spread through the free flow of air in the work places,” DOLE-6 Regional Director Cyril L. Ticao said.

Among the recommendations is to maximize natural ventilation through doors, windows and other openings in the non-air-conditioned workspaces.

The use of mechanical ventilation such as fans to supply fresh and extract contaminated air is also encouraged if natural ventilation is not available. Windows and other openings should be cleaned regularly.

For air-conditioned spaces, ventilation system should run for at least 30 minutes before and after spaces are occupied. Exhaust fans should be kept continuously open and air filters applicable to the air-conditioning system shall also be installed.

DOLE also recommends that the local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system in the workplaces should be equipped with proper air cleaning device to treat, filter and minimize airborne contaminants.  When workers are present, the LEV must operate continuously to ensure added air exchange in the workplaces.

RD Ticao is confident that private companies will abide with DOLE’s recommendations.

“We believe that the employers understand the importance of a well-ventilated workplaces during these times of the pandemic and they recognize their responsibility in keeping the workers safe.”

Aside from the existing health protocols, DO No. 224-21 also pushes for the implementation of proper ventilation for public transport.  This includes provision of natural ventilation and access to open air and by not using recirculated air option for the vehicle’s ventilation during passenger transport. Operators are also advised to post COVID 19 information and education materials in transport vehicles.

To promote healthy workplaces, the DOLE inspectors will visit and encourage private establishments to give importance to proper ventilation as a measure to prevent and control the spread of COVID 19 virus.