Washington – NIOSH has developed a database it calls a “comprehensive tool” for searching “relevant standards, associated product types, target occupational groups, basic conformity assessment specifications and accredited lab information” related to personal protective equipment.
The PPE-Info Database is intended for developers, manufacturers, purchasers and end users of PPE. It includes regulations and consensus standards from the federal government, ANSI-accredited standard development organizations and the International Organization for Standardization.
NIOSH is asking for stakeholder feedback on the database. Examples of ideas for “potential future expansion” of the resource include:
- Completing/updating data by forming partnerships with standards development organizations and working to increase automation of standard revisions
- Analyzing data using Standard Occupational Classification code descriptors
- Compiling information regarding conformity assessment activities (e.g., certification, testing, inspection and quality management) for PPE
- Providing a PPE selection guidance for health care workers during a microbial exposure (e.g., Ebola)
