It is considered another air crisis that makes Thai people more aware of their health regarding the issue of toxic PM 2.5 dust covering Thailand at levels harmful to the respiratory system. Wearing a mask is a good way to take care of yourself, but why should you wear an “N95 mask”? How is this mask different from a regular surgical mask? Let’s find out…
Things to know about regular surgical masks
Normally, we wear surgical masks to prevent contamination caused by splashes of blood, lymph, and saliva from coughing or sneezing. Regular surgical masks should not be reused for safety reasons. Hands should be washed before and after using the mask, and the mask should be placed in a plastic bag sealed tightly before disposing of it in the trash bin.
So, what is an “N95 mask”?
The N95 mask is a device that helps prevent the spread and contamination by its filter design that can block particles smaller than 0.3 microns. This makes the N95 recommended for protection against PM 2.5 dust. However, the N95 is not 100% effective in preventing spread. Like surgical masks, hands should be washed before and after use, and the mask should be placed in a plastic bag sealed tightly before disposal for safety.
Can using a handkerchief or traditional Thai cloth protect against PM 2.5 dust?
Using a handkerchief or traditional Thai cloth “cannot” protect against the dangers of PM 2.5 dust.
Can placing tissue paper or a handkerchief inside a regular surgical mask protect against N95-level dust?
If an N95 mask is not available, placing tissue paper or a handkerchief inside before covering with a regular mask can help protect against PM 2.5 to some extent.
Recommendations for properly wearing and removing an N95 mask
Steps to wear an N95 mask
- Wash your hands thoroughly before putting on the mask
- Choose a mask that fits properly
- Hold the mask with your palm and place it over your nose and mouth
- Secure the upper strap around the head above the ears and the lower strap below the ears
- Pinch the nose clip to fit the shape of your nose
- Adjust the mask to fit snugly over your nose and mouth
Steps to remove an N95 mask
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Use your hands to pull the straps over your head, first the upper then the lower strap, and remove the mask
- Dispose of the mask in a biohazard trash bin
- Wash your hands thoroughly