What Is The Difference Between N95 And PPE Mask?
During the pandemic, usage of N95 and surgical masks has increased, which helped keep people protected from virus particles that travel through the air. The quality of these masks is regulated by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the proper usage of respirators in different work environments. All people must recognize that wearing masks is the optimal way to prevent the transmission of the virus. There are various types of masks available in the market, and the N95 and PPE masks are the most used. Read on to know the main difference between N95 and PPE mask.
What Are N95 Masks?
N95 masks are the most used respirators, offer maximum protection against airborne particles, and are intended to be tight fitting. N95 masks filter bigger and small particles, including aerosols. N95 respirators are not to be worn by the general public as protection from COVID-19 per the CDC to help optimize respirators supply.
PPE Mask Or Surgical Mask
PPE mask is a loose-fitting, one-time disposable mask that acts as a barrier between contaminates and nose or mouth. A surgical mask blocks splashes, sprays, large-particle droplets, or splatter containing viruses and bacteria, preventing it from reaching your mouth and nose. Different thicknesses of surgical masks are available to protect from hazardous chemicals and germs.
Difference Between N95 And PPE Masks
Both N95 and PPE masks effectively protect from viruses and other contaminations. Here are some of the main differences between the masks
1. Fitting Of Mask
The N95 mask is tight-fitting, while PPE or surgical mask is loose-fitting. The edges of the N95 mask form a seal around the nose and mouth, while the edges of the surgical mask are not designed to form a firm seal around the nose and mouth.
2. Rating For Mask
The number 95 in N95 masks is the rating given to the mask and is given after rigorous testing. The PPE masks do not have any rating.
3. Purpose Of Mask
A surgical or PPE mask is a barrier to droplets, splashes, and spits. N95 masks protect against viruses, bacteria, aerosols, and airborne particles.
4. Filteration Ability
N95 masks filter at least 95% of air particles and those masks which have 100% ability are given a 100 rating. PPE masks cannot filter small particles in the air.
5. Usage Limitations
The N95 masks and PPE masks are intended for single usage and should be disposed of afterward. The masks should also be disposed of if they are damaged or deformed.
6. Evaluation, Testing, and Certification
N95 masks are evaluated, tested, and certified by NIOSH and are always set to have minimum performance requirements. In Canada, all N95 masks should be certified by NIOSH. The Medical Devices Bureau of the Therapeutic Products Directorate (TPD) monitors surgical or PPE masks in Health Canada.
Where To Buy Masks?
FDA, along with CDC NIOSH, have outlined the regulations for safe usage of N95 and surgical masks. Even though there are several differences between N95 and PPE masks, both are intended to help people be protected from COVID-19 and the latest Omicron Virus. If you want to buy masks, you need to buy them from a reliable manufacturer or distributor. Protech Safety Supply is the supplier of masks and gloves all over Canada and North America. Contact us for more details.
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