Don't know the difference between a surgical mask and a N95 respirator? Read this.
Have you ever wondered which masks you should be using when the air quality worsens in your area?
So what is a surgical mask?
Typically, disposable surgical masks contain 3 layers: a mix of non-woven fabric and a middle melt-blown material that acts as a filter.
Surgical masks are a physical barrier that protects the user from splashes of body fluids and blood, as well as protecting others from the user's own contamination of bacteria or viruses present in mucus and saliva.
It also acts as a barrier and prevents contaminated body parts from the mouth and nose, according to the U.S. Occupational and Health Safety Administration (OSHA).
But while it is a cheaper alternative, surgical masks are not designed to provide a tight seal against the user's face. Smaller particles may not be properly filtered through the mask's layers and can't be solely relied on to protect the userr against airborne infectious agents.
And how does a N95 respirator differ?
N95 respirators are solely designed to reduce and prevent the user's exposure to airborne contaminants.
Unlike the surgical masks' one size fits all, N95 respirators come in various sizes and should be selected based on how it fits the user's face in order to create a tight seal.
It is pricier than surgical masks, however, and N95 respirators not available in a wide variety of sizes. It's also not recommended to be used by children or smaller-sized teenagers.
But it is designed to filter smaller contaminants compared to the average surgical mask.
Many N95 respirators also have a filter at the front of the mask, forcing air to be filtered properly through instead of allowing the user to breathe in unfiltered air.
So now that you know the difference, please make sure to check the type of mask you plan to use before purchasing!
It'll definitely help your wallet and your health in the long run.
Cover image sourced from Culture Trip.