Face masks and respirators are essential Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). We use them in construction, the medical field, and various other industries. The n99 mask is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The n99 mask 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 n99mask 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% of 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 life expectancy is directly related to its filters. Think about the type, quality, and number of filters your N99 mask will use. Carbon filters are the most efficient at filtering out viruses, bacteria, and chemicals. 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. Buy certified N99 masks; you want to use one that`s of the highest quality possible.Reusable N99 masks are an environmentally friendly and economical option, but they have a higher up-front cost. If you engage in lots of physical activity or already have breathing difficulties, you can find N99 masks with two breathing valves to help you breathe easier.
Extending the Use of N99 Masks
Disposable filtering respirators. You should only use them once and only once. Discard your N99 mask whenever it becomes contaminated or exposed to dangerous particles throughout the day. The CDC has information about how to sterilize N99 Masks when many people wear respirators all day. They don`t recommend you reuse masks except in an emergency. However, you can sterilize your N99 face 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. Note that every mask should get inspected for damage or degradation and pass a seal check before being 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 up to 20 times to clean masks without any degradation. However, if sterilized with higher amounts, filters lose their effectiveness. The machines to perform sanitizing are dangerous and require extensive training for the operator.
UV Radiation
The UV radiation kills coronavirus viruses without affecting the ability of the masks to filter out 10-20 sterilizations. The UV radiation can cause damage to straps and facepieces and make it challenging to expose lower layers to the radiation. High doses of UV light can break down the material of the mask itself.
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 is an effective method to sanitize facemasks, as heating them at 60 degrees C and 80% humidity does not seem to damage their filtration capabilities.
Steam and Liquid Hydrogen Peroxide
The CDC also tested sterilizing masks with steam and liquid hydrogen peroxide. To kill bacteria, they used steam bags in low-power microwaves. The mask was not damaged more than three times. They also noted that soaking an N99 respirator in 6% liquid hydrogen peroxide for half an hour didn`t affect filtration, but they did not test fit integrity afterward. When sterilizing N99 face masks, do not: Use soapy water; this degrades the masks` materials and impacts their ability to filter small particles properly. Avoid using bleach or alcohol; it can reduce the mask`s effectiveness in filtering toxic materials. Consider it clean after overnight storage. Certain materials can withstand the coronavirus for three to five days. It is crucial to purchase washable N99 masks from a trusted source. Bielcor is a safety industry leader that only offers field-tested and extensively researched products.