How to Use This Competency Based Learning Materials

Welcome to the Module “Participating in Workplace Communication”.

This module contains training materials and activities for you to complete.

The unit of competency “Participating in Workplace Communication”

contains knowledge, skills and attitudes required for a Massage Therapy NC
II Qualification.

From the very beginning of your training, you must educate yourself
as to the potential benefits and hazards of performing reflexology on certain
clients. This module should help encourage you to further your studies and
help you in developing clinical reasoning.

You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order

to complete each of the learning outcomes of the module. In each learning
outcome are Information Sheets, Job Sheets, Operation Sheets, and Activity
Sheets. Follow these activities on your own. If you have questions, don’t
hesitate to ask your facilitator for assistance.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

You may already have some of the knowledge and skills covered in
this module because you have:
 Been working for some time
 Already have completed training in this area

If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a

particular skill or skills, talk to him/her about having them formally
recognized so you don’t have to do the same training again. If you have a
qualification or Certificate of Competency from previous trainings show it to
your trainer. If the skills you acquired are still current and relevant to this
module, they may become part of the evidence you can present for RPL. If
you are not, sure about the currency of your skills, discuss it with your
trainer.

This module was prepared to help achieve the required competency in

Massage Therapy NC II.

When you have completed this module and feel confident that you
have had sufficient practice, tell your trainer that you are ready for
assessment. He will arrange an appointment with a registered assessor to
assess you. The results of your assessment will be recorded in your
competency Achievement Record.
 LIST OF COMPETENCIES

No. Unit of Competency Module Title Code

Participate in Participating
1 workplace in workplace 500311105
communication communication
Working in a
Work in a team
2 team 500311106
environment
environment

Practice career Practicing career

3 500311107
professionalism professionalism

Practicing
Practice Occupational Occupational
4 Health and Safety Health and 500311108
procedures Safety
procedures

MODULE CONTENT
QUALIFICATION : Massage Therapy NC II

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : Participate in workplace communication

MODULE TITLE : Participating in workplace

communication

NOMINAL DURATION :4 Hours

INTRODUCTION:
This module covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to
obtain, interpret and convey information in response to workplace
requirements.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
1. Obtain and convey workplace information
2. Participate in workplace meeting and discussion
3. Complete relevant work related documents.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Specific relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources.
2. Effective questioning and active listening and speaking are used to
gather and convey information.
3. Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas.
4. Appropriate non-verbal communication is used.
5. Appropriate lines of communication with superiors and colleagues are
identified and followed.
6. Defined work procedures for the location and storage of information
are used.
7. Personnel interaction is carried out clearly and concisely.
8. Team meetings are attended on time.
9. Own opinions are clearly expressed and those of others are listened to
without interruption.
10. Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and
established protocols.
11. Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner.
12. Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and
maters concerning working conditions of employment are asked and
responded to.
13. Meetings outcomes are interpreted and implemented.
 Learning Outcome # 1: OBTAIN AND CONVEY
WORKPLACE INFORMATION

CONTENTS:
 Effective communication
 Different modes of communication
 Written communication
 Organizational policies
 Communication procedures and systems
 Technology relevant to the enterprise and the individual’s work
responsibilities
 Follow simple spoken language
 Perform routine workplace duties following simple written notices
 Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
 Complete work related documents
 Estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures
 Basic mathematical processes of addition, subtraction, division and
multiplication
 Ability to relate to people of social range in the workplace
 Gather and provide information in response to workplace
Requirements

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA: All topics are understood.

CONDITIONS:
Students/trainees must be provided with the following:
1. Paper
2. Pencils/ball pen
3. References (books)
4. Manuals
5. TRAINING MATERIALS
Competency Based Learning Material on Massage Therapy NCII
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
1. Written Test
2. Questioning
 LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Learning Activities Specific Instruction

1. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. After reading
1.1-1 INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.1-1
proceed SELF
CHECK 1.1-1
2. Answer SELF CHECK 1.1-1 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.1-1
3. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your
SHEET 1.1-1 answers, you can
proceed to
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.1-2
4. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. After reading
1.1-2 INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.1-
2proceed SELF
CHECK 1.1-2
5. Answer SELF CHECK 1.1-2 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.1-2

6. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your

SHEET 1.1-2 answers, you can
proceed to NEXT LO
 INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-1

WHAT IS EFFECTIVE WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION?

Workplace communication is the process of exchanging information,

both verbal and non-verbal, within an organization.

Effective workplace communication is based on listening, being

courteous and body language awareness. Effective workplace
communication is based on interpersonal, professional relationships that
are developed through a keen awareness of courtesy, attentive listening,
active participation and situation appropriate body language.

Effective communication is also a two-way street. It’s not only how you
convey a message so that it is received and understood by someone in
exactly the way you intended, it’s also how you listen to gain the full
meaning of what’s being said and to make the other person feel heard and
understood.

More than just the words you use, effective communication combines
a set of skills including nonverbal communication, engaged listening,
managing stress in the moment, the ability to communicate assertively, and
the capacity to recognize and understand your own emotions and those of
the person you’re communicating with.

Attitude and Demeanor

Your attitude and demeanor should be courteous, clear and
consistent. Being courteous gives others the impression that you care and
have an investment in the professional relationship.

