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    Understanding the Three Levels of Surgical Masks

    1/3/2023 12:00:00 AM

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    Understanding the Three Levels of Surgical Masks

    Selecting the appropriate mask for a procedure or situation is a critical component of personal protection. Dukal offers three levels of protection to provide valuable options for both healthcare providers and patients based on procedure, type of protection, and personal preference. 

    In this article we will cover: ​

    • What are surgical masks?

    • Understanding surgical mask terminology

    • Understanding surgical mask requirements

    • How Dukal's three levels of ASTM rated protection enhance comfort and safety

    What are Surgical Masks?

    Surgical masks are used as a physical barrier to protect the user from exposure to fluid, spray, and aerosols. In addition, surgical masks further protect against contamination from the wearer by trapping their expelled particles or fluid.

    Understanding Surgical Mask Terminology

    • ASTM International is a global organization that develops and publishes technical standards for an expansive array of products, systems, and services, including ASTM F2100-11, the ideal for medical face masks since 2012.
       
    • ASTM Level 1 Masks are a cost-effective solution for procedures with a low fluid exposure risk (i.e. splashes or sprays can be produced).
       
    • ASTM Level 2 Masks are ideal for procedures with a moderate fluid exposure risk (i.e. splashes or sprays ca be produced). 
       
    • ASTM Level 3 Masks meet the highest performance require¬ments defined by ASTM F2100-11. Masks feature three layers of construction, offering clinicians comfort, protection, and breathability. Designed for fluid protection and is ideal for procedures with a high risk of fluid exposure (i.e., splashes or sprays can be produced).

    Understanding Surgical Mask Testing Requirements

    • BFE (Bacterial Filtration Efficiency) tests filtration ability against an aerosol containing bacteria 3.0 microns in size.  
    • PFE (Particulate Filtration Efficiency) assesses filtration ability when tested against sub-micron particulate matter 0.1 microns in size. 
    • Delta P (AP) gauges air flow from one side of a mask to the other, assessing breathability. 
    • Fluid Resistance tests penetration resistance to synthetic blood at three protection levels – 80 mm Hg, 120 mm Hg, and 160 mm Hg. 

     

     

    Dukal Offers Three Levels of ASTM Rated Protection to Enhance Comfort and Safety 

     

    Surgical Mask Level 1

    ASTM Level 1 surgical masks are an effective solution for procedures with a low fluid exposure risk (i.e. splashs or sprays can be produced). 

    • 3-ply pleated lightweight, breathable material
    • BFE of ≥ 99%
    • Flexible nosepiece
    • Meets ASTM Level 1 standard

    #1541 Non-Sterile Surgical Mask with Ear Loop 3-Ply, Blue

    #1550 Non-Sterile Anti-Fog Surgical Mask with Tie 3-Ply, Blue

    #1540 Non-Sterile Surgical Mask with Tie 3-Ply, Blue

     

    Surgical Mask Level 2

    ASTM Level 2 surgical masks are ideal for procesures with a moderate fluid exposure risk (i.e. splashes or sprays can be produced). 

    • 3-ply pleated lightweight, breathable material
    • BFE of ≥ 99%
    • Flexible nosepiece
    • Meets ASTM Level 2 standard

    #1580 Surgical Mask Level 2 with Earloop

     

    Surgical Mask Level 3

    ASTM Level 3 surgical masks meet the highest performance requirements defined by ASTM F2100. Masks feature three layers of construction, offering clinicians comfort, protection, and breathability. Designed for fluid protection and are ideal for procedures with a high risk of fluid exposure (i.e. splashes or sprays can be produced). 

    • 3-ply pleated lightweight, breathable material
    • BFE of ≥ 99%
    • Flexible nosepiece
    • Meets ASTM Level 3 standard

    #1590 Surgical Mask Level 3 with Earloop

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