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respirators for exposure to TB. These criteria include (see appendix A
pg 97):

1. The ability to filter particles 1 mm in size in the unloaded state
with a filter efficiency of > 95% (i.e., filter leakage of < 5%), given
flow rates of up to 50 L per minute.

2. The ability to be qualitatively or quantitatively fit tested in a
reliable way to obtain a face-seal leakage of < 10%.

3. The ability to fit the different facial sizes and characteristics of
health care workers which can usually be met by making the
respirators available in at least three sizes.

4. The ability to be checked for face piece fit, in accordance with
OSHA standards and good industrial hygiene practice, by
health care workers each time they put on their respirator.

b. Under the new NIOSH criteria, filter materials would be tested at a flow
rate of 85 L/minute for penetration by particles with a median
aerodynamic diameter of 0.3 um and, if certified would be placed in one of
the following categories: Type 100 (99.7% efficient), Type 99 (99%
efficient), and Type 95 (95% efficient). NIOSH has determined that
these categories of respirators are effective against TB. Based upon
these criteria, the minimally acceptable level of respiratory protection
for TB is the Type 95 Respirator. The classes of these air-purifying,
particulate respirators to be certified are described under 42 CFR Part
84 Subpart K. See Volume 60 of the Federal Register, page 30338 (June
8, 1995). Until these classes of respirators are commercially available
the minimal acceptable respiratory protection meeting the criteria will
remain the HEPA respirator (see Appendix A, pg 98). The following
respiratory protection measures must be addressed:

1. Employees wear HEPA or respirators certified under 42 CFR
Part 84 Subpart K in the following circumstances:

a. When workers enter rooms housing individuals with
suspected or confirmed infectious TB.

b. When workers are present during the performance of
high hazard procedures on individuals who have
suspected or confirmed infectious TB.

c. When emergency-medical-response personnel or others
transport, in a closed vehicle, an individual with
suspected or confirmed infectious TB.

Note: If a facility chooses to use disposable respirators as part of their

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