Since the outbreak of COVID-19, masks have become a regular staple in everyday life. Many people have taken advantage of the mask necessity by making fashionable cloth masks out of household items.

Although these masks have helped to slow the spread of the Coronavirus, they may not pass the test when it comes to protecting you or your employees from other things like particulate matter or smoke. Masks for smoke are important, especially for those who are around it for professional purposes.

Finding the right smoke mask can prove difficult, but luckily here are the five best masks to consider when searching for the right mask to use.

Parameters For A Good Mask

Masks that are made for individuals who need to work around smoke or places that have air thick with dust and other particulate matter must carry certain qualifications.

The most common designation is 'N95'. This means that the mask is capable of protecting the user and filtering out 95 percent of particles that can be inhaled. You will see other designations as well, such as N99 or N100.

The letter is not as important as the number; it simply exhibits whether the mask can resist oil-based liquids. The designation 'N' stands for Not oil resistant. Other designations include 'R' and 'P', for oil Resistant and oil Proof, respectively.

Be sure to avoid any masks that do not have the NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) stamp of approval.

The Best Masks For Smoke

The best smoke masks abide by these regulations. Otherwise, they pose a danger to everyone involved. With these things kept in mind, here are the five best masks for smoke and particulates.

3M 8511 Series Respirator

Easily one of the best disposable masks on the market, the 3M 8511 series mask does not disappoint. It carries the N95 designation and also comes equipped with the patented 3M Coolflow valve.

This aids to cut down on the buildup of water vapors, heat, and other things inside the mask. All these advantages make it a great mask for handling smoke.

Moldex 2300N95 series

The Moldex 2300's claim to reliability comes from its construction. It includes an exhalation valve that allows for airflow when exhaling.

This gives you to breathe out cool and comfortably. This mask is good for employees who need to work in extremely hot or humid temperatures.

3M 8210 series

Another entry by the company 3M, this mask is good for dealing with non-oil-based matter. This one is especially useful for wildfire smoke and carries a filter.

3M Rugged Comfort Facepiece Respirator

This particular mask is reusable with filter cartridges that can be replaced. Its filters are compatible with both N95 and P100 filters. Its savvy design makes and reusability makes worth the money.

LotFancy N95 Particulate Respirator

This mask has a 4-layered design to protect you from particulates that may otherwise breach other masks. It also emphasizes the comfortability of the user. All of its certifications are printed on the mask itself, making essentially a statement of guarantee.

Keeping Yourself Safe

Remember to choose the best mask for your employee needs. But in these times, now more than ever it is important to be safe and healthy. Particulate matter and smoke are no exception.

Stay healthy and get yourself and your employees a mask that will protect you from both the Coronavirus and other things floating freely, dangerously in our air. Masks for smoke and particulates can be the difference between healthy lungs or lung cancer in the future.

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