Unlike regular face masks that we now don as shields against the Coronavirus, a surgical face mask works differently. Surgical masks are intended for medical purposes and are indeed reckoned among medical devices.
These masks cover the user’s nose and mouth, providing a physical barrier to fluids and particulate materials. They protect clinic staff from infectious agents transmitted by ‘droplets’, such as saliva or upper respiratory tract secretions.
Nevertheless, do note that surgical masks do not prevent total contaminant infiltration and are in no way the only protection you need. With that in mind, how can you choose the right one out of all the options online?
What to look for when choosing a surgical face mask
There are a few criteria to take into account when purchasing a surgical face mask:
- Type of mask — Medical practitioners should first discern the difference between surgical masks and respirators. Both function differently with their respective standards and objectives. While surgical masks only protect against biological fluids, respirators guard against ‘airborne’ infectious agents as well.
- Level of protection — As mentioned, each mask indeed has different standards and regulations across the globe. See below for the classes of devices that determine a surgical face mask’s degree of protection:
1. European Standard EN14683
| EU Standard Class | Bacterial Filtration Efficiency |
| Type I or BFE | >95% |
| Type IR | >95% |
| Type II or BFE2 | >98% |
| Type IIR | >98% |
2. United States ASTM Standards
| Level of Protection | ASTM F2100-11 Standards |
| Level 1 | For a low risk of exposure to fluids >95% |
| Level 2 | For a moderate risk of exposure to fluids >98% |
| Level 3 | For a high risk of exposure to fluids >98% |
- Effective life — Generally, the duration of a surgical face mask’s effectiveness varies between three to eight hours typically. Of course, a cheaper one might mean a shorter period of use. The manufacturer will systematically indicate this timespan for use on the packaging.
- Comfort — Surgical masks come in different sizes and can be adaptable to the morphology of the wearer. They also vary in breathability. Although ASTM Level 1 and Type I masks have the lowest bacteria filtration efficiency and fluid resistance, they provide the best breathability. However, if it’s less breathable, you can always equip your surgical mask with an exhalation valve for extra comfort.
Whether it’s for surgery or other medical procedures, it all depends on your field requirements and individual demand.
Mayflax Empro Surgical Face Mask
If you’re unsure about the numerous brands out there, why not opt for Empro? Empro’s latest creation is the S Series with Aerofit Technology surgical face mask. Aligned with the ASTM F2101-19 standards, it is a Type IIR/Level 3 mask with >99% bacteria filtration efficiency (BFE) and >98% particle filtration efficiency (PFE).
Moreover, the Empro surgical mask has an Aerofit feature that is ergonomically designed for optimal airflow. So if your intent for use involves general-purpose infection control or other medical practices, rest assured that you’ll be well-protected without having to compromise on comfort.
Find out more about Mayflax’s expertise and services or contact us for more information.