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MASKS

Printed From: COVID-19 / South Africa Omicron Variant
Category: Coronavirus Pandemic: Prepping Forums
Forum Name: Masks
Forum Description: (All about masks)
URL: http://www.avianflutalk.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=978
Printed Date: March 28 2024 at 7:51am


Topic: MASKS
Posted By: Guests
Subject: MASKS
Date Posted: January 29 2006 at 5:25pm

Important information about masks.

Recommendations about what to get.

Recommendations about sources.

Recommendations about usage.

Recommendations about re-use.




Replies:
Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: January 29 2006 at 6:21pm

Originally posted by anitaRNpulmo:

I set a blog site about these problems with pics, docs, leaflets (how to, do/dont) , advices and links.
I am uploading the first pages ... Anita RN pulm nurse

http://avianflu-personal-protection.blogspot.com/



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: January 29 2006 at 6:25pm

Originally posted by MaryKay:

Do buy a N95, N99, N100 mask.
Don't buy a surgical mask unless you plan on doing surgery. These masks are designed to protect the PATIENT from the health care worker's germs, not the opposite. They do not fit snuggly against one's cheeks, therefore they are useless. Their holes are 50 times {Approx.} the size of a N95. Virus is a tiny fraction of the size of bacteria.
Don't fold, bend, crease a mask. This causes a long hole, allowing virus in. If I was in this situation with no other mask available I would tape the fold on the outside.
Don't touch the outside of the mask with bare hands once you've worn it in public. When removing always use gloves. After use, hang indoors, away from humans, for three days before reuse. Bagging it is fine.
Don't reuse if mask becomes soiled, fluids.
Don't wear goggles if they interfere with mask, get smaller goggles. Goggles need to be air tight if effective, tape holes on side of goggles if you've purchased standard protective goggles.
Don't wear a mask with a beard. This will interfere with seal. The beard's gotta go.
Rubber bands go on upper head and upper neck area.
I can't find a suitable/well fitted mask for my 12 year old so if she must go outside I will completely tape the perimeter,{rim} of the mask securely to her face.
Store mask in a cool, dry place, not in sunlight as this will break down the material. {Second law of science, thermodynamics}
I find that masks don't fit as snuggly as I would like, the top, sides of the nose bridge area seems a tiny bit loose, even after I have adjusted the metal band, so I will tape the nose bridge area with a bandaid or paper tape, .....call me paranoid. : )



Posted By: Doodlebug
Date Posted: January 30 2006 at 8:51am
This company has masks for children 3-10 years old.  They are currently back-ordered until February 10. 

www.surviveall.co.uk


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: January 30 2006 at 9:59am

I purchased masks from http://store.pksafety.net/dustmasks.html - http://store.pksafety.net/dustmasks.html

and had them in 48 hours. :)
I live in the same state they shipped from which helped too, but they shipped the same day that I ordered them.

Regarding the child size masks, the 3M 8110 N95 Particulate Respirators fit my 9 year old daughter quite well.

------------------------------

1 box of 20  - 3M 8110 N95 Particulate Respirators (size small)  - $16 USD

1 box of 20 - 3M 8210 N95 General Use Particulate Respirators (size regular) - $13.75 USD

Priority Shipping - Approx $4.



Posted By: Stina
Date Posted: February 01 2006 at 10:22am

Originally posted by Doodlebug Doodlebug wrote:

This company has masks for children 3-10 years old. 

I can't find the rating (N95 etc) on the childs masks...did you find that anywhere? 

I just want to be 110% before I order (this child size mask thing has me losing hair...)



Posted By: Doodlebug
Date Posted: February 01 2006 at 11:34am
Stina,

The FFP3 masks are the European equivalent of N100 or P100 - the safest protection you can buy.  I could only afford a few due to the exchange rate disadvantage and shipping costs, but I'm comfortable (as I can be without any direct medical knowhow) with my decision to choose them.




Posted By: Stina
Date Posted: February 01 2006 at 11:36am

Aha!  thanks for the info...It is pricey (I am in canada) but well worth it to keep my 3 year old safe.

Now onto finding dehydrated foods in Canada....



Posted By: RotroShaggy
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 1:21pm

I AM RE-POSTING THIS POST IN THE "PRIORITY PREPARATIONS" SECTION, HOPING FOR MAYBE A FEW MORE RESPONSES.  THANKS TO ALL THOSE WHO REPLY:

This is my first post to this forum.  First of all, thanks to all of you who have been posting and replying.  I have been reading this forum for several days now and find it very helpful.  My girlfiend thinks I am a nut for stockpiling water, respirators, latex gloves, soap, bleach, alcohol-based sanitizer and other household products.  I am now turning my attention to canned goods.  My goal is to be self-sufficient without going out for 90 days.  Not there yet and she thinks I'm an absolute loon.  ANYWAY, I'm sure there has been plenty of discussion about respirators on here, but I have a question:  Has anyone tried the 3M 8210 Plus respirator?  I ordered about 500 of the 3M 8000 (without first trying it on) and could not get a good fit.  So I sent them back and orderd about 360 of the "better" model, the 3M 8210.  I can't afford to pay much over a dollar per respirator if I am to have any meaningful quantity. Anyone have any comments about the 8210?  Any other comments would be helpful.  Am I correct to assume that, even though the H5N1 is only one micron, a N95 will still be effective because the virus will travel in clumps or on larger water droplets? Also, any thoughts on what else I should be stockpiling?  Batteries, razors & other toiletries, lighters, candles, etc. etc.?   THANKS AGAIN TO ALL OF YOU FOR BEING THERE.  Hope to hear some replies.



-------------
RotroShaggy


Posted By: Deej
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 1:48pm
lots of stuff to stock up on- see alberts's list- good stuff... not sure on the masks--- btw welcome

-------------
dee


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 3:17pm

Welcome RetroShaggy.

I have ordered 3M 8210 N95 masks for myself, and I am pleased with the fit. I also may consider using medical tape along the edges if I feel any doubt, but I am pretty confident.

I also ordered 3M 8110 N95 masks for my 9 year old daughter and am pleased with the fit as well.

I ordered from http://store.pksafety.net/dustmasks.html - http://store.pksafety.net/dustmasks.html and was super pleased with their prices, customer service and delivery speed.

P.S.  we had a member write a helpful review of another type of mask, the nanomask http://superflutalk.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1034 - http://superflutalk.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1034  



Posted By: RotroShaggy
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 3:50pm
Thanks, Justme.  Can I ask you how many you ordered?  I am trying to prepare for my girlfriend and myself.  I am sort of assuming an 18 month pandemic.  What do you think would be a reasonable number per person?  I am estimating having to go out about 3 times per week, but I am just guessing.  Also, do you have a smaller supply of the more expensive masks in case you have to go somewhere that is more "high risk" like the doctor's office or the dentist's office?  Thanks again.  Good to finally be a part of the forum.

-------------
RotroShaggy


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 4:18pm

So far I have one box of each. I am not sure how many I will end up buying. It is the only kind of mask I have so far. That is a great idea about having a better mask for higher risk areas. (Dont forget eye protection!)

Using 3 masks per week for 18 months will need 216 masks per person (that will add up quickly $$$!). Keep in mind that the masks are only recommended for a short while (30 minutes of use if I recall correctly), be sure to double check that and compare it to your usage intentions.

(Though you could contract it from surface contamination as well, dont forget some surgical gloves. Costco has boxes of 300 gloves for $9.99 right now).



