Does wearing a protective face mask protect you against viruses?
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented worldwide issue. While there have been other viruses before, their impact is far from what we’re seeing and experiencing today.
While Singapore and even other nations are slowly easing restrictions, we still can’t let our guard down. Wearing a protective face mask, like the N95 respirator mask used by frontliners, can help.
Do you need to wear an N95 mask in Singapore?
N95 masks and surgical masks are both examples of personal protective equipment (PPE). They’ve long been used not only in medical facilities but in other workplace settings as well.
They help protect the user from airborne particles and potential face contamination. However, it’s important to take note that wearing masks isn’t enough to protect yourself against viruses or stop transmissions.
We need more than PPE alone to slow down the spread of viruses.
So, how do N95 respirator masks work?
A particulate respirator or N95 respirator mask is specially designed to protect the wearer from small particles present in the air, such as viruses.
If you’re wondering where the term N95 came from, this particular type of face mask is given this name as it can filter 95% of airborne particles.
Your N95 mask should fit your face properly. It should leave no gaps to keep airborne viruses out. Another advantage of this type of mask is that it can protect you against both large and small particles. It’s more effective than other face mask types in slowing down the spread of flu virus.
Droplets that we emit when we speak, sneeze, or cough come in various sizes, and may contain viruses. Large droplets can settle fast. Small droplets, on the other hand, can travel more than 6 feet away and may remain in the air for over an hour.
When you wear the right mask, and properly at that, while in a public space, you not only protect yourself, but also the people around you.
N95 respirator masks, however, are best reserved for people at the frontlines. The public can either use surgical masks or cloth masks.
How effective are surgical masks and cloth masks?
Surgical masks are also made of special materials. However, unlike respirator masks, they’re loose -fitting and don’t fully cover the nose and mouth.
You may still inhale small droplets when you use them. They’re still beneficial, though, against large droplets and protecting yourself from infected people.
The average masks, however, may not be enough to filter out viruses so look into those surgical masks that come with a fine mesh. Be sure to wear and handle your mask correctly, too.
Cloth masks are the most common and easily accessible type of mask. They cannot provide the same level of protection as N95 and surgical masks do, but they can still help when used in public settings.
Purchase from Reputable PPE Suppliers
If you’re looking for N95 respirator masks, be sure to purchase from a reputable PPE or building supplies company in Singapore. Yes, wearing face masks can help protect you against viruses. But, you need to ensure you’re wearing the right type of mask and are using it properly. And again, remember that using PPE alone isn’t enough.