The poor air quality of Delhi-NCR is in news once again. While authorities are trying to come up with a battle plan to tackle the air emergency amid all the political slugfest, general public is is trying to do whatever on individual level to protect their wellbeing. While some may have the option of working from home, a larger section of society is still forced to commute to offices and other activities.
While experts have repeatedly warned against the adverse effects of the air pollution, for those who have to expose themselves to the elements, face masks are can be the first line of defence. From the time of the coronavirus pandemic, face masks have been part of new normal. While many may have stopped using the face masks, health experts say that covering face with good mask can help in saving your lungs from the toxic air.
So, what are the options and how to choose the best anti-pollution face mask?
Here’s what you need to know before making the purchase:
1: N95 face masks: This is an extremally effective face mask that can filter up to 95% of airborne particles. N95 face mask can save you from allergens, pollutants, dust and other harmful gases. Very popular in Delhi-NCR, this is bit costly than other face masks. Made of several layers in non-woven synthetic material, N95 face masks are not resistant to oil.
2: N99 and N100 face masks: Best in filtering pollutants. Filters up to 99.97 per cent of dust particles and hazardous gases. However, it is not very common in terms of usage. electrostatic microfibers along with advanced layers of filtration offer nearly total defence from air pollution.
3: Activated carbon respirators: These are very efficient and valuable in places such as Delhi. These respirators are good in filtering dust particles, odours and other gases. The respirators have activated carbons and are made of multiple layers.
4: N95/N99/N100 masks with exhaust valves: These masks are ideal for individuals seeking comfort during prolonged usage. They enable easier exhalation without encountering resistance. However, it’s important to note that they are not recommended for use in highly infectious areas.
5: P95/P99/P100 masks: These are considered high-grade masks that effectively filter out 95 to 99.7% of airborne particles and gases. They provide robust protection, particularly against oil fumes. These masks are primarily employed in the petrochemical and pharmaceutical sectors and are not intended for everyday use.
6: Surgical masks: Remember the good old blue masks? Well, they were widely used during Covid pandemic days. However, the experts say that they are not much of use to tackle air pollution. These are pretty basic in terms of fighting pollution. Made of breathable non-woven fabric, the surgical masks provide comfort during longer usage duration.
7: Cloth masks with filters: These present an environmentally friendly substitute for disposable masks. They provide partial filtration of particles and pollutants and are typically constructed from breathable materials like cotton, featuring supplementary filters composed of materials such as polypropylene.