Face Masks vs. N95 Respirators
A Significant Difference
Many people make the mistake of thinking face masks and N95 respirators offer the same level of protection. However, when it comes to reducing your exposure to airborne particles from the top, bottom and sides of your mask, N95 respirators are the preferred choice.
Face masks and N95 respirators are not one in the same. In fact, almost all face masks are little more than ‘splash protectors.’ They’re designed to be loose fitting, thus failing to seal tightly to your face and enabling airborne particles to enter your breathing zone from the top, bottom and sides of the mask. In addition, many face masks do not contain the necessary filtration media to protect your nose and mouth from particles as you breathe.
The Safe Life N95 Respirator, on the other hand, is made with the highest quality filtration media available, protecting you from inhaling at least 95 percent of the particles in the air. It also contains a patented, breathable face seal that comfortably secures the respirator to your face, filtering most airborne particles that could enter your breathing zone from the top, bottom and sides of the respirator. Just as importantly, this technologically advanced face seal also enhances the overall comfort and breathability of the A400, putting it in a class of its own.
| Face Masks | N95 Respirators |
|---|---|
 |
 |
| Loose fitting | Seal tightly to the face |
| Airborne particles enter the breathing zone | Airborne particles are blocked from the breathing zone |
| Used as "splash protection" | Filter out 95% or more of airborne particles |
| Comfortable and breathable | Typically harder to breathe through |
| Tested and certified by National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) |