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 4:48pm

I have 120 of 3M's 9211 N95 and 100 procedure masks.

I feel very light on the mask front but I plan on ordering more procedure masks, don't know about the N95's.  When I ordered my gross it was about $140 which included shipping.  I'm afraid to look what it is now.

As an aside:  When I ordered the gross I had the salesman call me (thinking I was a new customer of bulk items) and asked what I wanted them for.  It was before BF was in the papers or news more than a paragraph here or there.  I was so embarrassed to tell him why I wanted them that I lied and said that I had an Immunocompromised friend whom I intended to gift them to.  He replied "Ummm, that's nice."  Disappointed I wasn't some doctor's office or something for repeat orders.



Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 5:49pm
I am uploading day after day docs and files about personal protective equipment in my site (lot of pics) - http://avianflu-personal-protection.blogspot.com/
another traditional web site with linked page willopen soon with donwloadable files.
Anita


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 13 2006 at 8:15pm
Very helpful Anita, thanks for all the info!


Posted By: otskot
Date Posted: February 15 2006 at 3:37pm
Everything I've read, procedure masks and related types are simply not effective enough. What is required is the respirators with disposable filters. This is what I've gotten -- along with the P100 filters -- I'm not willing to risk that 5% to save a little bit of money. Are you all comfortable with masks?


Posted By: Flubird
Date Posted: February 15 2006 at 3:53pm

Ot, I like the concept of disposable filters too, but haven't located a good brand/type, what do you like?   I am also a little more concerned about fit with reuseable masks with disposable filters.

How do you plan to disinfect the filter-holding mask device?



-------------
There's a lot to learn, just my opinions here.


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 15 2006 at 4:02pm

Some things to think about regarding mask use. I'm no expert.

You only need to wear the mask when you might be exposed, like a trip to
the bank machine or corner store (if they are open) . But if you don't come
into close proximity to anyone, I would hold on to it and use it another day.

If you are in a room taking care of someone that is ill, you might want to
change that mask after you are done. My 2-cents.


Posted By: otskot
Date Posted: February 15 2006 at 4:36pm
I have some of the 3M 6000 Series. They're plastic and fit very snugly -- a key factor in ensuring that none of the virus-laden air sneaks around the mask and gets in you.

http://www.safetysaves.com/safety_wear/product.php?product id=457

As for disinfecting, I will spray myself and it down with bleach-water upon return from wherever I have to go to. I then will put the respirator into a bleach water tank to thoroughly sanitize. Theone thing everyone needs to remember is that from what I understand, the virus spores could anywhere on you after being in an infected area -- so it is key to decontaminate well after returning. In fact, I'm almost more worried about the decontamination aspect than whether my respirator and goggles will work OK


Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: February 15 2006 at 4:41pm
Either you have a bifilters mask with filter holders - every piece of the mask can be cleaned or disinfected or replaced separately.
If you have a NATO screwing filter, its plain since the mask has only a little screwing piece or a corrugated hose. You spray the mask to decontaminate it, before donning it off (filter yet screwed in !). So you dont breathe the hazardous contaminants (as infected particulates) neither the spray.
Procedures are explained with pics or videos in some professional sites or training documentation.
Shall  post more in the following days in my site too ... Please wait a little more ... I have too my job and family life .... Anita !


Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: February 15 2006 at 4:51pm
Otskot you are right, if your protective device is well fit and has the right filter, you are OK.
Problems occurs
1) if you dont stand yet the gear (sweat, breathing, fog)- and are still exposed to contamination (public high risk areas or worse close contact with ill or suspect people) ...  you CANT put it off as long as you are not in a safe area - and decontaminated.
2) wrong way of decontamination after exposure


Posted By: MissRX
Date Posted: February 16 2006 at 7:30am

I've purchased 2 of the North 5500 Half Mask AP Respirators with the P100 Filters...I had a question though. does anyone know the best way to clean/disinfect these puppies? Can they be sprayed down with bleach??

http://us.st11.yimg.com/store1.yimg.com/I/masksnmore_1883_708310 - http://us.st11.yimg.com/store1.yimg.com/I/masksnmore_1883_70 8310



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"The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war"


Posted By: MissRX
Date Posted: February 16 2006 at 7:36am

Hi All,

I just came across this respirator yesterday, and I'm wondering if anyone knows whether this would be a good respirator to have on hand? I was considering purchasing some. they look like they'd be great during a pandemic.

Any insight you could offer me would be greatly appreciated !

The Triosyn T-3000™ respirator provides front-line protection for police officers, homeland defense personnel, and other emergency and rescue responders against viral and bacterial threats with the most advanced particulate barrier available. The proven ability of Triosyn T-3000™ Respirators to trap biological agents is maintained throughout the life of the product by the antimicrobial action of Triosyn® T50 powder, which protects the filtration media from microbial deterioration.

The T-3000 offers consistent and reliable performance. Features include a secure fit with a padded, adjustable nose bridge, and low breathing resistance. A flat fold design allows for ease of transporting and storage. Affordable and easy to use. (Warning) This product contains iodine.



-------------
"The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war"


Posted By: worriedlilchic
Date Posted: February 16 2006 at 7:46am

Someone put in a post on another page about these mask...  what do you think about them?

The Triosyn T-3000™



-------------
worriedlilchic


Posted By: worriedlilchic
Date Posted: February 16 2006 at 7:47am

This is what the website says about the...


The Triosyn T-3000™ Antimicrobial Respirators provide front-line protection for police officers, EMS, healthcare professionals and other first responders against viral and bacterial threats. With the proven ability to trap and kill biological agents, the Triosyn T-3000™ Antimicrobial Respirators are revolutionary in the protection they provide against infectious outbreaks and biological hazards.



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worriedlilchic


Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: February 16 2006 at 8:03am
To MissRX - Shall post something about the cleaning way for respirators in my site, but let me sometime to upload and get the page actualised/published. Basically spraying, wiping and washing, but be careful with the product use for the mask pieces (silicone, rubber, ...?)
Anita


Posted By: MissRX
Date Posted: February 16 2006 at 8:12am

Anita - Thank you so much!! Take your time :)

I wanted to make sure that I use the proper materials because it is made of silicone I believe, and rubber pieces. Also the headband is plastic. I don't want to use anything that could destroy the materials on the mask :)



-------------
"The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war"


Posted By: Rocky
Date Posted: February 17 2006 at 4:57pm
Hi MissRX,

I don't want to cross post so let me give you the Avian Flu link I just wrote a
few minutes ago under the Forum:Priority Preparations/Topic: Respirators.
It will be at the bottom because I just posted it under my username Rocky.

Be Safe, Stay Well. Rocky


-------------
Prepare for the Unexpected!
Rocky
http://www.homeemergencyusa.com - http://www.homeemergencyusa.com


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 17 2006 at 4:59pm



http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/professional/protect-guid.htm - http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/professional/protect-guid.htm


Posted By: Duck Off
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 2:54pm

3M makes a N95 medical mask that is green and a automotive mask that is white.

they are both N95 masks and are exactly the same! The white masks are much cheaper and can be found in any automotive store.

I called 3M to verify that the masks were the same.



Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 4:22pm
False -the green 1860 has a fluid outer protection, its the best mask for healthcare protection against tuberculosis, sars, ....
Harder to breathe, but safer - and more expensive - exist in size small
chec my site http://avianflu-personal-protection.blogspot.com/


Posted By: Ella Fitzgerald
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 5:25pm

Sorry AnitaRNpulmo.

