It is important that you educate yourself about different types of N95 masks so you can make sure that you are choosing the best N95 respirator for your needs. While all NIOSH-rated N95 respirators offer at least 95% airborne particle filtering, there are several types of N95 masks. While N95 respirators are best-in-class, you can still get levels of protection and fit with other mask methods.
You still will want to ensure the industrial N95 mask is one on this list that is approved by NIOSH, and provides an adequate, snug fit around the face.
NIOSH only regulates products that are intended for adults – so, although N95 masks may not be an option for your children, protective KN95 or KF94 masks designed for smaller faces or children are an alternative. N95s are not regulated for children, so if a mask says it is N95-rated for kids, do not believe it.
Most of the people I talked to who had their KN95 masks on assumed that they were wearing a real N95 respirator. Counterfeit respirator masks can look, even feel, like N95 masks, but may not pass the required tests and criteria for a true N95. Since we do not perform our own mask tests, we consult with medical experts on who should wear N95 respirators, as well as when they should be worn, and how to source and purchase them.
These masks are rated by NIOSH as an N95 surgical mask, and are also rated for effectiveness in controlling tuberculosis by the Centers for Disease Control. While a N95 flat-fold design might seem similar to standard surgical masks, in reality, this mask is an NIOSH-rated surgical N95 respirator.
Like comparable N95 masks, flat-fold N95s are worn with two sets of straps going behind the head to help form the seal. KN95 masks use loops that are pulled around your ears, which creates a less firm seal than N95s. The design means an N95 mask is going to be your best defense against the BA.2 Omicron subvariant spreading throughout the northeast, if combined with social distancing.
These 3M masks have adjustable nose clips, chin straps, and low-profile designs that channel air away from your nosepiece, to help decrease the opacification of the glasses. These NIOSH-approved masks feature four layers of filters and feature an adjustable nose clip. N95 masks provide the best protection from COVID-19 because they are designed to filter out at least 95% of all airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns while masks form a tight seal over the face.
The CDC study builds upon guidance for face masks released by CDC earlier this year, which details different levels of protection offered by different types of masks – with the N95 respirator topping the list. 