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Professional knowledge related to masks

May 21, 2024

latest company news about Professional knowledge related to masks  0

(1) What is an N95 mask?
The N95 mask is the lowest level of filtration efficiency for occupational particulate respirators in the United States by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which refers to a filtration efficiency of at least 95% for non oily particulate matter (such as dust, paint mist, acid mist, microorganisms, etc.). NIOSH certification is for the overall product, not just for the filter material. Qualified products must be labeled with NIOSH N95. Labeling N95 separately does not indicate that it is a NIOSH certified product.

(2) Can protective masks protect against bacteria and viruses in the air?
Bacteria and viruses can invade the human body through multiple pathways, and respiratory protection can help reduce the possibility of respiratory infections. Microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and pollen, are granular substances that can be filtered by anti particle filtering materials. The public can judge the degree of respiratory hazards in the environment based on their own judgment, and refer to the World Health Organization (WHO) to recommend preventive measures for infection to professionals. They should choose protective masks that reach at least N95 level.

(3) The virus is so small, can a mask filter it out?
The pathogenic microorganisms are indeed very small and invisible to the naked eye. To evaluate the filtration efficiency of N95 masks, approximately 0.3 microns of particles are used. Although some viruses may be smaller than 0.3 microns, the smaller the particle size, the more difficult it is to filter, as particles around 0.3 microns are the most difficult to filter. N95 masks have an efficiency of at least 95% in filtering non oily particles. [Compliant with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) N95 certification, it is the most basic level among all certification levels, blocking particles with a diameter of 0.075 microns (i.e. 75 nanometers), with a success rate of 95%]
Attachment: Porcine influenza bacteria: 80-120 nanometers
Avian influenza bacteria: 80-120 nanometers
SARS bacteria: 80-150 nanometers

(4) Can wearing a protective mask prevent getting sick?
There is no 100% protection. There is no safe exposure limit for various pathogenic microorganisms, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, so respiratory protection only helps reduce exposure levels and does not guarantee complete absence of contact with pathogens, nor does it exclude the risk of infection or illness. In addition, pathogenic microorganisms can also enter the human body through pathways other than the respiratory tract.

(5) Will long-term use of protective masks fail?
As the usage time of the mask increases, the filtered particles will gradually clog the filter material, resulting in an increase in filtration efficiency and respiratory resistance. However, this situation usually does not occur when preventing microorganisms. Long term use can lead to hygiene issues (such as odors), or the infectious threat caused by repeated use of contaminated masks. Protective masks should not be washed or disinfected as it can reduce filtration efficiency and should usually be replaced daily. Exposed to infectious environments and should be replaced after use; If any parts are found to be damaged, such as missing nose clips, broken headbands, or damaged masks, replace them immediately; Replace the mask as soon as possible when there is already infectious bodily fluid contaminated with it; If used for a short period of time every day and without the aforementioned issues, the protective effect will not decrease after repeated use.

(6) Is a surgical mask a protective mask?
No, it's not. Surgical masks are worn by medical staff during surgery to prevent bacterial contamination caused by their breathing and speech. They also provide protection against blood and body fluid splashes, but are not respiratory protection. Some hospitals require patients with respiratory diseases to wear surgical masks, with the aim of using the isolation effect of masks to reduce the transmission of coughing and sneezing to others.

(7) Do you have a mask for children?
Protective masks are designed for adults, and users must have the ability to use them, including reading and understanding the instructions, having a face shape that is suitable for the mask, being able to use it correctly and persistently, which children do not possess; In addition, wearing a mask can increase respiratory resistance and may have health effects on children who have not yet fully developed. The best way to protect children is to stay away from polluted environments.