Lessons learned in establishing and sustaining elastomeric half mask respirator-based respiratory protection...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Public Health
• Emergency Preparedness

Background:

• Respiratory Protection Programs (RPPs) are essential for employee safety.
• Research on elastomeric half mask respirators (EHMRs) in healthcare settings is limited compared to N95 respirators.
• EHMRs require specific considerations within RPPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the lessons learned from implementing EHMR-based RPPs in healthcare and first responder settings.
• To identify key elements and practices for establishing, maintaining, and sustaining EHMR-based RPPs.
• To explore differences in perceptions based on organizational size.

Main Methods:

• A one-year impact evaluation was conducted.
• Data was collected from 42 organizations that received EHMRs from the Strategic National Stockpile.
• Surveys assessed perceptions of RPP elements and practices, analyzed by organization size.

Main Results:

• Program sustainability was perceived as the most critical element (M=2.94), followed by daily maintenance (M=2.72).
• Development/implementation (M=2.42) and access to EHMRs (M=1.91) were ranked lower.
• Statistically significant differences in perceptions were found based on organization size, particularly regarding access to EHMR models.

Conclusions:

• Sustaining EHMR-based RPPs and daily maintenance are crucial for long-term success.
• Organizational support, user accountability, and workplace culture are vital for effective EHMR programs.
• Tailored approaches considering organizational size are necessary for optimal RPP implementation.