N95 Respirator Fit Testing Schedule for November

Below are the times and dates for fit testing.

DATE	LOCATION	TIME
Wednesday November 11	8th Janeway Tower (formerly CSB) Psychiatry, Group Room A	7:30am – 5 pm
Thursday November 12	8th Janeway Tower Psychiatry, Conference Room #1	7:30am – 4 pm
Monday November 16	8th Janeway Tower Psychiatry, Conference Room #1	7:30am – 4 pm
Thursday November 19	8th Janeway Tower  Psychiatry, Conference Room #1	7:30am – 4 pm

Recently both CDC and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services revised the guidance for infection control measures for 2009 H1N1 influenza in healthcare settings.  The changes expanded the use of N’95 respirators to include use for suspected or confirmed cases of H1N1.  Previously, N’95 respirators were recommended only for aerosol producing procedures.  Please review with your staff the following documents: Influenza Guidance for Infection Control How to Re-Use N’95 Respirators via the H1N1 Since this change expands the use of N’95 respirators, fit testing must be completed for individuals who have not been previously fit tested this calendar year.  Please complete the Initial Medical Clearance Form before the scheduled dates for fit testing. The actual fit testing takes 15-20 minutes per employee.

 

************************

Lab Assessments Begin.  September marked the beginning of the 2009-2010 EH&S lab assessment program.  This annual initiative assumes the task of evaluating research lab performance in comparison to established health, safety and environmental regulations and guidelines.  The assessment program continues through May of 2010.
The lab assessment program is guided by Occupational Hygiene Officer, Celeste Caskey.  She is assisted by:

• Chris Kolbash, Industrial Hygienist
• Jerry Mayfield, EH&S Technician II
• Haley Wild, EH&S Technician II

In the recent past Principal Investigators and Lab Technicians have worked capably with EH&S towards managing the many safety and health challenges presented by our complex research environment.
Questions or comments about the Lab Assessment Program may be directed to ehs@wfubmc.edu.
View the Lab Assessment Checklist.

EH&S Operating Principles.  The Environmental Health and Safety enterprise influences and promotes safe and environmentally sound practices in all work settings or environments:  laboratory, clinical, administrative, facilities, and support services.

The EH&S primary operating principles:

• Encourage the practice of safe science and healthcare activities
• Foster environmental stewardship
• Provide sound and useful guidance
• Champion compliance with established standards and regulations