Introduction:
The coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) has increased the demand for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including face masks. One type of face mask in high demand is the N95 respirator, a filtering facepiece respirator that offers more protection than a standard surgical or cloth mask.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about N95 masks, from how they work to how to wear and care for them properly.
How N95 Masks Work
N95 masks are made of non-woven polypropylene fabric and are designed to fit snugly over your nose and mouth. The straps of the mask loop around your ears and the metal nose clip can be adjusted to ensure a snug fit.
The key feature of an N95 mask is its filtration efficiency, precisely, the ability of the mask to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles.
The secret to the effectiveness of N95 masks lies in the electrostatic charge created when the non-woven polypropylene fibers are spun into fabric. This process creates a web of negatively charged fibers that attract and trap positively charged particles, such as dust, bacteria, and viruses.
Once these particles are trapped in the web, they cannot escape; thus, providing respiratory protection from harmful airborne particles.
How to Properly Wear an N95 Mask
Ensuring that your N95 mask fits properly is critical to its efficacy. First, make sure that you adjust the metal nose clip so that it molds snugly around the bridge of your nose. Second, if you have facial hair such as a beard or mustache, it will prevent proper sealing, and you will not get the full benefit of the mask’s filtration capabilities. Therefore, shaving before putting on your n95 mask is recommended.
Third, perform a fit test every time you put on your N95 mask; otherwise, you risk inhaling harmful airborne particles. To do a fit test, place both hands over the MPR respirator and inhale deeply. If air leaks around your nose or face, adjust the straps or nose clip and try again until there is no air leakage.
Caring for Your N95 Mask
When removing your N95 mask, please do not touch the front of the mask, as it could be contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses. Instead, remove it by grasping only the ear loops or tie strings without touching any other mask part.
After removing your N95 mask, discard it in a lined trash can or container; do not reuse it under any circumstances, as it will no longer be effective at filtering out airborne particles. If you must reuse your N95 mask due to shortage, clean it between uses with either alcohol wipes or CDC-approved disinfectant solutions such as bleach mixed with water (5 tablespoons per gallon) or 70% rubbing alcohol.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, remember that an N9S5 mask is only one tool that can be used to prevent infection from harmful airborne particles; it should always be combined with other preventive measures such as social distancing and handwashing. However, When used correctly, an N95 mask can be an effective way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
