Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for everyone. These devices are essential for construction, medicine, and many other industries. The - is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The - 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 - 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% 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 useful life is dependent upon its filters, which are the most important element of any efficient face mask. You should consider the quality, type, number, and frequency of filters that your N99 face mask will use. Carbon filters have the highest efficiency in filtering out viruses, bacteria, and chemicals. N99 masks with breathing valves or micro-ventilators make talking and breathing 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. Use certified N99 masks.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
N99 masks are disposable filtering respiratory protectors. It is best only to use one mask per day. Discard your N99 mask whenever it becomes contaminated or exposed to dangerous particles throughout the day. However, in an era where so many people use respirators and masks all day, the CDC has provided information on how to sterilize N99 face masks. Although they do not recommend that you reuse masks, you can sterilize N99 masks for reuse in an emergency.
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
Three ways are most effective in decontaminating N99 masks. These include sweltering heat, vaporous hydroperoxide, and UV radiation. Before being worn again, every mask must be inspected for damage or degrading and a seal checked. 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
Using UV radiation stops the viruses related to coronavirus without affecting the masks filtering ability for 10-20 sterilizations. However, the UV light can break down the straps and face pieces, and it can be challenging to expose the lower layers to the radiation. High UV light doses can cause the mask to be brittle.
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 excellent way to clean facemasks. They can be heated at 60 degrees C with 80% humidity.
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 found that the N99 respirator could be soaked in 6% liquid hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes, which did not affect its filtration. However, they did not test the fit afterward. Do not use soapy water to sterilize N99 masks. This can cause damage to the mask’s materials and reduce its ability to filter small particles. 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, a safety industry leader, only sells products that have been field-tested and thoroughly researched.