PPB August 2020

F ace masks that help mitigate the transmission of the coronavirus are a common sight in the current coronavirus pandemic. Masks are one of many measures referred to as personal protective equipment (PPE). However, not all masks are considered PPE. This article provides a brief history to help suppliers and distributors understand the applicable regulations and associated voluntary standards, the various types of face masks and facial coverings available and testing and requirements for PPE. Regulatory Background Most social accountability standards assess the proper deployment and use of personal protective equipment. PPE protects individuals in a workplace setting from a broad range of injuries and illnesses that may result from chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical or other such hazards, including biological hazards. PPE is worn to reduce employee exposure to hazards when engineering and procedural controls in the workplace are not feasible, or do not provide sufficient protection against a known hazard. Respirators, used to protect the wearer’s airways, have been regulated in the United States since 1919. Facing The Facts About Face Masks How much do you really know about the personal protective equipment you are buying and selling? Start here. by D. E. Fenton Tiko_photographer / Shutterstock.com 76 | AUGUST 2020 | THINK