What about putting a simple face mask over the respirator exhaust port? The filters protect the wearer. I would think, A face mask would offer no less protection than a face mask alone We haven’t tried but will look into it.
Our IH is concerned about how OSHA might view
Karl Auerbach MD
Albany NY
From: MCOH-EH <mcoh-eh-bounces@mylist.net> On Behalf Of
Jeremy Biggs via MCOH-EH
Sent: Monday, May 11, 2020 1:28 PM
To: mcoh-eh@mylist.net
Cc: Jeremy Biggs <jerbiggs@yahoo.com>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] [MCOH-EH] 1/2 face elastomeric masks/masks with exhalation valves
With everything going on, we have been looking at more widely using 1/2 face 3M P100 masks. CDC recently put out that no employee with COVID19 should wear any mask with exhalation valve on it. My infection prevention team and epidemiologist have brought up the concern about using these for anyone given the concerns of pre-symptomatic spread of the virus.
I have been working with a team to print an adapter to place on the exhalation valve. We have not tested it yet to see how it affects breath-ability. Anyone else already doing this and have feedback on what is working or not working?
Thank you
Jeremy Biggs MD MSPH FACOEM
Assistant Professor
Occupational Health and Safety Director, University of Utah