KN95 are one of the most commonly available and well-known respiratory mask in the United States
It is needless to explain why surgical masks, respirators and other epidemic prevention equipment are so important? With the global outbreak of COVID-19, the N95 mask is the most recommended model among all other protective masks. So, what’s the basic difference between N95 and KN95? Can you just choose KN95 instead of N95? Here, we will read a detailed introduction about N95 VS KN95 mask.
Introduction
In this critical situation, when respiratory protection is required or highly recommended for healthcare professionals to help reduce direct exposures to harmful particles, including bacteria and viruses that may cause disease, it is for them to use an “N95, FFP2 or KN95” filtering mask.
When used in the right manner, respirators can protect the wearers from airborne particulate hazards. The filter materials used in the respirators are designed to form a seal with the wearer’s face, so that filtered air passes through before it is inhaled.
With such identical names, it is sometimes difficult to understand the difference between N95 and KN95 masks. So, what are KN95 masks? Are they the same as N95 masks?
In short, N95 are the US standard masks, and KN95 are the Chinese standards for masks. While there are a few differences, the two masks are almost equivalent or nearly equivalent in terms of features that most people care about.
N95 Respirator Masks
N95 are one of the most commonly available and well-known respiratory mask in the United States which has strong power to filter up to 95% of particles and create air tight seal around the face. The FDA may regulate an N95 mask if the manufacturer markets the mask for a medical purpose, and in this case it would need an FDA clearance. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FDA set guidance that certain respirators not currently regulated by the FDA should be used in a healthcare setting by health care personnel during the emergency.
KN95 Respirator Masks
KN95 masks are approved by the Chinese government. To be certified as a KN95 mask, it must pass through regulation GB2626-2006 and qualified to filter 95% of particles and create an air tight shield around the face. With the global COVID-19 outbreak, to increase the availability of general use face masks for the general public and filtering masks for healthcare professionals, the FDA issued certain guidance authorizing the use of KN95 masks as suitable alternatives under certain emergency situations.
N95 Masks vs KN95 Masks vs FFP2
N95 and KN95 masks are both effective masks that can filter up to 95% of particles and create an air tight seal around the face.
One of the differences between N95 masks vs KN95 masks is that KN95 masks come with ear-loop method of wearing it whereas the N95 masks use a two straps attachment. However, it is really a matter of personal preference in terms of which one is more comfortable for the wearer.
As per the users, many would prefer the KN95 respiratory mask easier and faster to put on and take off whereas the N95 seems to be much more complex, with a tighter and firmer fit and are slightly more uncomfortable to wear. Another factor to consider is the FDA approved N95 masks are little pricier than the KN95/FFP2 variants. Although the national standards of each mask variants are different, the actual protective measures are similar. There is no arguing over the matter that N95 is valid or KN95 is invalid.
At Affordable Medical Equipment, we have a supply of KN95 respiratory masks. You can visit our online inventory and make purchase. All we want you is to breathe safe!
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