Medical and Non-Medical Masks Defined
At the most basic level, difference between medical and non-medical masks is as simple as looking at their intended usage.
Non-medical masks are for the general public or use in non-healthcare related environments.
They could be worn when there is low risk of exposure, outside of healthcare facilities, and/or when social distancing may be difficult.
In contrast, medical masks are designed as PPE for use in medical environments.
Looking deeper into the differences, you’ll also find that medical masks feature many different designs and materials
to provide different levels of protection at varying price points.
Many designs fall into one of two categories:
- Surgical masks
- Civil Use
Medical Mask Ratings Explained
With so many mask designs available, how can you determine the best DISPOSABLE FACE MASKS for your intended use?
ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) ratings provide data making it easier to compare mask protection and performance across a number of critical protection types.
The ASTM is an international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards
for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services—including those in healthcare.
Their PPE ratings offer a look at critical considerations to make comparing the protective characteristics of different models simpler.
ASTM F2100, the current standard, reviews 5 basic criteria:
- BFE (Bacterial Filtration Efficiency): The ability to filter bacteria
- PFE (Particulate Filtration Efficiency): The ability to filter sub-micron particles
- Fluid Resistance: The ability to prevent fluid penetration through the mask to the wearer
- Delta P (Pressure Differential): Measures how light and breathable a mask feels
- Flame Spread: The ability to withstand exposure from flame.
Yinhong Protective could offer both Medical and Non-medical face masks. Please inquiry us for a favorable price and more details.
3 layers disposable medical and non-medical products: Nonwoven Fabric+Fliter+Melt Blown.