Face masks, respirators, and other Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), are crucial. They are used in construction, medical, and other industries. The - is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The - are the most effective face-covering option available, but many people want to know what to look for when purchasing one and if they can wash and reuse them.
What Are N99 Masks?
N99 masks or a - is a specific type of face-covering to filter what the user is breathing in. N99 Mask is a face-covering designed to filter the air that is being inhaled. Two main characteristics of these masks are: N99 Masks form a tight seal against your face so that when you breathe in, the airflow coming in and out of your nose and mouth passes through the filtration material without leaking from the mask’s edges. N99 mask materials should be capable of capturing at least 99% particles from the user’s nose and mouth while they breathe. These characteristics mean that, unlike ordinary cave coverings, the N99 respirator seals tightly and has a high filtration capacity.
What to Consider When Buying an N99 Mask
N99 masks provide the most protection, filtering out 99% of airborne particles, but that doesn’t mean they are all equal. The mask’s useful life is dependent upon its filters, which are the most important element of any efficient face mask. You should consider the quality, type, number, and frequency of filters that your N99 face mask will use. Carbon filters filter out bacteria, viruses, and chemicals the best. N99 Masks with micro-ventilators or breathing valves make breathing and speaking easier. N99 masks come in various sizes; ensure that the one you choose covers your entire mouth, nose, and chin. An unfit face mask is useless. Use certified N99 masks.Reusable Masks are an eco-friendly and economically sound option. However, there is a higher initial cost. N99 masks can be used to aid in breathing if you are active or have difficulty with your breathing.
Extending the Use of N99 Masks
N99 masks are disposable filtering respiratory protectors. You should only use them once and only once. If your N99 mask becomes contaminated or is exposed to harmful particles during the day, you should throw it out. But, during times where many people are wearing respirators and masks throughout the day, the CDC has put out information on how to sterilize N99 masks. While they don’t recommend that you reuse masks unless, in an emergency situation, you can sterilize your N99 mask for reuse.
These are the requirements for safe sterilization of an N99 mask washable:
The mask must remain effective against COVID-19. The sterilization must not affect the filtration capabilities. It must not have an impact on the fit of the user’s face. The mask must still be safe for the user.
These methods of decontamination are not recommended for N99 Masks:
Ethylene Oxide causes concerns for off-gassing. Ionizing Radiation can degrade filter performance. The use of microwaves can melt the respirator near metal components and compromise the fit. Autoclaves, high temperatures, and steam can cause filter degradation.
Sterilizing N99 Masks for Reuse
The three most powerful methods to disinfect N99 Masks are moist heat (vaporous hydrogen peroxide), UV radiation, and using moisture. Every mask should be checked for damage and passed a seal-check before it is worn again. To test and explore different methods of cleaning face masks, a group of scientists, doctors, and other professionals created N95DECON. Although these methods have been extensively researched, extensive testing has not yet taken place.
VAPOROUS HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
This method kills resistant bacteria spores and viruses. 3M has used this method for fixing masks up 20 times without any degradation. But, when sterilized at higher doses, the filters become less effective. Operators must be trained in the use of these machines.
UV RADIATION
The UV radiation kills coronavirus viruses without affecting the ability of the masks to filter out 10-20 sterilizations. UV radiation can damage the face pieces and straps, so it is possible to expose the lower layers of the radiation. The mask’s material can be damaged by high doses of UV light.
Heat and Humidity
Heating N99 masks at 60-75 degrees C for half an hour can stop viruses related to COVID-19, but it has not been tested on the coronavirus itself.This method is effective for cleaning facemasks. Heating them at 60°C and 80% humidity doesn’t seem to affect their filtration abilities.
Steam and Liquid Hydrogen Peroxide
The CDC also tested steam sterilization of masks with liquid hydrogen peroxide and steam. They sterilized the masks with steam bags using low-power microwaves. The researchers also found that N99 respirators were not affected by a half-hour soak in 6% liquid hydroperoxide. However, they didn’t test the fit of the masks afterward. When sterilizing N99 face masks, do not: Use soapy water; this degrades the masks’ materials and impacts its ability to filter small particles properly. Avoid using bleach or alcohol; it can reduce the mask’s effectiveness in filtering toxic materials. It’s safe to assume it’s clean from overnight storage. The coronavirus can live for up to three days on some materials. When purchasing an N99 mask washable, it is essential to buy high-quality respirators from a reputable source. Bielcor is a safety industry leader that only offers field-tested and extensively researched products.
December 21, 2021December 21, 2021