Are N99 Masks Washable?
Protective Equipment (PPE) is vital for everyone. We use them in construction, the medical field, and various other industries. The n99 is used to filter out harmful particles and prevent the spread and contraction of infectious diseases. The n99 masks 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 mask 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. Two main characteristics of these masks are: 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 characteristics ensure that the N99 respirator seals tight and has high filtration.
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. Filters are essential for any mask to last a long time. Think about the type, quality, and number filters your N99 mask will use. Carbon filters filter out bacteria, viruses, and chemicals the best. N99 masks with breathing valves or micro-ventilators make talking and breathing easier. N99 masks are available in a variety of sizes. Make sure that you have enough coverage for your nose, mouth, and chin. It is useless to use a face mask that doesn’t fit correctly. Buy certified N99 masks; you want to use one that’s of the highest quality possible.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. But, during times where many people are wearing respirators and masks throughout the day, the CDC has put out information on how to sterilize N99 masks. They don’t recommend you reuse masks except in an emergency. However, you can sterilize your N99 face 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
The three most powerful methods to disinfect N99 Masks are moist heat (vaporous hydrogen peroxide), UV radiation, and using moisture. Before being worn again, every mask must be inspected for damage or degrading and a seal checked. N95DECON was formed by scientists, doctors, and others to test and evaluate various sanitizing techniques for masks. While these methods have been researched thoroughly, they have not gone through extensive testing yet.
Vaporous Hydrogen Peroxide
This method kills resistant bacteria spores and 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. Operators must be trained in the use of these machines.
UV Radiation
UV radiation can kill coronavirus viruses, but it does not affect the masks’ ability to filter for sterilizations of 10-20. However, the UV light can break down the straps and face pieces, and it can be challenging to expose the lower layers to the radiation. High UV light doses can cause the mask to be brittle.
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. They sterilized the masks with steam bags using low-power microwaves. 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. Do not use alcohol or bleach. This can affect the mask’s ability efficiently to filter toxic substances. Consider it clean after overnight storage. Certain materials can withstand the coronavirus for three to five days. 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.