There are various medical supplies in the market. Each supply has its benefit. However, most supplies are restricted to only medical use, but others like respiratory masks, gloves, bandages, etc. can be used by the general public as well. These supplies are also used in workplaces to avoid any hazardous dust or small particles to enter the mouth or nose that can damage our respiratory system or irritate our throat and lungs.
Respiratory masks have been in the picture ever since swine flu H1N1 spread all over the world. Reparatory masks are worn to avoid any kind of airborne infection and hazardous liquid chemicals infecting the face. During the outbreak of COVID19 WHO first suggested cloth covering on the face and avoiding physical contact. This is done to avoid infection spreading through the nose and throat.
The N95 masks are the most popular series that is approved by NIOSH, OSHA, and CDC. As an employer, you want your employees to be safe in the workplace. After the lockdown period is over, the world is trying to get back to a normal state. Companies, factories, offices, markets, shops all have begun their normal work. N95 masks are the best model to keep employees and other staff safe.
N95 respiratory face masks are available in bulk at Custom Earth Promos which is an eco-friendly company. It socializes in reusable bags, but lately, they’re also focusing on respiratory masks. Their products are made from natural recycled material so their contribution towards a safe environment is 100 percent. The company was opened in 2009 in Delray Beach, Florida, US, since then they have always focused on launching reusable products in the market and reducing the usage of plastic bags.
All respiratory masks look the same. However, not all of them are approved by the FDA. All masks are different from each other. N95 masks are used by the public for all purposes whereas surgical masks are only used for medical purposes to avoid splashes.
Here are some differences between N95 masks and surgical masks –
Testing and Approval
Surgical masks are tested and approved by the FDA whereas N95 masks are tested and approved by NIOSH.
Usage
Surgical masks are used for fluid-resistant, thus protects the wearer from droplets, sprays, splashes, or any other dangerous chemicals or fluids. It is worn by medical assistants to protect patients from their respiratory emissions. On the other hand, the N95 mask reduces exposure to small particles and large non-oil aerosol droplets.
Filtration
A surgical mask is not a safe respiratory protection as there isn’t any surety if you can avoid inhaling the tiniest airborne particles. N95 mask filtrates 95 percent of airborne particles, whether big or small.
Leakage
Since surgical masks are loose and don’t fit well, therefore there is leakage in the edge of the mask after a person inhales, but in N95 there is no leakage because it fits well on the nose and chin.
Limitations
Every surgical mask is disposable so after visiting each patient, the mask is discarded and a new mask is worn by medical staff. N95 mask should be discarded after it is damaged or deformed, doesn’t fit on the face perfectly, becomes dirty or wet, infected with blood or problem in breathing, nasal secretion sticks to it, or any other problem.
N95 masks are manufactured to use in construction and industrial work. It is used to prevent small dust particles to enter the mouth and nostrils. However, some N95 masks are used for safety and health care. You should share or reuse any mask after it becomes dirty. Safety is a Priority.
