COVID-19 medical masks and respirators: Overview

There are a number of different types of masks and respirators. They each have a particular use in a particular setting. The Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) website provides:

• definitions for respirators and masks
• information about non-medical masks and face coverings for the general public

Medical masks and respirators are essential during the COVID-19 outbreak. However, there are important differences between them. Masks are loose-fitting, while respirators are tight-fitting around the nose and mouth. As repirators create a seal to prevent air leakage, they are considered a form of respiratory protection. Although medical masks may offer some protection to the wearer, their primary purpose is to prevent cross-transmission of germs.
By filtering the air breathed in by the wearer, respirators help:

• protect the wearer  
• slow the spread of the disease

By acting as a barrier against droplets, medical masks help:

• slow the spread of the disease (for example, preventing cross-transmission of pathogens from the wearer to the external environment)

Both masks and respirators need to be used with other personal protective equipment (PPE) such as appropriate eye protection (for example, face shield or goggles) to achieve  protection of the eyes, nose and mouth. It’s important to still maintain physical distancing whenever possible. It’s also important to remember that PPE does not replace other measures such as minimizing contact, frequent hand washing, good room ventilation and filtration.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented demand for certain supplies, including medical masks and respirators. We are responding to this increased demand by:

• purchasing additional supplies  
• supporting increased domestic production  
• proposing strategies to address shortages  
• implementing pathways to expedite the authorization of these devices
• supporting health care facilities by providing guidance to extend the use of N95 respirators through reprocessing

Related links

• Regulatory considerations on the classification of respirators
• Regulatory considerations on the classification of non-medical masks or face coverings
• Importing and exporting medical devices
• Fraudulent and unauthorized N95 respirators may not protect consumers against COVID-19
• Health Canada - Important safety information for certain respirator masks
• Medical devices for use against coronavirus (COVID-19): List of products authorized under the interim order
• About non-medical masks and face coverings