With the rise of covid-19, there have been a load of different types of masks available out there in the market. They vary in color, level, and patterns. Level 1 masks are considered “low barrier”, level 2 “moderate barrier” and level 3 “higher barrier”. The variations have brought about many questions particularly on whether we are buying and using the right masks. For the purpose of this article, we are going to discuss more on level 3 masks made in Canada. These are high barrier masks with a 4 layer of construction that offers the required comfort, protection, and breathability. Read below to learn more about the efficiency of the masks.
Bacterial Filtration Efficient
Bacterial filtration efficiency is a measure of how well a medical face mask filters out bacteria when exposed to a bacterial containing aerosol. In order for a mask to be considered bacterial filtration efficiency, it needs to have a minimum filtration rate of 95%. For this particular Level, 3 Masks made in Canada have a filtration rate of 98% which makes them efficient enough from bacterial filtration.
Particulate Filtration Efficiency
This is the measure of the capability of a mask to filter sub-micron particles. This test is done with the expectation that viruses will be in a position to be filtered in the same way. The higher the percentage of filtration efficiency the better and more secure the mask is. For the tests, the masks should be subjected to particle sizes of 0.1 to 5.0 microns. For this particular level 3 mask made in china, they are 98% sub-micron particulate filtration efficiency when subjected to 0.1 microns.
Mask Fluid Resistance Efficient
This is the ability of a mask to minimize the amount of fluid that can transfer from the outer layers to the inner layers as a result of slash or spray. According to the society of testing the process should be completed by exposing the masks to synthetic blood at pressures of 80, 120, or 160 mm Hg for them to qualify for the low, medium, and high fluid resistance respectively. For the level 3 masks made in Canada, pass the 160 mm Hg test which means they are efficient enough.
For a mask to be considered safe for use, the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) requires test performance on them. The level 3 masks made in Canada have undergone all the tests including face masks pressure differential, flame resistance and skin sensitivity, and cytotoxic tests. The masks have passed all these tests and therefore, are efficient and best recommended for human use.
