Breathe Safe, Work Safe! 😷
The Right Way to Wear and Remove Your N95 Mask or Respirator
Your health is precious. Protect every earth with the right fit, the right technique and the right habits.
In a workplace where smoke haze, dust and airborne particles may pose health risks, wearing an N95 mask or respirator correctly is more than a safety requirement — it is an important step towards protecting yourself, your colleagues and your loved ones.
But here is the catch: even a genuine N95 respirator may offer less protection if it is worn incorrectly, has a poor seal or is removed carelessly.
A mask that looks right does not necessarily fit right. Let's learn how to put it on, check its fit and remove it safely.
Place it over your nose and mouth, with the bottom edge under your chin and the nose clip at the top.
2. Secure the straps.
For a two-strap N95, position the upper strap near the crown of your head and the lower strap below your ears at the back of your neck. Keep both straps flat and untwisted. Do not cross them.
3. Mould the nose clip.
Use the fingertips of both hands to press and shape the nose clip evenly around the bridge of your nose. Do not simply pinch it with one hand.
4. Perform a user seal check.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular respirator. Check for air leakage around the nose, cheeks and chin. If you detect leakage, readjust and check again. If a good seal cannot be achieved, try a suitable alternative and seek assistance.
3. How to remove your N95 safely
STEP 3 — DOFFING
1. Clean your hands.
Wash with soap and water or use an appropriate hand sanitiser before handling the respirator.
2. Remove using the straps.
Avoid touching the front of the respirator, as it may be contaminated. For a typical two-strap N95, remove the lower strap first, followed by the upper strap, without touching the respirator's front. Follow the model-specific instructions.
3. Dispose of it properly.
Place a disposable respirator in the appropriate waste bin. Do not wash or attempt to disinfect a disposable N95 for reuse.
4. Clean your hands again.
Wash your hands after removal to minimise the risk of transferring contamination to your face or other surfaces.