I have a relative that works for 3m and there is no difference in their N95 masks.

What brand are you talking about?

 



Posted By: Daffy Duck
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 8:52pm

i guess i need some masks. thanks for the tip ella.



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 9:00pm
"Surgical N95" masks have fluid resistance, other masks intended for
workshops, don't have that feature. Your mask should say it meets CDC
guidelines. Before you consider what you are paying, consider what you
are protecting.




Interim Domestic Guidance on the Use of Respirators to
Prevent
Transmission of SARS
May 3, 2005

Respiratory protective devices with a filter efficiency of 95% or greater
(e.g., N95, N99, N100) may not be available in some settings due to
supply shortages or other factors.

In this situation, a surgical (procedure) mask should be worn. Surgical
masks will provide barrier protection against large droplets that are
considered to be the primary route of SARS transmission. However,
surgical masks may not adequately protect against aerosol or airborne
particles, primarily because they allow for leakage around the mask and
cannot be fit tested. The mask should resist fluid penetration and fit
tightly around the mouth and nose when properly applied to the face.

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars/respirators.htm




Posted By: Ella Fitzgerald
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 9:55pm

The 3m N95 automotive masks are fluid resistent also. They are used in paint booths to prevent airborne paint from entering the respiratory system. Paint may not be a virus or bloodborne pathogen but it is dangerous if inhaled into the lungs.

Same mask as medical N95 mask. Call 3M to verify.

 



Posted By: Ella Fitzgerald
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 10:02pm

Hey just wanted to let everyone know that typical workshop masks are not fluid resistant.

I am only stating that the 3M N95 automotive masks are fluid resistant and are the exact same mask as the 3M N95 medical masks. The medical mask is green and the automotive is white. Both boxes are clearly marked as N95 and fluid resistant.

Check it out...it will save you money and offers the same exact protection!



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 20 2006 at 10:56pm



Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: February 21 2006 at 11:50am
That's why in the worst scenario it will be useful to plan reusable (NB)C facemasks, they last for months !


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 21 2006 at 12:03pm

Anita,

The half-mask NBC masks are effective and last longer than surgical masks but they are negative-pressure masks that require quite a bit of diaphram effort for each breath. They can easily cause hypoxia from bradypenia due to fatigued primary and ancillary breathing muscles.

If a person is not a first responder or front line medical professional they would be better off with a good quality N95 surgical mask with an exhaust vent. They last several days.

First Responders and Front Liners should look into PAPR respirators.



Posted By: RotroShaggy
Date Posted: February 22 2006 at 9:48am

This post is in response to the above conversation between Rick, Ella and Duck Off regarding N95 Masks and fluid resistance.  I am also worried about this topic and, like Rick, think that the stakes are so high here we don't want to be misinformed or cut corners to save a buck.

I Just got off the phone with CDC/NIOSH's respirator technical advisor in Pittsburgh.  I told him I was lookiing for the best N95 and that the 3M 1860 looked great because of the fluid resistance but that 3M masks don't fit me very well.  He agreed that a mask that doesn't fit is worthless--even if it is the Mercedes of all masks. 

I asked him how important "fluid resistance" is.  He said he was puzzled by the question.  He said ALL N95 masks are appropriate for airborne particles.  NIOSH subjects ALL N95 masks to 6 hours of high humidity conditions when testing.  So, any N95 maks has been approved to 95% efficiency to .3 microns AFTER having been subjected to 6 hours of high levels of humidity.  They are designed with moisture in mind. 

If you plan on working directly with patients and anticipate getting splashed with blood, urine, fecal matter, or large quantities of sputum, then the "fluid resistance" comes in handy and would be recommended. 

I won't pretend to be an expert, but based on my conversation, I am going to stress fit over any fluid resistance features.  Based on my conversation with DCD/NIOSH, I think any NIOSH N95 is going to be able to handle moisture particles and tiny droplets.  The 3M 1860 and 1870 do have the fluid resistant shell, but they are shaped identical to the 8210 and made with the same materials, which were not as high quality as some of the others I tried and did not fit my face properly.  For the record, I had the best fit with the North 7140 and the Moldex 2200.  Both great masks and fairly inexpensive.  I ordered 300 of the North and 100 of the moldex. 



-------------
RotroShaggy


Posted By: RotroShaggy
Date Posted: February 22 2006 at 9:54am
I also asked the CDC/NIOSH guy about how long a respirator can be worn.  I told him I had heard they are effective anywhere from 30 minutes all the way up to 8 hours.  He would not give me a solid answer, but said they recommend changing after one of three events  1) it has gotten wet 2) it has been damaged 3) breathing resistance increases.  He said that in dry particle environments one of these things can last for a few days.  I plan on discarding after each use, so I didn't go into any more detail with him on that. 

-------------
RotroShaggy


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 22 2006 at 10:19am
Originally posted by RotroShaggy RotroShaggy wrote:

I also asked the CDC/NIOSH guy about how long
a respirator can be worn.  I told him I had heard they are effective
anywhere from 30 minutes all the way up to 8 hours.  He would not give
me a solid answer, but said they recommend changing after one of three
events  1) it has gotten wet 2) it has been damaged 3) breathing
resistance increases.  He said that in dry particle environments one of
these things can last for a few days.  I plan on discarding after each use,
so I didn't go into any more
detail with him on that. 


Good advice. You only need the wear the thing when you
feel you might come in close proximity to a potential vector/virus carrier.

So assuming you need to go out, if the stores are open, I would put my
mask on before I went shopping. If you don't come in close proximity to
anyone, then I would consider reusing the mask another day.

If I was within a few feet ofanyone, less than 15-feet, I would toss the
mask. Because they are not coughing does not mean they are not
infected. If I'm taking care of someone that is sick, I would change the
mask frequently. Just an opinion.


Posted By: Elizabeth
Date Posted: February 22 2006 at 1:41pm

I ordered from http://www.labsafety.com - www.labsafety.com

About a month ago, before I knew I could find out anything I needed to know in here, I was at Longs looking for masks.  I knew the ones they had wouldn't do it.  So I called the 800 number on the box, and asked what kind I should get for bird flu.  The guy gave me the above website.  They arrived within a week.  I got 2 kinds, wasn't sure what to do so I got both.  Here is my actual order and what I paid.

RESP N95 DISPSBL 3M 8210 NIOSH         & nbsp;  

 

2    37746         & nbsp;       BX  1      Available  LSS         &nb sp;         &nb sp;        

18.40

     RESP N95 DISPBL MOLDEX STD NIO         &nb sp;  

 

3    4573         &n bsp;        PK  1      Available  LSS         &nb sp;         &nb sp;        

 



Posted By: Hope
Date Posted: February 24 2006 at 8:18pm

Rocky,

Did your new masks come in yet?  I think it was this week you were getting another type.  You preferred them to the ones on Oprah.

Let me know!



-------------
Hope


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 24 2006 at 10:30pm
Unfortunately there is remarkably little information about masks. I agree
that fit is priority one. The following was the only references I could find
regarding recent experiences with masks that might be relevant.

"When we compared use of N95 to use of surgical masks, the relative
SARS risk associated with the N95 mask was half that for the surgical
mask; however, because of the small sample size, the result was not
statistically significant. Our data suggest that the N95 mask offers more
protection than a surgical mask.

