Why Certified Protection?

Before the Pandemic, medical facemasks had to be produced in compliance with relevant standards as they had to be used in certain environments such as operating theatres so as to protect both patients and medical personnel.

So, when the Pandemic unexpectedly arrived, there was a sudden upsurge of demand for facemasks, and compliance with standards was not observed thoroughly.

As facemasks are meant to protect, compliance with relevant standards is a must.

So, which standards must be observed?

To determine as to which standards which must be observed, we ought to go back to the ways in which infection is spread,

and that is firstly, through airborne Droplets, secondly, through airborne Aerosols (much smaller particles than Droplets), and thirdly, through Surfaces*

Infection through Droplets can be mitigated through Water Impermeable fabrics,

whereas infection through Aerosols can be mitigated through special technical fabrics which offer, for instance, Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE) of at least 95%.

which can filter out particles of say 0.3 microns.

Hence, you ought to look for facemask manufacturers which share relevant certification which confirms compliance with Water Impermeability and PFE Standards

Most quality apparels are tested for non-flammability, and as such, since we are wearing facemasks in our face,

we ought to ensure that facemasks have been certified for non-flammability of relevant fabrics.

Whilst there are Certification Standards which tests breathability, the ultimate test is in wearing the facemask yourself.

Alternatively, you can rely on testimonials shared by users of relevant facemasks.

It must be noted that a good breathability does not mean the facemask offers good certified protection,

whilst at the same time, a facemask of high or very high certified protection does not mean it will have good breathability.

Hence, there must be good balance between certified protection and breathability,

and as such, it is always good to go with facemasks which have already been validated by especially facemask wearers.

Also, check to see if there are testimonials confirming the usage of the said facemasks over say a few hours of continuous use.

As with Breathability, Comfort can only be confirmed if you test it yourself, or rely on testimonials shared by current facemask wearers

Checkout the earloops, as some earloops may be stiff and not sufficiently stretchable, causing discomfort to the ears

Most importantly, the earloops must be adjustable so that the facemask can be worn with comfort

Also checkout the inside layer fabrics, to see if they are smooth or coarse, as smoother fabrics are much more comfortable

Checkout to see if the facemask has Good and Full Face-Fit

It is best that the  facemask manufacturer offers at least 4 to 5 sizes, because the size of each individual’s face is different,

and there must be facemask size options so as to ensure there will be Good and Full Face-Fit

Facemasks must also be able to cover until the bottom of the chin, and as close as possible to the ears,

so as to minimise infection penetration through for instance, gaps which arise from for instance short length disposable facemasks and our cheeks

Facemasks ought to be also durable and last for as many days as is possible, so as to make your purchase worthwhile

Cheap facemasks are likely of lower quality, whereas good quality facemasks are typically good value for money

Good quality facemasks should last between 120 to 180 days of daily usage

It is best that facemasks come with adjustable earloops, so that we can additionally adjust the facemask to suit our face size

Also, some people are unable to wear facemasks with earloops because they wear headscarfs, hence facemasks with headloops are most suitable

Further, some people tend to misplace their facemasks, hence, facemasks with lanyards will minimise misplacement

Watch out for the quality of materials used to make the facemask

For  instance, low quality earloops made from low quality elastic band will typically not last,

that is, will lose its elasticity or stretchability after a few washes

Checkout the design and shape of facemasks, as well-designed facemasks will make the facemask wearer look good

Make sure the colours of the facemask fabrics and logos are bright and sharp

A disposable facemask or a N95 or FFP 2 is not the same as a reusable facemask

A low quality reusable facemask is different to a good quality reusable facemask

So, do ensure that you are comparing and making decisions, at least on a apple-to-apple or life cycle costing comparison basis

Obviously a reusable facemask of $20.00/pc which can last 180 days is much cheaper than disposable facemasks of $0.50/pc x 180days + $90.00

Or a reusable facemask of $20.00/pc durable up to about 180 days is offers tremendous ssvings than disposable N95 or FFP2 facemasks of $3.00/pc x 180days = $540.00

If you are looking at strengthening your Corporate Branding, then you ought to look for a facemask producer which can offer you Customisable and Creative Branding Solutions

For instance, if you are looking for a facemask which matches your Corporate Colours, they ought to have colour cards to produce to your preferred colours