Cebu City - The height of a child is one of the measurements to be taken every Operation Timbang Plus to be done by the members of the OPT Team. This data is then consolidated to be part of the regional and national databases. Having good quality data right at the barangay level is crucial and the OPT Team shall follow the standards of data quality.

There are several recommended tools for measuring length and height such as the wooden height board (HB), the aluminum-acrylic height board, the stadiometer, and the measuring mat, each having its own special qualities. See the User's Manual for instructions on how to use and properly maintain the tools. The National Nutrition Council's Governing Board Resolution No. 3, Series 2018 is also available to guide local government implementers in fabricating height boards.

There are also separate guidelines on tools or equipment to be used in height/length taking. In addition, these tools and equipment must be calibrated and verified before use. The protocols must be followed to measure a child's length or height to obtain accurate, precise, and dependable OPT Plus data. // DMO II Christine Lopez, RND