The Apparel Search Company is NOT an expert in regard to protective masks. However, we did compile a bit of information that may be of help if you wish to further research face masks because of the COVID-19 illness. As you have heard on the news, COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It's caused by a virus called coronavirus.
Below is partial information that we have found online. Please review below but also do further research on additional websites for a more comprehensive understanding. If you have specific question, you can possibly contact the FDA or CDC.
It is important to recognize that the optimal way to prevent airborne transmission is to use a combination of interventions from across the hierarchy of controls, not just PPE alone.
- All FDA-cleared N95 respirators are labeled as "single-use," disposable devices.
A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. These are often referred to as face masks, although not all face masks are regulated as surgical masks. Note that the edges of the mask are not designed to form a seal around the nose and mouth.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also regulate N95 respirators.
An N95 respirator is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles. The 'N95' designation means that when subjected to careful testing, the respirator blocks at least 95 percent of very small (0.3 micron) test particles. If properly fitted, the filtration capabilities of N95 respirators exceed those of face masks. However, even a properly fitted N95 respirator does not completely eliminate the risk of illness or death.
It is important to recognize that the optimal way to prevent airborne transmission is to use a combination of interventions from across the hierarchy of controls, not just PPE alone.
A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. Surgical masks are regulated under 21 CFR 878.4040. Surgical masks are not to be shared and may be labeled as surgical, isolation, dental, or medical procedure masks. They may come with or without a face shield. These are often referred to as face masks, although not all face masks are regulated as surgical masks.
Surgical masks are made in different thicknesses and with different ability to protect you from contact with liquids. These properties may also affect how easily you can breathe through the face mask and how well the surgical mask protects you.
Find more information at the FDA website https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/n95-respirators-and-surgical-masks-face-masks
Visit the CDC.gov website
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hcwcontrols/recommendedguidanceextuse.html
Honeywell also makes N95 respirator masks.
Again, the Apparel Search Company is NOT an expert on this subject. Please conduct your own research and do not rely on above for health relevant decisions.