Pneumonia] How to choose the best mask? This article teaches you the knowledge of mask level!
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Hong Kong,mask (surgical etc)Masks have become a part of daily life, but do you know how they are classified? What do BFE, PFE, and VFE mean? This article from Gogoherbs compiles knowledge about mask protection standards for you, so let's take a look!
What do BFE, PFE, and VFE stand for?
BFE (Bacterial Filtration Efficiency) measures the effectiveness of a mask in filtering bacteria. The test targets particles as small as 3 micrometers. For example, BFE > 95% means the mask can block 95% particles larger than 3 micrometers.
PFE (Particulate Filtration Efficiency) measures the efficiency of a mask in filtering particles. The test targets particles as small as 0.1 micrometers. For example, a PFE > 95% means the mask can block particles larger than 0.1 micrometers (95%).
VFE (Viral Filtration Efficiency) measures the effectiveness of a mask in filtering viruses. The test targets particles 0.1 – 5 micrometers in size (average 2.8 micrometers). For example, PFE > 95% means the mask can block 95% particles larger than 2.8 micrometers.
Mask rating standards in various countries
American face masks: ASTM Level
ASTM masks refer to masks that meet the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International), and there are three levels.
Level 1 (Low Protection): BFE and PFE data must exceed 95%.
Level 2 (Medium Protection): BFE and PFE data must exceed 98%.
Level 3 (High Protection): BFE and PFE data must exceed 98%, and synthetic blood penetration must exceed 160mmHg.
European face mask: EN14683
Europe uses the EN14683 grading standard, which, like ASTM, is divided into three grades.
Type I (Low Protection): BFE data must exceed 95%.
Type II (Medium Protection): BFE data must exceed 98%.
Type IIR (High Protection): BFE data must exceed 98%, and synthetic blood penetration must exceed 120mmHg.
Japanese face masks: PM2.5
Japanese face masks are often labeled with "PM2.5," indicating that they effectively block airborne particles larger than 2.5 micrometers, such as suspended particles from air pollution. Japanese face masks that only label themselves as "PM2.5" or "pollen protection" are mostly only effective against secondhand smoke, air pollution, pollen, and dust particles. It is recommended to choose masks that specify BFE, PFE, and VFE data to determine their effectiveness in blocking bacteria and viruses.
Which standard of face mask should be used in Hong Kong?
Although bacteria and viruses are microorganisms and very small, they are mostly transmitted by adhering to larger droplet particles. Therefore, under normal circumstances, masks with BFE/PFE/VFE > 95% and ASTM Level 1 that can block droplets are sufficient to effectively prevent COVID-19. Moreover, in the crowded environment of Hong Kong, the breathability of the mask is also an important consideration.
After reading this article, do you have a better understanding of the classification of masks? Understanding mask protection standards is essential to choosing the right mask for yourself.
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Author. Michael F. O
Michael F.O is a ravenous health writer with over five years of experience. He has to himself a chain of certification ranging from a university degree in Biochemistry to other professional honours. He has to himself a chain of certification ranging from a university degree in Biochemistry to other professional honors.