This study focused on critical care nurses working at the first SARS
hospital outbreak in Toronto. Since use of personal protective equipment
was not standardized during the study period, it was possible to assess
the effect of personal protective equipment. The use of personal
protective equipment was highly variable because the nurses were often
unaware that their patients had SARS. Our results highlight the
importance of using personal protective equipment when caring for SARS
patients. We estimate that if the entire cohort had used masks
consistently, SARS risk would have been reduced from 6% to 1.4% per
shift."

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol10no2/03-0838.htm#1 - http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol10no2/03-0838.htm#1


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 24 2006 at 10:47pm



http://cms.3m.com/cms/CA/en/0-242/kRklkFQ/view.jhtml - http://cms.3m.com/cms/CA/en/0-242/kRklkFQ/view.jhtml


Posted By: Hope
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 2:17am

Rick,

Do you have a good source for ordering the 3M 1860's.  (Like 100 of them.)

Thanks for your info!

 

 



-------------
Hope


Posted By: striper
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 5:45am

I am more confused than ever about which mask to get. I need to buy for 2 adults and one 8-year old. I see the following made by 3M. Some seem to have an exhaust valve and some don't. How do I kinow which one to get. Mind you, I am not a healthcare professional and in the event of apandemic, my exposure could be limited to caring for my family.

3M 8210 N95
3M 8212 N95
3M 8214 N95
3M 8233 N100
3M 8293 P100
3M 8511 N95 
3m 9210 N95
3M 9211 N95
3M 1860 N95
3M 1870 N95



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 6:18am


You need to try on a mask to see how they fit.
The higher rated masks "N100" will be less comfortable to breathe than N95.
The following site might help with your questions. There is a sample of
some below.



http://products3.3m.com/catalog/us/en001/safety/occ_health_s afety/
node_GS63SXS2HXbe/root_GST1T4S9TCgv/vroot_5SDD44F7DZge/
gvel_RL5PK085P3gl/theme_us_ohes_3_0/command_AbcPageHandler/
output_html


Posted By: striper
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 10:06am

Went to Home Depot and bought a 3M N100 8233 respirator for $15.97, two of 3M N95 8511 respirator for $6.97 and a 20-box of 3M N95 8110 respirator for $17.97.

Will try these to see which one fits. Looks like the N100 is way too expensive. I had seen it for about $6 onm the web.



Posted By: RotroShaggy
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 1:03pm

hi Striper.  I have posted the following  information on this and other threads, but I'll repeat it in case my experience can help someone.  3M is not the only manufacturer of N95s.  When I first started shopping, I was stuck on 3Ms because they were a name I recognized and trusted.  So I ordered the 8000's without having first tried one on.  They were very inexpensive, so I could afford a bunch and I thought having a bunch would be important.  BUT I made the mistake of underestimating fit. 

An N95 is an N95 when it comes to how they are rated (95% or greater at .3 microns), BUT they are not all created eqally when it comes to fit.  The 8000's didn't even come close to providing a secure fit.  So I had to spend about $30 to send them back to the distributor and wait for my credit card to be credited. 

Based on my knowledge that the 3M 8210 was the best selling N95 on the market, I made the SAME mistake and ordered some of those without trying one on.  In the meantime,  I orded a sampler pack from Masksnmore.com (I HIGHLY recommend these guys.  They are friendly and fast)  Anyway, I was able to try 12 different brands, including the ever so popular 3M 8210.  Guess what?  The 8210 didn't fit, either.  So I called the company from whom I ordered the 8210's and cancelled my order. 

Based on the sampler pack from Masksnmore.com, I narrowed my selection down to the North 7140 and the Moldex 2200.  Both fit very well.  The North has an exhaust valve but the Moldex does not.  Keep in mind that neither model is the "best" that the respective companies have to offer--there are higher models, like the Moldex 2300 and 2400, for example.  BUT I had to find the line between getting the best I can but at the same time getting enough to last through 3 or 4 waves of pandemic. 

I personally could not afford to buy 400 N95's at $6.00 a pop or more (See Tryosin, etc.)  So you have to sort of find that line and buy within your comfort zone.  I am not bashing 3M.  They just didn't fit MY face.  They may work well for you. 

The point is, don't make the mistake I made TWICE--try some out for you and your family and then buy the highest quantity of the best model(s) that you can afford, depending on how many you think you will want or need.  Remember--the fanciest, highest qualty N100 with all the bells and whistles is WORTHLESS unless it fits properly.  Fit is the most important factor when finding the right N95 for you.  If it leaks, nothing else matters.  Good luck! Hope this post helps someone.



-------------
RotroShaggy


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 4:38pm



http://www.startribune.com/535/story/269007.html

Sat Feb 25/06



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 25 2006 at 5:25pm

**** The following is from 2003.





http://allnurses.com/forums/f82/n95-mask-shortage-34313.html - http://allnurses.com/forums/f82/n95-mask-shortage-34313.html


Posted By: Hope
Date Posted: February 26 2006 at 5:59pm

I went to order more masks today and see this.  The sign of the times...

"3M is currently back-ordering the 3M 1860 and 3M 1860S Healthcare Particulate Respirator. We hope to begin shipping our backorders by the beginning of March. Orders will be filled in the order in which they were received. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. We will continue to keep everyone updated."




-------------
Hope


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 27 2006 at 7:52am



http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/02/08/health/webmd/
main1297500.shtml
- http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/02/08 /health/
webmd/main1297500.shtml

"Everyone wore one in 1918 and there was still a pandemic". I think the
quality of the masks or the information available was below par.


Posted By: striper
Date Posted: February 27 2006 at 8:05am

The amount of contradictory infromation out there is amazing. One day it is "Wear face masks". Another day it is "Face masks may not help". I remember reading a month or two ago a declaration by a scientist in Asis that Tamiflu is useless as a therapy for Avain Flu. Most of us know that Tamiflu is not a vaccine but a medicine that helps control and shorten the flu once we get it. I am puzzled by all this contradictory stuff. I am even more confused about the masks to purchase.



Posted By: Hope
Date Posted: February 28 2006 at 12:01am

Hi Striper,

I was equally confused about masks but found this blog by Anita very helpful.  Seeing all the photos and reading the descriptions really helped me know what I wanted to order.  I have two types now, but my latest purchase (after viewing this site) are the 3M 1860's. 

As far as Tamiflu goes, I got it right away when I first heard the words "bird flu".  I like knowing I may have something that "could" help during a time when there is nothing else more promising.

Best of luck

Hope



Posted By: striper
Date Posted: February 28 2006 at 7:33am
Thanks Hope. The 1860 doesn't seem to have a valve. Did you try it on? Was it comfrotable to breath and exhale weraing it? Which other model do you have? Thanks.


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: February 28 2006 at 6:25pm
"The amount of contradictory infromation out there is amazing. One day
it is "Wear face masks". Another day it is "Face masks may not help". I
remember reading a month or two ago a declaration by a scientist in Asis
that Tamiflu is useless as a therapy for Avain Flu. Most of us know that
Tamiflu is not a vaccine but a medicine that helps control and shorten the
flu once we get it. I am puzzled by all this contradictory stuff. I am even
more confused about the masks to purchase."



----------------------------

The WHO has no official position about non-medical
people wearing surgical/face masks during a pandemic. In light of what
you currently know, does this seem like a prudent/common sense
position? Consider the risk versus reward ratio.




Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 01 2006 at 1:35am

I've ordered MANY different brands and numbers.  I like the 3m 8511 (the ones with the yellow valve). I have some without valves and they fit my son well (he's 15) but he said that breathing through them takes some modification. The valve ones he likes MUCH better as the breathing is not so difficult.  SOOOO..........I am only ordering the valve ones from now on. Got a good deal on a case of 100 3m 9211 (ohhh la la).....for 100 dollars...a dollar a mask! AND they are valved 3M  9211's, no less ......

