Keeping healthcare workers safe is a priority. Not only is it the right thing to do for your employees and the physicians who send their patients to your facility, it also reduces the spread of infectious disease transmission from patient - to healthcare worker - to another patient, and so on.
Here are face protection products, followed by some bonus personal protective equipment categories, that are low cost - but high quality - defenses against disease transmission.
1. Curved Face Shields
Curved face shields, like the one shown here, provide clear visual line of sight while still protecting the top, sides, and bottom of the face. Special ventilation allows for warm air created by breathing and perspiration to escape the mask. The anti-fog film on the face shield maintains a clear line of sight as well by preventing the mask from fogging.
The mask secures firmly to the head. Even if arms bump it while working, the mask stays in place. It will fit easily over glasses, goggles, and N95 masks too. These curved face shields are designed to stack on top of each other for storage.More »
2. Reusable Frames and Disposable Face Shields
Another option is the reusable frame system. These comfortable plastic frames look like, and wear like, eyeglasses. The difference is the front of the frame fits across the forehead just above the eyebrows. From that point of the frame, a disposable face shield attaches and hangs for face coverage.Although the shield does curve across the face and toward the ears, it does not offer the same degree of coverage as the Curved Face Shields described above.
When shopping for this style of face shield, however, still look for clear anti-fog properties. They are available.
This type of mask fits over corrective eyewear such as eye glasses, but may not fit over larger protective wear such as goggles or filtration masks.
Sizes: The masks have size options measured by the distance they cover from the forehead down to the chin. I have found some at 5.75" and 7.5" sizes.More »
3. Single Use Face Shields
Single use, disposable face shields are available in full and half shield coverage options. Elastic or velcro strap options are available for securing the full shield mask around the head. Full size face shield typically measures in the 8"-range. Half face shields will be closer to the 6"-range. The full and half face shield size may also limit the vendor's choices head strap material, so be sure to take note of that while determining your purchase.
Another feature to look for is how the straps attach to the face shield. Find a model that will ensure the best chance for long-term comfort for the user by looking vented foam and eyelet attachments. Staple attachments could be less comfortable, less safe, and less durable.More »
4. Gooseneck Biohazard Shields for the Laboratory
Switching from the patient care environment to the laboratory, there are other forms of splash protection for the healthcare worker.
Gooseneck Safety Shield
- Designed like a computer monitor arm
- Magnetic or clamp mount
- User-adjustable
- Look for scratch-resistant polycarbonate to guard against splash and mist
- This model complies with OSHA bloodborne pathogen regulation 29 CFR Part 191.1030.
5. Workstation Sink Splash Guards
- Made of clear acrylic
- Portable, freestanding shield that can be set up to guard against splash and mist from adjacent workstations
- Small enough to sit on a countertop, but large enough to provide protection
6. Beta Isotope Protection Shields
- Available in different shapes and sizes
- Clear acrylic shield for splash protection and visibility
- Portable, self-standing, skid-resistant base that fits on a countertop
7. Flexible Arm Biohazard Shield protection
- Clamp mount, counter mount, and wall mount options
- Maneuverable for the user
- Pushes out of the way when not in use
- Space-saving design