Body Language
Body language is perhaps the biggest part of effective workplace
communication because of its “tells”—gestures and facial expressions tell
the listener what you are thinking or what your attitude is regardless of
what you are verbalizing

Identifying Workplace Communication Obstacles

The most common workplace communication barriers are:
1. non-attentive listening
2. interrupting others
3. inappropriate reaction
4. jumping to conclusions
5. failure to recognize body language synchronicity - having your actions
match your words and tone
6. gender differences - recognizing and accepting that women and men
communicate differently; women gesticulate more to demonstrate
what they are saying and use more words then men when
communicating.
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.1-1

ENUMERATION:

1. Enumerate the three basis of effective workplace communication.

A. ____________________________________
B. ____________________________________
C. ____________________________________

2. Enumerate the most common workplace communication barriers.

A. ____________________________________
B. ____________________________________
C. ____________________________________
D. ____________________________________
E. ____________________________________
F. ____________________________________
 ANSWER SHEET NO. 1.1-1

ENUMERATION 1

A. Listening
B. Being courteous
C. Body language awareness

ENUMERATION 2

A. non-attentive listening
B. interrupting others
C. inappropriate reaction
D. jumping to conclusions
E. failure to recognize body language synchronicity
F. gender differences.
 INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.1-2

IMPROVINGCOMMUNICATION SKILLS

While effective communication is a learned skill, it is more effective

when it’s spontaneous rather than formulaic. A speech that is read, for
example, rarely has the same impact as a speech that’s delivered (or appears
to be delivered) spontaneously. Of course, it takes time and effort to develop
these skills and become an effective communicator. The more effort and
practice you put in, the more instinctive and spontaneous your
communication skills will become.

Barriers to effective Interpersonal Communication

 Stress and out-of-control emotion. When you’re stressed or

emotionally overwhelmed, you’re more likely to misread other people,
send confusing or off-putting nonverbal signals, and lapse into
unhealthy knee-jerk patterns of behavior. Take a moment to calm
down before continuing a conversation.
 Lack of focus. You can’t communicate effectively when you’re
multitasking. If you’re planning what you’re going to say next,
daydreaming, checking text messages, or thinking about something
else, you’re almost certain to miss nonverbal cues in the conversation.
You need to stay focused on the moment-to-moment experience.
 Inconsistent body language. Nonverbal communication should
reinforce what is being said, not contradict it. If you say one thing, but
your body language says something else, your listener will likely feel
you’re being dishonest. For example, you can’t say “yes” while shaking
your head no.
 Negative body language. If you disagree with or dislike what’s being
said, you may use negative body language to rebuff the other person’s
message, such as crossing your arms, avoiding eye contact, or tapping
your feet. You don’t have to agree, or even like what’s being said, but
to communicate effectively without making the other person defensive,
it’s important to avoid sending negative signals.

How to improve Communication Skills:

1. Become an engaged listener

Listening well means not just understanding the words or the
information being communicated, but also understanding the
emotions the speaker is trying to communicate.

2. Pay attention to nonverbal signals

Nonverbal communication, or body language, includes facial
expressions, body movement and gestures, eye contact, posture, the
tone of your voice, and even your muscle tension and breathing. The
 way you look, listen, move, and react to another person tell them more
about how you’re feeling than words alone ever can.

3. Keep stress in check

To communicate effectively, you need to be aware of and in
control of your emotions. And that means learning how to manage
stress. When you’re stressed, you’re more likely to misread other
people, send confusing or off-putting nonverbal signals, and lapse into
unhealthy knee-jerk patterns of behavior.

4. Assert yourself

Direct, assertive expression makes for clear communication and

can help boost self-esteem and decision-making. Being assertive
means expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs in an open and
honest way, while standing up for yourself and respecting others. It
does NOT mean being hostile, aggressive, or demanding. Effective
communication is always about understanding the other person, not
about winning an argument or forcing your opinions on others.
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.1-2

ENUMERATION: Enumerate the four barriers to effective interpersonal

communication.

1. _____________________________________
2. _____________________________________
3. _____________________________________
4. _____________________________________
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.1-2

1. Stress and out-of-control emotion. 

2. Lack of focus. 
3. Inconsistent body language
4. Negative body language
 Learning Outcome # 2: PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE
MEETING AND DISCUSSION

CONTENTS:
 Effective communication
 Different modes of communication
 Written communication
 Organizational policies
 Communication procedures and systems
 Technology relevant to the enterprise and the individual’s work
responsibilities
 Follow simple spoken language
 Perform routine workplace duties following simple written notices
 Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
 Complete work related documents
 Estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures
 Basic mathematical processes of addition, subtraction, division and
multiplication
 Ability to relate to people of social range in the workplace
 Gather and provide information in response to workplace
Requirements

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA: All topics are understood.

CONDITIONS:
Students/trainees must be provided with the following:
1. Paper
2. Pencils/ball pen
3. References (books)
4. Manuals
5. TRAINING MATERIALS
Competency Based Learning Material on Massage Therapy NCII
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
1. Written Test
2. Questioning
 LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Learning Activities Specific Instructions

1. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.2-1 After reading
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.2-1
proceed SELF
CHECK 1.2-1
2. Answer SELF CHECK 1.2-1 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.2-1
3. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your
SHEET 1.2-1 answers, you can
proceed to
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.2-2
4. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.2-2 After reading
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.2-2
proceed SELF
CHECK 1.2-2
5. Answer SELF CHECK 1.2-2 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.2-2

6. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your

SHEET 1.2-2 answers, you can
proceed to
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.2-3
7. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.2-3 After reading
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.2-3
proceed SELF
CHECK 1.2-3
8. Answer SELF CHECK 1.2-3 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.2-3

9. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your

SHEET 1.2-3 answers, you can
proceed to NEXT L.O.
 INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.2-1

TEAM MEETINGS

A team meeting is usually a gathering of all member of a particular

team. Team meetings are usually convened to keep members informed of
any new developments and to discuss the present situation. It is a good
forum wherein members can discuss their problems and come up with
solutions. In addition is an ideal setting for some decision making. Any new
ideas or innovations can also be discussed.

