The Department of Education Regional Office I (DepEd-ROI) received a Safety Seal Certification for complying with the minimum public health standards (MPHS) set by the government.
“The Safety Seal itself does not really assure safety in our workplace, but it is an important marker to earn the confidence of our client and our personnel in the office that we are striving to ensure safe health for everyone,” said Regional Director Tolentino G. Aquino.
Each functional division, section, and unit of the DepEd ROI underwent a thorough evaluation and assessment before the issuance of the certification.
DepEd received the Safety Seal Certification from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) at San Fernando City, La Union early this week.
Personnel from the DILG, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted a separate inspection in all the regional office’s buildings to substantiate compliance as provided for by the implementing guidelines.
As stated in the DOLE-DOH-DILG-DOT-DTI joint memorandum circular no. 21-01 Series 2021, the Safety Seal Certification Program (SSCP) affirms that an establishment has been found compliant with the minimum public health standards (MPHS) set by the government, including the adoption or integration with the StaySafe.ph in contact tracing application.
The enforcement of MPHS includes putting up of Screening or Triage area where employees submit health declaration and symptoms are assessed; observance of physical distancing; and wearing of facemasks, face shields, and other protective outer garments.
MPHS enforcement also includes disinfection protocol; availability of handwashing stations, soap and sanitizers, and hand drying equipment or supplies to employees and visitors.
Those who enforce MPHS must also establish a referral system for medical and psychosocial services; and designation of a safety officer who will monitor the status of employees quarantined or isolated.
“Likewise, the Safety Seal will remind us all to prioritize safety in the work area at all times,” Aquino said.
The seal was posted in conspicuous places in all buildings of the regional office.