Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for everyone. They are used in construction,medical,and 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. 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 features mean that the N99 respirator is more durable than other cave covers and has a higher filtration rate.

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.Here are some things you should consider before purchasing an N99 mask. The mask’s life expectancy is directly related to its filters. 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. A face mask that doesn’t fit properly is essentially useless. Use certified N99 masks.Reusable Masks are an eco-friendly and economically sound option. However,there is a higher initial 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

N99 masks are disposable filtering respirators. Ideally,you only use them once,and only you. Your N99 mask should be thrown away if it is contaminated with dangerous particles or becomes dirty throughout the day. The CDC has information about how to sterilize N99 Masks when many people wear respirators all day. While they don’t recommend that you reuse masks unless,in an emergency situation,you can sterilize your N99 mask for reuse.

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. Before being worn again,every mask must be inspected for damage or degrading and a seal checked. A group of doctors,scientists,and other professionals formed a group called N95DECON to research and test different sanitizing methods for face masks. These methods have been thoroughly researched but have not yet been tested extensively.

VAPOROUS HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

This method kills viruses and spores of resistant bacteria. 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. Sanitizing machines can be dangerous and require extensive training.

UV RADIATION

UV radiation can kill coronavirus viruses,but it does not affect the masks’ ability to filter for sterilizations of 10-20. The UV radiation can cause damage to straps and facepieces and make it challenging to expose lower layers to the radiation. The mask’s material can be damaged by high doses of UV light.

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 steam sterilization of masks with liquid hydrogen peroxide and steam. To kill bacteria,they used steam bags in low-power microwaves. The mask was not damaged more than three times. The researchers also found that N99 respirators were not affected by a half-hour soak in 6% liquid hydroperoxide. However,they didn’t test the fit of the masks 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. It’s safe to assume it’s clean from overnight storage. The coronavirus can live for up to three days on some materials. When purchasing an N99 mask washable,it is essential to buy high-quality respirators from a reputable source. Bielcor,a safety industry leader,only sells products that have been field-tested and thoroughly researched.