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How Long Can N95 Masks Be Used?

N95 masks can be lifesavers for healthcare workers and the public in times of the global pandemic called COVID-19. These masks protect you from the COVID-19 virus and keep you safe. They can be used multiple times during their lifespan. How Long Can You Use Them? N95 masks are reusable. You can use them several times over their lifespan. The number of hours of the lifespan of the filter of an N95 mask is generally mentioned on the packaging. You can use them till the filter’s recommended lifespan. If your N95 mask is broken or cracked, then it must be replaced immediately. Such masks are compromised and are not effective in providing you complete protection from viruses. You should keep checking your masks for any signs of damage to ensure you get the best protection and safety. How to Protect N95 Masks for Longer Lifespan Some of the key tips for increasing the lifespan of N95 masks are as follows: Proper Storage N95 masks should be stored properly after use. You should not put them in your pocket or handbags. They should be hanged in a properly designated area. You can also store them in a clean and breathable container. If you have multiple masks, then they should not be stored too close to each other. They should not touch each other while storing as it can cause cross-contamination. Don’t Touch Unnecessarily As far as possible, you should not touch the N95 mask unnecessarily with your hands or other objects that may contaminate it. Read the full article

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What is an N95 Mask? Why Do You Need Them?

N95 masks are popular globally for protecting against particulates and microbes that can cause microbial infection. With the current COVID-19 global pandemic, N95 masks have become important for remaining safe from the infection. It has a high demand in most countries. Some of the key features and details of N95 masks are discussed below: Key Details of N95 Masks The letter “N” represents the respirator rating class. Here it stands for “non-oil”. This means that an N95 mask can be used in an environment that does not have any oil-based particulates. The other types of masks have R (oil-resistant for 8 hours) and P (oil proof) ratings. The number 95 denotes a 95% efficiency in blocking particulate matter. Hence, an N95 mask can be used if there are no oil-based particulates and it can filter with an efficiency of 95%. Some masks have 97% and 99% efficiency. Masks with 100% efficiency are 99.97% efficient in blocking particulates and have the same filtering capacity as that of a HEPA air purifier. Other Key Features The N95 mask is designed to fit snugly and provide a close facial fit. These masks have edges that fit closely on your face and forms a seal around your nose and mouth. It is very effective in blocking airborne particles. It can block particulates up to a size of 0.3 microns. These N95 masks are much more efficient in blocking and filtering small particulates than regular face masks. Wearing facial masks for long can feel uncomfortable for most people. Read the full article

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Where Can You Buy N95 Masks?

N95 masks are effective in protecting against microbial infection. They are being used by healthcare workers and the public in most countries for protection against the deadly COVID-19 infection. You should buy a good quality N95 mask from a reputed medical store only. You should ensure that the packaging is intact and not tampered before buying it. It is also recommended to buy N95 masks made from reputed brands only. The following are some key points you must consider before buying an N95 mask: Close Facial Sealing A good N95 mask should have a close facial fit. It should form a close sealing with your mouth and nose. This prevents the entry of the virus and keeps you protected against COVID-19 infection. You must do the fit testing before buying an N95 mask. Everyone’s face is unique and thus one standard designed mask will not fit everyone perfectly. If a mask is ill-fitting with gaps between it and your mouth and nose, then it won’t be effective in protecting you from the virus. Easy to Breathe In The mask should be comfortable to wear. The edges of the mask should not be too sharp or abrasive as it can cause rashes on your skin. It should not be too tight-fitting to make you feel dizzy and uncomfortable. Breathability is another important point to consider. The mask should have low breathing resistance. This will allow you to breathe comfortably while using the mask for long periods. Read the full article

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Does N95 Mask Protect YOU From Covid-19? (And How?)

