Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, masks have become the most common sight of 2020. From gathering venues to workplaces, sanitary authorities and governments are urging every citizen to wear a mask in an effort to limit the spread of the virus and “flatten the curve.” Now, with so many models available on the market, which ones offer the most protection? In this article, we explore which masks are the safest to wear on the job.

Disposable Surgical Masks

These distinctively blue or white masks are the most popularly worn and sold worldwide. Disposable surgical masks have been shown to filter out nearly 60% of small, inhaled particles. That said, their primary purpose is to stop droplets and sprays from infecting other people, and are effective in limiting contamination. While they may be the most affordable on this list, they can only be used once, ideally.

N95 Masks

The N95 face respirator is one of the most effective masks out there. As the name suggests, it can filter nearly 95% of particles, making it the safest option to wear at work and on other occasions. For business owners, investing in a mask collection is perhaps the best guarantee to ensure employee and staff safety. In any case, be sure to find a certified and trusted mask provider.

Store-Bought Cloth Masks

A very popular option, these widely available cloth masks are a good option, yet not the best one. Their effectiveness will depend on the material and construction. For optimum protection, a cloth mask should be made of 100%, tight-weave cotton. High-quality ones can guarantee up to 80% protection, while poorly made masks won’t pass the 20% mark. So, be sure to read labels and ask for recommendations.

Filtered Cloth Masks

A number of cloth masks bought commercially include an additional layer to ensure better protection. This layer will typically be made of polypropylene, a synthetic and durable fabric that can trap harmful particles. Wearing a two-layer filtered cloth mask can offer a rate of effectiveness of up to 70%, compared to roughly 30% or 40% for regular cloth masks.

Cone-Style Masks

These manufactured plastic, cone-shaped masks that fit over the nose and mouth usually consist of a metal strip to accommodate the bridge of the nose. While they’re certainly preferable to a bandana, or no protection at all, cone-style masks aren’t all that effective at blocking out particles and ensuring proper air filtration.

Homemade Masks

Last but not least, while they’re still better than nothing, experts do not recommend wearing homemade masks. Unless they’re made in a completely sterile environment, their efficacy against the Coronavirus will be questionable at best. As such, it’s preferable to opt for tested and proven options.

At the end of the day, face masks are a necessity in times of COVID-19, but they weren’t all created equally. Especially in sensible environments like workplaces and other gathering venues, it’s imperative that employees and visitors use the right type of mask to keep themselves safe, healthy, and avoid passing on the virus to others.

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