An N95 mask is a widely-used, short-name acronym for a particulate air filtering face mask, which is an essential respiratory protective device that meets the federal U.S. Department of Health’s (HHS) national standard for protecting the public from respiratory air contaminants. A variety of N95 masks are available in the market today. Each one exhibits its own peculiarities and features. It is thus important to bear in mind certain basic principles that govern the use of N95 filters in order to make the most appropriate choice when purchasing an N95 mask.
N95 masks are designed with certain characteristics in mind. They filter large particulates or particles of dust, smoke, fumes, oil, and other irritants. While such masks may not be recommended for individuals with severe respiratory conditions or diseases like asthma, those with allergies are also eligible for the use of an N95 masks.
The best time to wear N95 masks is immediately after a recent bout of a respiratory ailment like flu or pneumonia. After exerting oneself in any form of exertion such as gardening, yard work, construction, or driving, it is ideal to put on a respirator and N95 filter mask to protect the respiratory system. During the period of the pandemic, it is important to be vigilant with regard to breathing. Any person who exhibits coughs or other symptoms suggestive of respiratory infection ought to consider wearing face masks.
HEPA filter based N95 masks
An N95 mask consists of a filter or a Facepiece. The design of the N95 respirators depends on the kind of pollutant being filtered. For instance, a HEPA filter is used to filter small particles while a UV filter is used to filter sunlight. A full-face mask is usually more effective than a half or quarter facepiece type.
In many countries, including the United States, the use of N95 masks has become a controversial issue. Several health organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency have been calling for increased awareness of the dangers posed by long-term exposure to certain types of air pollutants. The National Institutes of Health has also stated that there is sufficient evidence to link the excess cancer risk among smokers to the use of N95 masks.
The test that most healthcare workers are required to undergo before being able to buy an N95 mask is the positive pressure check, where a part of the mask is placed inside a reservoir filled with saline. When the mask’s pressure falls below the predetermined limit, a signal is sent to the device and the mask is considered to be in negative pressure. A positive pressure check is performed when the mask’s pressure goes above the predetermined level. Based on the results of both the positive pressure and negative pressure checks, the N95 mask is approved for use by the patient. To buy these masks one can check available options around them. Online sellers like accumed.com can be a better option to buy genuine quality masks.
