Types of Masks
There are four levels of ASTM certification that surgical masks are classified in, depending on the level of protection they provide to the person wearing them:
- · Minimum protection face masks are meant for short procedures or exams that won’t involve fluid, spray, or aerosol.
- · Level 1 face masks often feature ear loops and are the general standard for both surgical and procedural applications, with a fluid resistance of 80 mmHg. They’re meant for low-risk situations where there will be no fluid, spray, or aerosol.
- · Level 2 masks, with 120 mmHg fluid resistances, provide a barrier against light or moderate aerosol, fluid, and spray.
- · Level 3 face masks are for heavy possible exposure to aerosol, fluid and spray, with 160 mmHG fluid resistances.
It should be noted that surgical masks are not the same as surgical respirators. Masks are made to act as barriers to splashes or aerosols (such as the moisture from a sneeze), and they fit loosely to the face. Respirators are made to filter out airborne particles such as viruses and bacteria, and create a seal around the mouth and nose.
Click here for more information: Surgical Masks at Best Price
Respirators should be
used in cases when patients have viral infections or particles, vapor, or gas
are present. Click here for more information: Surgical Masks at Best Price
Surgical masks are also not the same as procedural masks. Procedural
masks are used in clean environments in hospitals including intensive care and
maternity units, but they are not approved for sterile environments such as the
operating room.
Comments
Post a Comment