DepEd issues guidelines in handling chemicals in schools

A week after a chemical leak accident struck the San Isidro National High School in Makati City, the Education department issued Tuesday strict guidelines that would govern the handling of science laboratory equipment and chemicals in secondary schools. "The key here is to make sure that our students and teachers are aware of the dangers involved in handling chemical substances before using them," Education Secretary Jesli Lapus said in issuing DepEd Order 48 or the Observance of Safety Measures in Science Laboratories. In addition to the directive, Lapus also ordered the distribution of safety manuals for secondary schools. He said strict adherence to the safety guidelines is vital in preventing any untoward incidents. The manual features guidelines on the observance of safety measures in the conduct of laboratory activities, as well as in the management of hazards involved in the handling and storage of chemicals and equipment in science laboratories. As stated in the order, school heads should also implement the said safety regulations and assign full-time laboratory custodians to take charge of the monitoring and maintenance of their respective science laboratories. "The school heads are also required to immediately report incidents of laboratory accidents to proper authorities, namely Department of Natural Resources, Department of Health, and Department of Science and Technology for proper management of the situation," the order read. On November 26, a storage cabinet at the San Isidro High School collapsed, causing bottles of unidentified laboratory chemicals to spill and mix together. At least 10 teachers and staff who were exposed to the fumes were taken to a hospital after they vomited and showed skin rashes. It remained unclear whether classes have resumed in the said school, although authorities have said that the suspension of classes may last up to one month. In February, a mercury spill inside a school laboratory shut down a private school in Parañaque City for three months. - GMANews.TV