Choosing the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic depends on the specific setting (e.g., healthcare, community, or industrial), the level of exposure risk, and compliance with safety standards. Below is a structured guide based on current evidence and guidelines:
1. Understand the Risk Levels and PPE Requirements
PPE selection should align with the exposure risk and the type of activity (e.g., aerosol-generating procedures vs. routine care):
- High-risk (e.g., ICU, intubation):
- Respiratory protection: FFP2/3 (N95/KN95) respirators (filter ≥94–99% of particles).
- Eye/Face protection: Goggles + face shield (to block droplets and aerosols).
- Body protection: Liquid-resistant gowns (Type 3/4 per EN 14605) or disposable coveralls.
- Gloves: Nitrile or latex-free gloves (tested for chemical/abrasion resistance).
- Moderate-risk (e.g., general patient care):
- Masks: Surgical masks (ASTM F2100 Level 2/3) or KN95/N95 if available 10.
- Eye protection: Face shields alone may suffice if goggles are unavailable.
- Low-risk (community use):
- Cloth masks (≥2 layers) or surgical masks for short-term use.
2. Key Standards and Certifications
Ensure PPE meets regional or international standards:
- Masks/Respirators:
- EU: EN 149 (FFP2/3).
- US: NIOSH-certified N95 or ASTM F2100 for surgical masks.
- China: GB 19082 (for medical masks).
- Gloves:
- EN 455 (medical gloves) or ASTM D6319 (nitrile gloves).
- Gowns/Coveralls:
- Type 3–6 (EN 14605/14126) for liquid/particle protection.
3. Fit and Comfort Considerations
- Respirators: Must pass quantitative fit testing (e.g., OSHA protocols for N95). Reuse is possible but requires fit checks each time.
- Goggles/Face Shields: Should seal tightly without gaps.
- Gloves: Balance dexterity and barrier protection; avoid latex if allergies exist.
4. Practical Usage and Limitations
- Reuse Strategies:
- N95 respirators can be reused (≤5 donnings) if not soiled.
- Gowns/coveralls are typically single-use unless disinfected.
- Donning/Doffing: Follow WHO guidelines to avoid contamination (e.g., remove gloves first, then gown).
- Supply Shortages: Prioritize PPE for high-risk settings; use cloth masks or improvised barriers in low-risk scenarios.
5. Special Scenarios
- Aerosol-Generating Procedures (AGPs): Use FFP3 + face shield + gown.
- Laboratories: Full-face shields + N95 + double gloves for handling COVID-19 samples.
- Long-Term Care Facilities: Focus on surgical masks + eye protection due to prolonged exposure.
