Recommended use of Particulate Filter Respirators

WA Department of Health’s PPE guidance confirms that use of a Particulate Filter Respirator (PFR) such as N95 or a P2 mask is recommended in circumstances where workers are supporting a person who meets one or more of these criteria:

• a person who is a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case
• a person who is currently in isolation/quarantine
• a person who is a close contact, and where
• physical distance greater than 1.5 metres cannot be maintained at all times

Being fit-tested by a specialist to match a respirator to the individual is the ‘Gold Standard’ for workers who may be required to wear a PFR.

However, State Health Incident Coordination Centre (SHICC) advises that the new Work Health and Safety Act 2020 refers to an employer’s duty to take actions that are “reasonably able to be done in relation to ensuring health and safety, taking into account and weighing up all relevant matters”.

SHICC states that:

• workers require training prior to wearing a PFR regarding fit-testing, PPE fatigue, and the effect of prolonged use
• a fit-check must always be performed when a PFR is used to ensure there is a tight facial seal
• workers require training on how to ensure a facial seal each time a PFR is used

Further information regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care workers in the context of COVID-19 states that “in situations where fit testing has not yet been carried out, and a P2/N95 respirator is recommended for use, a fit-checked P2/N95 respirator is preferred to a surgical mask”.

The NDIS Sector Development Podcast offers additional helpful tips on minimising the risk of COVID-19 transmission by healthcare workers through the correct use of PPE.

COVID-19 Webinar: fit testing and fit checking of PFR

Members are invited to attend a free online seminar featuring Bruce Greaves, CEO of Health Education Collaborative. Bruce offers 40 years experience in clinical practice and strives to improve patient outcomes through innovative course design and delivery to meet the needs of the healthcare sector. In this session, Bruce will address the importance of infection prevention and control measures, including best practice for the use of N95/P2 masks.

Date: 7 April
Time. 11am to 12pm AWST
Register here

Please feel free to share this opportunity with your networks.

P2/N95 disposable respirator course

Mask Safety is an organisation specialising in creating international awareness around the correct fitting, selection and maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) through a suite of training courses developed by accredited and experienced Occupational Hygienists. Access the free introductory course regarding P2/N95 disposable respirators.

COVID-19 Vaccination: disability provider alert

Members are encouraged to review the new disability provider alert regarding COVID-19 vaccination issued by the Department of Health.

Further resources and information about the COVID-19 vaccine rollout for disability providers can be accessed through the Department of Health.