How Meetings Can Affect Team Success

If people feel that meetings are well run, productive, and a good use of
their time, they are most likely operating well as a team. The team needs
some help working to create a more cohesive unit. 
Properly conducted and engaging meetings make teams function more
efficiently. If you feel that your team meetings have gotten too far off track to
even know where to begin, it can help to have a third party vendor reset
team norms to get you working more productively. 

The Benefits of Team Meetings

Is it even important that teams meet on a regular basis? Yes,
definitely. Meetings are important for more reasons than just getting the job
done. They:
 provide regular communication among team members to align
everyone on a common understanding of team activities and needs.
 provide an opportunity for group innovation and creative
brainstorming.
 help develop work skills, deepen interpersonal relationships, and
boost team morale. 
When meetings are perceived as non-productive by the team, they
have a negative impact which extends beyond the actual meeting into
everyday work. When team meetings are lacking focus and perceived
as a waste of time, this negative impression carries over into team
dynamics and a loss of confidence in the team. 

Tips for making an effective Team Meeting:

1. Maintain focus
2. Less is more
3. Prepare the agenda before hand
4. Be action oriented
5. Get feedback
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.2-1

ENUMERATION: Give the three benefits of team meetings.

1. _______________________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________________
3. _______________________________________________________
 ANSWER KEY NO. 1.2-1

1. Provide regular communication among team members to align

everyone on a common understanding of team activities and needs.
2. Provide an opportunity for group innovation and creative
brainstorming.
3. Help develop work skills, deepen interpersonal relationships, and
boost team morale. 
 INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.2-2

MASSAGE THERAPY PROTOCOLS: WHAT CAN THE CLIENT EXPECT IN

A FIRST MASSAGE VISIT

Most people receive massages in a place that is designated for

massage. The environments vary, but the most common is a commercial
setting, such as a spa, wellness center, or massage clinic. However, massage
is becoming increasing common in other settings such as hospitals and
rehabilitation clinics. On site chair massage is also offered in environments
such as malls or airports, sporting events, or private parties.

Before the massage

First of all, make sure it is a good time for you to have a massage.
Reschedule your visit if have a fever, skin irritations (sunburn), or if you are
trying to stabilize your medication (because massage can affect the dosage
needed).

In the days before your massage, drink plenty of water. Do not eat just
before your massage. Give yourself enough time to arrive on time and
relaxed. If you are rushing and arrive stressed, it will take longer to get into
a relaxed state.

Health History

Generally, first appointments begin with an intake process, starting

with a health history. Arrive early for your first visit to fill it out. Generally, a
health history will ask about:

 Medical conditions
 Areas of concern
 Your level of pain or discomfort on good and bad days
 What helps reduce the pain and what makes it worse
 Contact information

Interview

The massage therapist will review your health history and ask
questions. Because massage can affect multiple body systems, such as the
cardiovascular and nervous systems, be honest with the massage therapist
about your health. You should also let the therapist know about any
pharmaceutical drugs or botanical medicines you are taking, because
massage can enhance or reduce the effect of pharmaceutical drugs, such as
blood pressure medication. Knowing your history allows a therapist to
determine if there are any reasons you should avoid massage or a particular
technique.

The massage therapist will ask you questions to better design a

session that meets your needs and goals within the time allotted. Let the
therapist know what areas of your body you would like worked on, if there
are any areas to avoid, and if you have any techniques that you would like
to use or avoid. If you are concerned about undressing, discuss it with the
therapist, who should be able to offer you some options. Don't be afraid to
discuss any apprehensions or concerns. All information you give is
confidential.

When you are ready, lie down on the massage table and cover yourself
with the sheet or other draping on the table. The therapist will knock before
re-entering.

During the massage

Generally, you will lie on a massage table, covered by a sheet or large
towel. Make sure you are comfortable and let the therapist know if you are
not. Tell the therapist if you are cold, want to be covered, don't want an area
of your body touched, don't like the music, or are experiencing discomfort
with the technique or how it is being applied. Remember, you are in charge,
and can ask for changes or stop the session at any time.

Draping

A professional massage therapist will never expose genitals or breasts,

or any other areas you identify. Only the area the therapist is working on
will be exposed.

How to get the most from your massage

 Be as open to the process as you can.

 Relax and try let your thoughts go. One way to do this is to focus on
how the touch or technique feels.
 Remember to breathe, as this helps you relax. Sometimes people hold
their breath when a sensitive area is massaged, but it is best to
breathe through it.
 In the same way, tightening your muscles during the massage is
counterproductive. If you can't seem to relax your muscles, let your
massage therapist know. They may need to adjust the massage
technique.

After the massage

At the end of the massage, the therapist will leave the room so you
can dress in private. Wait a few minutes on the table as you get grounded,
especially if you feel light-headed. Then take your time getting ready.

When you leave the treatment room and enter into the reception area,
the therapist will offer you a glass of water. It is a good idea to drink some
water to help the body flush waste products.

