I don't agree, they are playing politics, not dress up. And they are either a fool or an idiot.
While valve masks outwardly appear like a technological step up from a homemade cloth or a standard surgical mask, an old fashioned cloth or surgical mask is actually superior for the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are a few cons to these respirators. Even with different sizes, sometimes these masks do not fit properly and can leave gaps. They can be used only as long as they form a seal and after that, they should be disposed of. The seal can break from facial movements like yawning, laughing, and coughing and make the wearer vulnerable to virus transmission.
These masks should be handled with care and hygiene or they can get contaminated and might actually increase the risk of transmission. Additionally, people with chronic respiratory, cardiac, or other medical conditions that make breathing difficult should check with their health care provider before using an N95 respirator because the N95 respirator can make it more difficult for the wearer to use. Note that N95 respirators with exhalation valves should not be used when sterile conditions are needed. (cdc)
N95 respirators are not designed for children or people with facial hair. Because a proper fit cannot be achieved on children and people with facial hair, the N95 respirator may not provide full protection.
So it’s got some bugs. And getting them is a problem, also. There are a lot of fakes out there that are costly and don’t do the job. Be careful when purchasing.
While valve masks outwardly appear like a technological step up from a homemade cloth or a standard surgical mask, an old fashioned cloth or surgical mask is actually superior for the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are a few cons to these respirators. Even with different sizes, sometimes these masks do not fit properly and can leave gaps. They can be used only as long as they form a seal and after that, they should be disposed of. The seal can break from facial movements like yawning, laughing, and coughing and make the wearer vulnerable to virus transmission. These masks should be handled with care and hygiene or they can get contaminated and might actually increase the risk of transmission. Additionally, people with chronic respiratory, cardiac, or other medical conditions that make breathing difficult should check with their health care provider before using an N95 respirator because the N95 respirator can make it more difficult for the wearer to use. Note that N95 respirators with exhalation valves should not be used when sterile conditions are needed. (cdc) N95 respirators are not designed for children or people with facial hair. Because a proper fit cannot be achieved on children and people with facial hair, the N95 respirator may not provide full protection.
So it’s got some bugs. And getting them is a problem, also. There are a lot of fakes out there that are costly and don’t do the job. Be careful when purchasing.
Cost is also a problem. HAZMET SCBA suits can run from as low as $1100 up to close to $5000 with the TK555T Tychem TK® Fully Encapsulated Level A Coverall Back Entry suit. This top of the line suit comes with:
• Three-layer PVC faceshield
• Elastic wrists and boot flaps
• Double taped seams
• Two exhaust valves
• Expanded back
• Padded knees
• Attached socks
• Multi-layer laminated gloves
• Lime yellow fabric
• Rear entry zipper
• Double storm flaps with hook and loop closure
• Available in M - 4XL
• NAFTA/TAA compliant
If you have a real fear of the virus, this is the best there is. But they do wear out and require cleaning after use which can be a pain.
Wy69