Respirators
A disposable respirator protects you from breathing particulate hazards including airborne viruses and bacteria. A disposable respirator:
- Protects you from breathing in particulates, including infectious viruses and bacteria
- Seals tightly to your face so that inhaled air is drawn through the filter
- Requires a “fit test” to ensure that it will seal properly to your face
- Has a NIOSH rating printed on the mask (typically “N95”)
- Has two straps – one that fits behind the head, the other behind the neck – and may have an external exhalation valve
Surgical masks
A surgical mask protects others from the airborne droplets you produce. A surgical mask:
- Prevents you from spreading airborne droplets (e.g., spit and mucous) to others around you
- Does not seal tightly to your face, and is not designed to filter particulates from the air you breathe
- May have a moisture barrier to reduce the risk that splashes of body fluids will reach your nose or mouth
- Is used to protect people around you
- Is NOT a respirator An appropriate respirator must be worn when required by a risk assessment.