3 Tips To Use Face Masks Effectively
Face masks are becoming mandatory in many areas of the world. These masks are designed to protect against the transmission of airborne illnesses. A 3-ply mask has been proven effective in offering affordable protection.
Since many people have never been faced with the routine use of a face mask, caring for these masks can be a bit of a mystery. Use these tips to ensure you are maximizing your safety when wearing face masks in the future.
1. Don't Forget Hand Sanitation
With so much emphasis being placed on wearing a face mask, some people might forget about the important role hand sanitation plays in preventing the spread of disease. Your face mask will not be able to offer adequate protection if you are handling it with hands that haven't been thoroughly washed.
Any germs or contaminants present on your hands will be transferred to the surface of the face mask and then breathed into your respiratory system once you place the mask on your face. Take the time to wash your hands with hot water prior to handling any face mask so that you can ensure the integrity of the mask stays intact.
2. Know When to Reuse a Mask
Reusing 3-ply masks is a common practice for many people. Getting multiple uses out of a single mask can help reduce the amount of money you spend on face masks over time. It's important that you are able to recognize when it is safe to reuse a face mask and when the mask needs to be thrown out in order to protect yourself against illness.
A 3-ply face mask should only be worn multiple times if you have no outward symptoms of illness while wearing the mask. You should check to ensure that all the layers of the mask are intact and that there are no tears in the mask material.
Any type of damage creates the possibility for disease transmission, so it's best to throw out a mask in questionable condition.
3. Dispose of Your Mask Properly
3-ply masks should always be treated as medical waste. Proper disposal will prevent you from spreading any germs that have been trapped inside the mask.
Remove your mask from the chin upward. Fold the mask in half so that only the outward surface is showing. Fold the mask in half again, then secure the mask with the ear loops or strings.
Place used masks into a yellow medical waste bag, then dispose of the bag in a designated receptacle.
To learn more, contact a 3-ply mask supplier.