COVID-19 Employee Safety Resources

NAU’s Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) adheres to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for mitigating exposure risks
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). OSHA incorporates guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and guidance can change frequently depending on the dynamics of the COVIC-19 pandemic.

Based on specific work activities and locations, EHS can assess your occupational exposure risk and recommend mitigation practices and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as needed. Note: Those who are at higher risk for severe illness should refer to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

EHS also provides these pandemic response services:

• SARS-CoV-2 laboratory research protocol review
• Respirator fit tests and training
• Activity-specific protocol and training development
• Vetting of PPE and disinfectant products
• Ventilation system review
• Water sampling
• Biological waste management

All students, faculty and staff should maximize opportunities to reduce exposure risk by following CDC guidance, and NAU’s wellness protocols.

Visit NAU’s COVID-19 Updates and Resources webpage frequently for current best practices to support your health and safety.

 

Voluntary Use of N95 Respirators

N95 respirators and surgical masks are examples of personal protective equipment that are used to protect the wearer from particles or from liquid contaminating the face. They offer a greater degree of filtration efficiency from exposure and can be used on a voluntary basis if desired.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) also regulates N95 respirators. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates entities for compliance with worker safety rules and OSHA standards, including, for example, the proper use of respirators in different work environments.

It is important to recognize that the optimal way to prevent transmission of microorganisms, such as viruses, is to use a combination of interventions from across the hierarchy of controls, not just PPE alone.

To comply with NAU and State OSHA requirements involving the voluntary use of N95s and other forms of respiratory protection, please review the “Voluntary Use” section in NAU’s Respiratory Protection Program.