Saturday, August 3, 2013

Understanding The N95 Respirators Better

By Lela Perkins


The N95 respirators are the plain white masks which are worn in areas where there is increase in dangers of pandemic diseases such as swine flu, avian, dengue, and then these masks are very popular. The respirator is a mask that is plain white cloth circle with elastic straps to fit around the ears and a metal to conform to the contours of the nose. The outside is made of rough cotton and paper that is porous while the middle is made up of latex.

These masks are generally used by researchers, health care workers, personnel in skilled trades, animal care staff and health care professionals. These aids are certified respirators for use and they show a filtration efficiency of a minimum 95 percent against all types of liquid and solid particles which do not contain oil. They are meant to reduce the exposure to hazards that are airborne but not eliminate them completely.

Disposable masks do not filter the air in the same way as the reusable masks. Many of the masks have the option of purchasing lens covers that stick to the full face mask and can be peeled after use. These films help to preserve the lens from scratches. Any mask respirator need to perform a fit test prior to using it in hazardous conditions.

There are however some limitations with these respirators. The main thing is that they do not offer chemical protection to the wearer. And if there is facial hair, it will reduce the effectiveness of the respirator. These masks are not ideal for getting protection against lead, asbestos or silica hazards.

These aids are good when used for occupational purposes. They are commonly used in the industrial and health setting. They should be approved by the NIOSH. There are set standards that they may attain. The standards are set by the occupational Institute for occupational safety and health. One should put into consideration the purpose of using the respirator mask.

Many people believe that any mask that looks like the N95 mask can perform the same function. Dust masks which reduce the amount of dust inhaled looks quite similar to the N95 mask. However they do not have the thin latex.

The earliest form of this mask was developed to protect miners, fire-fighters from dust, chemicals and smoke. Soon workplaces and industries began requiring the workers to wear so that the risk of inhaling harmful gases is reduced. Today, it is used in the health industry to filter the airborne particles, viruses and bacteria from reaching the lungs. The mask must fit your face to prevent the spreading of infections from one individual to another. They are part of the infection control strategy which also includes washing hands and quarantine or social distancing.

When in need of n95 respirators, make sure you get them from a reliable supplier. Matters which deal with your health must be taken seriously. This is because there might be fake suppliers who standards may be below the needed one. Always protect yourself by using these aid to be safe.




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