Most of the air masks available in Indian markets are not reusable pollution mask. They are durable only for some period of time and are disposed after use. The masks have some sort of ratings like N95, N99, CV Marked, P95 mask, etc. Basically, these air masks are made to protect from air pollutants like particulate matters (PM2.5, PM10), sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, etc.
Which mask is the best reusable pollution Mask ?
It is very difficult to find the best reusable pollution mask in market. The masks we use to protect particulate matters have very short period of durability. After we use it for few hours or days, we dispose it and buy new one. The masks also have different purposes of use and places.
Factors to Choose The Best Reusable Pollution Mask :
- Capability of filtration : Efficiency to filter the particulate matters
- Filter Technology : Type of filter
- It usability : Who and where can it be used ?
- Durability : How long can it be used or is it reusable ?
- Price : Value of price must satisfy its purpose of use.
Reusable pollution masks are manufactured in a way that the filter in the mask can be changed with another one so that the users need not buy a new mask again and they can reuse the mask by only changing the filter. This is the main unique feature of reusable masks.
When we talk about the best pollution mask, what we matter is about its capability of filtering pollutants, the technology of filter, usability and price. The most important factor to decide a best pollution mask is the technology of filter & its efficiency to use.
Respirator Rating Letter Class:
- N – Not oil resistant
- P – Oil proof
- R – Resistant to oil
Non Reusable Mask Available in Market :
1. N95 Mask :
The masks, which can filter particulate matters upto 95% of air we breathe, belong to N95 pollution masks. These masks are a bit cheaper than N95 and other pollution masks. They are not reusable after using for some hours or days.
2. N99 Mask :
This mask can filter upto 99% of PM2.5. It performs better than N95 masks due to higher rate of filtration. But it can’t still work properly against oil-based pollutants. In terms of durability and price, it can last for more few days and is a little bit costly as compare to N95. You can not see much difference in two masks. Like N95 mask, this type of mask is also not a reusable mask.
3. P95 Mask :
P- rated masks are used for working in places exposed to oil-based particles. P95 masks have 95% filtration efficiency against oil-based and non-pil based particulate. This mask is much costly than N95 & N99 masks.
4. CV Marked Masks :
This type of masks has activated carbon filter which has inbuilt valve for the air we exhale. The CV marked masks are more effective in fighting air pollutants and can keep you safe than the non-CV marked masks.
Before buying a mask, you need to keep in mind one very important thing that investing in good mask is investing in your health. So, be very careful to choose the best pollution mask that can protect you from air pollution and help you breathe clean air.
For people living in metropolitan cities, it is highly advisable to use a mask with good features having all the factors mentioned above. Air pollution becomes a critical health crisis everywhere in the world. We know that Delhi is one of the most polluted cities in the world. Cities like Kanpur, Faridabad, Varanasi, Patna, Lucknow, Agra, etc. belong among the top polluted cities in the world.
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