February 1, 2023 | Boucherville, QC –
The importance of masking Face coverings are an important staple of personal protection. The importance of masking up has become more and more apparent as the pandemic continues. Indeed, 9 studies in Canada attribute wearing a mask to a decrease in COVID-19 infections from 3-48%.* It can be difficult to remember to wear a mask in all public settings, but it is essential for preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses. Not only does wearing a mask protect you from potential exposure to harmful microorganisms, body fluids and particles, but it also helps protect those around you by blocking respiratory droplets. Avoiding spikes in cases can also help an already overloaded health system recuperate. Types of masks and their purposes Masks come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. While some masks may offer more protection than others, it is important to find the right one for your needs. The shape of the mask is an important factor in guaranteeing its efficiency. Disposable medical face masks come with an adjustable nose bridge to espouse the face better. N95 masks especially are ergonomically designed to fit around the mouth and nose of the wearer leaving next to no gaps. Sizes are generally one size fits most for adults and pediatric masks come with a recommended age ranges, starting at 2 years old. Some masks are made from cloth while others are made from blown polypropylene membranes that filter out at 95% or more of airborne particles and contain multiple layers of protection. 3 ply masks are suitable for most applications. In instances where regulations require use of a medical grade mask, such as a procedural mask, an ASTM F2100 standard mask would be ideal for most work settings since its protection levels (Level 1-2-3) increase in performance to suit most situations. N95 respirators should be reserved for healthcare workers and other individuals at high risk of exposure to the virus. Always consult with your work safety regulations and provincial health agency before choosing a mask for a task. Proper mask use In order for a mask to be effective, it must fit snugly against the face and cover both the nose and mouth. It is also important to avoid touching the mask while wearing it and to wash or sanitize your hands before putting on and taking off a face covering. Additionally, masks should be changed regularly or as soon as they become damp from breathing or talking. It is also important to remember not to share masks with others. Face masks must be stored at room temperature at all times. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines. The difference between medical grade and ordinary supplies Medical grade masks, such as N95 respirators and surgical masks, are specifically designed for healthcare professionals and other individuals who are at high risk of exposure to the virus. Medical masks are made from special materials that filter out at least 95 percent of airborne particles and contain multiple layers of protection. Ordinary supplies such as cloth face coverings, on the other hand, are designed to capture large particles and help keep them from spreading. While these masks are not as effective as medical grade masks, they can still provide some protection against the virus if used correctly. Places to find medical grade supplies If you are in need of medical grade supplies, there are a number of places where you can find them. Distributors and resellers selling directly to end-users can purchase procedural face masks from a Health Canada licensed medical distributor. Buying from a medical supplier is a good place to start. For small volume orders, your local pharmacy may have these items available for purchase. Additionally, many online retailers such as Walmart carry specialized masks and respirators. It is important to remember that not all face coverings are created equal. Search the product description for which international standards the mask meets for added safety.
The cost of medical grade supplies
Medical grade supplies such as N95 respirators and surgical masks can be expensive. Depending on the type of mask you choose, the cost may range from a few cents to dozens of dollars per single-use mask. It is important to remember that while these masks are more costly than cloth face coverings, they offer much better protection against the virus.
Canadians benefit from GST and QST tax exemptions on the purchase of medical grade face masks. The tax relief measures announced by the Government of Canada in Nov 30, 2020 and the Government of Quebec in Dec 1, 2020 are still active today. Buying bulk medical supplies from a wholesaler can be another advantageous option. Face masks boast a long shelf life when stored adequately.
It is important to make an informed decision when choosing a face mask to curb risks and expenses. MedSec's line of medical face masks provide excellent value with high performance and accessible wholesale prices. For more information about MedSec's masks, please visit our website or contact us for assistance.
In conclusion, masking has proven to be an important part of minimizing the risk of transmission during the pandemic. By wearing the right mask for your situation, you are helping to protect yourself and others from potential virus exposure. However, wearing a mask is just one of many steps people can take to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We must be sure to continue practicing social distancing, washing your hands often, and staying home when we are feeling unwell. By uniting our efforts, we can make a tremendous impact on health and safety in Canada. Let's work together to create positive change!
Source: COVID-19: Does mask wearing decrease transmission? CCDR 47(2) - Canada.ca
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