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The Importance of Mask Fit Testing: Safety Starts with a Seal!

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Winnipeg First Aid
The Importance of Mask Fit Testing: Safety Starts with a Seal!

After the COVID-19 pandemic was over, you must have heard the news from all over the world where some environmentalists were insisting governments to make mandatory wearing a mask in public.

This may sound very weird and impractical, but the reasons behind this are justifying their statement.

In today’s modern world, masks ensure effective respiratory protection. It acts as a protective layer against the harmful pollutants and viruses. That’s why you can still see many people wearing masks regularly. Well! That’s their realization after witnessing the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, even, before COVID-19 pandemic era, it was vital for workers to wear masks on their work shifts in industries like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing. 

That’s enough information as the background to the importance of masks. Let’s discuss a real topic. 

There’s no debate; masks are essential to protect you from harmful things, but they only offer superior safety if they fit your face. 

Yes, you heard it right.

Similarly, wearing a mask is necessary; more than that, it is essential to have a proper fitting of it as per your face proportions. So, in that case, consider undergoing mask fit testing. Many healthcare institutes provide mask fit testing to help you take the complete benefits of masks. Let’s discuss more of mask fit testing. 

Different Types of Masks and Variations of Testing in Each: 

1. Half Face Respirators: 

Significance: These masks primarily cover the nose and mouth. 

Fit Testing Process: The seal is attached around the edges of the mask, ensuring no gaps and leaks. 

2. Full-Face Respirators: 

Significance: Along with nose and mouth, full-face respirators also offer eye protection. (commonly used by workers in industries). 

Fit Testing Process: Like half-face Respirators, it involves a tight seal around the edges. 

3. N95 Mask: 

Significance: It prevents inhalation of solid and liquid particles, filtering out at least 95% of airborne particles. 

Fit Testing Process: N95 mask testing involves two methods: qualitative (done based on smell) and quantitative (done based on normal breathing and deep breathing). 

Ensure Ongoing Compliance and Safety: 

Once you’ve undergone a mask fit testing, ensure you consider it again after one year. As per CCOHS (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Security) and United States OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), an individual should undergo mask fit testing annually. 

Final Thoughts: 

So, all lovely readers, whether you’re a healthcare-specific employee or common citizen, prioritize undergoing mask fit testing to achieve the complete superior benefits of protection. Spare some time out of your busy schedule to undergo mask fit testing. 

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