Good to know
RESPIRATORY MASKS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST CORONAVIRUS (SARS-COV-2)
Loose-fitting surgical masks, which cover the mouth and nose, prevent the wearer from contaminating the air around them with exhaled droplets. However, they do not offer adequate virus protection for the wearer themselves. Since surgical masks do not sit tightly against the face, breathing is relatively easy.
Tight-fitting FFP masks protect the wearer against viruses. These respiratory masks reliably filter the smallest particles and droplets from the air. Masks with an exhalation valve offer an extra degree of comfort for the wearer. Masks without an exhalation valve have the added benefit of preventing the wearer from contaminating the surrounding air with exhaled droplets. FFP masks are available in various protection levels. Find more information here.
Moldex produces FFP masks. However, it does not produce surgical masks.
We can’t make a statement about the effectiveness of self-made fabric face masks because this depends on various factors, for example the material they are made from.
PROTECTION LEVELS
The UK Government and NHS leaders recommends the wearing of FFP3 masks when caring for patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Full information can be found here (external link).
The UK Government do not recommend the use of FFP masks or face coverings within the workplace. They state that COVID-19 risks in the workplace should be managed by social distancing and that FFP masks should only be used within clinical settings unless you are in a situation where the risk of COVID-19 transmission is very high.
PERIODS OF USE
When handling airborne biological agents (including the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2) and radioactive agents, reusable respiratory masks may only be used once or for a maximum of one work shift. This also applies to masks marked with an "R" for "reusable".
Current guidance from the UK Government on working safely during Coronavirus COVID-19 can be found here (external link)
CORRECT USAGE
For an FFP mask to work effectively, it must be used in accordance with the enclosed user instructions. Among other things, it is important to ensure that the mask fits correctly on the face and that the straps are positioned correctly. You can find short informative videos on Moldex FFP masks on the MoldexEurope YouTube channel MoldexEurope YouTube channel (external link).
Both FFP masks and surgical masks are important components of personal protective equipment against Coronavirus. They should not replace other important measures such as hand hygiene and distancing, but are intended to compliment them. Respiratory protection against Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is particularly important for those who come into direct contact with (potentially) infected individuals in their role as medical personnel or assistants, or those who belong to an atrisk group.
Moldex is a manufacturer of respiratory protection masks in the protection levels FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. From the knitted straps to the filter, Moldex produces each FFP respirator in-house and to the highest quality standards, therefore Moldex products are largely independent of supply chains. Learn more about the features that make Moldex respirators stand out.
Disclaimer
This information is not legally binding and does not replace personal advice. Please note our terms of use.
