Study says construction industry masks can be used for healthcare

Elastomeric half-mask respirators (EHMRs) provide the same level of infection protection as N95 respirators


A new study suggests reusable respirators typically used by construction or factory workers may be a viable alternative to disposable N95 respirators used by healthcare workers, according to an article on the U.S. News website.

Elastomeric half-mask respirators (EHMRs) provide the same level of infection protection as N95 respirators, according to the study.

EHMRs use is hampered by the time needed to assure a safe fit, but the study found healthcare workers quickly got the hang of the fit test.

Further  testing is needed to determine how best to disinfect elastomeric respirators, however.

Read the article.

 



April 7, 2020


Topic Area: Infection Control


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