Face masks, respirators, and other Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), are crucial. We use them in construction, the medical field, and various other industries. The n99 masks is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The n99 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 n99 mask 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. These masks have two principal defining characteristics: 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% of particles from the user`s nose and mouth while they breathe. These characteristics ensure that the N99 respirator seals tight and has high filtration.
What to Consider When Buying an N99 Mask
N99 masks offer the best protection by filtering out 99.9% of airborne particles. However, they don`t all provide equal protection. Filters are essential for any mask to last a long time. You should consider the quality, type, number, and frequency of filters that your N99 face mask will use. Carbon filters are the most efficient at 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. Buy certified N99 masks; you want to use one that`s of the highest quality possible.Reusable 99 masks can be an economical and environmentally-friendly option. However, they come at a higher upfront cost. For those who are physically active or suffer from breathing problems, N99 masks come with two valves that allow them to breathe more easily.
Extending the Use of N99 Masks
Disposable filtering respirators. Ideally, you only use them once, and only you. If your N99 mask becomes contaminated or is exposed to harmful particles during the day, you should throw it out. The CDC has information about how to sterilize N99 Masks when many people wear respirators all day. 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 methods are showing the most potential to decontaminate N99 masks: using moist heat, vaporous hydrogen peroxide, or exposing the masks to UV radiation. Note that every mask should get inspected for damage or degradation and pass a seal check before being worn again. 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 viruses and spores of resistant bacteria. 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. Sanitizing machines can be dangerous and require extensive training.
UV Radiation
The UV radiation kills coronavirus viruses without affecting the ability of the masks to filter out 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 doses of UV light can break down the material of the mask itself.
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 method is effective for cleaning facemasks. Heating them at 60°C and 80% humidity doesn`t seem to affect their filtration abilities.
Steam and Liquid Hydrogen Peroxide
The CDC also tested steam sterilization of masks with liquid hydrogen peroxide and steam. They sterilized the masks with steam bags using low-power microwaves. They also noted that soaking an N99 respirator in 6% liquid hydrogen peroxide for half an hour didn`t affect filtration, but they did not test fit integrity 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. Use alcohol or bleach; this affects the mask`s ability to filter harmful materials efficiently. 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.