TB Control Frequently Asked Questions

(All documents are in PDF format)

TB Skin Testing

• How should a Mantoux tuberculin skin test be applied?
• How should a Mantoux tuberculin skin test be read?
• Why perform two-step tuberculin skin testing?
• How is two-step tuberculin skin testing done?
• How are tuberculin skin test conversion rates calculated?

Chest X-Rays

• Are periodic chest x-rays recommended in tuberculosis screening programs for employees?
• When are chest x-rays recommended in employee screening programs?

Miscellaneous

• How do I perform a respirator fit test?
• What precautions should be taken when transporting a TB patient?
• What are the main factors that affect TB transmission?

Isolation Rooms

• What are the ventilation criteria of a TB isolation room?
• What does air change mean?
• What does negative pressure mean and what does it do?
• How do we know if our isolation room is under negative pressure?
• How long does it take to clear the air in an isolation or high-risk procedure room?

Ventilation & Engineering Controls

• What does ventilation have to do with TB control?
• What type of air filter should I use in my building's ventilation system?
• How can a portable HEPA filter unit help control TB?
• How can UV be used in TB Control?

For more information about federal occupation standards and regulations regarding respirators and fit testing, view OSHA's Respiratory Protection eTool.

For more information, view the Centers for Disease Control's Questions and Answers About TB.