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Respiratory Protection Need to Know 

Key OSHA Requirements with N95 Use:  

N95 & KN95 Differences:  

N95 Fit and Use Resources:  

Fit Testing Considerations: 

  1.  Fit testing should be conducted ASAP for employees that will wear N95 or KN95 masks should they become necessary per CDC guidance. Do NOT wait for increased community COVID-19 activity or a suspected/confirmed case in the organization.  
  2. Fit testing must be conducted by someone with knowledge of how to conduct a test, recognize invalid results and properly maintenance and sanitize equipment per OSHA fit testing protocols. Using an experienced tester is recommended. A list of Kansas options can be found below.  
  3. Mask used for fit test does NOT have to be immediately worn or discarded. The mask can be immediately sealed in a zip lock baggie and labeled in sharpie with the employee’s name.   

Fit Testing Provider Options (in recommended order of contact):

  1.  Contact local health department and inquire if they do the testing or have a recommendation for the service.  
  2. Contact your local emergency management director. 
  3. Contact a fit testing company in your area. (Listed by location) 

Mask Decontamination Available

The State of Kansas has acquired a Battelle N95 mask decontamination system that will be accessible to healthcare providers at NO COST (for use or shipping) of charge.  

Battelle Decontamination system. This system can decontaminate up to 80,000 N95 masks per day.

Key points to know:

  • Starting 4/26/2020 do not discard used N95 masks unless visibly soiled (no blood, bodily fluids or make-up) 
  • Storing used masks: 
  • Place the used mask in a paper bag labeled with the user's name or if no bag is available staple a piece of paper with the user’s name to the elastic cord. 
  • Store in a safe dry place until further instructions are provided. 
  • Masks may be decontaminated by use of the system up to 20. You will need to track the number of times masks have been decontaminated. This might include the use of a permanent marker to make hash marks on the elastic strap.  
  • Masks will be returned to the organization that sent them allowing the mask to be returned to the individual user.  

Decontamination System Use Details

N95 Operations State of Kansas COVID – 4-27-20 – This document gives you step by step instructions on how to get the process started.

OSHA Enforcement

OSHA has issued Interim Enforcement Plans that include prioritizing high risk employers during the pandemic. Health care is considered high risk. OSHA is prioritzing high risk employers during the pandemic and health care is considered high risk.