Respiratory Protection Program

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.   As SARS-CoV-2 cases are still remaining high, it is important that facilities be prepared with active Respiratory Protection Plans to protect the health of their employees, residents, and visitors.     Respiratory Protection Program Key Points: Purpose:  The fundamental goal of any respiratory protection program is to protect workers against any adverse health effect caused by inhalation of contaminants in the work environment.  A designated respiratory program administrator should be responsible for the program. Medical Clearance: OSHA: Medical evaluation is required before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator in the workplace Fit Testing: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) (29 CFR 1910.134) requires respirator fit testing to confirm the fit of any respirator that forms a tight seal on the wearer's face before it is used in the workplace. This ensures that users are receiving the expected level of protection by minimizing any contaminant leakage into the facepiece. Where can I find more education/resources? There is free education/resources on the Maine Infection Prevention Forum Website: https://maineinfectionpreventionforum.org/ Choose your setting for a list of courses: Nursing Homes or Intermediate Care Facilities Select the Respiratory Protection Programs option You will find access to the recording of the co-sponsored Webinar by MeCDC, SafetyWorks!, and Maine Healthcare Association on Respiratory Protection Programs as well as access to templates by clicking on "Toolkit Documents" under the Course Content Now is a good time to review current plans or if your facility doesn't have one, to work on creating a program.  Thank you for your continued efforts in SARS-CoV-2 response & prevention! Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by Maine Department of Health & Human Services. This email was sent to ooseims.archieves@blogger.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Maine Department of Health & Human Services · 109 Capitol St · Augusta, ME 04333