[MCOH-EH] Laser Surgery & Respiratory Protection Programs

[Therese Bovee-McKelvey]

Hello all,

I'm need information on current practices/protocols regarding use of respirators for protection from potential bio-aerosols, live cellular material & viruses during laser surgery.  OSHA doesn't have a specific standard for surgical smoke but uses the general duty clause which requires hazard assessment & prevention methods and ANSI Z136.3 states that "airborne contaminants should be controlled by the use of local exhaust ventilation, respiratory protection or a combination of both".  CDC also provides guidelines for respirator use regarding other potential infectious aerosol hazards in HC facilities including where surgical lasers are used.

Are you using a combination of ventilation and respirators and if so what are you providing N-95 respirators or other type?  Is this respirator use required or voluntary?  If voluntary how do you track and ensure staff are following protocols?  Do you have a Laser Safety Officer and are they involved in this?

Thanks in advance!

Therese
Therese Bovee McKelvey, MN, RN  Sr. Employee Health Nurse - Employee Health
425.899.2278 (P)  |  425.899.2277 (F)  | TMBoveeMcKelvey at evergreenhealth.com<mailto:TMBoveeMcKelvey at evergreenhealth.com>
EvergreenHealth MS-42, 12040 NE 128th St., Kirkland, WA 98034
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