If you live in an area with poor air quality, or are facing an infectious disease outbreak, an N95 mask is a great tool for protecting your lungs as well as your general health. Designed to filter out harmful particles, the N95 mask is a lightweight and relatively inexpensive device to help you breathe clean air and stay healthy.
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Part 1 of 3: Choosing a Mask
Step 1. Choose an N95 mask to filter out airborne particles
N95 masks are a great choice for protecting your lungs from airborne particles, such as metal fumes (such as those caused by welding), minerals, dust, and biological particles such as viruses. You can wear this mask when there is a flu outbreak near where you live, or if there is pollution or fire that reduces air quality. This mask is made of light and strong foam with a shape that fits snugly in the mouth and nose.
- Special masks are available for industrial workers, and surgical N95 masks are also available for medical personnel.
- The number on the mask indicates the percentage of particles that can be filtered out. N95 masks are capable of filtering 95% of airborne dust and particulates.
- N95 masks should not be used if there is an oil aerosol in the air as the oil can damage the filter. The letter N on the mask actually means "not resistant to oil".
Step 2. Look for an R or P mask if you will be exposed to oily air
In environments where you may be exposed to mineral, animal, vegetable, or synthetic oils, look for masks marked R or P. The letter R stands for "slightly oil resistant." So, this mask can protect you from oil vapors for the length of time stated on the packaging. Meanwhile, P stands for "oil resistant, or very resistant".
- This mask is also equipped with number classifications such as P100 and R95. The number on the mask indicates the percentage of particles that can be filtered out.
- If you are exposed to gases or vapors that are more concentrated than the mask's exposure limit, look for a respirator with a special can or container to filter the air more effectively.
Step 3. Try different sizes of masks to find the one that fits best
N95 masks are available in a variety of sizes from extra small and small to medium and large. If possible, try several sizes of masks before you decide to buy. Make sure the mask fits snugly and doesn't slide over your face. Remember, you should also shape the mask according to the contours of your face to make it fit better. When in doubt, choose a smaller size mask to make sure it doesn't come off easily.
Step 4. Consult a doctor if you suffer from respiratory or heart disease
N95 masks can make it more difficult for you to breathe, especially if you have chronic heart or respiratory disease. Talk to your doctor to find out what extra precautions you can take. You may be able to use a type of mask with an exhalation valve that will make it easier for you to breathe while reducing the heat that accumulates inside the mask. However, this kind of mask should not be used if you must be in a sterile environment such as an operating room. Consult your doctor first before using a mask if you experience the following problems:
- Breathing problems
- Emphysema
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Cardiopulmonary problems
Step 5. Purchase a NIOSH certified N95 mask from a pharmacy or online store
You can buy N95 masks at pharmacies and major convenience stores. You can also buy these masks directly from online sellers, such as 3M. However, make sure you choose a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certified mask or SNI standard. Such masks will be equipped with a logo and certification number on the packaging and masks.
- If you need an N95 mask at work, your employer will most likely be required to provide one.
- Masks that are not NIOSH or SNI certified may not protect you well.
Step 6. Save the mask so that it is ready to use when needed
These masks tend to be highly sought after and sold out during certain times, for example when there is an outbreak of infectious disease or heavy pollution in an area. Be prepared by keeping a few masks at home for you and your family at all times. Prepare 2-3 masks for each family member just in case.
Pay attention to environmental conditions when you store masks. For example, you may need more masks if you live in a big city with a heavy pollution problem than in a village with cleaner air
Part 2 of 3: Wearing a Mask Correctly
Step 1. Shave the beard and mustache before putting on the mask, if possible
If you need to wear an N95 mask, shave the entire beard and mustache first. Feathers on the face can prevent the mask from sticking tightly to the skin, reducing its effectiveness.
In an emergency that doesn't allow you to shave, wear a mask as tightly as possible
Step 2. Wash your hands thoroughly before putting on the mask
Use soap and water, then dry your hands properly to prevent the mask from getting wet. This will prevent the mask from getting contaminated before wearing it.
Step 3. Hold the mask with one hand then place it in front of your nose and mouth
Place the mask in your palms so that the straps hang down to the floor. Place the mask in front of the mouth and nose, adjust the nose curvature on the mask so that it is right on the bridge of the nose. Meanwhile, the bottom of the mask should be under the chin.
Try to only touch the outside and the edges to keep the mask clean
Step 4. Pull the bottom and top straps of the mask over your head
If your mask has 2 straps, pull the lower one over your head and tie it around your neck, just below your ears. Continue to hold the mask tightly against your face with the other hand. After that, pull the top string and place it over the ear.
Step 5. Shape the nose of the mask following the curve of the nose bone
Place two fingertips on either side of the mask's nose-curved metal clip. Press your fingers on either side of the clip so that it follows the curve of the nosebone.
If you don't have a nose arch, just make sure the mask fits tightly and fits the curve of your nose
Step 6. Look for other solutions for children
N95 masks are not designed and will not be suitable for children to wear. Therefore, try to allow children to spend as much time indoors as possible as long as the air quality is still poor. Take extra precautions if the flu is spreading, such as asking children to wash their hands before eating and after sneezing or coughing. You can also try other masks made especially for children, though not N95 masks.
- N95 masks should not be used by children aged 17-18 years.
- Older teens may try wearing an N95 mask if it fits and is comfortable. If the mask fits snugly and can cover their nose and mouth tightly, ask them to walk while wearing it. Watch closely if they are dizzy or have difficulty breathing. If this problem arises, ask them to remove the mask and enter the house.
Part 3 of 3: Checking the Density and Removing the Mask
Step 1. Breathe while wearing the mask and check for leaks
Cup your hands around the mask and inhale to ensure it fits tightly against your face. After that, exhale and feel the air coming out of the arch of the nose or the edge of the mask. If you feel air escaping from the nose area, adjust the curve again. If air escapes from the edge of the mask, adjust the straps on both sides of the head again.
If your mask doesn't fit well, ask friends or family for help, or try a different type or size of mask
Step 2. Remove the mask by pulling the string over the head
Without touching the front of the mask, pull the bottom strap over your head. Let this rope dangle in front of the chest. After that, pull the string over the mask.
- You can discard the mask or store it in a clean, tightly closed container or bag.
- Avoid touching the mask as it may have been contaminated.
Step 3. Discard the mask if it is used for medical reasons
If you wear a mask to treat a patient who is sick, or to protect yourself during a disease outbreak, the outer side of the mask is most likely contaminated. For this reason, dispose of the mask properly so that you are not exposed to contaminant particles. Handle the straps carefully then throw the mask in the trash.
Step 4. Put on the mask again as long as it's still dry and tight
If you wear a mask to protect yourself from environmental pollution and the mask has not been exposed to harmful germs, you can wear it again. Check the density of the mask to make sure it still fits every time you wear it. Store the mask in a clean, tightly closed container or bag and make sure it doesn't bend due to impact with surrounding objects.