 

My daughter and I are having trouble finding masks to fit our small faces, so I ordered some of the surgical green ones, but....

I bought rolls of duct tape also. We may have to tape them if we have to wear the 8000 ones. And I would like to see a virus try to get through duct tape.

Sure is going to look weird, though.



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 01 2006 at 5:23am
The following is a small excerpt from a list of masks
officially approved for use by NOISH and the CDC






http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/n95list1.html - http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/ n95list1.html


Posted By: striper
Date Posted: March 01 2006 at 6:38am

Thanks.

I tried the 8511 and 8110. They fit me well. The only problem is they are awfully expensive at Home Depot compared to online merchants.



Posted By: Bobcat
Date Posted: March 01 2006 at 9:03am
Hi,
  Just thought that this info might come in handy. The N95 masks are only good for particulate matter of 5 micron size.  A virus particle size is about 3 mircrons. The issue of how to avoid these viruses is related to the fact that they are "aresolized", which means that they are usually attatched to dropletts of mucous or fluids that are free floating in the air, when sneezed out by an infected person. This means that most of the dropletts will be of a large enough size to be caught by the mask, but this mask is generally usefull for dry particles of 5 microns or lager, and that is what it is rated for.
  The N95 mask is good at filtering particulate matter to a degree of filtering out 95.5% of particulate, but it is not rated foraresols.  A mask that is rated for aresols has a "P" designation. I have bought masks that are P100 masks, as they are specifically rated for aresolized particles. The claim is that they are 99.97% effective at screening out aresols. I hope that this is correct.  I have a 3M silicone half mask with an exhalation valve and two side filters. The P100 is the only true filter with a HEPA rating (high energy particulate arrester), and are the magenta colored filters. I bought this type of mask as it has a very comfortable tight close fit, with easy breathability, and is easily cleaned. By the way, iodine based cleaners are the way to go when attempting antiviral cleaning.
No matter what, any of the masks that the public can buy, have only been rated for use in an industrial setting, and not with a medical or "antiviral" type use.
  This being said, after much study, I think that the best method of protection is to use a mask when out in public, and use the best mask that you can afford. Always fit test your mask before going out, and use disposable gloves to remove it, and clean it.


-------------
Ready or not, here it comes!


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 02 2006 at 8:41am

 



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 07 2006 at 5:25am
Experts Debate Using Face Masks During Flu
Pandemic


POSTED: 6:55 am CST March 7, 2006

WASHINGTON -- How much protection would a face mask offer during a
worldwide flu epidemic? And would people need a fresh one every day or
even every few hours?

There aren't clear answers, public health experts said Monday as the
Institute of Medicine grappled with what advice to offer the federal
government.

Health workers use masks -- simple surgical masks or better-filtering
ones called N95 respirators -- to prevent infection while caring for sick
patients. But the public undoubtedly will turn to masks as well if a flu
pandemic strikes, and experts say supplies will quickly run short.

Both types of masks are supposed to be used once and discarded. So
federal health officials asked the IOM, a prestigious group of independent
scientists, to determine if there are ways that health workers could reuse
their N95 masks - and if average citizens need reusable masks, too.


The IOM will issue its report this spring.

At a public meeting Monday, health experts cited a host of questions.
Among them: how long the masks work once donned; whether reused
masks could be contaminated and spread infection; how to ensure they're
worn correctly -- N95 masks have to be fitted to the user's face and are
hard to breathe in for long stretches.

And would wearing a mask on, say, the subway protect people enough, or
should they have driven or stayed home? Linda Chiarello of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention said if masks eventually are
recommended for the public, the advice must not create a false sense of
security.

"The lack of clear data ... is a dilemma for those of us on the front lines,"
said Dr. Jeff Durchin of the Seattle-King County Health Department,
adding that people already call health departments to ask what masks
they should personally stockpile.

"We should not be talking about the reusability of masks or other devices
until we know whether they actually work to begin with," said Jeffrey Levi
of Trust for America's Health, a nonprofit health advocacy group.


http://www.nbc5.com/money/7772419/detail.html - http://
www.nbc5.com/money/7772419/detail.html


Posted By: redcloud
Date Posted: March 08 2006 at 11:45pm
Hi all,

This is my first post here, and I would like to thank all of you for this
excellent site.

I'm a stone sculptor, and have always used a North 7700 half-mask
respirator with P100 filters to keep out the stone dust. I chose this
combo because it was recommended by other stone people as a true
HEPA filter that would keep out silica dust from sawing and chiseling
granite.

One thing I've never understood about the mask rating system is the
difference between the designations "R" "N" and "P." Does anyone know
the difference?

Also, wouldn't a "100" mask be better than a "95" mask, simply because it
would filter out smaller particles?

I'm thinking of just adding a stock of P100 filter cartridges to my existing
North respirator and going with that for flu protection. Can anyone see
anything wrong with that?

Thanks for all the great info you have shared on this site.

Red


Posted By: Grim72
Date Posted: March 13 2006 at 9:24am
I would recommend the following for anyone unsure about what to do in the UK. First of all you only need wear a mask in areas/jobs where there may be risk - you are highly unlikely to get bird flu by walking down the street. I think much scare mongering can be found on this site. If you want to wear a mask in low/medium risk areas use a FFP2 filtered disposable mask. For higher risk areas (eg working with/near birds etc) use an FFP3 filtered disposable mask. As a rule of thumb you can use these for 8 hour shifts before replacing with a new one. You can get these and a range of other products on the following uk website: http://www.safetyshop.com/content/news/news.asp?Id=113

Please also consider face fit testing. It is important that a good face fit is made for the mask to be effective. Safetyshop also offer face fit kits if you do s search for product code BR201


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 13 2006 at 9:49am
Welcome Redcloud, good to see your posts, if you need anything more please ask.  I hope you enjoy our group,it can get lively as members have different opinions on things.


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 14 2006 at 5:32pm





http://hjnews.townnews.com/articles/2006/03/12/news/news03.txt -
http://hjnews.townnews.com/articles/2006/03/12/news/news03.t xt ]



Posted By: striper
Date Posted: March 17 2006 at 1:11pm
Where can I get the 3M 9211 at a good price? Thanks.


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 20 2006 at 3:37am
Ont. nurses want better masks for avian flu

Updated Sun. Mar. 19 2006 11:33 PM ET
CTV.ca News Staff

Ontario nurses say the federal government wasted money by purchasing
standard surgical masks incapable of blocking avian flu.
"It was two of our nurses who died during the (SARS outbreak)," Lesley
Bell, of the Ontario Nurses Association, told CTV News. "We're just saying
we don't want to go through that again. Let's make sure that the nurses
and health care workers who are on the front lines are protected."

The government bought 4.5 million standard masks for
about 10 cents each. Ontario nurses say the masks are inadequate
protection against avian flu, and the government needs to buy N95
surgical masks at about 10 times the cost. Nurses demanded and
received N95 masks three years ago during Toronto's SARS outbreak.


The World Health Organization recommends the N95 mask as protection
against both SARS and avian flu.

The mask has become popular in the United States, where they are mailed
to relatives living in countries affected by the virus.

"They came in a bought cases at a time, and they would ship them home
to their families," Home Depot worker Jake Zacharias said.The
government says there is no evidence to show N95 masks are more
effective at blocking the virus than standard surgical masks.

