Reprocessing N95s with hydrogen peroxide vaporization: A robust system from collection to dispensing

Am J Infect Control. 2021 Apr;49(4):508-511. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2020.10.011. Epub 2020 Oct 20.

Abstract

The SARS-CoV2 pandemic has created extreme shortages of N95 mask necessitating the need for rapid development of reuse and reprocessing plans. Our aim was to create a process to recapture, reprocess, and redistribute N95 masks using hydrogen peroxide vapor as a real time disinfection method within a large hospital system. We were able to recapture and reprocess 29, 706 N95 masks using hydrogen peroxide vapor with approximately 25% loss due to damage.

Keywords: Covid 19; Decontamination with HPV.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / prevention & control*
  • Disinfectants / pharmacology
  • Disinfection / methods
  • Equipment Reuse*
  • Gases*
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen Peroxide / pharmacology*
  • N95 Respirators / standards*
  • SARS-CoV-2*

Substances

  • Disinfectants
  • Gases
  • Hydrogen Peroxide