Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, we have seen the rise of face masks usage in the UK. Beforehand, face masks would be worn mainly by medical staff, however now they have become a part of our daily life and routine.
However, from July 19th, face masks are no longer a legal requirement in England. The Government has given the decision to enforce face mask usage over to individual companies to decide what is best for them, rather then providing legislation for the entire country.
But with Covid-19 still being very present in England, face masks are still important for staying safe against the virus. “We expect and recommend” that people continue to wear face coverings in “crowded and enclosed spaces… such as on public transport” states Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of England.
What different types of Face Masks are there?
Did you know that there are different types of face masks on the market, which each have their own benefits and drawbacks? Here are the top three types of commercial Face Masks to help you make the right choice when deciding which is the best option for you.
Single Use Surgical Masks
Single use surgical masks are only made to be used once. They have a nose wire which can be bent to the shape of your nose and two loops to hold the mask in place.
Benefits:
- Prevent transmission from the wearer to others
- Fluid resistant and protects the wearer against large particles
Drawbacks:
- They can only be used once
- There can be air leakage on the side of the masks if they aren’t fitted tightly enough
- Does not protect against smaller airborne particles
Cloth Face Masks
Cloth Face Masks are a reusable alternative to single use masks, which allow the wearer to wash and reuse their mask. They are usually made of a breathable fabric such as cotton, and come in different sizes, colours and designs.
Benefits:
- They are reusable which is better for the environment and more affordable
- You can purchase them in different sizes which means you can get a mask which fits you the best
Drawbacks:
- There are many on the market and it is difficult to know which is the best option for you.
- Does not protect you, but it could protect others if you are infected
Respirator Masks
Wearing a FFP3 mask can provide the wearer with up to 100% protection. They are close fitting masks which are designed purposefully to filter out aerosols.
Benefits:
- Reduces your exposure to airborne particles
- Highest level of protection available
Drawbacks:
- Must be tightly fitted to face
Top Tips to consider when purchasing and wearing Face Masks
Here are our top tips for look out for when purchasing face masks to protect yourself and others against Covid-19:
- Make sure if you are purchasing a single use mask that it is made up of multiple layers
- For extra protection for yourself and others, you can layer a single use mask and a reusable face mask.
- If you are wearing a single use face mask, you can knot the loops on either side for a closer fit and more protection.
How HAS Equipment can help you and your business or family
Whether you are an individual who is trying to protect your family, or a business owner trying to navigate what is best for your staff and customers through the lifting of restrictions – we can help at HAS Equipment.
If you choose to wear a face mask after 19th July, we offer a range of face masks which not only prevent virus particles from reaching your airways, but they also capture and disable viruses including Covid-19.
Our Viractiv Face Coverings are:
- Light and Breathable
- 50x more wearable then single use masks
- Tested by World Leading Scientists
- Antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial and antioxidant
- Capable of up to 99% Virus Protection for you and your family
We also offer a range of air sanitisation and hygiene equipment which are designed to provide reassurance and safety indoors – during this pandemic and beyond. Air quality, indoor hygiene and safety are our top priorities, and we can help you achieve those things too.
Our range of Air Sanitiser Equipment neutralise and decontaminate spaces, whilst deactivating 99.9999% of viruses and bacteria. They also work together to create air filtration systems perfect for any size of business or home.
If you are interested in any of the products we have to offer or would just like to talk through how we could help you – pick up the phone and talk to our team about a bespoke solution for your home or business, someone is always on hand to help.
Resources:
All of the information provided within this article has been researched from the credible sources below:
Types of Masks:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/types-of-masks.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-mask#types-of-masks
