Face masks are designed to provide a protective barrier that covers a person’s nose and mouth. They may be used to protect the wearer, those in proximity to the wearer, and the environment that they are worn in, but they should not be used in lieu of OSHA-standard respiratory protection. Face masks may be single use or reusable, constructed of various materials (including but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, SMS, or cotton), and are specifically suited for general-purpose use, medical/procedural tasks, or cleanroom environments. Specific usage information can be found at the individual product level.

Single-use face masks feature a one-ply, two-ply, three-ply (most common), or four-ply, pleated configuration and cover the wearer’s nose and mouth. Masks may be secured with earloop, headband, or tie-on fastenings. Most face masks will feature a flexible nose bridge to adjust and improve fit, and some may also include an attached, clear face visor for eye protection.

Reusable face masks are generally sewn from washable fabrics such as three-ply cotton or cotton/polyester, and feature earloop or tie-on fastenings. Some of the fabrics may feature antimicrobial protection, fluid repellency, and moisture-wicking properties.

General-Purpose Face Masks
Single-use or reusable face masks provide protection from germs transmitted through coughing, sneezing, and talking. These face masks are NOT approved for surgical or medical use.

Medical/Procedural Face Masks
Single-use face masks worn by medical and healthcare personnel protect against large droplets, splashes, and sprays of bodily and other hazardous fluids. These face masks also protect patients from the wearer’s respiratory emissions. Medical/procedural face masks should be selected based on the level of protection required for intended use. The degree of protection is indicated by ASTM F2100:

• Level 1: Low risk, operatory cleaning/maintenance, x-rays
• Level 2: Emergency room, changing dressings, lab work with exposure to blood
• Level 3: Surgery, major trauma first aid, use of laser devices

Cleanroom Face Masks
Single-use face masks and veils protect the wearer from harmful contaminants and eliminate worker-induced contamination entry within controlled environments. They provide high particle filtration and may have special packaging to ensure sterility. Cleanroom veils provide extra face and neck protection with secured elastic strap or snap-fastening options to complement cleanroom hoods.