What are the health standards for limited face-to-face classes?

The Department of Education (DepEd) has released a set of stringent health standards for the resumption of limited face-to-face classes in areas where there is low risk of COVID-19 transmission.

The guidelines, according to Education Secretary Leonor Briones, were formed in consultation with the Department of Health, and the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging and Infectious Diseases.

Limited face-to-face classes will be allowed starting January of next year as DepEd still has to conduct assessments and site visits of schools for the program between August and January 2021.

READ: Limited face-to-face classes can start by January 2021

The following are the health standards that should be observed in schools that will be allowed to hold face-to-face classes by next year:

1. No mask, no entry policy in school premises
2. Hand washing and hand hygiene
3. Regular disinfection in school premises
4. Checking for temperature and respiratory illness symptoms
5. Reduction in class size to 15 to 20 (maximum) students, and physical arrangement of seats conforming with required physical distances
6. Intermittent attendance to school only, to complement distance learning
7. Control of flow of learners and personnel in school entrance and exit
8. No mass gatherings
9. Visible instructions, signages, and markings
10. Preparedness and case management system in coordination with local government units and local health authorities for contact tracing, isolation and treatment.