COVID-19: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as "PPE," is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. The guidance below is to protect health care workers and other patients at facilities that provide care to patients with COVID-19.
General public: Follow everyday preventive actions, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands, practicing physical distancing, and staying home as much as possible, especially when you are sick.
Patients: Patients with confirmed or possible SARS-CoV-2 infection should wear a mask when being evaluated medically.
Health care personnel should adhere to Standard and Transmission-based Precautions when caring for patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Recommended PPE is described in the CDC's (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) infection control guidance.
CDC fact sheets
CDC resources
- How to Properly Don, Use, and Doff PPE (PDF)
- Strategies for Optimizing the Supply of PPE
- How to Perform a Respirator Seal Check (PDF)
- Three Key Factors Required for a Respirator to be Effective (PDF)
- Understanding the Difference (surgical masks, N95 FFRs, and Elastomerics) Infographic (PDF)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration resources
Respirator fit testing
Other resources
Wisconsin Department of Health Services stockpile
Please visit the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response: Medical Stockpile page for the most current information about the Department of Health Services Medical Stockpile.