Who needs to wear a respirator?
- Personnel who have direct/ patient- facing contact with confirmed or suspect COVID-19 patients
- Some personnel who are working with SARS- CoV-2 in laboratories (engineering controls are preferred but additional respiratory protection may be required in some cases).
- Other personnel whose jobs already dictate the need for respiratory protection
- Not sure? Ask your PI, Supervisor/ Manager and EHS. A risk assessment will be conducted.
If a risk assessment is completed and you do need to wear a respirator, EHS will assist in procuring supplies to ensure that they are appropriate for the task and that they are coming from a trusted source.
Each specific type/ model and size of respirator requires a fit test and medical evaluation prior to use. EHS will help coordinate fit testing either on or off-site.
What’s the difference between a face/ surgical mask and a respirator?
UNMC Interim Face Covering Policy
CDC - How to Select, Wear, and Clean Your Mask (face covering)
UNMC Respiratory Protection Plan - Under revision. Contact EHS with questions.
Additional Resources:CDC Respiratory Fit Test Requirements
Nebraska Medicine - Personal Protective Equipment Resources
OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard 1910.134
UNMC HEROES - Personal Protective Equipment Library
Voluntary Use of Honeywell DC300 N95 Respirators