3m aura mask review professional#

Soft metallic nose piece: Creating an air-tight seal is an important factor when using an N95 mask, and most models employ a malleable metal nose piece that users can customize to their facial contours. A good candidate won’t fit like a Halloween mask, with a single strap attaching the mask to the user’s face. When shopping for N95 masks in bulk, look for such elements as metallic nose pieces and an adjustable double strapping system. Many N95 masks subscribe to the “one size fits most” philosophy, but the better options provide ways to customize the overall fit. A respirator valve isn’t an essential feature for casual users (visitors to an emergency room, for instance), but it is especially useful for those who need to wear the mask for hours at a time. Many manufacturers improve positive pressure by including a one-way respirator valve designed to enable users to breath out more easily but not reduce the effectiveness of negative pressure on the filter. The mask’s filters are responsible for the negative pressure of inhalation but aren’t as effective for exhalation. Respirator valve: A typical N95 mask provides both negative and positive pressure while in use.

3m aura mask review professional#

If you have the opportunity, receiving training on proper fitting or having a certified professional test the fit of your N95 mask is ideal. An inferior N95 mask will allow too much unfiltered air to enter or exit through the sides of the mask. This is an indication of good positive pressure. When the wearer exhales, the respirator valve should open smoothly. When the wearer inhales deeply, a properly fitted N95 mask should draw inward. This seal can be tested for both positive and negative pressure. A quality N95 mask needs to form a tight seal around your lower face to be effective. If you’re searching for the best N95 masks available today, we urge shoppers to determine their needs before committing to a specific type of protective gear, as individual respiration or dust mask requirements vary. Many companies keep a supply of N95 masks on hand to protect employees and visitors from the hazards of dust or dry chemicals produced on factory floors. N95 masks are often distributed in bulk during outbreaks of communicable diseases or certain types of natural disasters. These masks, available in a wide variety of designs and colors, all serve the same purpose: to prevent pollen, dust, smoke, and viruses from entering the body through the respiratory system. One of the most affordable types of general-purpose respirator masks is known by its National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) rating: N95. Many of us seek out this first line of defense for sitting in a hospital waiting room, mowing lawns, or living in areas where wildfires are common. Whether for a smokey wildfire, respiratory illness outbreak, or dusty cleanup operation, one of the most important pieces of personal protection equipment might also seem like the least obvious: a proper respirator or dust mask.