N95 masks are effective in protecting you from COVID-19 infection. They can filter out particulates up to the size of 0.3 microns. These masks are used globally for COVID-19 protection. The key features of N95 masks and how they are effective in protecting from COVID-19 infection are discussed below: Key Differences Between Surgical Mask and N95 Mask Surgical masks are used by surgeons and healthcare workers to stay safe from infection. They can protect you from large droplets of infections. However, they may not provide you effective protection like an N95 mask. An N95 mask filters out 95% of very small particles or pollutants (up to the size of 0.3 microns). They are effective for protection from COVID-19. They are in heavy demand and are being extensively used by healthcare professionals globally. Surgical masks are loose-fitting and provide space between it and your nose and mouth. N95 masks form a tight seal with your mouth and nose and prevent viruses from entering inside it. When to Wear N95 Mask Ideally, you should wear an N95 mask always to remain protected from the COVID-19 infection. If you are in an enclosed space with others or traveling using public transport, then using an N95 mask is a must. Wearing an N95 mask in such a situation protects you from getting infected from other potential virus carriers. It also protects others from getting infected from you, if you might be a potential carrier. Read the full article

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How to Put on an N95 Mask? How To Wear Breathing Mask?

An N95 mask is important to stay protected from deadly infections like COVID-19. There are certain processes to be followed while putting the mask on and removing it. Doing so will ensure that your mask is not contaminated, and it continues to provide you the best protection from COVID-19. The steps for putting on and taking off an N95 mask is discussed below: Steps to Put on an N95 Mask Hold the N95 mask in your hands with the nose piece at your fingertips. Place the mask on your nose and mouth such that the headbands are below your hands. The mask should be held under your chin. The top strap of the mask goes over your head and should be placed at the back of your head. The other strap should be put around your neck and below the ears. Ensure that the straps are not jumbled or crisscrossed. Once you have placed the straps, put your hand on the top of the metal nose clip. Slide your fingers down this metal nose clip and shape the mask to fit your mouth and nose snugly. Steps to Check the Fit of the N95 Mask The next step is to check the fit and seal of the mask. Put both your hands on the mask and take a quick breath. Check if the mask is sealed tightly to your mouth and nose. Put both your hands on the mask and exhale. If you can feel leakage, then the N95 mask is not tightly sealed. In case of air leakage, you should readjust the metal nose clip of the mask. This will give you a tighter and better seal. Read the full article

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Differences Between Dust Masks and N95 Masks for COVID-19

Dust masks and N95 masks are meant for different uses. Dust masks are designed to be used only in a non-toxic environment. They cannot be reused and need to be disposed of.N95 masks are suitable for protection from the toxic environment and deadly microbes. The key differences between both these mask types are provided below: What is Dust Mask? Dust masks are loose-fitting disposable masks. They are recommended for use in non-toxic environments. You can use dust masks to protect yourself from non-toxic dust, which is generated during cleaning, gardening, dusting, etc. They are not suitable for protecting you from toxic particulates or microbes. Dust masks don’t form a tight seal with your face. This leaves room for particulates to enter inside. Due to this, dust masks cannot be used in a toxic environment. It will allow the toxic particulates and microbes to enter inside and will not protect you from them. Dust masks are not approved by NIOSH- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health- in the U.S. What is an N95 Mask? An N95 mask is more effective than a dust mask. It is suitable to be used in toxic environments. N95 masks provide effective protection from toxic particulates and microbes. These masks are ideal for use when the particulates are non-oil based in nature. The number 95 denotes the efficiency of these masks in filtering particulates. N95 masks have 95% efficiency in filtering particulates up to the size of 0.3 microns. Read the full article

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How Often to be Fitted for N95 Mask?

N95 masks need to be test fitted regularly to ensure they meet the required safety standards. Mask fit test is needed for people working in a toxic environment as it ensures that the masks provide complete protection to the users. The key details about mask fit test and how often should N95 masks be fitted are detailed below: What is the N95 Mask Fit Test An N95 mask can provide you complete protection from toxic particulates and microbes only if it fits you properly. A good fitting N95 mask should form a tight facial fit. It should provide a tight seal with your mouse and nose. This ensures that no harmful particulates and microbes can get inside. There are two different types of tests used to assess the correct fit for N95 masks and respirators. The qualitative test is subjective and depends on the sensitivity of the user. In this test, a tester will spray either sweet or bitter aerosol near you, while you are wearing an N95 mask. If you can detect the smell of these aerosols, then the mask is not a proper fit for you. A well-fitting mask will not allow you to detect the smell of these aerosols. The quantitative test is more data-oriented. It makes use of scientific machines to determine the mask fit. A clear advantage of this method is that it takes the subjectivity of the user out of the testing method. It can provide you an accurate result on the N95 mask fit. Why is the N95 Mask Fit Test Needed? Everyone is different. We have different facial features. Read the full article

