What does the designation 'N-95' indicate about this type of respirator?

The designation 'N-95' specifically refers to the respirator's ability to filter airborne particles. This type of respirator is certified to filter out at least 95% of non-oil based particles that are larger than 0.3 microns. This efficacy is crucial for protecting health care professionals against various airborne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.

N-95 respirators are particularly effective because they are designed to create a tight seal around the face, minimizing the amount of unfiltered air inhaled and providing better protection compared to standard surgical masks. The 0.3 micron reference is significant, as it corresponds to the most penetrating particle size, meaning that the respirator is effective at filtering particles of different sizes, both larger and smaller than this measurement.

Understanding the N-95 rating helps health care professionals determine when and how to use these respirators, especially in environments where exposure to infectious agents is a concern.