"There is certainly confusion, in the health care community, and globally,
about how this disease is transmitted, and what the optimal method of
protection is," said Dr. Arlene King, a microbiologist at the Public Health
Agency of Canada.

The N95 masks are manufactured in Quebec, but have to be pre-fitted for
every user and can only be worn for a few hours.

Dr. Donald Low, a microbiologist, said that N95 masks also become
useless if the user touches them, adding another problem.

"In some circumstances they may be no better than a surgical mask, and
in some cases they may even be worse," she said.

However, Ontario's nurses say the government is simply interested in
saving money, not which mask is more effective.Meanwhile, Israel
confirmed its first outbreak of the H5N1 strain Sunday – the worst
mutation of the virus.




http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20060319 /
bird_flu_060319/20060319?hub=Health


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 22 2006 at 10:02am
Originally posted by striper striper wrote:

Where can I get the 3M 9211 at a good price? Thanks.
found them at http://www.library-dust.com - www.library-dust.com for $1.35 ea/box of 10. They seem to have overall good prices.


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 30 2006 at 12:00pm
Originally posted by RotroShaggy RotroShaggy wrote:

This post is in response to the above conversation between Rick, Ella and Duck Off regarding N95 Masks and fluid resistance.  I am also worried about this topic and, like Rick, think that the stakes are so high here we don't want to be misinformed or cut corners to save a buck.

I Just got off the phone with CDC/NIOSH's respirator technical advisor in Pittsburgh.  I told him I was lookiing for the best N95 and that the 3M 1860 looked great because of the fluid resistance but that 3M masks don't fit me very well.  He agreed that a mask that doesn't fit is worthless--even if it is the Mercedes of all masks.  I asked him how important "fluid resistance" is.  He said he was puzzled by the question.  He said ALL N95 masks are appropriate for airborne particles.  NIOSH subjects ALL N95 masks to 6 hours of high humidity conditions when testing.  So, any N95 maks has been approved to 95% efficiency to .3 microns AFTER having been subjected to 6 hours of high levels of humidity.  They are designed with moisture in mind. 

Keeping that in mind, I found N95 masks, today, at Home Depot- in the Personal Safety Isle.  There were 20/box for $19.95.  They are sold by MSA Safety Works The link is: http://www.msasafetyworks.com/catalog/product1116.html - http://www.msasafetyworks.com/catalog/product1116.html
But honestly, after reading all the other entries here, I would appreciate a 2nd opinion on my choice.  Thanks so much! k


Posted By: redcloud
Date Posted: March 30 2006 at 12:26pm
I went with the 3M 1860, because of their widespread use during the SARS outbreak. They are specifically designed with a coating to prevent absorption of fluids.

I, too, was dumbfounded by the vast number of choices. But after many years of using respirators to protect against stone dust (I'm a sculptor), I decided to rely on my trusty North 7700 half-mask with P100 cartridges for extended trips into the contaminated world. It is very robust, fairly cheap, and reusable after wiping down. The P100 filter is 99.9xxx% effective against ANY particulates. That's what you want when you are banging granite, or avoiding death.

The 1860's will be used for very short trips or to care for a sick person.

Red


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 5:28am
My question is regarding the mask that I found (linked in my last note).  I f I read the previous discussions correctly, as long as the mask is an 'N95 and meets the NIOSH requirements' it would be safe to use.  This mask seemed to be so inexpensive (box of 20 for 19.99 @ Home Depot) that it got me wondering if it was not a good choice ... or did I stumble on a 'good find'.  Guess I'm just looking for confirmation and reassurance that 'generic' and not just 3-M are oke and I can add these masks to my preps. Thanks -k


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 8:00am

ReadyMom - your masks will be fine.  The important thing to look for is the N95 designation from NIOSH (the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health). 



Posted By: fritz
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 8:43am
To all who have not purchased masks (N95's) yet, you might want to do so ASAP. The official report of face masks is due to come out in April. I know April begins tomarrow but they didn't say when in April. After that I would imagine it will be very hard to get masks and I'd rather be 1st in line than 12,001st! In the event that they are on BO now. I got this info from the abc news site:
http://abcnews.go.com/health/Avianflu/ - http://abcnews.go.com/health/Avianflu/
 
you go to the picture of the face mask (3rd item down in the right hand column) and watch the video news clip. They did say that regular surgical face masks were not efffective against BF but N95's offered some protection.
 
 


-------------
"I am only one; but still I am one, I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." -- Hellen Keller


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 9:13am
Thank you!  I fee so much better, now.  I'll go and get more.  If anyone else wants to get these ... they are at Home Depot in the 'Personal Safety' Isle ... 20/$19.99 and you don't pay Ship/Hand. charges!! -k


Posted By: fritz
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 10:35am
I have home depot N95's but the masks that are rec. are the surgical N95's and are different in that they are fluid resistant. I made this mistake myself and it is very confusing because a 3M N95 mod1860 is not the same as a 3M N95 mod1860 surgical mask! I have both and when I took them out of the box it was easy to see the difference. I even had a guy from the company on the phone tell me they were the same product! It is not. I think the reg HD N95 will offer you some protection (JMVHO) but for almost the same price you can order the N95 surgical masks on line or in a med supply store and you have the better mask. Or you can contact Rocky about what masks she has in stock. I was just commenting re your Home depot purchase post.  good luck, fritz :>}

-------------
"I am only one; but still I am one, I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." -- Hellen Keller


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 10:47am
ReadyMom:
 
My HD is completely out of N-95 masks.  Shocked
 
Fritz:
 
What is the best price you have seen for the 3M N-95 surgical masks?  I got mine on Amazon from Allegro Medical and it was $33 for a box of 20.  By way of contrast, I got 3M Model 8000 N-95 Respirators at a price of $31 per box of 60. 


Posted By: redcloud
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 12:11pm
fritz,

The 3M 1860 surgicals are blue. The others are gray. I almost made the same mistake.


Posted By: fritz
Date Posted: March 31 2006 at 5:16pm

yes, redcloud that it true. I was really surprized that the guy on the phone gave me the wrong information.

Bumpman, prices do vary and they may've gone up since I last checked but it was a box of 20 for about $20. (prices are sure to go only up IMO) There are other masks out there that may be more efficient than the N95's but they are def more $. It really depends what you need them for. If you think you may be caring for infected individuals than you would want the highest protection you could get, I would think. IHMO, most of the folks here plan to bug in early so family members can avoid being infected. However, there are alot of 1st responders and medical professionals here as well who plan on being out in the world and helping people so they need MAX protection for sure. It is all a guessing game and that is the most nerve wracking part of it. You have to spend $ where you think it will do you the most good. Masks are just one part of being prepped. There's food, water, blankets & clothes for warmth, basic medical supplies, tioletries, water purification & cooking gear etc.

I know it's a lot but just take one step at a time and read through the threads while you make your lists and tackle what you can at a pace that's comfortable for you. However, time may be limited so do take care of as much as you can as soon as you can.

good luck. fritz :>}



-------------
"I am only one; but still I am one, I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." -- Hellen Keller


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: April 01 2006 at 5:09am
ReadyMom -
 
Just make sure those masks fit you correctly before you go and buy a lot more of them.  
 
I'm no expert, but it seems to me that some of the more expensive masks are better designed, so that they fit more people better.  But if you find a cheap N95 that fits you well, go for it! 
 
