Masking: Types of masks

Commercially available.

Available in different sizes, including smaller sizes that could be used for children.

Construction materials may vary but must meet filtration standards for respirators.

The design allows for a better fit than a medical mask.

Not available with transparent windows.
Typically single use, but you can reuse them until visibly dirty, damp or damaged.

Designed to fit snug against the face.

You can improve the fit of some respirators by adjusting ties, bands or ear loops and the nosepiece.

A respirator worn in the community doesn't need formal fit testing.

Make sure that your respirator is approved by Health Canada. Look for:
NIOSH N95 respirators with an approval number stamped on the device, represented as TC-84A-####.

95PFE products or CSA certified CA-N95 and CA-N99 type respirators as marked according to the CSA Z94.4.1 standard.

KN95 respirators that meet standard GB 2626-2019.

KF94 respirators that meet standard KMOEL–2017-64.

FFP2 respirators that meet standard EN 149-2001.

Commercially available.

Available in adult and smaller sizes that could be used for children.

Construction materials may vary but must meet established filtration standards.

Typically single use, but you can reuse them until visibly dirty, damp or damaged.

Fit varies depending on the size and features of your face.

You can improve the fit by adjusting ties or ear loops and adjusting the flexible nosepiece.

Some disposable non-medical masks may look like medical masks but don't meet regulatory standards.

Look for a medical mask that has ASTM F2100 or EN 14683 on the box label.

This means that this mask has been tested and meets international standards for:

• particle and bacterial filtration
• breathability
• fluid resistance
• flammability of materials

There are no recognized standards in Canada for transparent medical masks.

Homemade or commercially available.

Available in many different sizes and fabrics.

Should be made of at least 2 layers of tightly woven breathable fabric, like cotton. It should also have a third, middle layer of filter-type fabric, like non-woven polypropylene, to improve filtration.

May contain a pocket to insert a removable filter.
May be available with transparent windows.
Reusable or disposable.
Reusable if washed when dirty or damp.

Fit varies depending on the shape and style of the mask.

You can improve the fit by adjusting ties, bands or ear loops and flexible nosepiece (if included).

No standards or regulations exist for non-medical masks in Canada. Some international standards are available (AFNOR in Europe, ASTM in the U.S.).
Non-medical masks aren't considered medical devices under the Medical Devices Regulations.

The effectiveness of non-medical masks (and their similarity to medical masks) varies widely, depending on:

• its fit
• proper use
• its materials
• its construction