If possible, allow some quiet time after the massage and don't go back
to work or other responsibilities immediately.
 How you feel after the massage will vary based on the style of massage
used, the length of the session, and the demands you place on your body
afterward. Feelings range from being relaxed, renewed and centered, to
invigorated, excited or experiencing a rush of clarity or new energy and
insight, to recognizing your true level of fatigue (particularly if you can be
"off duty" for the rest of the day) and wanting only to rest.

Clinical types of massage may leave the body free from chronic
tightness or acute pain patterns, but may replace it with a mild soreness
from the pressure applied. After this type of massage, you may want to rest
the area before jumping back into the activity that produced the soreness.

Realize that the benefits of massage tend to be cumulative, so

typically, you will feel better as you get additional massages.
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.2-2

ESSAY: Describe your own experience handling a first time client.

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
 ANSWER KEY NO. 1.2-2

Answers will be checked by the trainer.

 INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.2-3

THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERACTION IN WORKPLACE ISSUES

Employees need to interact to solve problems effectively. Avoiding

disagreements just causes more friction over time.

Common sources of problems in the workplace include:

 limited resources such as time or materials
 conflicts of interest
 insufficient definition of responsibilities

Employees who interact effectively overcome stereotypes and

misconceptions to work more productively. Despite equal opportunity and
fair hiring regulations, organizations still need to value diversity and
tolerance to improve day-to-day interactions between workers.

Reducing Workplace Discrimination

By providing employees with opportunities to share cultural traditions
and participate in role-playing exercises to practice solving problems in non-
traditional ways, you help workers become more tolerant of other
viewpoints.
Human resource professionals help organizations by running
workshops and seminars to allow people to practice these interactions. By
recognizing their perceptions and attitudes toward others with unfamiliar
backgrounds, participants start to develop new ways of working that
minimize workplace discrimination.

Maximizing Job Satisfaction

Unresolved conflict often leads to disruptions in workflow. Feelings of
unhappiness, dissatisfaction and depression result in poor relationships,
aggressive behavior and sometimes violence in the workplace. Successful
leaders promote effective communication strategies to help employees
resolve disputes quickly.
When employees interact productively, they work together to analyze
the root causes of problems, identify the nature of the issues and propose
possible solutions. Without effective communication, messages are sent, but
the receiver fails to comprehend the meaning and take appropriate action.

Creating a Collaborative Environment

The more people work together, the more potential exists for conflict.
Building effective teams and establishing clear roles and responsibilities
minimizes the negative aspects of teamwork. When you define clear
objectives at the beginning of a project, you help prevent misunderstandings
about priorities later on.
When conflicts arise, you can reduce friction between opposing parties
by assessing if the conflict occurs because of a workplace issue or a
personality difference. For example, if one employee can't complete work
because another employee fails to provide her with the necessary
information, the conflict can be resolved by addressing the workflow issue.
In other cases, personality-based conflicts arise because of working style.
For example, if one member of the team works best under pressure
while another prefers to get work done well in advance, their interactions
may be stressful and tense. By teaching employees how to work things out
and find a compromise that works for both parties, you ensure greater
productivity in the workplace.

Impact of Stress and Tension

When employees avoid each other, productivity and job satisfaction
tends to decrease. Employee retention rates decrease and absenteeism
increases. Helping employees recognize the warning signs of excessive stress
can help them cope and prevent burnout.
Employees who worry excessively tend to have health problems,
difficulties with their personal and professional relationships and trouble
getting work done. By conducting focus groups and encouraging employees
to solve problems together, you help restore productive and provide remedial
solutions to ongoing issues.
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.2-3

ENUMERATION: Enumerate the common sources of problems in the

workplace.

1.
2.
3.
 ANSWER KEY NO. 1.2-3

Common sources of problems in the workplace include:

1. limited resources such as time or materials
2. conflicts of interest
3. insufficient definition of responsibilities
 Learning Outcome # 3: COMPLETE RELEVANT WORK
RELATED DOCUMENTS

CONTENTS:
 Effective communication
 Different modes of communication
 Written communication
 Organizational policies
 Communication procedures and systems
 Technology relevant to the enterprise and the individual’s work
responsibilities
 Follow simple spoken language
 Perform routine workplace duties following simple written notices
 Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
 Complete work related documents
 Estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures
 Basic mathematical processes of addition, subtraction, division and
multiplication
 Ability to relate to people of social range in the workplace
 Gather and provide information in response to workplace
Requirements

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA: All topics are understood.

CONDITIONS:
Students/trainees must be provided with the following:
1. Paper
2. Pencils/ball pen
3. References (books)
4. Manuals
5. TRAINING MATERIALS
Competency Based Learning Material on Massage Therapy NCII
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
1. Written Test
2. Questioning
 LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Learning Activities Specific Instructions

1. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.3-1 After reading
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.3-1
proceed SELF
CHECK 1.3-1
2. Answer SELF CHECK 1.3-1 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.3-1
3. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your
SHEET 1.3-1 answers, you can
proceed to
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.3-2
4. Read INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.3.2 After reading
INFORMATION
SHEET NO. 1.3-2
proceed SELF
CHECK 1.3-2
5. Answer SELF CHECK 1.3-2 After answering,
proceed to ANSWER
KEY 1.3-2

6. Compare your answers to ANSWER After comparing your

SHEET 1.3-2 answers, you can
proceed to NEXT L.O.
 INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.3-1

MASSAGE THERAPY CORE DOCUMENTS

1. REVISED RULES AND REGULATIONS TO GOVERN THE

ACCREDITATION OF SPA ESTABLISHMENTS

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
MANILA

REVISED RULES AND REGULATIONS

TO GOVERN THE ACCREDITATION OF SPA ESTABLISHMENTS

PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO.120

DATED JANUARY 30, 1987, THE RULES AND REGULATIONS TO GOVERN
THE ACCREDITATION OF SPA, WHICH WAS PROMULGATED ON 04 JULY
2002 AS AMENDED ON JULY 15, 2003, IS HEREBY REVISED TO
FURTHER ENHANCE SOME PROVISIONS RELATIVE TO THE OPERATION
OF A SPA ESTABLISHMENT IN ORDER TO ENSURE PROVISION OF
EXCELLENT SERVICE AND THAT THE FACILITIES CONFORM TO
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS .

