Elastomeric Respirators

Assessment of elastomeric respirators in healthcare delivery

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for disposable N95 respirators quickly exceeded the supply. Other respiratory protection devices, like reusable elastomeric respirators, can serve as an alternative and increase the total supply of respirators available to healthcare personnel during future crises. In collaboration with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, University of Texas-Houston, and Wayne State University, our Lab is studying the feasibility of using elastomeric half-face mask respirators (EHMRs) in healthcare settings. Initial research revealed that training and fit testing healthcare personnel for EHMRs was no more challenging than for N95 respirators1. Buoyed by these results, we are moving forward with additional work to evaluate methods of disinfection and demonstrate the use of EHMRs in routine patient care. Our findings will inform recommendations on how to best deploy elastomeric respirators in everyday healthcare delivery and during future pandemics.