WCM-Q provides mask fit testing for PHCC staff

Staff at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar ran a class organized by Qatar Foundation (QF) to help Primary Healthcare Corporation staff determine if they have fitted their N95 masks correctly.

Henriette Oosthuysen, environmental health, safety & security manager at WCM-Q, carried out the tests for 14 PHCC staff to determine if they were able to fit their masks correctly. Of the 14 PHCC staff, which comprised seven nurses, four doctors, two cleaners and one radiographer, a total of nine fitted their masks correctly. Those that were not able to fit the mask correctly were found to need smaller masks and arrangements were made to procure these for them. These staff members will be re-tested once the smaller masks are available. Staff from VCUarts Qatar also contributed to the class.

Mrs. Oosthuysen said: “When worn correctly, N95 masks can provide effective means of preventing the spread of airborne particles, including virus material. However, for the masks to be maximally effective it is important to wear them correctly so that they cover the mouth and nose completely and do not expose gaps when the wearer moves around or talks.

“We were very happy to be invited by QF to perform the mask fit test and enjoyed working with the professional staff from the PHCC, who took the class very seriously. All of them demonstrated the ability to fit the masks correctly but it was found some needed smaller masks.”

Andrew Adair, director of facilities, health and safety and security at WCM-Q, said: “It was great to have the opportunity to help out in some small way with national efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. I would like to thank QF, the PHCC, VCUarts Qatar and my team at WCM-Q, particularly Henriette, for making this mask fitting test session possible."