CHAPTER 1
DEFINITIONOF TERMS

Section 1.Definition of Terms. – When used in these Rules, unless the

context otherwise indicates, the following terms shall mean as follows:

a. “Spa” - is an establishment that has a holistic approach to health and

wellness, rest and relaxation that aims to treat the body, mind and
spirit by integrating a range of professionally administered health,
wellness, fitness and beauty, water treatment and services.

b. “Esthetician” – is a licensed therapist who has undergone

training locally or internationally regarding the skin, face and neck
and likewise skilled in giving beauty treatments such as facials,
manicures and pedicures.

c.“Massage therapist” – is a certified licensed massage therapist who has

undergone extensive training either locally or internationally regarding
anatomy, physiology and multitude of massage techniques.

d. “Spa Therapist” – is a massage therapist properly trained by the Spa to

perform their particular treatments such as salt, scrub, wraps, etc.
treatments and must have proof of proper training on such.
e. “Day Spa” - is a spa offering a variety of professionally administered
spa services to clients on a day use basis including hair and beauty
salons and wellness clinics that shall offer at least one water
treatment.

f. “Destination/Resort Spa” - is a spa which has for its sole purpose to

provide clients with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement
through professionally administered spa services, physical fitness,
education programming and on-site accommodations where spa
cuisine or healthy food is offered.

g. “Hotel Spa” - is a spa located within a hotel/urban/out of town

providing professionally administered spa services, fitness and
wellness components.

h. “Cruise Spa” – is a spa aboard a cruise ship that provides

professionally administered spa services, fitness and wellness
components and spa cuisine menu choices.

i. “A Club Spa” – is a facility whose primary purpose is fitness, offering a

variety of professionally administered spa services on a day-use basis
to both club members and non-members.

j. “Medical Spa” – is an individual, solo practice, group and institution

comprised of medical and spa professionals whose primary purpose is
to provide comprehensive medical and wellness care in an
environment which integrates spa services, as well as conventional
and complementary therapies and treatments.

k. “Wellness Center” – is a spa which provides services and an

environment wherein the interconnectedness of diet, lifestyle,
exercise, relaxation and rejuvenation must exist in order to bring
about the balance.

l. “Rehabilitation Center” – is a spa which primarily focuses on

rehabilitation therapy for various accident or health induced
incapacity (strokes, heart, etc.) incorporating mainstream and
alternative modalities in order to bring the patients to its maximum
level of well being.

m. “Hospital Spa” – a hospital facility with a spa, wherein it integrates

mainstream medicine and other alternative approach to promote
healing and balance of mind, body and soul.

n. “Department or DOT” - is the Department of Tourism.

o. “DOH” - is the Department of Health.

 p. “Accreditation” - is the certification issued by the Department officially
recognizing the holder as having complied with the minimum
standards and requirements prescribed by the Department for the
operation and maintenance of spa.

CHAPTER II
MINIMUM STANDARD REQUIREMENTS

Section 3.Minimum Standard Requirements. – For purposes of

accreditation, the following are the minimum standard requirements for the
operation and maintenance of a spa establishment:

a. Location and Environment

The spa shall be situated in a safe and reputable location with clean,
calm and relaxing environment;

b. Lounge and Reception Counter

There shall be a reception counter attended by qualified and trained

staff and a reasonably furnished lounge with seating facilities
commensurate with the size of the spa;

c. Washrooms

There shall be separate clean and adequate public washrooms for

male and female provided with running water and adequate toiletries;

d. Locker Rooms

There shall be secured separate male and female public rooms for
guests;

e. Shower Rooms

There shall be separate male and female public shower and changing
rooms;

f. Treatment Rooms

There shall be separate unlocked public treatment rooms for male and
female;

g. Services

The spa shall provide the following services in addition to other spa-
related amenities which it may offer:
 1. Massages – Swedish, Shiatsu, reflexology ortui-na, Thai,
aromatherapy/Filipino healing modalities and/or other acceptable
massage treatments
2. Steam, sauna and/or water baths
3. Spa treatments – one or more of the following body packs and
wraps, exfoliation, body toning/contouring, waxing, hand,
foot/face care and hair

h. Staff

The staff shall be appropriately trained by the internationally

recognized training institutions and/or associations duly recognized
by the Department. Likewise, they shall be properly attired, clean and
well-groomed at all times;

i. Steam, Sauna and Water Baths

The steam, sauna and water baths shall be maintained in a level of

temperature which shall not cause adverse reactions to user. Safety
signages shall be provided to include information on allowable
maximum temperature, duration of stay and guide in operating
temperature regulator;

j. Linen

There shall be adequate supply of clean linen, towels and appropriate

garments such as robes or sarongs of good quality;

k. Administrative Facilities

There shall be sufficient and adequate space for backroom operations.

l. Employees’ Facilities

There shall be adequate and well-maintained employees’ lounge and

rest area equipped with bathrooms and dining room for male and
female employees;

m. Emergency Generator

There shall be a high-powered generator capable of providing full

power in all areas of the establishment.

n. Parking

There shall be adequate and secured parking space provided for

customers/guests;

o. First Aid
 A well-stocked first aid cabinet and staff trained in first aid shall be
available at all times; and

p. Facilities for Disabled

There shall be facilities and provisions for the disabled in accordance

with Batas PambansaBlg. 344 promulgated on May 1985, otherwise
known as an “Act Enhancing the Mobility of Disabled Persons”.

