N95 Respirator Alternatives

The Alberta Government is allowing the use of respirators meeting international standards as alternatives to N95 respirators approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

On May 3, a ministerial order took effect that temporarily amends the OHS Code during the COVID-19 public emergency. This amendment lists specific respirator standards, approved for use in other countries, that employers can use without needing to request an approval.

This amendment addresses the interim situation of domestic shortages of NIOSH-approved N95 respirators, and remains in effect until 60 days after the state of public emergency is over. Other requirements related to respiratory protection still apply, including a successful fit test on all mask types. The Ministerial Order can be viewed here.

-OHS Prevention Services