3 ms·
I'm curious how much the type of mask matters. I have two kinds of masks for construction projects: (1) the simple paper ones, and (2) a fancier one with good
by DoofusOfDeath 7y ago
I'm curious how much the type of mask matters. I have two kinds of masks for construction projects:
(1) the simple paper ones, and
(2) a fancier one with good rubber gaskets for my face, and replaceable filters.
Although the fancier mask (2) is more reliable for intake filtration, I suspect it's less useful for exhaust filtration, e.g. from coughs and sneezes. Because (2) uses a flapper valve to release exhaust, whereas the filtration in (1) is somewhat bidirectional.
- Seenso 7y ago> I'm curious how much the type of mask matters. I have two kinds of masks for construction projects: There are surgical masks, surgical respirators, and regular respirators. Surgical masks and surgical respirators meet regulatory requirements about blocking pathogens from the wearer, and I haven't seen any of that type with an exhaust valve.
- dTal 7y agoI don't believe surgical masks do any filtration. They're simply a line-of-sight barrier. There's no seal, so hardly any air will be forced through it. I'd expect a respirator valve to be at least as effective as that. If you were really worried, you could always wear a surgical mask over your respirator...