Air Pollution Masks: Choosing The Right Protection

Air pollution is a pressing issue that can cause health problems. To protect oneself from air pollution, one can use an air pollution mask, also known as an air quality mask or smog mask. These masks are generally tested for 95% efficacy against airborne particles. The most common masks are rated N90, N95, or N99, which stands for the percentage of fine particles the mask can block. For example, an N95 mask blocks 95% of fine particles. Other standards include KN95 and FFP2, which are equivalent to the N95 standard. The key to a mask's effectiveness is its seal, which should use high-quality sealing techniques with fabric or silicone to ensure a comfortable fit. Masks like the 3M N95 and Vogmask are affordable and widely available.

Mask ratings: N90, N95, N99, KN95, FFP2, P95, P100

Masks are an effective way to protect yourself from air pollution and airborne infections. Masks for air pollution are generally tested for 95% efficacy against airborne particles. Here is a breakdown of the different ratings for masks:

N90, N95, and N99

The letter notation in masks, such as N, R, or P, is followed by a number, indicating the mask's filtration efficacy. For example, N95 masks are rated to filter at least 95% of particles of 0.3 microns in size, while N90 masks filter 90%. N99 masks are rated to filter at least 99% of particles at 0.3 microns. N95 masks are the most common and affordable type, and they are top-performing masks for particulate matter.

KN95 and FFP2

KN95 and FFP2 masks are equivalent to the N95 standard and are recommended for protection against particle pollution and airborne infectious aerosols. The KN95 mask is oil-resistant and has been tested to block 94% of fine particles. The Vogmask™ is an example of a trendy N99-rated mask that uses microfiber filtration fabric.

P95, P99, and P100

P-rated masks are oil-resistant. P95 and P99 masks are rated by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). P100 masks are the most effective, filtering 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, though complete filtration is impossible at this level.

Mask seal: Fit and comfort

The key to any mask’s effectiveness is its seal. A good seal ensures that the mask suctions to your face during inhalation, preventing particles from leaking in or out. When wearing a mask, fit moulding is essential to ensuring there are no unfiltered airflows. A mask that seals securely to your face is particularly important if you are in an environment with poor air quality or pollution.

A good air pollution mask uses high-quality sealing techniques with fabric or silicone that allow the mask to comfortably fit the contour of your face. The tightness of the fit is also critical. Adjustable, comfortable straps help make the seal around your nose and chin airtight, providing another layer of protection against leakage while also helping to prevent pain or discomfort from tightened straps. This is especially important for masks used during outdoor exercise or for long periods, as filtration is a more pressing concern than breathability in these contexts.

The 3M N95 masks are among the top-performing masks for particulate matter (i.e. PM2.5 Air Pollution). Despite being affordable, they are foldable and convenient to carry around. The "N95" label stands for the mask's ability to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns. The Respro® Masks are also suitable in the "urban sports environment", i.e. when biking in the city and having to get through heavy traffic where cars are the source of pollution. The mask comes with two valves for easier breathing and replaceable filters.

The Vogmask™ is another trendy mask that uses microfiber filtration fabric to provide an N99 rating. Half of the models come with a valve, similar to the 3M Cool Flow, for improved comfort.

Mask brands: Totobobo, Respro, Vogmask, 3M N95

Totobobo anti-pollution masks are renowned for their high quality and excellent customer reviews. They are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable, with a superelastic strap that does not irritate the skin. The transparent respirator ensures a perfect fit for your face, and you can switch between covering your nose and mouth when breathing in polluted areas. Totobobo masks are also reusable.

Respro has been designing pollution masks for over 30 years, combining proven safety-led technology with function, style, and comfort. They offer a custom range of pollution masks and replaceable filters suitable for every environment and activity.

Vogmask is an industry leader in filtering face masks, aiming to provide the most beautiful, highest efficiency, most comfortable, and best-manufactured reusable consumer masks on the market. They continuously innovate to protect respiratory health and raise awareness about cleaning the air.

Lastly, 3M N95 masks are disposable masks that protect against air pollution.

Mask alternatives: HEPA-filter air purifiers

Masks are an effective way to protect yourself from air pollution. However, if you are looking for an alternative, you can try HEPA-filter air purifiers. HEPA stands for "high-efficiency particulate air" and they are a type of pleated mechanical air filter. They are highly effective at capturing particles larger than 0.3 microns, which is the most difficult size for filters to capture.

HEPA-filter air purifiers can be used in your home or office to improve the air quality. They work by filtering out particles such as dust, pollen, mould, bacteria, and other airborne particles. This can help reduce the symptoms of allergies or asthma and create a healthier environment.

When choosing a HEPA-filter air purifier, look for one that is the right size for your space and has a good air changes per hour (ACH) rating. The ACH rating indicates how many times the air will be filtered every 60 minutes, and a minimum of four ACH is considered adequate for effective air purification.

Some recommended HEPA-filter air purifiers include the Austin Air HealthMate HM400, which is especially good for addressing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the Molekule Air Pro and Mini+, which use a combination of HEPA filters and PECO technology to capture and destroy pollutants.

While HEPA-filter air purifiers can be an effective alternative to masks, it is important to note that they may not provide the same level of protection against airborne infections when used outside of controlled environments. In public places or shared spaces, wearing a mask is still the best way to protect yourself and others from air pollution and infectious diseases.

When to wear masks: During outdoor exercise, in shared office spaces, classrooms, and public places

Air pollution is a serious issue, and wearing a mask can help protect you from its harmful effects. There are many kinds of masks for air pollution protection, such as the Totobobo, Respro, Vogmask, and 3M N95 masks. The 3M N95 masks are a good option as they are affordable and can filter out at least 95% of airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns. The Respro mask is also a good choice for urban sports environments, such as biking in city traffic.

Now, let's discuss when to wear these masks:

During outdoor exercise

If you are exercising outdoors, particularly in areas with high air pollution levels or heavy traffic, it is advisable to wear a mask. The Respro mask, as mentioned, is suitable for such environments, helping you breathe easier while biking or running in polluted areas.

In shared office spaces

In shared workspaces, it is essential to wear a face mask to protect yourself and your colleagues. Many organizations and institutions require employees, learners, and contractors to wear face masks (cloth or medical-grade) when in shared office spaces. This includes conference rooms, workrooms, labs, or any area where others are present.

In classrooms

With the recent announcement that students in secondary schools are required to wear masks in classrooms and communal areas, teachers are tasked with ensuring compliance. Clear and consistent communication is key. Verbal instructions, written reminders, and posters can help reinforce the message. Prizes for creative mask designs or making masks freely available can also encourage students to wear them correctly.

In public places

To protect yourself and others from respiratory viruses like SARS-CoV-2, it is essential to wear a mask in public places. Public health agencies recommend wearing non-medical cloth masks in public during the COVID-19 pandemic to decrease person-to-person spread and reduce community transmission rates. This helps prevent hospitalizations and saves lives, allowing us to regain our community freedoms, such as indoor dining and economic activities.

Remember, wearing a mask in these situations helps protect you and those around you from harmful air pollutants and respiratory viruses.

Frequently asked questions