Funding Agency: WorkSafeBC
Collaborators: UBC School of Environmental Health, Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, BC Nurses’ Union, Hospital Employees Union, Health Sciences Association, Health Employers Association of BC
Grant Recieved: 2007
Objective: This study will add to limited scientifically validated data by addressing (i) the appropriate frequency for delivering Respirator Protection Program elements in subsequent years after initial fit-testing, and (ii) the influence of respirator usage frequency on subsequent fit-test rates.
In the healthcare setting, N95 filtering facepiece respirators (N95 FFR) are utilized for protection against airborne infectious agents. Workplaces using respirators must develop a respirator protection program (RPP) consisting of a number of elements, including education and fit-testing. A worker must be educated and fit-tested prior to wearing a respirator and, in BC, a fit-test must be performed at least annually. This study adds to limited scientifically validated data by addressing the appropriate frequency for delivering RPP elements in subsequent years, and the influence of respirator usage frequency on subsequent fit-test rates. These issues are critical for RPP administrators - not only for ongoing protection of staff but also for pandemic preparedness.
The project researchers are hoping to provide evidence-based information about failure rates, skill retention, and regular usage associated with N 95 filtering facepiece respirators. They also hope to inform decision-making for developing respirator protection programs to protect healthcare workers against airborne infectious agents.
Dr. George Astrakianakis is one of the co-investigators for this study.