CHAPTER III
GENERAL RULES ON THE OPERATION AND
MAINTENANCE OF SPA ESTABLISHMENTS

Section 4.Client Folio. All clients shall be required to register and fill-up
consultancy forms prior to treatment by therapist to determine any
contraindication or special condition. The spa shall also maintain an
updated client file.

Section 5.Maintenance. Maintenanceof all sections of the spa

establishment shall be on a continuing basis taking into consideration the
quality of equipment and supplies.

Section 6.Sanitation. Sanitation measures like cleaning and sterilizing of

equipment, robes, sheets, blankets, pillow case, towels or other materials
which may come in direct contact with the client’s body shall be adopted in
accordance with the standards prescribed under Presidential Decree No.
856, otherwise known as the Sanitation Code of 1976.

Section 7.Fire-Fighting Facilities. Fire-fighting facilities shall be provided

in accordance with Presidential Decree 1185, otherwise known as the Fire
Code of 1978.

Section 8.Signboards. Appropriate signboards shall be conspicuously

displayed outside the establishment showing clearly the name of the spa
while safety signages shall be prominently posted in strategic locations
inside the spa.

Sec. 9.Non-Smoking Facility. The entire spa facility shall be a no smoking

facility.
 CHAPTER IV
APPLICATION FOR ACCREDITATION

Section 10.Filing of Application. Any person, partnership, corporation or

other entity desiring to secure an accreditation from the Department shall
accomplish and file with the Department, the application form prescribed for
such purpose. Each branch shall be covered by a separate accreditation
certificate.

Section 11. Supporting Documents to be Submitted with Application.

Unless otherwise indicated in the form, the application shall be
accompanied by the following documents:

a. In the case of corporation or partnership, a certified true copy of the

Articles of Incorporation, or Articles of Partnership and its by-laws
and amendments thereof, duly registered with the Securities and
Exchange Commission and Business Name Certificate, if applicable;
in the case of single proprietorship, Business Name Certificate duly
issued by the Bureau of Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection
(BTRCP) and amendments thereof, if any:

b. Updated list of management personnel and therapists and their

respective positions, nationalities and home addresses, certified by the
general manager and notarized;

c. Valid health certificate of all massage therapists duly issued by the

proper authority and Department of Health (DOH) license as massage
therapist for supervisors;

d. Mayor’s Permit and/or Municipal License; and

e. Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (if applicable).

Section 12.Creation of an Inspection Team. The Department shall create

a composite team with two (2) members from the Department to conduct
inspection of the facilities of applicant establishment within thirty (30) days
from filing of application.

Section 13.Ocular Inspection of Establishment and its Immediate

Premises. Upon receipt of its mission order, the inspection team shall
conduct an ocular inspection of the establishment and its immediate
premises for the purpose of determining whether it meets the standards set
by the Department for the establishment. There shall be an authorized and
responsible officer of the spa establishment accompanying the team during
the inspection.

Section 14. Checklist to be Accomplished during Ocular Inspection of

Establishment. The team shall provide itself with a set of checklist of the
requirements for the establishment. All deficiencies found, as well as the
requirements complied with shall be noted in the checklist.

Section 15. All Observations of the Applicant to be Entered by the

Team in the Checklist. Any observation of the applicant or its duly
authorized representative present at the time of the inspection on any
adverse findings of the team shall be entered in the checklist.

Section 16.Report of the Team. Within five (5) working days from the date
of the inspection of the establishment and its immediate premises, the team
shall render a report of its findings and/or recommendations and a copy
thereof shall then be provided the applicant.

Section 17.Issuance of Certificate of Accreditation, Sticker and

Identification Cards. If the applicant has satisfactorily complied with the
minimum prescribed requirements, the Department shall then issue the
Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker in favor of the applicant and
Identification Cards (optional) to bonafide employees of the establishment.

Section 18.Validity of Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker. The

certificate of accreditation and sticker shall be good and valid for a period of
one (1) year from the date of issue, unless, sooner revoked or cancelled by
the Department.

Section 19.Accreditation Fees. An annual fee of One Thousand Pesos

(P1,000.00) and additional One Hundred Pesos (P100.00) for accreditation
sticker shall be collected from the applicants that have complied with the
requirements for accreditation.

Section 20.Renewal of Accreditation. The accreditation shall be renewed

on or before its date of expiration.

CHAPTER V
SUPERVISION OF ACCREDITED ESTABLISHMENTS

Section 21.Display of Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker. The valid

certificate of accreditation and sticker shall be displayed in a conspicuous
place of the establishment.

Section 22.Non-Transferability of Certificate of Accreditation. The

Certificate of Accreditation shall be non-transferable.

Section 23.Periodic Inspection. When necessary or when the public good

dictates, the Department may send an inspection team to the establishment
for the purpose of finding out whether it is being kept and./or managed in a
manner conformable to the standards set by the Department. The
inspection shall be conducted at a reasonable time of the day with due
regard and respect accorded to the right of privacy of parties concerned.
Section 24. Defects and Deficiencies Found During the Inspection.
Where certain defects and deficiencies have been found in the course of the
inspection, the Department shall notify the operator or manager to rectify
the defects or deficiencies within a reasonable period of time.

