A respiratory protection plan goes beyond compliance — it is a critical component of operational safety, uniting health standards and emergency preparedness. The pandemic is proof that airborne hazards demand proactive readiness.
Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities and ID/DD centers are required to establish and maintain a respiratory protection program when employees are exposed to airborne hazards, including infectious agents such as COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. These requirements are set by OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134).
Additionally, healthy employees are key to a safe environment for residents, as set by CMS health standards (42 CFR 483 Subpart B). Following emergency preparedness rules (42 CFR 483.73) and completing an annual hazard vulnerability assessment can identify risks, including airborne infections, to ensure these standards are met.
The OSHA mandate includes performing medical evaluations, conducting fit testing, providing appropriate respirators and ensuring proper training for all at-risk employees. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines, penalties and increased liability, as well as serious health risks to employees.
To assist care providers in meeting these federal requirements, AHCA/NCAL and MCA Consulting, LLC, have provided a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan training and toolkit. This all-in-one resource contains all essential information to achieve full compliance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard, including a customizable template plan, essential forms, training videos and detailed reference guides. Meeting OSHA’s standard also helps demonstrate compliance with the CMS health and emergency preparedness mandates.
Resources include:
- Access to OSHA-mandated forms for program documentation
- Step-by-step fit testing instructions and video to ensure proper respirator use
- Customizable templates tailored to your facility’s specific needs
- Practical guides and tools for straightforward implementation
- Video training for managerial staff and program administrators on respiratory protection requirements
- Video training for employees, meeting all annual OSHA training requirements
AHCA/NCAL is offering a discounted three-year subscription for this package, which is valued at $4,000+ if purchased through consulting firms. The three-year subscription is $499 for AHCA/NCAL members and $699 for non-members, and includes everything providers need for federal OSHA respiratory protection plan compliance.
Members will need to log in with their AHCA/NCAL usernames and passwords to subscribe. For assistance obtaining usernames and passwords, members can email [email protected] with their name and facility contact information.