What are best practices when using a face mask, surgical mask, or respirator? - Indiana Face Mask

What are best practices when using a face mask, surgical mask, or respirator?

How to correctly use face masks and respirators:

Use Instructions:

-Inspect mask or respirator before use to ensure that it is in good operating condition.
-Examine all the parts for signs of damage including the two headbands/ear bands and facepiece material.
-Ensure there are no holes and no damage has occurred.
-Enlarged holes resulting from ripped or torn filter material around staple punctures are considered damaged.
-The mask should be disposed of immediately upon observation of damage or missing parts.
-Discard after use.
-Follow national, state, local and facility infection control guidance and policies.
-This product is not intended to be used multiple times.


Storage Conditions and Shelf Life:

-Before use, store masks or respirators in the original packaging, away from contaminated areas, dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture and damaging chemicals.
-The product may be used until the date specified on packaging under the warning label.


Disposal

-Dispose of used product in accordance with applicable regulations


For how long can a face mask or respirator be worn?

-Indiana Face Mask masks and respirators are designed to be disposable, and should be discarded properly after a single use if possible. If worn without being taken off, face masks, surgical masks, and N95 respirators can be used up to 8 hours, or until the inner lining has become moist and/or dirty.


Should I use a face mask or respirator to help slow the spread of COVID-19?

-The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), recommends that face masks should be worn in public and when around those who are not a part of your household. Masks are especially encouraged in situations where it is hard to practice safe social distancing measures in order to stop the spread of COVID. A facemask is not a substitute for social distancing!

 

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