Get the Facts on Masks details
Respirators, Surgical Masks, and Non-Medical Masks

Each type of mask is designed for a specific purpose. Respirators such as N95 will protect against exposure to airborne particles, including viruses. Surgical masks are a barrier to spreading droplets and spit. Non-medical masks help limit the spread of droplets and spit when you sneeze or cough.
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Know the differences
Link to video: How to Choose a MaskYoutube video from CCOHS
Respirators (including N95)
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Surgical Masks
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Non-Medical Masks
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Evaluation, Testing, and Certification | Respirators are evaluated, tested and certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). | Surgical masks are classified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). | Have not been evaluated or tested to recognized standards. |
Purpose | Respirators protect from exposure to airborne particles, including viruses. | Surgical masks are a barrier to spreading droplets and spit. | Non-medical masks help limit the spread of droplets and spit when you sneeze or cough. |
Fit (Face Seal) | Respirators are designed to seal tight to the face of the wearer. | Are not designed to seal tight against the face. | Are not designed to seal tight against the face. |
Filtration | Respirator filters that collect at least 95% of the challenge aerosol are given a 95 rating. | Surgical masks do not effectively filter small particles from the air. | Fabrics are not the same as materials used in certified masks and do not necessarily filter viruses. |
Use Limitations | Generally single use but repurposing may be appropriate in certain circumstances. Follow manufacturer’s instructions. | Generally single use, but repurposing may be appropriate in certain circumstances. Follow manufacturer’s instructions. | Can be difficult to breathe through fabric. Wash between uses. |
Who Should Use and When | Health care workers and others when providing direct care to a COVID-19 patient. | Health care workers and others when providing direct care to a COVID-19 patient. And for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms. | General public when you’re in a shared space (indoors or outdoors) with people from outside of your immediate household, or when advised by your local public health authority. |