NIOSH Fact Sheet Addresses Respirator Selection in Healthcare

A new fact sheet published by NIOSH explains the types of respirators available to healthcare workers and considerations for selecting the appropriate device. Respirators approved for healthcare use include filtering facepiece, elastomeric half-mask, and powered air-purifying respirators. The fact sheet emphasizes that respirator selection should account for the device’s protection factor, which is the level of protection the wearer can expect to receive when the device is properly fitted and worn; its filter classification, which indicates its degree of oil resistance and its filtration efficiency; and its ability to protect against gases and vapors.

The fact sheet also includes a table that identifies the advantages and limitations of each type of device and elements for employers to consider when implementing a respiratory protection program.

Visit the NIOSH website to download the fact sheet as a PDF.