Notes from the field: What’s the difference, mask vs. N95 respirator?
This week several medical practices asked what is better for protection against the current influenza A (H1N1), swine flu, face masks or N95 respirators?
A mask is a paper device that will slow or stop large droplets (sneezing, splashes, and sprays) that may infect you.
An N95 respirator will provide protection against the small particles of a flu virus…IF fitted properly. It is recommended that healthcare workers having direct contact with infected patients wear N95 respirators.
Tips for using your N95 respirator:
- Wash hands thoroughly prior to putting it on
- Avoid touching the outside of the facepiece during and after use
- Used, disposable respirators go in the regular trash
- Wash hands thoroughly after removing the mask
I have also had a physician request that we order a fabric mask for her. Unfortunately, the FDA has not evaluated these masks for use in preventing the transmission of infectious agents and none are marketed in the U.S. for use in infection control.
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Kathy Rooker
Kathy Rooker is the safety officer and owner of Columbus Healthcare & Safety Consultants, Canal Winchester, OH (krookerchsc@gmail.com or 614-833-9092). Rooker has more than 35 years experience working in the healthcare field and currently provides OSHA and CLIA consulting and inspections for physician practices and conducts OSHA annual training seminars in and around Central Ohio. In her "Notes from the Field" posts, she shares real life OSHA compliance issues and offers solutions to these sometimes complicated situations.
Kathy has written 28 posts.
Comments
Regarding N95’s, one of our physicans stated that they could be used for up to 8 hours before disposing of them. Is this accurate?
Such a good question deserves a post of its own. See “Ask the expert: N95 respirator reuse.”
A recent scan through a supply catalog reveal about 2 dozen versions of the N-95 mask, along with about 2 dozen different price tags. How do we know which is acceptable for OSHA.
OSHA does not require a specific name brand N-95 mask. It really depends on the level of protection required for your speciality. A primary care practice can purchase a box of (20) “standard” N-95 masks for about $25-$30.
I read the comments re: IOM position on re-using N95 mask, however, it still gray to me. At my hospital we are disposing of mask after each contact with patient. My question is, if the mask is used entire shift then disposed of would we be OSHA compliant?
Without the anticipated OSHA enforcement directive on cannot give a definitive answer. If, however, your extended respirator use policy is due to a documented shortage situation, then you have a good explanation if OSHA should inquire.
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