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What Does “N” and “95” Refer to in an N95 Mask

N95 masks have become very popular and globally used due to the widespread COVID-19 infection. They protect from the deadly COVID-19 virus and keeps the healthcare workers and the public safe. the salient features of N95 masks are described below: What is an N95 Mask? N95 masks are effective in blocking toxic particulates and microbes. The letter “N” refers to the suitability of the mask under non-oil-based particulates. The number “95” refers to the efficiency of these masks. It denotes that they can filter small particulates and microbes with an efficiency of 95%. There are other masks in the market that have an efficiency of 97% and 99%. An N95 mask is enough for most healthcare workers and people working in other hazardous industries. These masks can filter particulates that are very small in size up to 0.3 microns. N95 masks form a tight seal with your mouth and nose. This prevents any toxic particulates and microbes from entering inside. They have low breathing resistance which makes them comfortable to wear for long periods. Fit Test for N95 Masks The effectiveness of N95 masks depends greatly on their fit. They should be well-fitting to provide a tight seal to protect you from dangerous particulates. It is strongly recommended that N95 masks should be fit tested before using them. there are two methods of testing their fit. The qualitative test method uses the sensitivity of a user to assess the mask fit. Read the full article

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Can N95 Respirator Mask Protect You Against Coronavirus?

Coronavirus is spreading like wildfire. It has affected nearly all parts of the globe. N95 respirator masks can help you stay protected and safe from coronavirus. They can filter out small microbes like the COVID-19 virus. Some of the key details of these masks and how they protect you against coronavirus are discussed below: What is an N95 Respirator Mask? N95 respirator masks are approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the U.S. These masks are suitable for use where the particulates are non-oil based. The letter “N” corresponds to non-oil. These masks have an efficiency of filtering 95% of toxic particulates and microbes. They can block small particulates up to 0.3 microns in size from entering inside. N95 respirator masks are different from the regular surgical masks. They form a tighter facial seal with your mouth and nose. This is important to block the small particulates from entering inside. N95 respirator masks also have lower breathing resistance. This ensures that you don’t feel discomfort while using them for long periods. Some N95 respirator masks come with an exhalation valve, that further reduces the breathing resistance. N95 respirator masks can generally be reused. You can store them in a clean box and let them dry completely for 3-4 days before reusing them. The lifespan of an N95 respirator mask depends on the life of the filter used in it. You can find it mentioned on the packaging of these masks. Read the full article

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Are Infrared Thermometers Accurate? And Why?

Infrared thermometers are more accurate than regular thermometers. They can provide instant temperature readings for a large number of subjects. This combined with the fact that they are no-contact instruments for taking temperature has made them widely used for screening COVID-19 patients. How to Increase Accuracy The following tips can help to improve the accuracy of your infrared thermometer: Know the Distance-to-Spot Ratio The accuracy of an infrared thermometer greatly depends on its distance-to-spot (D:S) ratio. This ratio lets us know the diameter of the area being measured vis-à-vis the distance from the subject. If the D:S ratio is 15: 1, it means that you can measure the 1-inch diameter of the subject from 15 inches. If you try to measure a larger diameter of the area from the same distance, you will get inaccurate readings. D:S ratio varies depending on the type of infrared thermometer you use. Costlier thermometers have a higher D:S ratio. Be Careful with Shiny Subjects While infrared thermometers have good accuracy in measuring temperature from most subjects, they can generate faulty readings for shiny subjects. If the subject is shiny or reflective, it can affect the accuracy of infrared thermometers. This is because most shiny and reflective subjects emit fewer infrared rays than non-reflective ones. In such cases, it is recommended to put a transparent and non-reflective tape on the subject to address this problem. Ensure Read the full article

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Differences Between Surgical and Civilian Masks For COVID-19?

