Mask Resources

Basic Facts About Masks

• What do they do?

  • Filter hazards passing in/out of the wearer's mouth (i.e. allergens, smoke, mould, viruses)

• What to consider when choosing a mask:

  • Filter: How well the filter removes hazards from the air so they cannot pass in/out of the wearer's mouth.

  • Fit: How well the mask fits your face. The best fit ensures no air can bypass the filter.

  • Function: is it comfortable, will you wear it? Remember it only works if you wear it!

• What types are there? (lowest to highest level of protection)

  • Cloth Mask: loose-fitting, does not fit the face well, not-approved

  • Medical/Surgical Mask: loose-fitting, does not fit the face well, may be approved to a standard but are not certified respirators 

  • Respirator: approved/certified, meets a standard for respiratory protection 

  • Elastomeric respirator: reusable respirators with replaceable filters