How to choose a surgical mask or respirator?

When choosing a mask, several factors should be considered such as application, type of mask and level of protection required.

Application: in line with the profession, area of application as well as the existence or lack of transmittable diseases, patients and caregivers use a specific form of breathing apparatus having a certain amount of protection.

The type of face mask: both main types of face masks are "surgical" masks and "respirators". They may have different functions, standards and objectives. The heavily weighed to remember is the fact that medical masks only force away contagious agents which can be sent via "droplets", while protective face masks or respirators also force away the inhalation of infectious brokers that may be transmitted by "airborne" routes.

The level of protection required: each of these kinds of masks is susceptible to different standards and regulations in a variety of countries. Within these standards, there are different classes of devices to look for the level of protection. Refer to the regulations in your geographical area.

Disposable or reusable: Surgical face masks are just available as disposable. Respirators may be resuable. In the case of respirators, it will be possible to replace the filter once it is full.

Effective life: the life long a mask 's performance varies as outlined by use. It can be between 3 and eight hours. A less expensive mask often means a short period of use. This is methodically indicated by the manufacturer .

Comfort and ease : there are very different sizes of face masks, adaptable to the morphology of the person that will be putting on it. Protective masks or respirators may also be equipped with an exhalation valve to improve user comfort. Some masks also cover the eyes if vision protection is needed. These are called full face respirators or face masks.