QuestionsQuestions (DOH ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 2007-0005)
It is to protect human health by controlling contamination of drinking water at the household level, especially where water becomes contaminated during storage or distribution, and to reduce diarrheal diseases and outbreaks by disinfecting water at point of consumption.
To set standards and procedures for household-based disinfection of drinking water using 1.25% sodium hypochlorite solution (NaHOCl).
They serve as a guide/reference for public health managers, health workers, communities, and families for proper treatment of drinking water to control outbreaks of diarrheal diseases; LGUs and the private sector are encouraged to adapt the policy.
Households should clarify the water by settling and/or filtration before chlorination; if those are not available, contaminated turbid water should be treated with a double dose of sodium hypochlorite.
Water with turbidity of less than 5 NTU is usually acceptable, but for effective disinfection turbidity should be 0.1 NTU because high turbidity can protect microorganisms, stimulate bacterial growth, and increase chlorine demand.
Preferably a container of at least 5 gallons (20 liters) with lid cover and faucet; it must be cleaned and washed before every refilling including lid and faucet, and the faucet must be covered when not in use to prevent contamination.
Add 3.5 ml (approximately 3/4 teaspoon) of 1.25% sodium hypochlorite to 20 liters of water.
At least 30 minutes before using the treated drinking water.
The smell of chlorine indicates proper treatment; the chlorine smell will gradually weaken as water is stored longer.
Use the container’s faucet when taking treated drinking water; use clean glass/small containers when getting water; cover the faucet with plastic wrap or cloth when not in use.
Chlorine solution works best with clear water free of suspended/floating materials; it is less effective in highly turbid water and certain pathogens like amoeba, and high turbidity increases chlorine demand and can shield microorganisms.
It is a clear green-yellow liquid chlorinated bleach, alkaline (pH > -11.5), lower in concentration than usual household bleach; it is a mild to moderate irritant that may cause eye/skin irritation, though generally diluted enough to cause no symptoms when it touches skin or eye.
Small pilot demonstration in high-incidence areas with low coverage; health education and promotion; private-public sector collaboration to make products available at reasonable cost; capacity building for field personnel; and provision of 1.25% sodium hypochlorite by DOH for affected communities particularly during emergencies.
LGUs lead implementation in partnership with DOH, can tap barangay officials or health workers to train residents on proper use of the 1.25% sodium hypochlorite solution in accordance with the Order.
NCDPC through EOHO provides technical assistance and develops strategies to scale up HWTS; CHDs monitor LGU implementation and provide technical/logistic assistance; the National Center for Health Promotion develops a national campaign and IEC materials and health advisories.
The NCDPC and CHDs shall conduct simple random sampling studies every year in areas using the 1.25% sodium hypochlorite to determine factors influencing effectiveness and social impact.
Provisions of previous orders and other related issuances inconsistent or contrary to this AO are revised, modified, repealed, or rescinded accordingly; other provisions not affected remain valid and effective.
It shall take effect immediately.