Where to Buy N95 & KN95 Masks Online in USA

The world is grasped in an emotional and mental struggle amidst the corona-virus pandemic, more commonly known as COVID-19. Every individual is busy playing his part in order to handle medical emergencies at such an hour. Almost everyone is taking safety precautions and want to know where to buy n95 and kn95 masks online in USA for being safe.

May it be financial, monetary support or support in the form of safety equipment supplies (for the medical and paramedical staff as well as others involved), everyone hopes for a healthier future ahead.

Unfortunately, due to increased cases of COVID-19, it is necessary at the same time to keep a record of the safety equipment stored and supplied.

As compared to practically purchasing the protective kits against the virus, a vital and crucial item N95 and KN95 masks, it is preferred to purchase online since this practice avoids any risk amid the spread of the pandemic.

Frequently asked questions for N95 & KN95 Masks:

What is a N95 MASK?

A N95 mask or a N95 respirator is a particulate filtering facepiece respirator that meets the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health N95 classification for air filtration. Basically, it filters at least 95 % of airborne particles. An N95 type is the most common particulate- filtering facepiece respirator. It is an apt example of a mechanical filter respirator.

What is an N95 respirator?

N95 masks are equipped with denser filter to prevent 95 % of particles sized 0.3 microns and below. Its harder to breathe in. (If you find it easy to breathe in then you are wearing it wrong), technically, it is a respirator and it provides protection against particulates but not against gases or vapors.

The N95 mask is made as a result of fine mesh of synthetic polymer fibers, also known as nonwoven, polypropylene fabric_ produced through a process called melt blowing that forms the inner filtration layer that filters out hazardous particles.

N series respirators including the N95 mask, are merely effective in the absence of oil particles such as (lubricants, cutting fluids or glycerine). An important point to note here is they are not efficient in fire-fighting and oxygen-deficient atmosphere.

Can you reuse N95 masks?

Yes, it can be reused (particularly when there is a shortage) as long as it maintains its structural and functional integrity and the filter material is not physically damaged or soiled.

 How long does N95 mask last?

It is safe enough to use it for up to 8 hours. Also, they should be replaced regularly. As not replacing them often could increase the risk of spread of the virus.

What is the difference between a conventional surgical mask and a N95 mask?

A conventional surgical mask protects the medical staff from respiratory droplets and splashes whereas, a N95 mask is far more efficient and protective preventing the airborne particles of size 0.3 microns and below from entering.

What is the difference between NIOSH- approved and FDA-cleared face masks?

The difference between NIOSH- approved and FDA-cleared face mask is if a mask meets the criterion of NIOSH (USA testing requirements), it is certified as a respirator whereas in the case of the latter_ the mask is termed merely as a mask.

If N95 masks are not available then can I buy a P2 or KN95 mask?

Yes, you can. The mere difference between a P2 and a KN95 mask is that the P2 represents the EC  (European testing requirements) and the N95 represents the NIOSH (American testing requirements). However, practically speaking; these differences and distinctions have resulted in no impact on the level of protection to the wearer.

Related:  CORONAVIRUS, A DEADLY DISEASE: IT’S SYMPTOMS, CAUSES AND TREATMENT

Can N95 respirators be reused?

Yes, they can be. One needs to launder it, hand wash the mask or place it in a mesh wash bag in a washing machine and use a high-heat setting.

Some people as well are perplexed about the fact whether they can place these N95 respirators in the microwave oven to decontaminate it.

Experts, on the other hand strictly reject this idea as due to some metal parts that are a part of the N95 respirator’s structure…there could be a blow-up if place in the microwave oven. However, one can place the N95 masks in a clean, open space for reusing it later.

Does N95 mask protect against swine flu?

Yes, N95 mask does protect against swine flu. As this N95 mask has the ability to protect the wearer from particles that are 0.3 microns in size or even below.

These N95 masks are also good protection against potentially contaminated air droplets while dealing with a patient (specially for the medical and the paramedical staff)

How much is 3M N95 mask?

Usually, a 3M N95 mask costs $15 (US). However, there has been an increase in its price during the Coronavirus pandemic as compared to the same time last year. There are many other N95 mask available in market from FDA approved Chinese manufacturers.

Do N95 masks come in different sizes?

Yes, they do come in different sizes. It depends upon each respirator model. The range of different sizes varies as Small, Small/Medium, and Medium, Medium / Large and large.

What is meant by a fit test for a N95 mask?

A respirator fit test checks whether a respirator properly fits the face of the person of wears it. The fitting characteristic of a respirator is the ability of the mask to separate a worker’s respiratory system from ambient air (air present in the individual’s environmental surrounding).

Does an individual need a fit test for a N95 mask?

Not every individual needs a fit test for a N95 mask. A fit test is required only for those who perform duties, that is, including the medical and paramedical staff.

What is the difference between a KN95 and a N95 face mask?

• A KN95 masks are the Chinese standards for respirator masks and a N95 mask are the US standards for respirator masks.
• A KN95 masks are relatively less breathable than N95 masks

Reference: smartairfilters.com

Where to buy kn95 and n95 masks online in USA:

CONCLUSION:

However, the airborne particle capturing rate for both the masks is the same, that is, 95%. Moreover, N95 respirators are considered functionally equivalent to certain respirators regulated under non-US jurisdictions such as KN95 respirators (of China) and FFP2 respirators (of the European Union).

Further, there are different processes and criteria involved to evaluate and certify their performance such as the filter efficiency, test agent, flow rate and permissible pressure drop.

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