Recommendation for healthcare facilities in Switzerland for sterilizing protection FFP masks

Executive summary

The National COVID‐19 Science Task Force (NCS‐TF) recommends that the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) issues healthcare facilites sterilizing in a first phase their used FFP masks meeting the criteria of the norm EN 149 (e.g. FFP1, FFP2, FFP3, N95) and applying the following recommendations for sterilization with vapor hydrogen peroxyde (VH₂O₂) in the event of a complete shortage with the following processes from the manufacturer Steris (VPRO Max and VPRO Max II cycle Non Lumen, Sterrad 100 NX and All Clear cycle Standard, and Matachana HPO 130 et HPO 50 cycle Rapid and validated according to the SN EN ISO 14937.

In short, we recommend collecting and storing FFP2 masks or equivalent individually according to our previous recommendation. Additionally the mask user is asked to add a visible mark with a utility marker (see material) each time before using his mask. Each mask with 2 (Sterrad and Matachana) or 10 (Steris) marks wil be descarded after use. Before reuse and before sterilization, mask will be visually inspected respectively by the sterilization co‐worker and the mask user. FFP masks in individualized bags will then be sterilized with vapor hydrogen peroxide. To do so, the usual process is followed according to the manufacturer instructed cycle Steris, Sterrad, and Matachana. For hygienic reasons, Re‐sterilized bag will be returned to their designated user only only in the event of a complete shortage.

When: immediately until the end of the COVID‐19 emergency situation.

Who: all healthcare facilities using FFP2 or equivalent masks in Switzerland.