FAQ: PPE CONSIDERATIONS
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5. When removing the respirator after use, precautions must be taken to avoid contaminants from
spreading. The mask should be disposed in a manner to avoid contaminating other surfaces.
https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/hcp/ppe-training/n95respirator_coveralls/doffing_16.html
6. Re-assess why respirators are used in the workplace and consider alternatives to eliminate the
need for this personal protective equipment. Eliminate tasks that require the use of respiratory
protection wherever possible or delay the work until appropriate PPE can be obtained. Controls
at the source of the hazard and along the path may offer better protection in the long run and be
more cost effective.
7. If you determine that disposable/single use respirators are the only feasible alternative, look
to other countries that have respirators. Note that the rating system may differ and the criteria
may be different from the N95 rating provided by NIOSH. https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/
media/1791500O/comparison-ffp2-kn95-n95-filtering-facepiece-respirator-classes-tb.pdf.
Ensure you purchase PPE from a reputable supplier. The FDA in the US has approved certain
manufacturers of KN95 Respirators. Although they are not approved by NIOSH, they are
approved for use during this crisis. https://www.fda.gov/media/136663/download
8. NIOSH is re-evaluating the expiry date on old unused respirators and extending the life for
some respirators. They are also providing extensions regarding the end of use for respirators
due to the current shortage. These guidelines are intended for the healthcare industry and
may not apply to industrial settings. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hcwcontrols/
recommendedguidanceextuse.html
9. Note that item 5 and 6 are primarily intended for health care environments.
Q. Disposable protective apparel are unavailable, what do you do?
A. Although these products are disposable, they can be re-used multiple times and
should be discarded when damaged. These garments may not be designed for
disinfecting or washing. Seek direction from the manufacturer.
1. Remove and discard contaminated disposable apparel to avoid cross contamination of surfaces.
2. Consider the use of fabric clothing that can be commercially laundered and re-used. Consider
the application and appropriateness of the fabric and the hazard posed in the workplace. For
example, static discharge from wearing certain fabrics in the presence of flammable vapours
or explosive dusts.
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