Surgical respirator masks and civilian masks are designed for different purposes. Surgical respirator masks are meant for healthcare workers who are involved in performing different medical procedures on patients. Civilian masks are designed for the general public for keeping them safe from particulates and microbes. The important differences between surgical respirator masks and civilian masks are as follows: Purpose The basic difference between surgical and civilian masks is their purpose. Surgical respirator masks are designed to protect healthcare workers. These healthcare professionals perform surgery and other related medical procedures on patients and may be subjected to high-pressure streams of bodily fluid like blood. Surgical respirator masks protect them for such bodily fluids. They can stop toxic particulates and microbes from entering inside the mouth and nose of the wearer. These surgical respirator masks can filter small particulates up to 0.3 microns. N95 surgical respirator masks have 95% efficiency in blocking the entry of small particulates and microbes. Surgical respirator masks also protect the patients from the particulates exhaled by the wearer. Civilian masks are designed to protect the wearer from particulates and microbes. They are not as efficient as surgical respirator masks. Facial Fit Surgical respirators form a tight facial fit with your mouth and nose. This prevents the entry of small particulates and microbes inside. Read the full article

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How to Choose Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are important as they keep the workers safe from workplace hazards. There are different statutory standards for PPE in various countries. You must only buy PPE that complies with the statutory standards prescribed in your country. Choosing the right PPE for your workers is an important task that needs careful planning. The following tips should be considered for choosing the ideal PPE: Conduct a Hazard Assessment The first step towards choosing the right PPE is to conduct a thorough hazard assessment. You should be able to identify and understand every single hazard that you will face in your work environment. Hazard assessment will help you prepare a detailed checklist of all potential workplace hazards in your work environment. Once it is completed, you can start mapping the workplace hazards and determine the best PPE for protecting you. Reviewing your workplace layout and checking any previous hazards can also help you to conduct a more detailed hazard assessment. Know the Statutory Compliances and Standards PPE plays an important role in protecting workers from workplace hazards that can even prove to be fatal. Hence, there should be no compromises on the quality of PPE to be procured. Not providing PPE or providing sub-standard PPE can make employers liable for regulatory action. PPE should comply with the statutory compliances. They should also fir the workers perfectly to provide optimal protection. In the U.S., Read the full article

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How to Use Infrared Thermometers? (For Beginners)

Infrared thermometers are used for taking accurate temperature readings of different types of subjects. They can provide instant temperature readings to the user. These thermometers are currently being used by healthcare workers and authorities for the initial screening of suspect COVID-19 patients. It measures the human body temperature and helps to identify people with potential COVID-19 infections. Some important considerations for using infrared thermometers correctly are as follows: Steps for Using Infrared Thermometers While using an infrared thermometer is simple, you should know the correct procedure of using it. This helps to avoid any issues in measuring the subject’s temperature and provides you accurate and more reliable temperature measurements. Change and adjust the temperature measurement units to Fahrenheit or Celsius depending upon your requirement. The next step is to turn on the temperature laser gun using the power switch. In most models, depressing the trigger provides you with hidden temperature units. Point the infrared thermometer at the subject from which you want to take the temperature readings. Usually, it is a good practice to point the thermometer as close to the subject as possible for getting more accurate readings. However, in case of dangers of infection like measuring the body temperature of potential COVID-19 patients, it is better to keep a safe distance. Read the full article

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What is Infrared Thermometer & Can It Detect COVID-19?

