DHHS has withdrawn KN95 masks from supply pending results of a quality review to ensure they meet standards for the prevention of COVID-19 cross-infection. KN95 masks are sometimes marketed as equivalent to N95 or FFP2 masks.

Any service providers currently using KN95 respirator masks are advised to remove them from use and organisational supply. Respirator masks identified as meeting P2 or N95 standards comply with the Australian TGA standards. The Victorian state PPE supply chain has sufficient quantity to meet existing needs.

P2/N95 respirator masks are recommended for disability workers when providing ‘hands-on’ direct contact care or support for a client with coronavirus risk factors, including suspected or confirmed COVID-19, being a close contact of a confirmed case, or where there are aerosol-generating procedures or behaviours. Hands-on care or support is defined as within 1.5m of the client for a cumulative 15 minutes or more over a shift. See DHHS advice, dated 4 September.

DHHS has also released documents addressing frequently asked question for disability support workers

• Face masks at work: frequently asked questions for disability support workers (COVID-19) - 10 September 2020 (Word)
• Face coverings: Frequently asked questions for people with disability and their support workers (Word)