COVID-19 Evidence Service highlights NIOSH face mask findings

The COVID-19 Evidence Service from Stanford University has published an evidence-based review of research that could help address the current problem of face mask shortages due to the coronavirus pandemic. The review cites multiple studies from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) related to whether face masks can be decontaminated for safe re-use without compromising their effectiveness.

Ethylene oxide, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, and hydrogen peroxide decontamination were reported to be safe and effective, the review authors wrote, but noted that it is unclear whether the face masks would retain filtration, material strength, and airflow integrity with repeated use. Limitations of these methods include time from decontamination to reuse and requirements for space and materials. Heating at 70C /158F in a kitchen-type of oven for 30min, or hot water vapor from boiling water for 10 min, are additional effective decontamination methods, the authors wrote.

The Learnly Anesthesia/Stanford AIM Lab Evidence Service is currently dedicated to assisting front line anesthesiology providers in their efforts against the current COVID-19 pandemic. This page will be updated regularly with our work as we synthesize current evidence and disseminate it to hard working clinicians serving patients and their communities.

Read the review here: https://stanfordmedicine.app.box.com/v/covid19-PPE-1-1