OH&S SafetyPod: Coronavirus Basics — Respirator Fit Testing in the Age of COVID-19 -- Occupational Health & Safety

Episode 9

OH&S SafetyPod: Coronavirus Basics — Respirator Fit Testing in the Age of COVID-19

OH&S Content Editor Amanda Smiley gives an update on the COVID-19 pandemic and sits down with Greg Olson, a Sr. Product Specialist for Industrial Hygiene and Respiratory Protection at TSI, to discuss proper fit testing amid the Coronavirus crisis.

By Sydny Shepard
Mar 25, 2020

Our team at OH&S sincerely hopes that you and your family are safe and healthy in these unprecedented times, and if you are anything like me timely and factual information in a time like this is the only thing that keeps you sane. As many of you know, OH&S SafetyPod usually does a deep dive into some of the most important topics in the safety industry. However given the severity of the coronavirus, we have decided to continue to bring you the top headlines, breaking news and important information on COVID-19.

In this episode we will be updating listeners on the newest updates concerning the virus as well as talking with Greg Olson, Sr. Product Specialist for Industrial Hygiene and Respiratory Protection at TSI on proper fit protection for respirators. In our interview with Greg, we go in-depth on why we need fit testing for respirators, ensuring proper fit, the shortage of N95 masks amid the Coronavirus pandemic.

Please keep in mind that this interview was recorded prior to Wednesday, March 25 with the most up-to-date information. Depending on when you are listening to this, some statistics may have changed.If you’d like to check out our most recent news coverage on the virus, go to www.ohsonline.com/coronavirus.

Listen to this episode of OH&S SafetyPod on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and more.

A special thank you to TSI:

At TSI, our global team strives to provide not only instruments, but also innovative solutions. We operate at both a global scale and a human scale—instruments that measure everything from atmospheric aerosols to the fit of a personal respirator. Turning data into actionable information enables our customers to do their jobs more efficiently. TSI understands the science, the data, and the processes that support your work. Learn more about us a tsi.com/fastfit.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the former editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

Matrix's OmniPro Vision AI Collision Avoidance System

OmniPro Vision AI is a state-of-the-art collision avoidance system that features NIOSH award-winning Visual Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. This highly accurate, powerful system identifies and alerts on pedestrians, vehicles and specified objects, ensuring safer facilities, mining operations and industrial sites. With its web-based cloud application, OmniPro Vision AI also logs and analyzes a wide range of data related to zone breach notifications. Operating without needing personal wearable devices or tags, OmniPro has visual and audible zone breach alerts for both operators and pedestrians. 3
Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. 3
NoiseCHEK Personal Noise Dosimeter

SKC NoiseCHEK is the easiest-to-use dosimeter available! Designed specifically for OEHS professionals, SKC NoiseCHEK offers the easiest operation and accurate noise measurements. Everything you need is right in your palm. Pair Bluetooth models to your mobile devices and monitor workers remotely with the SmartWave dB app without interrupting workflow. Careful design features like a locking windscreen, sturdy clip, large front-lit display, bright status LEDs, and more make NoiseCHEK the top choice in noise dosimeters. Demo NoiseCHEK at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. 3