We finally have some “sort of” official definitions from OSHA of what a cloth face covering, surgical mask, and respirator are and how they differ. The new guidance outlines the differences between cloth face coverings, surgical masks, and respirators. It further reminds employers NOT TO USE SURGICAL MASKS OR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS WHEN RESPIRATORS ARE NEEDED. These frequently asked questions and answers mark the latest guidance from OSHA addressing protective measures for workplaces during the coronavirus pandemic. Previously, OSHA published numerous guidance documents for workers and employers, available at https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/covid-19/, including five guidance documents aimed at expanding the availability of respirators.
(emphasis by me – not OSHA)