In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the presidential administration has issued an executive order, “Memorandum to Extend Federal Support to Governors’ Use of the National Guard to Respond to COVID-19 and to Increase Reimbursement and Other Assistance Provided to States,” effective January 21, 2021.

In Section 3 of the memorandum, “Assistance for Category B Emergency Protective Measures,” it states that FEMA shall provide the assistance that may be required by States, local governments, and Tribal governments to “provide for the safe opening and operation of eligible schools, child-care facilities, healthcare facilities, non-congregate shelters, domestic violence shelters, transit systems, and other eligible applicants.”

It continues, “This assistance may include funding for the provision of personal protective equipment and disinfecting services and supplies.”

According to this, state and local governments are eligible to receive 100% reimbursement for costs associated with PPE and other supplies for COVID-19, under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. Prior to this order taking effect, states were required to cover 25% of COVID-19 related costs eligible for reimbursement.

This funding for PPE is available until September 30, 2021.

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, MSA has been and continues to be prepared to provide PPE to help keep frontline workers safe, including those serving in healthcare and government.

MSA products appropriate for this funding include:

• Optimair® TL PAPR

  • NIOSH-approved powered air-purifying respirator with loose-fitting hoods and tight-fitting facepieces that helps to protect against particulates, toxic gases and vapors, or a combination. The low-profile hood options reduce the ear coverage area, allowing for the use of a stethoscope, while also maintaining eye and face protection. The Optimair TL PAPR is in stock and discounted pricing is available.

• Advantage® 290 Half-Mask Respirator

  • First-ever NIOSH approved elastomeric respirator without an exhalation valve. In addition to providing up to P100 level protection for the wearer, the elimination of the exhalation valve allows for the wearer’s exhaled breath to be filtered and contained. This source control reduces the likelihood of contaminating the surrounding area, making the Advantage 290 ideal for sterile environments.

Read more about the executive order here.

Previously Featured on MSA Safety's blog.