Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for everyone. We use them in construction, the medical field, and various other industries. The n99 is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The n99 mask 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% 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.Consider these things before buying an N99 facemask. Filters are essential for any mask to last a long time. Think about the type, quality, and number filters your N99 mask will use. Carbon filters are the most efficient at filtering out viruses, bacteria, and chemicals. N99 masks that have breathing valves or micro ventilators make it easier to talk and breathe. N99 masks are available in a variety of sizes. Make sure that you have enough coverage for your nose, mouth, and chin. It is useless to use a face mask that doesn’t fit correctly. Use certified N99 masks.Reusable Masks are an eco-friendly and economically sound option. However, there is a higher initial 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
Disposable filtering respirators. You should only use them once and only once. 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. Every mask should be checked for damage and passed a seal-check before it is worn again. N95DECON was formed by scientists, doctors, and others to test and evaluate various sanitizing techniques for masks. While these methods have been researched thoroughly, they have not gone through extensive testing yet.
VAPOROUS HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
This kills both resistant bacteria spores as well as viruses. 3M has used this method for fixing masks up 20 times without any degradation. But, when sterilized at higher doses, the filters become less effective. Operators must be trained in the use of these machines.
UV RADIATION
Using UV radiation stops the viruses related to coronavirus without affecting the masks filtering ability for 10-20 sterilizations. UV radiation can damage the face pieces and straps, so it is possible to expose the lower layers of 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 effective method to sanitize facemasks, as heating them at 60 degrees C and 80% humidity does not seem to damage their filtration capabilities.
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 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. Avoid using soapy water when sterilizing N99-face masks. It can degrade the masks’ materials and affect their ability to filter small particles correctly. Avoid using bleach or alcohol; it can reduce the mask’s effectiveness in filtering toxic materials. It’s safe to assume it’s clean from overnight storage. The coronavirus can live for up to three days on some materials. It is crucial to purchase washable N99 masks from a trusted source. Bielcor is a safety leader and only offers products that have been thoroughly researched and field-tested.