 
 
 


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: April 08 2006 at 12:40pm
Need help here: My sister-in-law gave me a box of 50 Defend cone masks, MK-1007, they are manufactured in Germany. She is a dental technician and it says on the side and it says on the side they are manufactured to "provide healthcare professionals with the best infection control available". Also says "excellent BFE". Anybody know about these and how they compare to US standards???? TIA


Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: April 08 2006 at 1:19pm
Google ! and ever Google ...
http://www.defend.com/shopping/product.asp?product_masterid=MK1007&product_id=MK-1008&dept_id=2&sub_dept_id=2

BFE 99% at 5 microns and fluid shield ... Rather a surgical / procedure mask like the Aseptex blue cone mask (often used by dentists), not a particulate respirator ...



Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: April 08 2006 at 1:26pm
rhe following models are  even better !
http://www.defend.com/shopping/product.asp?product_masterid=MK1046&product_id=MK%2D1056&dept_id=2&sub_dept_id=1

and
http://www.defend.com/shopping/product.asp?product_masterid=MK2007&product_id=MK%2D2010&dept_id=2&sub_dept_id=1

http://www.defend.com/shopping/product.asp?product_masterid=MK1076&product_id=MK%2D1076&dept_id=2&sub_dept_id=1


Posted By: bear3351
Date Posted: May 04 2006 at 6:54pm

What do we do about our pets?. I am concern about my dogs. Will they be OK?



-------------
If you fail the first time, shoot and shoot again!


Posted By: Commonground
Date Posted: May 05 2006 at 2:05pm
Reusability of Facemasks During an Influenza Pandemic: Facing the Flu (2006)
http://darwin.nap.edu/books/0309101824/html/

Read "4. Findings and Recommendations"
I couldn't cut and paste it.


Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: May 06 2006 at 3:07am
MAybe the best text I have read about PPE in infection control and about how masks work.
Printable as a pdf image, text cant be selected. Anyway reading and printing is free.


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 17 2006 at 8:57pm

This is a very good article..

Simple Respiratory Mask

Virginia M. Dato,* http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#com">Comments David Hostler,* and Michael E. Hahn*
*University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#cit - Suggested citation for this article


To the Editor: The US Department of Labor recommends air-purifying respirators (e.g., N95, N99, or N100) as part of a comprehensive respiratory protection program for workers directly involved with avian influenza–infected birds or patients ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 1 ). N95 respirators have 2 advantages over simple cloth or surgical masks; they are >95% efficient at filtering 0.3-μm particles (smaller than the 5-μm size of large droplets—created during talking, coughing, and sneezing—which usually transmit influenza) and are fit tested to ensure that infectious droplets and particles do not leak around the mask ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 2–4 ). Even if N95 filtration is unnecessary for avian influenza, N95 fit offers advantages over a loose-fitting surgical mask by eliminating leakage around the mask.

The World Health Organization recommends protective equipment including masks (if they not available, a cloth to cover the mouth is recommended) for persons who must handle dead or ill chickens in regions affected by H5N1 ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 5 ). Quality commercial masks are not always accessible, but anecdotal evidence has showed that handmade masks of cotton gauze were protective in military barracks and in healthcare workers during the Manchurian epidemic ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 6,7 ). A simple, locally made, washable mask may be a solution if commercial masks are not available. We describe the test results of 1 handmade, reusable, cotton mask.

Figure
Figure.

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468-G.htm - Click to view enlarged image

Figure. Prototype mask. A) Side view, B) Face side. This mask consisted of 1 outer layer (37 cm × 72 cm) rolled and cut as in panel B...

For material, we choose heavyweight T-shirts similar to the 2-ply battle dress uniform T-shirts used for protective masks against ricin and saxitoxin in mouse experiments ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 8 ). Designs and T-shirts were initially screened with a short version of a qualitative Bitrex fit test ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 9 ) (Allegro Industries, Garden Grove, CA, USA). The best were tested by using a standard quantitative fit test, the Portacount Plus Respirator Fit Tester with N95-Companion (TSI, Shoreview, MN, USA) ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#1 - 10 ). Poor results from the initial quantitative fit testing on early prototypes resulted in the addition of 4 layers of material to the simplest mask design. This mask is referred to as the prototype mask ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#Figure - Figure ).

A Hanes Heavyweight 100% preshrunk cotton T-shirt (made in Honduras) ( http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/disc01.htm - http://www.hanesprintables.com/Globals/Faq.aspx ) was boiled for 10 minutes and air-dried to maximize shrinkage and sterilize the material in a manner available in developing countries. A scissor, marker, and ruler were used to cut out 1 outer layer (≈37 × 72 cm) and 8 inner layers (<18 cm2). The mask was assembled and fitted as shown in the http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/05-1468.htm#Figure - Figure .

A fit factor is the number generated during quantitative fit testing by simulating workplace activities (a series of exercises, each 1 minute in duration). The Portacount Plus Respirator Fit Tester with N95-Companion used for the test is an ambient aerosol instrument that measures aerosol concentration outside and inside the prototype mask. The challenge agent used is the ambient microscopic dust and other aerosols that are present in the air.

A commercially available N95 respirator requires a fit factor of 100 to be considered adequate in the workplace. The prototype mask achieved a fit factor of 67 for 1 author with a Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) panel face size of 4, a common size. Although insufficient for the workplace, this mask offered substantial protection from the challenge aerosol and showed good fit with minimal leakage. The other 2 authors with LANL panel face size 10, the largest size, achieved fit factors of 13 and 17 by making the prototype mask inner layers slightly larger (22 cm2).

We do not advocate use of this respirator in place of a properly fitted commercial respirator. Although subjectively we did not find the work of breathing required with the prototype mask to be different from that required with a standard N95 filtering facepiece, persons with respiratory compromise of any type should not use this mask. While testers wore the mask for an hour without difficulty, we cannot comment on its utility during strenuous work or adverse environmental conditions.

We showed that a hand-fashioned mask can provide a good fit and a measurable level of protection from a challenge aerosol. Problems remain. When made by naive users, this mask may be less effective because of variations in material, assembly, facial structure, cultural practices, and handling. No easy, definitive, and affordable test can demonstrate effectiveness before each use. Wearers may find the mask uncomfortable.

We encourage innovation to improve respiratory protection options. Future studies must be conducted to determine levels of protection achieved when naive users, following instructions, produce a similar mask from identical or similar raw materials. Research is needed to determine the minimal level of protection needed when resources are not available for N95 air-purifying respirators since the pandemic threat from H5N1 and other possible influenza strains will exist for the foreseeable future.