Infrared thermometers are used to measure the temperature of subjects from a distance. These thermometers are used in different industries for accurately measuring temperatures. Currently, they are being used for measuring the body temperature of potential COVID-19 patients. The key details and working principle of infrared thermometers are explained below: How Infrared Thermometers Work? Infrared thermometers focus the light coming from an object in the form of infrared rays and divert it to a sensor called a thermopile. The thermopile converts the infrared rays into heat and is further converted into electricity. The quantum of electricity generated by the infrared rays emitted by a subject determines its temperature. Infrared thermometers give readings within a few seconds and are good for taking instant readings for a large number of subjects. Benefits Infrared thermometers have many benefits over regular thermometers. They are more accurate and provide you reliable temperature readings. If the infrared thermometer is being used correctly, it provides highly accurate readings that are not possible by using regular thermometers. Another distinct advantage of using infrared thermometers is that they are contactless. They don’t need to be touched on the subject for taking the temperature readings. This is particularly helpful when the readings of human body temperature need to be taken during the global pandemic like the COVID-19. Read the full article

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What is Better than N95 Mask for COVID-19?

The outbreak of COVID-19 has seen a tremendous surge in the demand for face masks. N95 masks that are effective in protecting against COVID-19 are difficult to find in the market as the demand outweighs its supply. Other types of masks are better than a regular N95 mask in protecting you against the COVID-19. Masks that are better than N95 masks for COVID-19 are as follows: Surgical Respirator Masks Surgical respirator masks are better than the regular N95 respirator masks in protecting from COVID-19 infection. These masks are also known as medical respirators and are primarily meant for healthcare professionals. N95 surgical respirator masks are tested and approved by both- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Regular N95 respirator masks are only tested and approved by NIOSH. Surgical respirator masks are used by healthcare professionals who perform surgery or other related medical procedures. It protects them from high-pressure bodily fluids like human blood. They have much higher fluid resistance compared to regular N95 respirator masks. Another benefit of using surgical N95 respirators is that it not only protects the wearer from getting infected, but it also protects the patients from the exhalation of the wearer. N99 Masks N99 masks are a better choice than N95 masks for protection from COVID-19. N99 masks can filter out particulates with 99% efficiency. Read the full article

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Differences Between N95 and KN95 Masks for COVID-19?

N95 respirator masks are in high demand as they are effective in protecting against the COVID-19 infection. It has become difficult to ensure the supply of N95 masks to healthcare professionals and the general public by the authorities. KN95 masks that are made in China have emerged as an alternative to the N95 masks. The important differences between N95 and KN95 masks are as follows: Approving Authority The first important difference between these masks is the testing and approving authorities. N95 masks are tested and approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Manufacturers provide the data for N95 masks to NIOSH for testing and approval. KN95 masks are made in China and are tested and approved by the Chinese authorities. The filtering efficiency for both these masks is the same as 95%. This means that they can block up to 95% particulates and microbes. Both these masks are designed to be used for protecting against non-oil particulates. Total Inward Leakage (TIL) The test agent used for testing both these masks is NaCl. The flow rate for testing is also the same- 85L/minute. Total inward leakage (TIL) is an important factor for respirator masks. TIL is defined as the amount of specific aerosol that enters the facepiece. The aerosols can enter through the filter or face seal leakages. The lower the TIL, the better and more effective a respirator mask is in protecting from particulates. The TIL for KN95 mask 8% or lower. Read the full article

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Are Breathing Masks Disposable or Reusable?

Breathing masks refer to a broad category of masks that helps to protect you from toxic particulates and facilitates better breathing. Breathing masks can be N95 respirator masks, surgical N95 respirators, etc. The important details about breathing masks are provided below: How to Buy the Best Breathing Mask There are different types of breathing masks available in the market. You should buy a breathing mask that is best fits you. Everyone’s facial features are different. Hence, it is difficult for a standard-sized breathing mask to fit perfectly to everyone. These masks form a tight facial fit with your mouth and nose. This prevents any harmful toxic particulates and microbes from entering inside. You must undergo a mask fit test before buying the ideal breathing mask for you. If the mask is not a good fit, it will not provide the required protection for you. You should be clean-shaven while using these masks as facial hair reduces the tight seal of the breathing masks and can allow toxic particulates to enter inside. Be Careful Of Your Masks Breathing masks should not be too tight as it can cause dizziness and discomfort. Their outer edges should not be too sharp or abrasive, otherwise, you can get skin rashes or injuries. The breathing resistance should also below as it ensures you don’t face breathing difficulty while wearing it for long periods. Some masks come with an exhalation valve. Read the full article