How Can I Properly Wear and Dispose of a Face Mask?

In the midst of the ongoing respiratory illness outbreaks, wearing and properly disposing of face masks has become a crucial preventive measure to safeguard public health. Understanding the correct usage and disposal of face masks is essential to minimize the spread of infectious diseases.

Types Of Face Masks

Disposable Surgical Masks:

Disposable surgical masks are commonly used in healthcare settings and provide basic protection against respiratory droplets.

• Description and Purpose: These masks are made of non-woven material and are designed for single use. They help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets from the wearer to others.
• Proper Way to Wear and Remove:
• Place the mask on your face with the colored side facing outward.
• Pinch the metal nose piece to conform to the shape of your nose.
• Pull the bottom edge of the mask under your chin.
• To remove, carefully untie or unloop the ear loops without touching the front of the mask.

N95 Respirators:

N95 respirators offer a higher level of protection compared to surgical masks and are commonly used by healthcare professionals in high-risk settings.

• Description and Purpose: N95 respirators are made of a synthetic material and are designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including small particles like viruses and bacteria.
• Proper Way to Wear, Fit, and Remove:
• Perform a seal check to ensure a proper fit. Cover the entire respirator with both hands and exhale forcefully. If air leaks around the edges, adjust the respirator until you achieve a snug fit.
• Adjust the straps to achieve a snug fit. The respirator should fit closely to your face without any gaps.
• To remove, carefully untie or unloop the straps without touching the front of the respirator.

Cloth Masks:

Cloth masks are a simple and affordable way to help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets. They are not as effective as surgical masks or N95 respirators but can still provide some protection.

• Description and Purpose: Cloth masks are made of fabric and can be homemade or purchased. They help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets from the wearer to others.
• Proper Way to Wear, Wash, and Maintain:
• Make sure the mask has multiple layers of fabric.
• Tie or loop the ear loops securely.
• Wash the mask after each use in hot water with detergent.
• Discard the mask if it becomes damaged or worn out.

Proper Wearing Of Face Masks

General Guidelines:

• Cover both your mouth and nose completely. The mask should fit snugly against your face, with no gaps.
• Ensure a snug fit with no gaps. The mask should fit closely to your face, without any gaps.
• Avoid touching the mask while wearing it. Touching the mask can contaminate it and increase the risk of infection.

Specific Instructions for Different Mask Types:

Disposable Surgical Masks:

• Place the mask on your face with the colored side facing outward.
• Pinch the metal nose piece to conform to the shape of your nose.
• Pull the bottom edge of the mask under your chin.

N95 Respirators:

• Perform a seal check to ensure a proper fit. Cover the entire respirator with both hands and exhale forcefully. If air leaks around the edges, adjust the respirator until you achieve a snug fit.
• Adjust the straps to achieve a snug fit. The respirator should fit closely to your face without any gaps.

Cloth Masks:

• Make sure the mask has multiple layers of fabric.
• Tie or loop the ear loops securely.

Proper Disposal Of Face Masks

General Guidelines:

• Remove the mask carefully without touching the front. Avoid touching the front of the mask, as it may be contaminated.
• Dispose of the mask in a closed bin or trash bag. Discard the mask in a closed bin or trash bag to prevent contamination.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the mask. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after handling the mask.

Specific Instructions for Different Mask Types:

Disposable Surgical Masks:

• Discard after single use. Disposable surgical masks are designed for single use only. Discard them after each use.

N95 Respirators:

• Follow manufacturer's instructions for reuse or disposal. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for reuse or disposal of N95 respirators.

Cloth Masks:

• Wash the mask after each use. Wash the cloth mask after each use in hot water with detergent.
• Discard the mask if it becomes damaged or worn out. Discard the cloth mask if it becomes damaged or worn out.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Wearing the mask below your nose or mouth. Wearing the mask below your nose or mouth defeats its purpose and increases the risk of infection.
• Reusing disposable masks. Disposable masks are designed for single use only. Reusing them can increase the risk of infection.
• Touching the mask while wearing it. Touching the mask while wearing it can contaminate it and increase the risk of infection.
• Removing the mask in public places. Removing the mask in public places, such as grocery stores or public transportation, can increase the risk of spreading infection.
• Improper disposal of masks, leading to contamination. Improper disposal of masks, such as littering them on the ground or flushing them down the toilet, can lead to contamination and environmental pollution.

Properly wearing and disposing of face masks is a crucial step in preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can help protect yourself and others from infection. Remember, collective responsibility is key in combating the spread of respiratory illnesses. Let's all do our part to keep our communities safe and healthy.