Methods to Control the Exposure to ATD Pathogens

Employers may use one or more of the following methods to protect the respiratory health of their workers from ATD pathogens:

• Engineering controls (for example, use closed suctioning systems to minimize the dispersal of aerosol)
• Administrative controls (for example, isolation of patients suspected of having an ATD, post signs that request that visitors with respiratory illness refrain from visiting the facility, or ensure that law enforcement personal who transport suspected ATD patients practice respiratory hazard exposure prevention)
• Change work practices (for example, place surgical masks on patients suspected of having an ATD; perform high hazard procedures in airborne isolation rooms, booths, or tents; and place disinfecting stations in convenient locations throughout the facility)
• Vaccinate employees
• Supply and require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (such as respirators)

Greater protection of workers is achieved when the methods are combined. For example, a healthcare worker who has been vaccinated and who works in a room with enhanced ventilation still needs to wear a respirator to ensure complete protection from respiratory hazards.

To learn more about Healthcare Respiratory Protection visit our Cal/OSHA Healthcare Respiratory Protection Safety Online Training web page.