Industrial Hygiene Experts Clarify Misinformation on PPE, Ventilation, and Disinfection in Relation to COVID-19
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has launched a public education effort to provide expertise and clarification on critical pandemic resources.
As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the globe, so does misinformation on personal protective equipment (PPE), decontamination, and indoor air quality. These misunderstandings are putting healthcare workers and the general public at even greater risk. The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has launched a public education effort to provide expertise and clarification on critical resources, including properly selecting, fitting, and decontaminating PPE; measuring and treating indoor air; and surface disinfection.
“New information about this pandemic is released every day,” said Kathleen Murphy, CIH, AIHA board president. “But we are finding that misuse of PPE, and improper decontamination techniques, may be putting our public and our healthcare workers at increased risks. Our occupational health and safety experts—more traditionally known as industrial hygienists—are experts in reducing risks and preventing accidents. We also understand the pressures these crises have on the mental health of workers.”