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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

This area is for OUH staff only - please visit the NHS website for general information about Coronavirus (COVID-19).

If you are an OUH staff member and you need further information, please speak to your line manager or email staffquestions@ouh.nhs.uk.

Please see Face masks for further guidance on face masks for staff and face coverings for patients.

When to wear PPE

Staff

Before undertaking any procedure, assess any likely exposure to blood and/or other body fluids, non-intact skin or mucous membranes and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) that protects adequately against the risks associated with the procedure.

Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs) (pdf) - Trust staff intranet only

Patients

Patients with COVID-19 are encouraged to wear a mask where tolerated when being moved around the hospital.

Safe disposal of PPE

Please do not dispose of PPE in general waste or recycling bins in our hospitals.

This is an infection prevention and control risk - please make sure that you dispose of PPE correctly by putting disposable equipment in clinical waste bins only before leaving a clinical area.

There are offensive waste bins near the exits for disposal of masks when you leave the hospitals. Clean your hands immediately after removing a mask.

Respirators

Fit testing and training

If you are a member of staff required to wear a respirator (FFP3 mask) see Respiratory Pathway PPE, which includes a Force 8/10 Typhoon reusable mask and/or a disposable FFP3 mask, you must book in to have a fit test and training first. Fit tests are provided on all four hospital sites. The date of your fit test renewal will be on your certificate and MLH record. Please book your next test before the test expires.

Face Mask Fit Testing and Force Mask Training and Maintenance Appointments - book now

Staff wellbeing

If you have a condition that makes it difficult to wear an FFP3 respirator mask, please speak to your line manager. They may be able to organise a hood or discuss alternatives.