The 2020 Covid-19 Pandemic saw a global rush for countries to source and supply themselves with all the personal protective equipment which was needed to stop the spread of the virus. While in many countries in Asia the majority of people were already used to wearing masks and so supplies and public adherence were both high from the start, it took Western countries and their populations months and months to supply enough masks and enforce their use. In fact, there are still people who refuse to believe the science behind masks and seem to think it is some kind of a breach of their freedoms to be told by their government to wear one. Despite this, wearing a mask has been proven to be one of the most important ways to slow the transmission of Covid-19, and one of the most effective types of a mask is the N95. Many coworking spaces are also requiring mask wearing when using hot desks and meeting rooms.
To make sure you spend your money wisely on a mask that works, here are the factors to consider when buying an N95 mask.
Has the Mask been Scientifically Tested and Approved?
The most important factor to consider when buying an N95 mask is making sure that it has been scientifically tested and approved by the appropriate bodies. Genuine N95 masks are incredibly effective but with the massive need for masks and respirators around the world, there are many fake models flooding the market. You should always buy your N95 mask from a reputable supplier and you can visit dmbsupply.com to see one option available to you. N95 masks are specially designed to stop up to 95% of particles from passing through so they are one of the best masks out there.
Does it Fit Securely?
It is extremely important that any mask or face covering you wear fits securely and that there are no gaps for particles to slip through. N95 masks are far tighter fitting than cloth masks, and for jobs that require employees to wear an N95, they must do a fit-testing to make sure that the mask fits properly. This fit-testing must be done every year in case there has been any damage to the mask or changes to the person’s face which could affect how it fits.
Is It Worth the Money?
One of the most beneficial things about choosing an N95 rather than a normal cloth mask is that it is far more effective, but the main downside is that N95s are far more expensive. N95 masks can be reused if the proper steps are taken but should never be used more than four or five times. For medical professionals or people who work in conditions with dangerous particles in the air, an N95 mask is always worth the money, but even in these Covid-19 times, it may be overkill for a normal person.
Wearing a mask is so important in stopping the spread of Covid-19 but only if you wear an effective model. It is really important that you make sure that you buy an N95 mask that has been tested and improved, fits your face securely without any gaps, and that you know how often you need to change. Follow this easy guide and you will be able to keep yourself and others around you safe.
The post Factors to Consider in Buying an N95 Mask was first published on Coworkaholic.