This clarification is now on the TSBDE website.
In the interest of patient and DHCP safety, TSBDE would like to clarify 22 TAC Section 108.7(16)(B)(iii), which was amended May 1, 2020 at 12:01 AM. DHCP shall implement Transmission-Based Precautions, including N-95 respirator masks, KN-95 masks, or their substantial equivalent far all DHCP who will be within six (6) feet of any and all procedures likely to involve aerosols; Equipment that qualifies as a “substantial equivalent” to a N-95/KN-95 mask DOES NOT include the combination of a surgical mask and a face shield. CDC provides guidance on equipment that qualifies as a “substantial equivalent” to a N-95/KN-95 mask for purposes of 22 TAC Section 108.7(16)(B)(iii). Please see the following links for additional information: NIOSH-Approved Particulate Filtering Facepiece Respirators Respirator – Trusted-Source Information Counterfeit Respirators / Misrepresentation of NIOSH-Approval