Views: 56 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-03-27 Origin: Site
N95 masks and PM2.5 masks
Are N95 masks disposable? Can it be reused?
In fact, all N95 respirators are single-use, and it is impossible to determine the maximum number of safe re-uses that N95 respirators can use under any circumstances. The safe reuse of N95s is influenced by many factors, such as the risk of infection. But under special circumstances, unless the product manual of the mask specifically emphasizes "single use only", repeated use can be considered in daily use, but this approach is risky. The most obvious point is that the outside of the N95 has actually been contaminated, but users do not realize that there is a risk of infection after repeated use. If the conditions are limited and it is necessary to reuse it, there are a few points to note:
① Confirm that used N95 respirators cannot be contaminated.
② Hang the used N95 respirator in the designated storage area, or put it in a clean, breathable container, such as a paper bag. To minimize potential cross-contamination, store respirators separately so they do not come in contact with each other and clearly identify those using them. Storage containers should be disposed of or cleaned periodically.
③ Clean hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after touching or adjusting the respirator.
④ Avoid touching the inside of the respirator, if you accidentally touch the inside of the respirator, clean your hands as above.
⑤ If the N95 respirator is damaged or dirty, or if you feel difficult to breathe after wearing it, you should take it off. The method of safely discarding the N95 is similar to that of the face mask: put it in a plastic bag, then put it in the trash can, and wash your hands after handling.
8. Are N95 masks the same protection as surgical masks?
Studies have shown that there is no significant difference in the preventive effect of these two masks with several times the price difference on infection.
Some previous studies in laboratory settings have shown that N95 respirators provide better protection against acute respiratory infections than surgical masks. But in clinical settings, randomized controlled trials of N95 respirators have not shown the same benefit. However, it is still too early to draw conclusions from the results of one experiment alone, and the final conclusion has yet to be further proved.
A 2012 study found that a tightly fitting face mask can provide about 94% protection against airborne viruses, while a correctly worn, tightly fitting N95 respirator can achieve greater than 99% optimal protection. But wearing any mask loosely can only achieve 60% protection.
Therefore, in theory, wearing N95 correctly provides more comprehensive protection. But if you can't wear N95 for various reasons, surgical masks are also a good choice.
9. Can PM2.5 masks prevent virus infection?
PM2.5 refers to particles with a diameter of 2.5 microns or smaller, and the term "PM2.5 mask" is not rigorous. Different anti-haze masks should be analyzed in detail. For example, our commonly used 3M9001 and 3M9002 folding anti-particulate masks with valves meet the standard of GB2626-2006 KN90, which means that in the experiment of particle testing, it can block at least 90% (0.3 micron level) of particles Although the effect of the test particles is slightly inferior to that of N95, it is much better than ordinary disposable masks. 3M8210, which is recommended by more people, itself complies with the KN95 standard, so it can be used to prevent virus infection.
In general, if you don't know how to deal with the "PM2.5 mask" in your hand, it is recommended to check its product specifications before deciding whether to use it.