What is an N95 Respirator and how does it differ from a Facemask?
An N95 respirator is a mask that is approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and worn to filter out 95% of airborne particulate matter. The N95 provides protection against both aerosols (fine particles suspended in air) and droplets (liquid drops sprayed into the air, but which do not remain suspended), whereas a surgical type facemask will protect only against droplets. Who is authorized to wear an N95 Respirator? In compliance with OSHA requirements, all DMC employees and staff must be fit tested and up-to-date certification to wear an N95 respirator before performing any tasks for which this mask is indicated. In order to be fit tested, there must be no interfering facial hair such as a beard or large mustache that affects the face seal of the mask. The fit test and certification is required annually. When is an N95 Respirator required? Clinical situations requiring an N95 respirator include caring for patients with tuberculosis, and caring for p
