The Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have posted a new fact sheet of interest to EMS.  Reusable personal protective equipment (PPE) provides an important opportunity for cost- effective preservation of critical life-saving equipment in an environment in which PPE is in short supply and appropriate disinfection supplies are available. This option can also provide substantial long-term cost savings in a conventional care environment. This fact sheet provides useful information for healthcare and emergency medical service organizations regarding re- usable, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved elastomeric half-mask respirators (EHMRs) and powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) to expand options to meet respiratory protection demand. Read more at https://files.asprtracie.hhs.gov/documents/elastomeric-half-mask-respirators-and-powered-air-purifying-respirators-in-healthcare-and-ems-settings-fact-sheet.pdf. 
 
In related news, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)—in coordination with the Strategic National Stockpile—posted a Federal Register Notice (FRN) titled “A National Elastomeric Half Mask Respirator (EHMR) Strategy for Use in Healthcare Settings During an Infectious Disease Outbreak/Pandemic”. Through this FRN, NIOSH is seeking input regarding the national distribution plan of purchased EHMRs, as well as identifying potential organizations interested in receiving a portion of these EHMRs with the commitment to provide a report of user acceptability and feasibility of implementation. Comments must be received by October 14, 2020. Please see the FRN for details here.