Comprehensive Guide to Medical Masks: Types, Ratings, Benefits, and Proper Use

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the protective benefits of medical masks into the spotlight worldwide. Healthcare facilities now mandate the use of medical face masks to protect staff and patients alike. Medical masks play a crucial role in infection control, both in healthcare environments and public spaces.

But what exactly is a medical mask? Which mask rating offers the best protection? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about medical masks, including their types, standards, benefits, and correct usage.

What Is a Medical Face Mask?

A medical face mask—also known as a surgical or procedure mask—is designed to cover the mouth, nose, and chin to act as a physical barrier that limits the transmission of infectious agents. These masks protect both healthcare workers and patients by reducing the spread of respiratory droplets.

• Medical masks prevent large respiratory droplets from reaching others and reduce the wearer’s exposure to infectious droplets.

• They typically comply with EN 14683:2019+AC:2019 (European standards) or ASTM standards (USA).

• Non-medical face masks (cloth or fabric masks) are reusable and primarily intended for public use, whereas medical masks are single-use and designed for clinical environments.

Benefits of Wearing Medical Masks

Medical masks offer many advantages in healthcare and community settings:

• Effective filtration: Medical masks provide high bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE) and particulate filtration efficiency (PFE).

• Reduce transmission: They minimize the spread of infectious particles and cross-contamination risks.

• Comfortable and breathable: Designed for extended wear without discomfort.

• Easy to use: Simple to put on and remove, making them practical for healthcare workers.

• Fluid resistance: Medical masks are tested to resist fluids, protecting wearers from splashes and sprays.

Medical Mask Ratings and Standards

Medical masks are classified by performance levels based on standards such as ASTM and EN 14683. These ratings indicate their protection capabilities:

ASTM Ratings (Levels 1 to 3)

• Level 1: Low barrier protection; suitable for general procedures and minimal fluid exposure.

• Level 2: Moderate barrier; ideal for procedures with some fluid exposure.

• Level 3: Highest barrier; designed for high-risk procedures with heavy fluid exposure.

Key Performance Metrics

• Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE): Ability to filter bacteria.

• Particulate Filtration Efficiency (PFE): Ability to filter fine particles.

• Fluid Resistance: Protection against fluid penetration.

• Pressure Differential (Delta P): Measures breathability.

• Flame Spread: Resistance to ignition.