Are N99 Masks Washable?
Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for everyone. They are used in construction, medical, and other industries. The n99 is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The n99 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 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 share two main 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% of 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. Filters are essential for any mask to last a long time. Think about the type, quality, and number of filters your N99 mask will use. Carbon filters are the most efficient at filtering out viruses, bacteria, and chemicals. N99 Masks with micro-ventilators or breathing valves make breathing and speaking easier. N99 masks are available in a variety of sizes. Make sure that you have enough coverage for your nose, mouth, and chin. A face mask that doesn`t fit properly is essentially useless. Buy certified N99 masks; you want to use one that`s of the highest quality possible.Reusable N99 masks are an environmentally friendly and economical option, but they have a higher up-front 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
N99 masks are disposable filtering respiratory protectors. You should only use them once and only once. Your N99 mask should be thrown away if it is contaminated with dangerous particles or becomes dirty throughout the day. But, during times when many people are wearing respirators and masks throughout the day, the CDC has put out information on how to sterilize N99 masks. 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. To test and explore different methods of cleaning face masks, a group of scientists, doctors, and other professionals created N95DECON. These methods have been thoroughly researched but have not yet been tested extensively.
Vaporous Hydrogen Peroxide
This kills both resistant bacteria spores as well as viruses. 3M has used this method up to 20 times to clean masks without any degradation. However, if sterilized with higher amounts, filters lose their effectiveness. 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. UV radiation can damage the face pieces and straps, so it is possible to expose the lower layers of the radiation. High doses of UV light can break down the material of the mask itself.
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 method is effective for cleaning facemasks. Heating them at 60°C and 80% humidity doesn`t seem to affect their filtration abilities.
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. They also noted that soaking an N99 respirator in 6% liquid hydrogen peroxide for half an hour didn`t affect filtration, but they did not test fit integrity 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. Do not use alcohol or bleach. This can affect the mask`s ability efficiently to filter toxic substances. 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 is a safety leader and only offers products that have been thoroughly researched and field-tested.
