Question & AnswerQ&A (DOH)
It applies to the development of drinking water supply systems, establishment and operation of retail water systems or refilling stations, source and product water quality monitoring, drinking water in vending machines and dispensers, household and commercial water purification equipment, gadgets, devices, and bulk water handling, storage, and transportation.
An Approved Water Laboratory is a Department of Health-accredited water analysis laboratory.
An Approved Source is any water source such as spring, artesian well, drilled well, public or private water system, rainwater reservoir, or any other source that has undergone sanitary survey, obtained site clearance, constructed, sampled, analyzed, found safe and potable, and issued an operational permit and certificate of potability of drinking water.
Cross-Connection refers to any physical or other connection between a potable water supply system and any plumbing fixture, tank, receptacle or device through which it is possible for non-potable, contaminated, or polluted water or substances to enter any part of the potable water system under any condition.
Grounds include errors in plans and specifications, incorrect or inaccurate data in applications, non-compliance with permit terms, failure to repair rendering water unsafe, failure to disinfect after repairs, unauthorized changes in approved plans, and other causes that violate rules or DOH standards.
Applicants must submit an operational permit and certificate of potability of drinking water, plans and specifications of the water purification design signed by a licensed sanitary engineer, and comply with local health office evaluations. Additional construction or changes require a new permit.
Installation of backflow preventers approved by the local health office, ensuring no prohibited connections allow contaminants to enter potable water supply, and regular inspections and maintenance of these devices are required.
Violators shall be guilty of misdemeanor and upon conviction punished by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, a fine not exceeding Php 1,000.00, or both, depending on the court's discretion.
The committee monitors water supply operation and quality, evaluates water sampling and test results, assists in outbreak mitigation, and can recommend stoppage of water supply systems detrimental to public health.