Island Health has begun the process of reprocessing used N95 masks as a backup measure should the supply of new N95 masks be jeopardized.
The masks are being collected from all Island Health acute care sites, to be sorted, dried and sterilized. The process follows on a Vancouver General Hospital pilot project using a sterilization process proven to kill the virus that causes COVID-19.
This is a directive to all health authorities from the Ministry of Health. The intent is for the sterilized masks to be stored, and used only as a last resort measure, should the supply of new N95 masks be jeopardized.
A process to collect, store and transport ALL used N95 masks to Nanaimo Regional General Hospital has been created through collaboration involving Medical Device Reprocessing (MDR), Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC), Housekeeping, Facilities Maintenance & Operation (FMO), Transport Services, Logistics & Operations, and Surgical Services.
Bags will be tied before transport to reduce risk. We are not collecting masks that are visibly soiled or damaged, or those used in procedures involving cytotoxic drugs.
Collection carts (hampers) for the masks have been ordered, to be located in central locations on units and outfitted with purple plastic bags as a visual cue. Signage will clearly identify collection locations. Health Care Workers are to dispose of eligible used N95 masks in the purple plastic bag lined carts. MDR will collect bags of used masks and replace plastic liner as needed.
The used masks will be collected, stored and dried by MDR, then sterilized. Manufacturers 3M and ASP have validated the process allowing the N95 masks to be sterilized in the Sterrad, a low-temperature sterilizer. The masks are exposed to a hydrogen peroxide plasma that destroys the bacteria and viral load.
This is a RAPIDLY evolving plan and we are taking direction from the Ministry of Health. Directions may change over time but currently this is the course we are taking.
Thank you sincerely for your hard work and dedication to ensure the safety of our patients and each other during these extraordinary times.
If you have specific questions regarding this process, please contact:
Jen Duda, Manager for Surgical Quality: Jennifer.Duda@islandhealth.ca or Jo-Lee Bertrand, Project Manager, Surgical Services: Jo-Lee.Bertrand@islandhealth.ca