The Difference Between Face Masks and Respirators

Face masks and respirators are an important part of respiratory protective equipment providing essential protection. Industries such as hospitals, health centres, construction sites and manufacturing use face masks to keep germs, bacteria and other particles away from consumers, helping to maintain health and well-being, and reducing the associated risks to the workforce. If you are unsure of the difference between PPE face masks and respirators, read our blog for more information.

What is the difference between a respirator and a face mask?

Workers in the healthcare industry, for example, routinely use surgical face masks as part of their PPE. However, surgical face masks are not respirators and are not certified as such. Below are some of the main differences in respiratory protective equipment.

• Non-Surgical Face Masks - Non-surgical face masks, or face coverings, can help to reduce the amount of particles that contaminate others when you cough or sneeze. Non-Surgical face masks are worn to help limit the spread of infections but do not protect the wearer from airborne contaminants.
• Surgical Face Masks - A surgical face mask is a loose-fitting, disposable face mask that creates a barrier across the mouth and nose of the wearer. Surgical face masks are designed to help prevent contamination of the work environment from large particles generated by the wearer. These types of face masks may also be used to help reduce the risk of blood and other body fluids from contaminating the wearer’s mouth and nose. Surgical face masks are worn to help limit the spread of infections but do not protect the wearer from inhaling smaller particles that might remain airborne for a long period of time.
• Respirators - Respirators reduce the wearer’s respiratory exposure to airborne contaminants including particles, gases and vapours. You should choose a respirator and filter based on the hazards present in the workplace. It should provide a tight seal around the face, forcing inhalation through the respirator’s filters, which provides the required protection.

When do you need to wear a face mask or a respirator?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing a non-surgical face mask is required when out in public when it is not possible to maintain 2 metres social distance. This means places such as shops and on public transport. Individuals may also choose to wear these masks regardless of if there is a requirement.

The decision on whether to use a respirator or surgical face mask should be based upon a risk assessment of the worker’s environment and the protective properties offered by each type of RPE.

At Work & Wear Direct we stock a range of both half face reusable respirator masks and full-face reusable respirator masks, providing a high level of protection. We also stock JSP respiratory protective equipment and 3M respiratory protective equipment. Call us on 01702 553698 to find out more.