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Employee Handout — Clean Workplace
2021-04-15T05:00:00Z
As we continue to work through the pandemic, OSHA recognizes the importance of keeping a clean workplace. In that, it’s important you understand your employers responsibility, as well as brush-up on your understanding of protective equipment.
Surgical masks vs. respirators
Surgical masks
- Used to protect you against splashes and sprays containing infectious agents.
- Placed on sick individuals to prevent respiratory infections that spread by large droplets; worn by surgeons to avoid contaminating surgical sites.
- May not protect against airborne-transmissible infectious agents due to loose fit and lack of seal.
- Can be used by almost anyone, regardless of training.
- Should be properly disposed of after use.
Respirators (e.g., filtering facepiece)
- Used to prevent you from inhaling small particles, including airborne-transmissible infectious agents.
- To be effective, should have the proper filter material (e.g., N95 or better), be NIOSH-certified, and must fit tightly to prevent air leaks.
- For use, requires proper training, fit testing, availability of appropriate medical evaluations and monitoring, cleaning and oversight by a knowledgeable staff member.
- Your employer must establish a respiratory protection program that is compliant with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard, 29 CFR 1910.134
Your employer’s responsibility
Your employer should ensure that you understand:
- Differences between seasonal epidemics and worldwide pandemic disease outbreaks;
- Which job activities may put you at risk for exposure to sources of infection;
- What options may be available for working remotely, or utilizing an employer’s flexible leave policy when you are sick;
- Social distancing strategies, including avoiding close physical contact (e.g., shaking hands) and large gatherings of people;
- Good hygiene and appropriate disinfection procedures;
- What personal protective equipment (PPE) is available, and how to wear, use, clean and store it properly;
- What medical services (e.g., vaccination, post-exposure medication) may be available to you; and
- How supervisors will provide updated pandemic-related communications, and where to direct your questions.