Protecting Your Health With the best N95 mask

An N95 mask is a popular, abbreviated term for a full-face particulate filter respirator, which is an air-purifying respirator that meets current U.S. standards for preventing particulates from entering the respiratory system. The filter used in these devices is designed to trap microscopic dust particles and other dangerous pollutants that might enter the respiratory system if left alone. The N95 filter is most often found in indoor air quality testing facilities.

An N95 mask may contain a particulate filter, such as a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Arresting) filter, or it may have a venturi valve and an integrated nose pad. The venturi valve-vented design is preferred because it can better absorb dust and other particulate matter. A HEPA filter or similar device should be selected if possible because of the low cost and good performance. Another important feature is to ensure that the mask has positive pressure check capabilities. Positive pressure checking allows the user to breathe easier when the mask is in use. The user should also select a mask that does not leak.

Some N95 masks are more properly called "N95 breathing masks. These fine particles are then blocked by the air-trapping them between the finger and mouth areas of the wearer's hand. The result is the release of a negative pressure that helps pull the particles out of the mask and out of the air. A positive pressure check helps assure the mask user that it has succeeded in doing its job.

Some N95 masks are better than others. A newer generation of N95 masks is better able to trap smaller infectious particles such as viruses and bacteria. However, older generations were often unable to keep these particles from being released back into the air. The result was a situation where more people became ill from respiratory illnesses than ever before. In response to this, the US government introduced a mandatory mandate for all new and replacement N95 masks to have an advanced technology called positive pressure trapping.

If you are wearing an N95 mask and have not had it properly maintained, it could pose health risks. It is always a good idea to ensure that you purchase a new mask periodically. You should contact your health provider or someone with knowledge of proper care to make sure that you are keeping your N95 mask in good condition. Even though the recommended number of times that you should replace your mask is once a year, some people do not follow this guideline. In fact, some elderly and children who are prescribed N95 respiratory protection may not replace their masks as often as they should. These masks are easily available at any retail store or drug supply store. However, one can also buy these masks from online sellers like accumed.com for better quality and affordable prices.