Wearing a face mask functions as a method of source control, reducing the expulsion of respiratory droplets from the wearer into the environment. The effectiveness of this barrier relies heavily on proper selection, application, and removal technique. An improperly worn mask creates gaps that allow air and particles to bypass the filtration material, significantly lowering the intended level of protection. Understanding the correct procedure is necessary to maximize the mask’s function.
Choosing and Preparing the Mask
Selecting an appropriate mask begins with assessing material properties and construction, which directly influence filtration efficiency. For non-medical cloth coverings, a minimum of two or three layers of tightly woven fabric, such as high-thread-count cotton, is recommended for optimal performance. The material should be dense enough to block droplets yet allow for comfortable and unrestricted airflow. Avoid materials like mesh or loosely knit synthetics, as they offer minimal resistance to particle movement.
Prior to handling any mask, proper hand hygiene is mandatory to minimize the risk of self-contamination. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Also, inspect the mask for any tears, holes, or damage that could compromise the integrity of the filtration barrier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Application
The correct application process begins by holding the mask exclusively by the ear loops or ties; take care not to touch the interior or exterior surface. Position the mask over the face so that it fully covers the nose, mouth, and chin simultaneously. Secure the mask by looping the elastic bands around the ears or tying the straps behind the head to achieve a snug fit against the sides of the face.
Achieving a reliable seal around the nose bridge is accomplished by using the stiff, bendable metal strip, commonly referred to as the nose wire. This wire should be gently pinched and molded to the specific contour of the wearer’s nose using the index fingers. A tight fit prevents air from escaping upward, which can fog eyeglasses. After the mask is secured, pull the bottom edge down fully to ensure it extends under the chin.
A practical method for verifying a proper fit involves performing a seal check once the mask is in place. Cup your hands over the mask and exhale sharply; warm air should be felt moving through the front of the mask, not leaking from the edges. If air leakage is felt, adjust the fit by tightening the ear loops or further molding the nose wire until a better seal is established. During wear, avoid contact with the front of the mask, as this surface is considered potentially contaminated.
Common errors in wearing a mask can undermine its protective function, such as pulling the mask down to rest under the nose or allowing it to dangle around the neck. A mask that is frequently adjusted or worn only over the mouth creates an immediate path for respiratory droplets to enter and exit without filtration. Once placed, the mask must remain in its proper position, covering the nose, mouth, and chin at all times while in use.
Safe Removal and Handling
When removing the mask, it is imperative to maintain the principle of not touching the potentially contaminated front surface. The removal process must be executed by handling the mask only by the straps, ties, or ear loops from behind the head or ears. For masks with ear loops, grasp and lift both loops simultaneously to pull the mask away from the face.
If the mask is a disposable type, immediately discard it into a closed waste bin to prevent the spread of captured contaminants. Some guidelines suggest cutting the ear loops before disposal to prevent entanglement. Single-use masks, once damp, soiled, or removed, should never be reused, as their filtration efficiency decreases significantly with moisture exposure.
For reusable cloth masks, store them carefully in a clean, sealable bag or container until they can be washed. Fabric masks require regular laundering, ideally after each use, using detergent and hot water to effectively sanitize the material. Regardless of the mask type, the final necessary step after removal is the immediate performance of hand hygiene with soap and water or an alcohol-based rub.