Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, We have seen how the recommendations of del use of the mask have been contradicted over time by the health authorities and the Government. At first it was said that it was only necessary in the case of people who are carriers of COVID-19 to prevent contagion, that were not effective in protecting against possible infection, even so, all stocks were exhausted in a few days throughout Europe.
The massive purchase of masks of all kinds by European citizens caused the authorities to despise their use in order to keep stocks available to those who needed them most., carriers and health services. Today we have written this post for clarify doubts about the use of masks in the workplace and recommend you this offer of masks for companies. For it, we will try to answer the following question:
Is the use of masks mandatory?
There are countries like China, in which its obligation was imposed from the beginning of the epidemic, like other countries where the number of cases has dropped significantly and the number of infections has been better controlled. Unlike these countries, in Spain, in Italy and in the United States (among others) not yet required, but we are certain that it will be soon as soon as the problem of stocks is solved and national production increases..
For this reason, the Spanish and European textile industry is getting down to work in order to meet current demand and that which will come for many months after the lifting of the state of alarm.
What types of masks are there on the market?
At present, and due to the scarcity and need for protection through masks, multiple models of high price and low effectiveness are being seen.. There are numerous types of masks, but let's bear in mind that each type has different functions and characteristics, not all serve the same purpose, being its specific use for each case:
- Approved and certified masks
- Homemade masks
- Single use masks
- Reusable masks
- Corporate masks
Between the approved reusable masks that can be disinfected we have the N95, FFP1 , and FPP2 And FFP3, with filter, the most widespread being the masks manufactured by 3M y Steelro.
Are masks effective against covid-19?
In this case we can provide some clarifications, although the health authorities do not agree on this matter due to the lack of knowledge of the virus today.
Characteristics of some models:
- FFP1: Has minimal filtration efficiency 78% and 22% escape to the outside.
- FFP2: With an efficiency of 92% is minimal, and has a 8% escape to the outside.
- FFP3: with 98% minimum filtration efficiency, 2% leakage to the outside unlike the previous ones, it is effective against bacteria, viruses and fungal spores.
The disposable masks, like surgical ones, they are single use, and it is recommended that its use does not exceed 8 hours, once used they should be discarded. Homemade masks you are proliferating, especially fabric masks, little or no effectiveness, it's more of a placebo than a solution.
Made of the outer part with waterproof and antibacterial material, and the interior in 100% Breathable polyester, with the possibility of corporate branding or fashion design, of course they do not guarantee the effectiveness against the contagion of the coronavirus, but if they are effective so that those who test positive or asymptomatic do not infect and a limited protection not to become infected.
ENTER TO SEE THE OFFERS OF MASKS FOR COMPANIES
This type of mask is manufactured on demand and although it is not available in stocks, the delivery time is very fast. Since companies do have to supply protective equipment to their workers, this type of mask is ideal for this and fulfills the necessary functions. It can also be a solidarity element, the companies they give away the masks with your corporate brand or with exclusive designs, since of course the practical and the aesthetic are not at odds, in addition to fulfilling the main objective, it makes it more bearable and distinguished.
Personalization of these masks; can be marked full color, with logos, texts, drawings, by means of a sublimation system at 220º ensuring the disinfection of the fabric, although we can also call it as advertising mask O corporate mask and use it as advertising gift O business gift.
At Wanamos company gift finder you can find them in different colors without customizing, with double antibacterial and water repellent layer.
How to disinfect the masks?
The antibacterial masks, can be washed by hand or machine, with hot water, detergent and bleach to reuse without losing any of its properties. The N95 and the FFP2, with filter. can be sterilized in the oven 70 degrees during 30 minutes, since from the 56 degrees the virus loses its activity. We can also disinfect them by steaming them over boiling water for 10 minutes, although experts warn that after this process the mask may not fit as before. However, it must be borne in mind that the filters of the face masks can be useless with these disinfection methods.
Are there masks for children?
effectively, The UNE standards in this regard include some technical specifications regarding the manufacture of masks for boys and girls under the age of 18. 12 years. Nevertheless, the reality in Spain is that they are not accessible to the general public, among other reasons, because its use is still only a recommendation in our country. Nevertheless, the factories that produce them are working to meet the demand of the most concerned parents.