Sure Seal ASTM Level 3 Black Medical Ear-Loop Disposable Face Mask

Sure Seal Masks Now Have a Dual Fit Chin & Nose Metal Band

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Choosing the Right Face Mask

When was the last time you were struck in the face by blood or other bodily fluids during surgery? Studies1 show such incidents occur to OR staff, on average, between 45% and 51% of the time, and that’s an excellent reason to be sure you’re wearing a face mask that provides the protection you need.

But with all the options available, knowing how to select the mask that will give you the right level of protection for the task at hand can be confusing.

Fortunately, that process has been made as easy as 1-2-3 with ASTM ratings.

What is ASTM?

ASTM International is a global organization that develops and publishes technical standards for an expansive array of products, materials, systems and services. Today, more than 12,800 ASTM standards are in use around the world, including ASTM F2100-11, the standard for medical face masks since 2012.

Where does the Easy as 1 – 2 – 3 come in?

In developing ASTM F2100-11, the organization tested material used to make medical face masks on five performance metrics. Based on their test scores, ASTM assigns a numerical rating for the barrier performance of the material:

Level 1 - for low risk of fluid exposure
Level 2 - for moderate risk of fluid exposure
Level 3 - for high risk of fluid exposure

So, how will I know how each mask is rated?

Simply look for ASTM Level 1, 2, or 3 on the face mask package. However, not all face masks are ASTM-rated, so it’s important to check before you choose. It’s worth the effort to find face masks that DO carry the ASTM rating, to be sure you’re getting the proper level of protection.

Tell me more about how masks are tested

The five performance metrics and their related tests are:

Fluid Resistance – Test ASTM F1862
This test evaluates the resistance of a medical face mask to penetration by a small volume (~2 mL) of synthetic blood at a high velocity (80 mmHg, 120 mmHg, or 160 mmHg). The mask either passes or fails based on visual evidence of synthetic blood penetration.
Breathability – Test MIL-M-36954 C: ΔP
This test determines the face mask’s resistance to airflow. A controlled flow of air is driven through the mask, and the pressure before and after is measured. The difference in pressure is divided by the surface (in cm2) of the sample. A lower breathing resistance indicates a better comfort level for the user.
Bacterial Filtration (BFE) – Test ASTM F2101
This test measures the percentage of bacteria larger than 3 microns filtered out by the mask. The challenge material used is Staphylococcus aureus.
Particulate Filtration (PFE) – Test ASTM F2299
This test measures the percentage of particles larger than 1 micron filtered out by the mask. The challenge material used consists of latex aerosol concentrations in a controlled airflow chamber.
Flammability – Test 16 CFR Part 1610: Flame Spread
This test exposes the face mask material to a flame and measures the time required for the flame to proceed up the material a distance of 127 mm (5 inches). Class 1 means the material exhibits normal flammability and is acceptable for use in clothing.

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Surgical Face Masks
A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. Surgical masks are regulated under 21 CFR 878.4040. Surgical masks are not to be shared and may be labeled as surgical, isolation, dental, or medical procedure masks. They may come with or without a face shield. These are often referred to as face masks, although not all face masks are regulated as surgical masks.

Surgical masks are made in different thicknesses and with different ability to protect you from contact with liquids. These properties may also affect how easily you can breathe through the face mask and how well the surgical mask protects you.

If worn properly, a surgical mask is meant to help block large-particle droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain germs (viruses and bacteria), keeping it from reaching your mouth and nose. Surgical masks may also help reduce exposure of your saliva and respiratory secretions to others.

While a surgical mask may be effective in blocking splashes and large-particle droplets, a face mask, by design, does not filter or block very small particles in the air that may be transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures. Surgical masks also do not provide complete protection from germs and other contaminants because of the loose fit between the surface of the face mask and your face.

Surgical masks are not intended to be used more than once. If your mask is damaged or soiled, or if breathing through the mask becomes difficult, you should remove the face mask, discard it safely, and replace it with a new one. To safely discard your mask, place it in a plastic bag and put it in the trash. Wash your hands after handling the used mask.

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