What are N95 / KN95 / FFP2 Face Masks?
N95, KN95 and FFP2, are face masks that protect against fine, non-toxic fibres, dust and aqueous mists. Although they are often used in construction, they can also be used by healthcare professionals as personal protective equipment (PPE). N95, KN95 and FFP2 are the same grade of mask, but have different names depending on where they are made. In theory, they all filter 95% of particles from the air. They are also referred to as respirators or dust masks.
Should you use a face mask for coronavirus?
N95 masks are currently in use to protect healthcare workers from coronavirus (COVID-19). The World Health Organisation (WHO) have endorsed N95 (KN95, FFP2) masks for those undertaking aerosol-generating procedures performed on COVID-19 patients. For most activities providing care to coronavirus patients, WHO recommend the use of a standard surgical mask, however, N95 masks provide more protection. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended to cover your face during the coronavirus pandemic.
How effective are N95 face masks?
They have a 95% efficiency in theory. Droplets from sneezes and coughs can travel up to 7 meters and wearing a face mask can help to prevent inhaling airborne viruses.
How do I use an N95 face mask?
N95 face masks cover half of the face, more specifically the mouth and nose area. They are fitted with two elastic headbands that go over the head and are used to keep the mask secure and in place. There is a metal strip which covers the bridge of the nose and can be adjusted to ensure that there is a tight fit, which prevents unwanted air entering through the sides of the mask.
Are these respirator masks reusable?
We do not recommend that masks are re-used. If you choose to reuse your mask, you should take into consideration:
- Whether the mask has been contaminated with blood, bodily fluids, or any other respiratory or nasal secretions from a patient
- Whether close contact has been made with any person that may be infected with an infectious disease requiring contact safety measures
Please note the following when choosing to reuse face masks:
- Used respirators should be hung in a designated storage area, or kept securely in a breathable container such as a paper bag between uses
- Hands should be cleaned with an alcohol-based sanitizer or soap and water before and after touching the respirator, even if you are just adjusting it
- The inside of the respirator shouldn’t be touched. If contact is unintentionally made with the inside of the mask, dispose of it safely and wash your hands with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer
- Use a clean pair of gloves when putting on the mask and ensure that it is on securely. Once the mask is on and in a comfortable position, discard the gloves.
We recommend using each mask once only.
What is the difference between N95, FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 masks?
N95 and FFP2 masks are the same thing. The only difference is the name, which differs depending on what part of the world you are in (N95 is the code for USA, which equates to KN95 in Europe and FFP2 in the EU, including the UK). FFP3 refers to the mask with the most protection, followed by FFP2 and lastly FFP1.
Is an N95 mask the same as a respirator mask?
N95 masks and respirator masks are the same thing. These can often be confused with surgical masks, which offer less protection than a respiratory mask.
Where can you buy Face Masks for Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Here at Chemist Click, you can buy face masks that meet the N95/KN95/FFP2 criteria. Due to a worldwide shortage of these respirators, we cannot be brand specific.
