Fórsa has told the HSE that its staff should not be required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) in ways that compromise their safety or the effectiveness of the equipment itself.

Official advice from the HSE’s occupational health team says staff should not be rostered to work with coronavirus patients if they don’t have appropriately-fitting PPE.

And it says they should be trained in the proper use and disposal of PPE.

The HSE admitted to shortages of some items of personal protective equipment yesterday, but said there was enough to get through to Sunday when new stocks are due to arrive.

Meanwhile, new occupational health guidelines for healthcare workers are expected to update coronavirus-related advice for pregnant staff and those who are medically vulnerable.

And a new occupational health helpline has been established for healthcare workers. It’s available from 8.00am to 8.00pm Mondays to Fridays, and from 9.00am to 5,00pm on Saturdays and Sundays.