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KN95 Face masks - What you need to know.

Wearing a face mask has become the norm all around the world. As we move back to normality, it is likely that a lot of people will continue to wear face masks. A lot of businesses will continue to request that people wear face masks when possible, whether this is customers visiting their store or employees attending a company conference. However, there are a lot of different face masks available today, and so it is important to figure out which one will be right for you. With that being said, in this guide, we are going to reveal everything you need to know about KN95 masks so that you can get a better understanding.

Do you really still need to wear a face mask?

Before we move onto the specifics regarding the KN95 face mask, the subject of wearing a mask is one that raises a lot of mixed opinions. You may be wondering whether or not you still need to wear a mask. Well, firstly, there are a lot of jurisdictions where wearing a mask is currently mandatory. However, even if it is not, a lot of people will still want to wear a mask so that they can protect themselves and others. To do this, though, you will need to choose a mask with care, as not all masks are created equally, and so you need to make sure you choose the right mask for your needs and requirements.

The science behind wearing a face mask

There have been a lot of different studies about face masks and the importance of wearing one. For example, in one experiment, a high-speed video was used to determine the ability of various masks to block respiratory droplets. In this video, it found that hundreds of droplets, ranging from 20 to 500 micrometers were generated whenever a simple phrase was spoken. However, when using a damp washcloth, virtually all of these droplets were blocked.

There has been another study that has been carried out. In this study, it was determined that individuals with the common cold or influenza found that wearing a surgical mask considerably lowered the amount of these respiratory viruses emitted in aerosols and droplets.

However, we cannot deny that the strongest evidence when it comes to wearing masks comes from the real-world scenarios that have been studied since the pandemic began. We can refer to one of the recent studies that Health Affairs published to see a good example of this. In this study, the growth rate of Covid-19 in 15 states and the District of Columbia were monitored before and after mask mandates. It was discovered that the mask mandates resulted in the daily growth rate of Covid-19 falling, which only became more apparent as time went on. After the mandate, it was recorded that within five days the growth rate had slowed down by 0.9 percentage points when compared with the five days before the mandate was put in place. This continued to slow, as the growth rate had actually decreased by 2 percentage points within three weeks.

If you take a look online, you will see that there are a lot of other studies and examples that showcase how effective masks have been. Lower death rates are associated with countries that have put mask-wearing policies in place. You can take a look at this study for more information.

What are KN95 face masks? Are they the same as N95 masks?

A lot of confusion stems from the fact that people are unsure whether KN95 face masks are the same as N95 face masks. These masks are very similar, but they are not identical. Nevertheless, both have been designed and rated to filter out 95 per cent of very small particles. However, while KN95 masks are the Chinese standard, N95 masks are considered the United States standard. That is the real difference between the two.

What KN95 face masks look like

Now that you know what a KN95 face mask is and just how effective it is, let’s take a look at how these masks are designed.

KN95 masks look very similar to the N95 face masks. However, it is possible to fold the masks in half because there is a seam down the middle of the KN95 face masks. The face masks available on the market today will have eye loops so that your face covering is secure.

How does the KN95 mask work?

The mask works in the same manner as the equivalent N95 mask, meaning that 95 per cent of the particles in the air are filtered. They are believed to capture particles that measure 0.3 microns in diameter. Despite the fact that the Covid-19 particles are smaller in size, these masks prove to be highly effective in making sure that the virus does not enter your system and that you do not pass it on to anyone else.

You may be wondering what it is about these masks that amke them so effective. Well, it comes down to both the design and the construction. The masks are made up of two exterior layers of a material that is non-woven, which will filter out particles that measure 0.5 microns in diameter. There is then an activated carbon filter layer that is fitted in between the layers mentioned, which will absorb chemical pollution. Furthermore, a thick cotton layer is incorporated in the design, filtering out particles that measure around 0.3 microns in diameter. In addition to this, these masks have also been designed and tested for a suitable fit so that there is less than eight per cent of leakage.

When should you wear KN95 face masks?

KN95 face masks are ideal outside of areas that are high risk. By high risk, we mean hospital settings and care homes. In such settings, a N95 mask comes more recommended. However, KN95 face masks are ideal in business environments, including events and conferences.

They offer a high level of protection and so their wear is suitable if you are looking for something that is going to keep you safe in any setting outside of the healthcare environment.

Some of the different professions whereby you would benefit from a fase mask include the following:

• Steel and iron foundries

• Sawmills

• Pharmaceuticals

• Engineering

• Metalworking

• Shipbuilding

• Ceramics and pottery production

• Quarrying

• Construction

These are just a few of the different environments whereby KN95 face masks make a lot of sense, as they can protect the user from being exposed to dangerous chemicals in the work setting. This helps to prevent health problems while also ensuring the work environment is a safe one.

Wearing your face mask correctly

Despite the fact that most of us have been wearing face masks for around 18 months now, there are still a lot of people who do not wear face masks correctly. You need to make sure that your face covering covers your mouth and nose without breathing being restricted. Moreover, it should be secured to your head with ties or earloops.

When wearing a face mask, make sure that you do the following:

• Do not take your face mask off and put it back on in quick succession

• Change your face covering on a frequent basis, especially if you have touched the mask or it has become damp

• Do not touch the part of the mask that comes in contact with your nose and mouth, as it could be contamination

• Do not wear your face mask on your neck or forehead

• Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds with either soap and water or hand sanitiser

You also need to be cautious when you remove the face mask. Here are some things to follow:

• Thoroughly wash your hands for 20 seconds with either soap and water or hand sanitiser once you have removed the mask.

• Dispose of your face mask in the waste bin and do not recycle it.

• Do not share your face mask with others.

• Only handle the clips, ties, or straps.

• Before you remove the mask, it is also advisable to thoroughly wash your hands for 20 seconds with either soap and water or hand sanitiser.

Final words on KN95 face masks

So there you have it: everything that you need to know about KN95 face masks. We hope that this has helped you to get a better understanding of what KN95 face masks are and how they can benefit you.

Safety is of paramount importance, and wearing a face mask is one of the best ways to protect yourself and everyone around you. However, you need to make sure that the mask you use is effective, and that is why KN95 masks come so highly recommended. Blocking out 95 per cent of very small particles, this is one of the most effective masks available on the market today.

All information in this article should be considered as opinion and not medical advice. Always seek and follow advice from qualified medical professionals. None of the information on this page should be undertaken or interpreted as medical advice.

Please note

We make no claims to the effectiveness of the product. We also recommend users seek advice from a qualified medical professional before utilising these types of products.

The Lanyards Factory is not responsible for manufacturer defects or incorrect results due to incorrect testing procedure.

The general product information provided on this website is to be used as a guide only and not taken as medical advice, always read the label of the product and follow instructions provided with these products.