Section 25.Penalty for Failure to Remedy the Defects and Deficiencies.

If the management fails to remedy the defects or deficiencies within the
prescribed period, the Department may revoke the Certificate of
Accreditation of the establishment.

Section 26.Liability of Operators/Managers for Acts or Omissions of its

Employees. Without prejudice to the provisions of existing laws,
operators/managers and their assistants shall be administratively liable for
the acts or omissions of any of its staff committed against any member or
guests. They may, however, be exempt from liability if they could establish
that they have exercised due diligence of a good father of the family in the
supervision of the erring employee.

CHAPTER VI
GROUNDS FOR CANCELLATION OF ACCREDITATION

Section 27.Grounds for Cancellation of Accreditation. Any of the

following acts or omissions shall be sufficient ground for the cancellation of
accreditation:

a. Making any false declaration or statement or making use of any such

declaration or statement or any document containing the same or
committing fraud or any act of misrepresentation for the purpose of
obtaining accreditation;

b. Failure to maintain the standards and requirements for accreditation

as prescribed in these Rules as well as in the Code of Ethics and
Standards of the Spa Association of the Philippines, Inc. or upon
recommendation of the standards of the Spa Association of the
Philippines, Inc.;

b. Allowing or permitting the establishment or its facilities to be used for

prostitution or any illegal, immoral or illicit activities;

c. Violation of or non-compliance with any of the provisions of these

Rules, promulgated orders, decisions and circulars issued by the
Department and other concerned government agencies; and

d. Any other act or omission that works against the interest of the
tourism industry.
 CHAPTER VII
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Section 28.Separability Clause. The provisions of these Rules are hereby

declared separable, and in the event that anyone or more of such provisions
are declared invalid, the validity of all other provisions shall not be affected
thereby.

Section 29.Repealing Clause. All existing Rules and Regulations or

Circulars issued by the Department of Tourism Governing the Accreditation
of Spa on the operations of tourism-related establishments subject of these
Rules which are inconsistent with the provisions of these Rules and
Regulations are hereby repealed and superseded accordingly.

Section 30.Effectivity. These Rules and Regulations shall take effect after
fifteen (15) days from date of publication in the official gazette or in a
newspaper of general circulation.

APPROVED AND PROMULGATED THIS 27TH DAY OF JUNE

2006.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES

JOSEPH ACE H. DURANO

Secretary

ATTESTED BY:

ATTY. OSCAR P. PALABYAB

Undersecretary
Tourism Services and Regional Offices

2. COMMITTEE OF EXAMINERS FOR MASSAGE THERAPY (CEMT)

How can I be a qualified to work as a massage therapist?

An individual needs to take the licensure examination for massage

therapist
 The CEMT is conducting the licensure examination twice a year (June
and December). The Examination consists of two (2) parts; written
 and oral/practical. The examinee has to pass the written
examination to qualify for the oral/practical examination. Once the
examinee passes the oral/practical examination, he/she will be
issued the Certificate of Registration (COR) and the ID as licensed
massage therapist
Renewal of ID is every three (3) years on the massage therapists birth
month and done in any of the DOH Center for Health Development
(CHD) Offices.

How did it come into existence?

Traditional medicine throughout the world recognizes the significance

of therapeutic massage in managing stress, illnesses or chronic
ailments
Massage therapy is one of the oldest healing arts. Chinese records
3,000 years back documented it; the ancient Hindus, Persians and
Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments. Hippocrates
wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint
and circulatory problems
Massage therapy is considered the oldest method of healing that
applies various techniques liked fixed or movable pressure, holding,
vibration, rocking, friction, kneading and compression using
primarily the hands and other areas of the body such as the
forearms, elbows or feet to the muscular structure and soft tissues
of the body.
Today, the benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching, as an
accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, proven to
be beneficial on many chronic conditions.

How is Massage Therapy being regulated by the DOH?

 DOH created the Committee of Examiners for Massage Therapy

(CEMT) in the DOH Central Office to regulate the practice of massage
therapy in accordance to the provisions of the Code on Sanitation of
the Philippines or Presidential Decree 856 (PD 856) and Executive
Order 102 (EO 102) s. 1999 Reorganization and Streamlining of the
DOH
 It provides the CEMT the function to ensure that only qualified
individuals enter the regulated profession and that the care and
services which massage therapists provide are within the standards of
practice.

Program Coordinator Team Members

Dr. Josephine Hipolito / Mr. Ryan B. Dordas

Health Human Resource Development and Planning Bureau (HHRDB)
Bldg. 12-A 2nd Floor DOH Compound, Sta. Cruz, Manila
Contact No.: 651-7800 local 4203, 4204, 4227

What are the recent developments on Massage Therapy Program?

The CEMT, in coordination with the stakeholders, is currently busy on the

following with the ultimate goal of professionalizing the massage therapy
practice

 Administrative Order No. 2010-0034 Revised Implementing Rules and

Regulations Governing Massage Clinics and Sauna Establishments
amending Chapter XIII of PD 856
 Memorandum dated 6 August 2010 to CHDs from HHRDB re:
Updated on the CEMT Program
 CEMT Resolution No. 2010-001 “Directing the Adoption of the Code of
Ethics for Massage Therapy Profession in the Philippines”
 Department Personnel Order No. 2011-0445 “Composition of DOH
Continuing Massage Therapy Education Council (CMTEC) for the Year
2011-2014”
 Department Circular No. 2009-0018 “Reiteration on the strict
implementation of CEMT resolutions regarding Massage Therapy
Program”
 CEMT Resolution No. 2009-001 “Creation of a Committee for
Continuing Massage Therapy Education Council (CMTEC)”
 Administrative Order No. 2008-0031 re: “Policies and Guidelines for
the Accreditation of Training Institutions, Training Programs and
Training Providers for Massage Therapists in the Philippines”
 CEMT Resolution No. 2008-002 “Accredited Training Institutions and
Training Providers for Massage Therapists for Year 2009-2012”
 Department Memorandum No. 2008-0009 “Designation of Human
Resource Development Units (HRDUs) of Centers for Health
Development (CHDs) as Coordinators for CEUE and CEMT”
 CEMT Resolution No. 2007-001 “Moratorium on the Renewal of
License of Massage Therapists for the Past Five (5) Years and Over”
 Developed/Formulated the following:
1. Competency Standards for Massage Therapists
2. Training Regulations
3. Curriculum for the Licensure Examination
4. Manual for the Licensure Examination
5. DOH Licensure Performance Protocols

 Conducted the following:

1. Training of Trainers for Examiners and Assessors – July 12-14,
2010
2. Training on Test Construction for Accredited Training Providers
– July 15-16, 2010
3. Conducting a Research on the Standardization of Professional
Competencies and Licensure Examination for Embalmers and
Massage Therapists” – 2010-2011, University of the Philippines
 Manila National Teacher Training Center for Health Professions
(UPMNTTCHP).

What are the requirements for the licensure examination?

Application requirements:

Certified True Copy of Birth Certificate

 (at least 18 years old at the time of examination)
 Certificate of Good Moral Character from barangay captain of the
community where the applicant resides
 Certification or Clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation
(NBI) or provincial fiscal that he/she is not convicted by the court of
any case involving moral turpitude.
 Medical Certificate from a government physician
 Certified true copy of Diploma or Transcript of Records (at least high
school graduate)
 Submit Marriage Contract for female married applicant
 Certification from any DOH accredited training institution/provider
that he/she has received basic instructions in five (5) subject areas
based on Program Curriculum
 Certification from any DOH accredited training institution/provider
that he/she has skilfully embalmed at least 10 cadavers within one
year period under his/her supervision
 Filled up application form (1 copy)
 1 ½ X 1 ½ size photograph taken within the last 6 months (3 copies)
 SELF-CHECK NO. 1.3-1

IDENTIFICATION:Identify the following.

1. __________________ is an establishment that has a holistic approach to

health and wellness, rest and relaxation that aims to treat the body,
mind and spirit by integrating a range of professionally administered
health, wellness, fitness and beauty, water treatment and services.
2. __________________ is a licensed therapist who has undergone training
locally or internationally regarding the skin, face and neck and likewise
skilled in giving beauty treatments such as facials, manicures and
pedicures.
3. __________________ is a certified licensed massage therapist who has
undergone extensive training either locally or internationally regarding
anatomy, physiology and multitude of massage techniques.
4. __________________ is a massage therapist properly trained by the Spa to
perform their particular treatments such as salt, scrub, wraps, etc.
treatments and must have proof of proper training on such.
5. __________________ is a spa offering a variety of professionally
administered spa services to clients on a day use basis including hair
and beauty salons and wellness clinics that shall offer at least one water
treatment.
6. __________________ is a spa which has for its sole purpose to provide
clients with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through
professionally administered spa services, physical fitness, education
programming and on-site accommodations where spa cuisine or healthy
food is offered.
7. __________________ is a spa located within a hotel/urban/out of town
providing professionally administered spa services, fitness and wellness
components.
8. __________________ is a spa aboard a cruise ship that provides
professionally administered spa services, fitness and wellness
components and spa cuisine menu choices.
9. __________________ is a facility whose primary purpose is fitness, offering
a variety of professionally administered spa services on a day-use basis
to both club members and non-members.
10. __________________ is an individual, solo practice, group and
institution comprised of medical and spa professionals whose primary
purpose is to provide comprehensive medical and wellness care in an
environment which integrates spa services, as well as conventional and
complementary therapies and treatments.
 ANSWER KEY NO. 1.3-1

1. Spa
2. Esthetician
3. Massage therapist
4. Spa Therapist
5. Day Spa
6. Destination/Resort Spa
7. Hotel Spa
8. Cruise Spa
9. Club Spa
10. Medical Spa
 INFORMATION SHEET NO. 1.3-2

INCIDENT REPORTS

In a health care facility, such as a hospital, nursing home, or assisted

living, an incident report or accident report is a form that is filled out in
order to record details of an unusual event that occurs at the facility, such
as an injury to a patient.
The purpose of the incident report is to document the exact details of
the occurrence while they are fresh in the minds of those who witnessed the
event. This information may be useful in the future when dealing with
liability issues stemming from the incident.
Generally, according to health care guidelines, the report must be
filled out as soon as possible following the incident (but after the situation
has been stabilized). This way, the details written in the report are as
accurate as possible.
Most incident reports that are written involve accidents with patients,
such as patient falls. But most facilities will also document an incident in
which a staff member or visitor is injured.
 SELF CHECK NO. 1.3-2

ESSAY: Write a short example of an incident report.

___________________________________________________________________________
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ANSWER KEY NO. 1.3-2

The trainer will check the answers of the trainee.