Even when control strategies are in place, PPE, including respirators, will be needed for workers when close contact with someone who is known or suspected of having COVID-19 cannot be avoided. Whenever respirators are required, employers must implement a written, worksite-specific respiratory protection program (RPP), including medical evaluation, fit testing,2 training, and other elements, as specified in OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134). OSHA requirements for other PPE (e.g., eye protection, protective clothing) can be found in OSHA’s General PPE standard (29 CFR 1910.132) and Eye and Face Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.133).
Cloth Face Coverings: These are homemade or commercially available products made of cloth that cover the nose and mouth. Cloth face coverings should NOT be worn instead of an FDA-cleared or authorized surgical mask if protection against exposure to splashes and sprays of infectious material from others is needed. Cloth face coverings do not provide effective respiratory protection for workers when protection against airborne hazards is needed, and do not fall under OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard.