Face masks for cleanrooms: Learning the lessons from coronavirus

 

The 2020 novel coronavirus pandemic has led to a wider interest in the classification, performance and testing of face masks. This article assesses the international standards for face masks and proceeds to examine some recent COVID-19 related examinations of face masks. Some of the outcomes of these studies are pertinent to general cleanroom use and help to inform cleanroom users about the importance of mask selection, mask donning, fitting, expiry time, and post-use handling.

 

In relation to this, Tim Sandle has written an article. The reference is:

 

Sandle, T. (2020) Facemasks: Lessons from COVID-19 research, Clean Air and Containment Review, Issue 44, pp12-16

 

Here is an extract:

 

This article examines five areas drawn from research studies published during the first few months of the coronavirus outbreak and considers learning points for cleanroom operations. In addition, for readers who have more general concerns about the SARS-CoV-2 virus, there are some pointers of interest in relation to preventative measures and coronavirus transmission. The article starts with a discussion of the key criteria for face masks and the main global standards that apply in order to set the context and to provide guidance on the differences between the U.S. and Europe in terms of face mask specifications.

 

For details, please contact Tim Sandle.

 

Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle, Pharmaceutical Microbiology Resources (http://www.pharmamicroresources.com/)