title: Respirators and surgical masks-exploring the differences.
abstract: Filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) and surgical masks may appear similar in design, but are quite different. When worker protection from inhalation hazards is necessary, a respirator, not a surgical mask, must be selected. For FFRs to protect wearers, however, wearers must be trained in wearing and using them properly, determine they fit by being fit tested, perform a user seal check each time FFRs are put on, and be medically evaluated to ensure they are physically able to wear FFRs while working.
authors: 3M Personal Safety Division, St. Paul, MN, USA. cecolton@mmm.com
authors: Craig E
authors: CE
authors: Colton
authors: Mary C
authors: MC
authors: Townsend
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008397:Masks; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health; D012134:Respiratory Protective Devices