Brazil and the world are undergoing through an extremely delicate and challenging moment due to this pandemic times, which until then, has as its best allies the hygiene, the isolation and the use of masks. With that in mind, several doubts may arise and one of the most common ones is the difference between the masks that are available in the market, being these the available ones: fabric mask, surgical mask and PFF2 respirators. Now you may know the characteristics of each one:

Fabric Masks

The fabric masks emerged as an alternative for the population to protect themselves against Covid-19, due to the great demand of the others and their consequent embezzlement. These masks are easily found and, because they are not PPE, anyone may produce them.

Characteristics:

–The hugest benefit is the fact that it is reusable, that is, it may be sanitized and used again, as long as it has no malfunctions or any unpleasant odor;
–The use of the mask is individual, it must not be shared with other people; mouth and nose cover, but without sealing;

–It must have at least two layers;
–It is not indicated for people with a positive diagnosis for Covid-19 and / or who are in contact with someone infected with the virus.

It is important to highlight that these masks do not have their filtering effectiveness proven by norms, but it is indicated as a way of preventing the spread to other people.

Surgical masks

Also known as a laser mask, for isolation, or for dental or medical procedures, surgical masks have also been missing out on inventories throughout Brazil. These are indicated for the purpose of avoiding contamination of the environment and other people. However the surgical mask, as well as the fabric mask, may not be termed under an Individual Protection Equipment.

Characteristics:

– The biggest benefit is the fact that its filtration capacity is on average 98%, an efficacy not proven by the fabric mask. However, this is not prohibited, that is, it is not an adequate protection for infected patients and people in contact with them;

– Mouth and nose cover, but without sealing;

– It is disposable;

– The use of the mask is individual, it must not be shared with other people.

It is important to note that these are indicated as a way of preventing the spread of other people and the environment.

PFF2 respirators

The PFF2 respirator is a Personal Protective Equipment that covers the mouth and nose and provides an adequate seal on the user’s face. It has a filter made of nonwoven with the ability to retain droplets, it has protection against aerosols containing biological agents, such as viruses, bacteria and fungi.

In a hospital environment, the respirator must have a filter with minimum PFF2 approval.

Main characteristics:

– The nonwoven itself acts as a filter and the total sealing of the nose and mouth allows for product efficiency;

– Minimum filtration efficiency is 94% according to the standard (ABNT / NBR 13698: 1996);

– It is disposable;

– It is indicated for people working in the hospital area, as well as for those infected with Covid-19;

– As it is a PPE, its use is individual, and it cannot be shared.

It is important to note that, due to the high demand for PFF2, the general population should give preference to the use of tissue and surgical masks, which thus allow these respirators to be on the front lines in the fight against Covid-19.

WE’RE ALL TOGETHER FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY!