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Review
. 2021;13(2):35-46.
doi: 10.1007/s40506-021-00247-8. Epub 2021 Apr 6.

A Practical Approach to Filtering Facepiece Respirator Decontamination and Reuse: Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation

Mark P Ridder  1 , Katie D Paladino  2 , John J Lowe  3 , Mark E Rupp  1
Affiliations
Review

A Practical Approach to Filtering Facepiece Respirator Decontamination and Reuse: Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation

Mark P Ridder et al. Curr Treat Options Infect Dis. 2021.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Prior outbreaks of respiratory viruses have demonstrated the need for adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers, particularly filtering facepiece respirators (FFR). Due to shortfalls of PPE during the SARS CoV-2 pandemic, the need for FFR decontamination and reuse (FFR-DR) strategies is paramount. This paper aims to discuss primary decontamination strategies, with an in-depth analysis of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), arriving at the decontamination strategy utilized at the Nebraska Medical Center (NMC).

Methods: Review of the primary literature in regard to FFR-DR as well as a synopsis of the current protocol for FFR-DR at NMC.

Recent findings: UVGI demonstrates effective decontamination of multiple pathogens-including several human respiratory viruses-while maintaining mask integrity and filtering capacity. UVGI was associated with degradation of strap integrity at higher doses than that utilized for decontamination or with reuse beyond 20 times.

Summary: UVGI effectively decontaminates N95 FFRs without significant reduction to fit or strap integrity and can be employed as a strategy for FFR-DR in times of emergency.

Keywords: Decontamination and reuse; Filtering facepiece respirator; Microwave-generated steam; Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation; Vaporized hydrogen peroxide; Warm moist heat.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interestMark P. Ridder, Katie D. Paladino, John J. Lowe, and Mark E. Rupp declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
UVGI lights and hanging lines for N95 FFRs. The walls and ceiling have been painted with UVGI reflective paint to better ensure that all surfaces of the N95 FFRs are exposed to UVGI.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

References and Recommended Reading

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