Working in some industries often exposes you to hazardous dust particles, fumes, vapours, mould spores, and bacteria. These particles can cause serious lung conditions such as chronic bronchitis, farmers' lung, and occupational asthma. Reducing these illnesses is a priority for industry associations and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Workers employed in such industries have to wear respiratory protection equipment like the FFP3 masks , enclose and extract the dust, and use safe work practices when performing extremely dusty tasks like handling grain or working with mouldy straw.
Let us go through some tips on wearing, cleaning, and (if feasible) reusing FFP3 face masks.
Are You Wearing It Correctly?
It may surprise you to learn that wearing a mask incorrectly is fairly simple. Yes, it only takes a second to accidentally transform your mask from a protective device into a potential source of infection. Therefore, taking precautions is important to decrease the chance of getting sick; otherwise, you might increase the likelihood of illness.
Moreover, avoid making the mistake of believing that a mask is an impenetrable barrier against the infection. Wearing it when necessary is a preventive measure, but it shouldn't cause you to forget to wash your hands frequently or maintain a distance of at least two meters between you and other people. Here's how to use a mask securely while keeping these guidelines in mind:
- Wash your hands with soap and water or a disinfectant that contains alcohol before touching the disposable dust mask.
- Make sure the mask fits properly by adjusting it to the contours of your face, ensuring that it is securely and comfortably fastened, and ensuring that it doesn't slip.
- Ensure that your mouth, chin, and nose are all well covered.
Mistakes To Avoid When Using A FFP3 Mask
Cross-contamination is one of the most frequent errors. This happens when someone touches their mask after touching someone or something underneath it, such as a grocery trolley, a door handle, or a box. We'll discuss the top mistakes and how to steer clear of cross-contamination when wearing a medical-grade FFP3 mask.
- Incorrect removal
Wearing the mask is only half the fight. Once the mask has served its purpose, you should take extra care to remove it from your face since it can be contaminated by wearing it in public or your workplace. When you arrive home, promptly remove your mask and gloves. If you are wearing disposable gloves, remove them by the inside bands and discard them.
- Before handling a disposable dust mask, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based disinfectant.
- Avoid contacting the mask's surface as you remove it from your face, only touching the elastic bands around your neck or ears.
- If the mask is made of fabric, wash it or sanitize it; otherwise, hang it outside for at least three or four days until the virus has vanished.
- You put on an unclean mask.
Wearing unclean masks increases the risk of contamination. If you wear them against your face for an extended period, they can allow infectants to enter. You must discard them after the designated use time to avoid further respiratory complications or risk of infections.
- Wearing a worn-out FFP3 mask
Replace your FFP3 dust mask if it develops holes, tears, or shows signs of wear, such as losing its shape or becoming dirty. Avoid getting your masks wet from perspiration, cosmetics, saliva, or other sources to extend their lifespan. If you don't wash them right away, the fabric may grow mould. Masks that are damp or soiled should be stored in a plastic bag until they can be washed.
- Wearing it in the wrong places
The sole purpose of FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3 is to filter out dust. They must not be used in areas with dangerous fumes and vapours or an atmosphere low in oxygen. FFP3 disposable dust masks should be thrown away at the conclusion of your shift, or earlier if they are highly contaminated. A respirator should never be hung up for subsequent usage in a dusty area.
- You don't properly store it.
Avoid placing your FFP3 mask on surfaces like car seats or dashboards. When not in use, keep your mask in a clean place. To prevent mildew or a damp smell, place it in a mesh bag or dry paper if it isn't wet or dirty. You can keep it in a clean pocket or purse if you're going out to eat, but never on the table. Wash your hands after eating, then replace your mask with the same side facing out.
- Wearing an incorrect size
Avoid crossing the ear loops behind your head if your mask is too large. Instead, shorten each one slightly by tying a knot in it. To prevent the mask from cinching and gaping at the sides, place the knots behind your ears. Use twine or a shoelace to lengthen the loops if they are too short. This also works if your mask presses on your ears.
- Incorrect placement of the mask
Make sure your mask covers your whole face, chin included. An exposed chin can let viruses get to your mouth, nose, and eyes. Additionally, they can get out of your mouth and spread to other people. Additionally, it may allow your mask to ride up on your face, obstructing your eyesight or fogging your glasses.
Bottom Line
The proper use of a mask significantly lowers your risk of catching infections at work or infecting others around you. Although no one likes to be masked, maintaining and donning your mask correctly requires far less time and effort than recuperating from a severe respiratory disease. This also requires selecting the highest-quality masks for the fields that require utmost protection. At Respirator Shop, you can find the best range of heavy-duty to beard-friendly disposable respirators and FFP3 masks from top brands. Explore today!