First published by Safety+Health an NSC publication
Washington — NIOSH is seeking input on personal protective equipment use, availability, accessibility, acceptability and knowledge for “underserved” workers, according to a notice published in the June 24 Federal Register.
“Underserved PPE user populations may include, but are not limited to, workers who are of an atypical size; who are members of a gender, racial, ethnic or linguistic minority group; who conduct nontraditional worker activities; or who are members of sub-disciplines that are not the primary focus of the current PPE activities within a larger field,” the notice states.
Information should be shared with NIOSH via a letter or email, and should include individual, company or institution name, location, and website (if available). The letters also should include contact information and “the primary motivation(s) for why you (or your organization) are responding,” along with relevant background information and knowledge of “any other organizations working in applicable issues.”
In addition, NIOSH asks that respondents describe experiences related to PPE use, availability, accessibility, acceptability and knowledge issues for underserved PPE user populations.
Other potential questions respondents can answer:
- What data/information/resources did you find the most relevant/valuable?
- How long have you or your organization been working with the PPE use, availability, accessibility, acceptability and knowledge issues for underserved populations?
- Did your or your organization’s involvement change over time and, if so, how and why?
- What achievements have you or your organizations realized through your work (e.g., publications, guidance, new/revised policies or procedures)?
- What are your future plans on PPE use, availability, accessibility and knowledge for underserved populations?
- Describe PPE gaps/barriers for underserved populations?
- What research, service or policy gaps need to be addressed?
Letters of information are due by Aug. 23.
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