WASHINGTON: DOSH updates respirator rules during COVID-19

The Washington Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has temporarily updated its directive on N95 filtering facepieces and respirator/face covering selection during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. We previously reported that the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) temporarily relaxed rules on respirator fit-testing, training, and other respiratory protection protocols as long as employers show good-faith attempts to comply. DOSH’s directive, which took effect immediately upon publication on May 1, 2020, mostly follows in OSHA’s footsteps but with a few additions which are highlighted in yellow on the directive.

Tips For Employers: Be sure to check out the chart (Appendix A) at the end of the directive, which lays out standards for non-health care employers based on activities that range in risk level from negligible to extremely high. The chart establishes minimum requirements as well as strongly recommended guidelines for face coverings and respiratory protection depending on the type of activity. If you have any questions about DOSH’s respiratory protection directive, contact your Vigilant safety professional.