References

  1. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Guidance for protecting workers against avian flu. [cited 2005 Oct 23]. Available from http://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avian-flu.html - http://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avian-flu.html
  2. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. 42 CFR Part 84 Respiratory protective devices. 1995 [cited 2005 Oct 23]. Available from http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pt84abs2.html - http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pt84abs2.html
  3. Garner, JS. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=8789689&dopt=Abstract - Guideline for isolation precautions in hospitals. The Hospital Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 1996;17:53–80.
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9869077&dopt=Abstract - Laboratory performance evaluation of N95 filtering facepiece respirators, 1996. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 1998.47:1045–9.
  5. World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific. Advice for people living in areas affected by bird flu or avian influenza. 2004 Nov 8 [cited 2005 Oct 22]. Available from http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/disc02.htm - http://www.wpro.who.int/NR/rdonlyres/04FA6993-8CD1-
    4B72-ACB9-EB0EBD3D0CB1/0/Advice10022004rev08112004.pdf
  6. Capps JA. Measures for the prevention and control of respiratory infections in military camps. JAMA. 1918;71:448–50.
  7. Kool, JL. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=15791518&dopt=Abstract - Risk of person-to-person transmission of pneumonic plague. Clin Infect Dis. 2005;40:1166–72.
  8. Darling RG. Biological warfare and bioterrorism. Slides 47 and 48. [cited 2006 Mar 19]. Available from http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/disc03.htm - http://www.regionsem.org/~trjoing/papers/123456/clr/Slides%20with
    %20Notes/Biological%20Warfare%20&%20Bioterrorism.pdf
  9. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Fit testing procedures (mandatory)–1910.134 App A. [cited 2006 Jan 21]. Available from http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=9780&p_text_version=FALSE#Appendix%20A - http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=
    STANDARDS&p_id=9780&p_text_version=FALSE#Appendix%20A
  10. TSI incorporated. How to quantitatively fit test filtering-face piece respirators using a TSI Portacount Plus and N95-Companion (ITI-054) c2006. [cited 2006 Jan 21]. Available from http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol12no06/disc04.htm - http://www.tsi.com/AppNotes/appnotes.aspx?Pid=33&lid=445&file=iti_054

 



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 25 2006 at 11:56am
I have purchased some nano masks for use if this gets really bad, they are saturated with a virucide that works for 48 hours. I am hoping not to be out and about in public places with people who may be sick, but if I have to this seems prudent. They weren't cheap, 5 masks with 2 replacement filters were $50.00. I am not planning on using them except in that instance. I also have N100s for if I just go out in the neighborhood or like. I also purchased some plain surgical masks (got these first) when I was broke because I figured something would be better than nothing. Jo


Posted By: AnitaRNpulmo
Date Posted: May 25 2006 at 12:07pm
Post today on icna.co.uk forum:

"We are having real problems here. The new TB guidance states that if you are caring for a patient with suspected or proven MRD TB whilst they are considered infectious or conducting aerosol generating procedures on patients with sensative TB then staff should wear an FFP3 respirator. This is also the case for staff conducting aerosol generating procedures on patients with pandemic influenza. The PPE regs (updated 2002) state that staff should be fit tested.
We contacted 3M and they informed us that the fit testing should consist of the hood with a solution of either Bitrix or Saccharin. We undertook training in the fit testing procedure taking extreme care with facial seals on a variety of different staff with different shaped faces and had a very high fail rate (of 15 tested only 1 passed!) We recalled the company who returned to fit test a number of staff and after 3 hours managed to pass 3 different staff with 3 different masks.
Since then we contacted Mike Clayton from the Health & Safety Executive Laboratory in Buxton who suggested that he had experinces of significant failure rates and he would be interested in hearing of experiences of fit testing currently being undertaken in the health service. We have also been contacted by a Dr Ben Killingsley from the DOH who is laeding on respiratory protection and is also interested in experiences from the shop floor.
We have since abandoned fit testing until we get advice from either the DOH or HSE. This is because we do not wish staff to loose faith in what we believe to be a good product if it is the actual fit testing procedure itself that is the problem Also it is hugely time consuming and costly to fit test several different types of masks. I am aware of another hospital (a large London Trust) that has also abandoned fit testing for the same reasons and is instead training staff in donning and removal of masks until they hear otherwise from the powers that be."


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 26 2006 at 6:38pm
I purchased N95 masks at Lowe's they are 20/19.95.  They have alot of them.  I also bought the "Cheap" ones from a local dollar store 10/1.00 for less serious needs,or for those who have none.  i would strongly suggest getting to your local hardware stores and getting them soon...word travels fast.Wink


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 26 2006 at 9:37pm
This was released yesterday from the makers of the Nanomask. I bought these for my family.
 
Emergency Filtration Products Reports Successful Test Results Against H9N2 Avian Influenza Strain
2:00 PM EDT May 25, 2006

Emergency Filtration Products Inc. (EFP) (OTCBB: EMFP) today reported that it had received results from an established, BSL-3 (Bio - Safety Level 3) independent testing laboratory that a custom-engineered nanomaterial formulation, licensed to EFP, completely inactivated the H9N2 strain of avian influenza within one minute. The Virucidal Efficacy Test involved a titer of virus with a concentration greater than 6 logs.

"The virus tested was of a higher concentration than typically used in this type of challenge," said Douglas K. Beplate, president and CEO, EFP. "An expanded and ongoing testing program of this formulation, and possibly of additional custom-engineered nanomaterials, will be conducted against H9N2 and other pathogens in the coming months."

About Emergency Filtration Products

EFP is an air filtration products manufacturer whose patented 2H Technology(TM) filter system has produced filtration efficiencies of "greater than 99.99%" at a particulate size of 0.027 microns. Its initial products were developed for the medical market: the Vapor Isolation Valve(TM) and RespAide(R) CPR Isolation Mask used for resuscitation of respiratory/cardiac arrest cases; and the 2H Breathing Circuit Filter for ventilators, respirators and anesthesia circuitry. Each has received FDA approval. The company also markets an Automated External Defibrillator Prep Kit featuring RespAide; and the NanoMask(R), a nanotechnology enhanced environmental mask. In addition to filtration products, the company supplies Superstat(R), a modified hemostatic collagen, to the U.S. military for surgery and extreme wound care.
 
  http://www.emergencyfiltration.com/ - http://www.emergencyfiltration.com/


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 26 2006 at 9:39pm
Bird Flu Nano-Masks 

Talk of a possible bird flu outbreak has many Southern Nevadans taking action. Protective masks are flying off the shelves and a version produced by local company could become one of the hottest.

These Henderson-made products are nano-masks and the manufacturer says they can help protect you from the bird flu and other viruses. Doug Beplate says it is a scientific break-through -- a way to help safeguard you and your family from dangerous bacteria and life-threatening viruses such as the Avian flu.

Beplate started Emergency Filtration Products ten years ago to help the military and the medical industry. "This is really our first effort with this mask to take something to the general public," he says.

It's called the nano-mask and its protection cannot be seen by the naked eye. Doug explains, "The nano particles would be coated on the outside of the filter. They penetrate the cell wall of bacteria and viruses and they stop the growth then they kill them." The filters are sprayed with the nano-particles.

The new facility opens Monday and by then, they hope to make more than 7 million filters. Doug says, "I think anytime you do something in a preventative way it is not a bad thing."

Beplate says the masks were not made with the bird-flu in mind but he is happy his company can help reduce the risk.

The masks only help protect you. Germs can be transferred if you touch your eyes or your face. The nano-masks cost anywhere from $10 - $15.

mailto:lpatterson@klastv.com -



Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 27 2006 at 10:37pm
No approval from NIOSH????
 
If not, DO NOT!!!!


Posted By: redcloud
Date Posted: May 27 2006 at 10:49pm
Diane,

Are these masks "one size fits all?" I can't seem to find anything about sizing and such.

The blue color will go well with my cyanosis, if and when.

Red

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If all is not lost, where is it?


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: May 27 2006 at 11:00pm
So,we have to be fashinable too????  I wonder just who is going to make alot of money on these?  I think I will stick with the tried and true,not some "fashionable" thing.  What's next personalized.....Wink


Posted By: chickenhawk
Date Posted: May 27 2006 at 11:27pm
I've been wondering if you could put an N95 mask in a microwave to kill any virus on it (assuming that you have power to run the microwave)

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imagination is more important than knowledge - albert einstein



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