During the COVID-19 pandemic, personal protective equipment (PPE) has become a commonplace item in our everyday work and home lives. One of the most common and widely required forms of protection comes in the form of face coverings. Face coverings help to protect the wearer and those around them from exposure to contaminated airborne particles and fluids. There are a few forms of commonly used face coverings – not all of which are created equal! Learn more about these most frequently used coverings, and their recommended uses for proper protection.

Cloth Face Masks
Cloth face masks are simple face coverings that help to protect the general public during their day-to-day public activities. As the name suggests, these masks can be made from a variety of cloth materials, offering a more comfortable wear and a relaxed fit for extended use. Because most cloth masks are machine-washable, they allow for multiple uses with a frequent cleaning schedule. Check out our Launderable Face Masks – the only reusable cloth mask specifically designed to protect food processors! They’re constructed of a familiar double layer 7-oz frock material, with an embedded metal-detectable nose clip for a secure fit. Visit us online to learn more about the other various features these masks offer to help keep your workplace protected.

Disposable Face Masks
Disposable face coverings are constructed of a soft pleated material, enhanced with fluid resistance to protect the user against droplets and other harmful fluids. The soft, non-woven fabric is comfortable to wear with easy breathability, and features an adjustable nosepiece for a custom fit that reduces fog for eyeglass wearers. These masks are for single use only in general procedures where low amounts of fluid, spray or aerosols are produced. Learn more about our WorkHorse® Disposable Standard Use Face Masks to offer quick and efficient one-time protection.

N95 Respirators
N95 Respirators are protective devices that reduce exposure to particles through a tight facial fit and filtration. To maintain their elevated level of protection, N95 masks require a self-administered fit test and seal check to ensure the appropriate secure fit for minimal leakage through the sides of the mask. The filtration system is then able to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, both small and large. The CDC does not recommend N95 respirators for use by the general public, as it is important that supplies remain reserved for healthcare and other medical workers. To continue to provide maximum protection for our food processing customers, we at Bunzl Processor Division have developed a line of N95 Molded Respirators, specifically designed for the demands of the food processing industry. These respirators are not for medical use, and are available with or without a valve for a variety of different applications. Learn more about the enhanced protection that our N95 respirators provide in various food processing environments.

Need help finding the right mask for your professional and personal applications? Our team of product specialists is always here to help! Call us at 800-456-5624 or click the icon in the bottom right corner to chat with us online! Your safety is our top priority, and we look forward to assisting you!

*Please note, due to increased global demand for PPE, products listed above may only be available while supplies last. Please contact us or visit us online for our current selection of protective face coverings.