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Stopping the spread starts with taking the right steps. A lightweight, well-fitted and certified face mask that provides complete fit around the nose and mouth is the best solution for protection against the deadly Coronavirus. However, one of the biggest challenges faced by users is to select the right mask out of the hundreds of options available. We endeavour to provide a simple guide to help you choose the right PPE for your protection. 
Let us begin by understanding the difference between three most commonly used masks -
Cotton mask is a loose-fitted mask that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment.
Surgical mask is a 3-ply mask meant to be used by medical personnel during procedures.
N95 or FFP2 Respirators have electrostatic charged filtering fabric that prevents fine particles and viruses from entering the respiratory system.
The first step in selecting the right face mask is to look for the correct certification on its packaging. In India, ISI Marked FFP2 certification is the most important to look out for. N95 is the American Certification equivalent to ISI FFP2. Both these certifications claim 94/95 per cent filtering efficiency, which is most suited for protection against Coronavirus.
Secondly, be aware that the number of layers of the mask does not enhance its filtering efficiency. On the contrary, too many layers decrease breathability, increase suffocation and make the mask heavy. FFP2 / N95 masks use electrostatic charged fabric to achieve excellent filtering efficiency.
Here’s how to check if your mask has electrostatic filtering fabric: Place the mask in a small container having tiny pieces of paper. If the bits of paper stick to the mask, it means the mask has a filtering fabric inside it. If not, then your mask is not giving you the required protection.
The next important criterion is the mask should completely seal the mouth and nose to prevent any air leakage. The nose clip should be flexible enough to take the shape of the nose and you should be able to breathe properly.
An N95 or FFP2 Mask is recommended to be used for a period of 12 cumulative hours. The mask can be reused multiple times until 12 hours usage is achieved. After use it should be properly disposed-off in a closed bin by tearing of its loops or headband to prevent reuse. Please refrain from washing the mask as it destroys the filtering fabric thereby making it ineffective against Coronavirus.
We need to emphasize & promote practising safety protocols including social distancing, maintaining hand hygiene & wearing face masks even after getting vaccinated. Pandemic or not, face masks are here to stay and should consciously be made a part of our lives for the good health & safety of our loved ones.
Being a leading manufacturer of PPE in India, KARAM provides safety solutions from head to toe. With sales offices and representatives spread across the country, our mission is to save the valuable lives of workers. KARAM’s new Respiratory Range of products aims to offer a complete solution for all industries and end-users. Explore and buy our range of ISI certified FFP2 masks now on Amazon.
For any product/training enquiries, please contact us at karam@karam.in or call us at 1800 103 7085 (Toll free).
