Face mask use as PPE for droplet precautions

[Michael Wishart]

Just after a bit of advice on use of face masks as PPE for Droplet Precautions.

We have a revised standards for masks now (AS 4381:2015) and I am a bit confused by which level of mask is required for what. I know that the adage “bigger is better” probably applies here, but just confused a bit as to what I should be recommending when being advised costs are a critical factor.

The current Infection Control Guidelines from the NHMRC speak about surgical masks, viz: ‘Although surgical masks do not protect the wearer from infectious agents that are transmitted via the airborne route, surgical masks that meet Australian Standards are fluid resistant and protect the wearer from droplet contamination of the nasal or oral mucosa’. (I am hoping the revised Guidelines will include more specific information on which level of mask for what purpose, but until then…)

The old AS4381 just talks about “fluid resistance” and had a pass level of 120 mmHg pressure before strikethrough with fluid occurs. The new Standard (see the attached tables 1 and 2) details specific fluid resistance for each level of mask. Confusing me.

So, my question is: for Droplet Precautions, what Level of mask should we be advising is the minimal protective mask? I can easily have a different mask used for Droplet Precautions in wards than we use for surgical/invasive procedures, just as we have a different mask for Airborne Precautions. And any dollar saved (appropriately) can be spent elsewhere….

Comments very welcome.

[And I am aware that it is currently difficult to get information on meeting the new Standard from some mask suppliers, but that is another story for another day.]

Thanks
Michael

Michael Wishart
Infection Control Coordinator

A 627 Rode Road, Chermside QLD 4032
P (07) 3326 3068 | F (07) 3607 2226 | E michael.wishart@svha.org.au | W http://www.hsnph.org.au
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