With Coronavirus cases surging and an increase in panic by consumers we have put together this news post to assist you and your family. This blog aims to provide some guidance around Respiratory Protective Equipment and wearing of face-masks for Covid-19.

A number of questions that are frequently occurring within the business have been answered below. Please note all advice is general and should not be relied upon.

General Information on the Virus from the Department of Health can be found here.

Do I need to wear a respirator?

If you are healthy the WHO recommends you wear a mask only if you are taking care of a person who has contracted Covid-19, or if you are coughing and sneezing and suspected of infecting others.

The CDC does not currently recommend the public wear masks. By members of the public using masks and creating a shortage this puts further stress on doctors and nurses who require respirators when treating suspected cases of coronavirus.

If you do wear a mask it needs to be used in conjunction with alcohol based hand rub or soap and water.

Does a respirator stop Covid 19?

Not completely.

Respirators will not provide complete protection against Covid 19, which can still be transmitted through tiny particles and through the eyes. Respirators do provide some protection though against droplets, which are the main route of transmission for Coronavirus.

What sort of respirator will be suitable for Covid-19?

Only particulate filtering respirators are suitable for Covid 19, with respirators that offer a minimum of N95 or higher rating. 

What is an N95 respirator, and what is a P2 respirator?

N95 and P2 refer to the rating of the filter or face piece.

Particle filters come in 3 types- P1, P2 and P3 with P1 offering the least protection and P3 offering the most protection. A P2 filter does not allow more than 6% leakage when fitted, whereas a P3 doe not allow more than .05% leakage. P2 is the Australian rating and by displaying the P2 rating this means it has been tested in accordance with AS/NZS 1716 Appendix I.

N95 is the american rating for filters, with N95 meaning the respirator stops 95% of particles that are at least .3 micron's in diameter.

Disposable respirator vs Non Disposable Respirator

The current issue with disposable respirators is that there is a shortage in supply, and high demand. A non disposable respirator (which is sanitised correctly after use) will be cheaper over time and potentially provide better protection.

How do I wear the respirator?

Respirators are always worn as per the manufacturers specifications.

Does it need to be fitted to my face?

Yes it does- a poor fitting respirator will not provide the wearer with suitable protection.

How can we help?

Pro Safety and Training can provide respirators, and we can provide fit testing to ensure these fit suitably on your face. For further information call 1300 336 003 or email [email protected]