Masks Knowledge Base & FAQ
We are selling these items at a modest profit to cover our costs and offset donations & discounts to frontline workers and medical professionals. Preference is being given to front-line workers &
medical organization for any large quantity orders.Please email Support@ExpEssentials.com with any question.
Types of masks
Surgical masks
A surgical mask is loose-fitting and may protect others from droplets given off by coughing, sneezing or even breathing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved any type of surgical mask specifically for protection against the COVID-19 virus.
N95 masks
An N95 mask offers protection from viruses because it itmore effective than a surgical mask filters out 95% of very small particles, such as the COVID-19 virus. It is more effective than a surgical mask does because an N95 mask can filter out both large and small particles. N95 masks are also called respirators.
N95 masks filter out 95 of small particles, providing protection from viruses like covid-19. It is because an N95 mask can filter out both large and small particles. N95 masks are also called respirators.
KN95 masks
The KN95 masks is a version of the N95 mask that are much more widely available and affordable than N95 masks.
On April 3, the FDA approved KN95 masks as a suitable alternative to N95 masks if N95 masks are not available.
KN95 masks have been determined by the CDC to be equivlent to N95 masks and are much more widely available and affordable.
Cloth masks
A cloth mask, like the surgical mask, protects others in case the wearer has the virus. It does not protect the wearer from others.
Stay safe with these disposable personal breathing masks during flu and virus season. One of the highest protective classes (KN95), each respirator mask features 5-layers of protection from droplets, dust, bacteria, germs, smoke, and more.
These premium masks are safe, breathable, and hypoallergenic. They have a high filtration capacity with greater than 95% filtration of tiny microscopic particles.
Their soft outer layer provides additional comfort when wearing for long periods. Each mask features a covered metal nose bridge to fully form to your face and seal your nose and mouth area for ultimate protection. These lightweight facemasks fasten to your head using soft, flexible elastic ear-loops to maximize comfort. These particular high quality masks also each come individually packaged in cellophane. (LINK to product page)
MASKS FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a N95 respirator and a KN95 respirator?
A: Filtering facepiece respirators are subject to various regulatory standards around the world. N95 respirators are regulated by the United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). KN95 respirators are regulated by the Government in China.
A comparison of the specifications for a N95 respirator & a KN95 respirator can be found in this article from 3M. There is a shortage of NIOSH approved N95 masks in the United States. If you do not have access to N95 respirators, then you can consider using a KN95 mask as an alternative.
Q: Can KN95 respirators be used in a hospital setting, nursing facility setting or other healthcare setting?
A: Yes, KN95 may be used in the hospital setting. Hospitals should prioritize using N95 respirators for aerosol generating procedures, including intubations, CPR or nebulizer treatments. Source: https://www.mass.gov/doc/faq-regarding-use-of-kn95-respirators-available-through-the-department-of-public-health/download
Q: How should the KN95 mask fit to provide protection?
A: The respirator must form a seal with the wearer’s face, so that air passes through the filter (instead of around the edges) before it is inhaled. To ensure a proper seal, the wearer should ensure the respirator edges do not touch any facial hair. Clean-shaven is ideal for a good seal.
Q: What is the difference between a Surgical Mask and N95/KN95 Respirator?
A: These are two very different products and provide different levels of protection! Below is a basic comparison. Please click the following link for more detailed information.
Q: Can KN95 masks be re-used?
A: These were designed to be disposable, but per CDC guidelines there are a few ways to get some more use out of them if absolutely necessary & should be done only when veriified with authorized health officials.
"One strategy to mitigate the contact transfer of pathogens from the mask to the wearer during reuse is to issue five respirators to each healthcare worker who may care for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. The healthcare worker will wear one respirator each day and store it in a breathable paper bag at the end of each shift. The order of mask use should be repeated with a minimum of five days between each mask use. This will result in each worker requiring a minimum of five masks, providing that they put on, take off, care for them, and store them properly each day." Source: CDC
Q:What IS A CE CERTIFICATE?
A: CE marking is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). ... The CE marking is the manufacturer's declaration that the product meets EU standards for health, safety, and environmental protection.
