As COVID-19 variants continue to develop and become more contagious, it is increasingly important to evaluate the forms of protection and processes you are using to keep yourself and your facility safe. One of the most common forms of defense, masking, should always be the top of mind. At the beginning of the pandemic, it was the recommendation to wear any form of mask, as long as it covered your mouth and nose to protect against exposure. As the virus has developed, it has become clear that a higher level of protection is necessary.
N95 respirators are tightly fitted masks that provide protection against up to 95% of tiny droplets and particles in the air as a result of talking, coughing, sneezing, etc. that may transmit COVID-19. Often worn by healthcare workers, they are the superior form of face mask protection vs. cloth and other masks that lack this level of protection.
Though not intended for medical use, Bunzl Processor Division is proud to offer our own line of WorkHorse® N95 Molded Respirators, specifically developed for protection in the food processing industry. These masks include food-safe features such as dual-welded head straps to eliminate staples that could potentially fall into food, blue straps for easy detection, and a shell that resists collapsing if worn in hot or humid conditions. These respirators also feature a facepiece that is naturally contoured without pressure points for more comfortable wear.
N95 respirators are recommended for use in high-risk environments with a large concentration of people in close contact, or where exposure potential is increased. If the N95 level of protection is not needed, experts recommend 3-ply face masks (such as our WorkHorse® Disposable Standard Use Face Masks) for defense over cloth face masks, as they are equipped with features to provide some level of defense against droplets and fluids.
We encourage you to take the time to evaluate your facility for levels of exposure risk, and develop a PPE plan for the safety of your team. If you have any questions regarding PPE or safety products for your facility, we are always available to assist at 800-456-5624 or via the CHAT function on our website. Your safety is our top priority, and we look forward to supporting you.
Reference: https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20211229/cloth-masks-vs-surgical-n95-what-to-know
