COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

 The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on how N95 respirators effectively protect wearers from coronavirus exposure. OSHA is aware of incorrect claims stating that N95 respirator filters do not capture particles as small as the virus that causes the coronavirus. OSHA’s new FAQ explains why an N95 respirator is effective at protecting users from the virus.

Visit OSHA’s coronavirus webpage frequently for updates. For further information about the coronavirus, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Pandemic Response

 

OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program in New Jersey inspected masks, safety glasses and other PPE to help protect frontline workers.

COVID-19 Resources

• The latest OSHA Alerts and posters provide recommended practices for in-home repair services, restaurants resuming dine-in service, and cleaning staff.
• Posters on processing and packaging safety for meat and seafood are now available in additional languages.
• OSHA’s Guidance on Returning to Work assists businesses reopening and employees returning to work.

OSHA Issued New Guidance on Fit Testing

OSHA issued new guidance on fit testing for  tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators during the pandemic. 

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued temporary guidance for enforcing initial and annual fit-testing requirements related to tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators. The action marks the Department’s latest step to ensure the availability of respirators and follows President Donald J. Trump’s Memorandum on Making General Use Respirators Available.