Friday, June 20, 2014

The Protection Ability Of N95 Respirators

By Ina Hunt


Respirators are very important items when it comes to protection against germs and chemicals that can be inhaled. There are about seven types of respirators, and of all these, the n95 respirators are the most commonly used. They have up to 95 % effectiveness in terms of particulate filtering. This means only a few particles can manage to find their way into the respiratory system of the user. It is, however, incapable of filtering oil particles and, hence, preventing them from reaching the wearer.

Contaminated air is usually passed through the filters and unwanted molecules are retained while particles that are not harmful reach the respiratory system. In the manufacture of these respirators, cotton, glass, plastic and some other materials are the commonest materials used. They are the best when it comes to retaining unwanted particles. They are mostly preferred since they can be easily disposed, and they are not as costly as other types of filters.

These products do their job in various ways. Firstly, they block entry of minute molecules through constraining the flowing molecules to a solitary radius. Bigger substances are blocked through their incapability to flow on a progressively curving route. Motion involving collision of molecules further restricts the penetration of particles into the respirators. Some plastics, resins and waxes are commonly applied in the coating of respirators. This kind of materials create an electrostatic force which helps in retaining particles on the filter.

Further prevention of particle entry is enhanced through the minimization of the velocity of particles passing through the filter. To achieve this, the shape and slop of the filter is manipulated to create a large surface area. It should, thus, be easier to prevent particles moving at a low velocity than those traveling at a high velocity.

It has never been advisable to share one n95 filter. This is a precautionary measure to prevent transfer of germs from one person to another as a result of contamination on the respirator. Everyone should, therefore, use his/her own as a precaution. This way, chances of coming into contact with harmful particles are minimal.

For this product to be efficient, the user must ensure that is very fitting on his/her face. Tightness is attainable through the adjustment of the straps. He/she must at the same time ensure that the respirator is comfortable on his/her face. They can as well use a dressing mirror to ensure that it is properly fitting.

The n95 tag simply means that when tested, the equipment blocks up to a maximum of 95% of unwanted particles. However, with proper wearing, they are capable of attaining a higher efficiency than this. This high efficiency does not, however, give an assurance of absolute protection from illnesses. This is because some harmful particles will always find their way out. People with chronic respiratory problems should consult their doctors before using these gadgets.

This type of respirators is never made for children and people with hairy faces. There are no special designs for them. This means that these two groups of people should not use them unless they are sure that they properly fit on their faces.




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