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3 Important Things to Consider When Wearing Face Masks

3 Important Things to Consider When Wearing Face Masks
Posted: 1st December 2020

There are 3 things that contribute to the effectiveness of your face mask and they form the structural basis of respiratory protection. Studies have shown that workers are more likely to comply with RPE requirements and best practices when they understand how and why the devices work. To be truly effective, RPE requires three things.

#1 The mask must be worn correctly 

Although it may seem obvious, if the mask is not worn properly during exposure, it will not keep the wearer from coming into contact with hazardous particles. N95 masks are made of structured, lightweight foam and should be fitted over your nose and mouth.

#2 The mask should be effective at particle capture

The mask needs to capture at least 95% of the particles that pass through the filter. This is where the 95 in N95 comes from. N95 face masks are a great choice for protecting your lungs from particles in the air.

#3 The mask must fit the user’s face properly

Where respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is used, it must be able to provide adequate protection for individual wearers. The mask must fit the user’s face properly in order to minimise the risk that particles will get in through the gaps between the wearer’s skin and the mask’s seal. RPE can't protect the wearer if it leaks. A major cause of leaks is poor fit – tight-fitting facepieces need to fit the wearer’s face to be effective. 

Also try and remember not to touch your face while wearing a face mask, and to use hand sanitiser before and after wearing a face mask.

At Work & Wear Direct we stock a range of both half face reusable respirator masks and full-face reusable respirator masks, providing a high level of protection. Check out respiratory protection including full-face masks, half-face masks and disposable masks available at Work & Wear Direct to buy online or call us on 01702 553698.

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