Why To Protect Yourself With An N95 Mask
An N95 Mask can be used to protect you at work against various diseases and airborne particles. These masks are often abbreviated as N95 respirators and filter out 95% airborne particles. The following information will help you find the right N95 mask for your needs. We’ll discuss cost, fit testing and availability as well as SARS-CoV-2 protection. Let’s get started.
Fit testing
OSHA published guidelines for fitting N95 masks. In the past, fit testing was not done in many ICUs. 71% of hospitals didn’t know if they had an inventory of N95 masks. Recent research shows that fitting N95 masks is an important part to ensure safety at work.
Available
In the next few weeks, Conestoga students can expect to receive their first set of N95 masks made by www.bnx.com/made-in-usa/n95-mask-respirators-kn95-face-masks/ free of charge. About 60% of Conestoga students heard about the program, and 33% have taken advantage of it. Some students experienced significant delays in receiving the free products in early February and only received them later. This means that N95 masks are now available to more students than you might imagine.
SARS-CoV-2 protection
The use of N95 masks can help to alleviate the crisis of an insufficient supply of respirators during a pandemic. However, repeated use can lower the effectiveness of the masks during disinfection, due to neutralization of surface charges. Scientists recommend that users sterilize their hands with soapy water. Other methods of reuse include heat treatment, but the effectiveness of dry heat deactivation is still unknown.
Recommendations for wearing an N95 mask
You must ensure that your N95 mask fits properly. The mask should cover your nose and mouth but not leak. Make sure that the mask fits well, so don’t be tempted to use it with a beard or facial hair. Check that the straps fit securely; if they don’t, you should replace it immediately. If the straps are too loose or too tight, you should adjust them.