Mask Resources and Information

PN95 Website Visual - Masks

In the world of Covid-19, there is plenty of information regarding masking. We know that with so much information available, it can be confusing when looking to buy masks to protect yourself and others. We have compiled resources and information on different types of masks (including N95’s, KN95’s, KF94’s, etc.) and what differentiates them from the others.

As always, if you have any questions, Project N95 is happy to assist you. Please feel free to reach out on our Contact Us page, including if you have suggestions for additional resources to list here.

Learn More About Masks

Below you can find out more information on masks from a few trusted resources

Niosh N95 Mask

N95 Masks

  • N95 masks offer the highest level of protection against Covid-19 and other airborne illnesses.
  • These masks fit tightly to the face, and allow the least amount of particles to come in contact with the mouth and nose.
  • Becasue of the close seal these masks provide between the skin and mask, people should be cautioned that facial hair may prevent a correct seal.
  • N95 masks never have earloops
  • N95s are approved for healthcare settings and medical use along with the general public.

The Astounding Physics of N95 Masks

By minutephysics on YouTube

See more videos by minutephysics on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/minutephysics

KF95/KN95 Mask

KN95 Masks

KN95 masks offer a 95% filtration rate, made to a non-US standard. They are regulated for use in the Chinese market and have become popular in the US for personal use. These masks are not currently recommended for use in healthcare settings.

  • These masks do not require a fit test, but it's important when wearing one to have it seal your face as an N95 does.
  • KN95s can have headstraps or earloops
  • To help spot counterfeits, the front of the mask should be labeled with the following:
    • GB2626-2006 or GB2626-2019 standard
    • The manufacturer or brand name
    • If the KN95 is labeled with the GB2626-2019 standard and the manufacturer makes multiple kn95 models, then the mask should also be labeled with the model #
    • KN95s are not certified by NIOSH, which is part of the CDC. It should not claim to be certified by either.

Mask Nerd Short - Who Am I?

MaskNerd on YouTube

Aaron Collins, aka The "MaskNerd"(https://twitter.com/masknerd) inroduces himself on his YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/coll0412

NYT Wirecutter Logo

12 Signs You Have a Fake N95, KN95, or KF94 Mask

NYT Wirecutter - Joanne Chen - January 13, 2022

On the mask There’s no branding. You should see the name of the company or logo right on the mask, whether it’s an N95, KN95, or a KF94. “Commercially speaking, companies are in the mask business to build brand loyalty and generate sales,” said Anne Miller, executive director of Project N95, a nonprofit clearinghouse that vets and sells masks. A blank mask runs counter to that goal. ... On N95s The NIOSH mark is missing. NIOSH—spelled correctly—should be in block letters and easily detectable.

There’s no approval number. This alphanumeric designation starts with the letters “TC-84A,” followed by four additional digits, and can be found on the mask or the bands. If there is one, check for it on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List. (Sometimes, crafty counterfeiters make one up, says the FBI. It’s also possible, though, that some might just steal one from a legitimate mask, whether or not they co-opted the branding as well.)

KF95/KN95 Mask

KF94 Masks

KF94 masks are respirators that are regulated for use in the South Korean market. They have become popular in the US for personal use and are not currently recommended for use in healthcare settings.

  • These masks are required to have a minimum 94% particle filtration efficiency
  • Many KF94s have ear loops and come individually wrapped
  • KF94s usually come in two main shapes.
    • Boat Shape - You might see these labeled as 3D or boat masks
    • Bird Beak Masks - This is the equivalent of a flat fold mask

Check to see if the product item code is included in the online listing. If it is, you can complete the following to help check for authenticity:

  • Navigate to the link here to the Korean MFDS website - https://nedrug.mfds.go.kr/searchDrug
  • Filter on the left for the items below
  • Under Item Classification select Quasi Drugs
  • In the classification number dropdown choose Number 32200
  • In the item standard code field enter the item code
  • Click Submit and you should receive results connected to the item standard code that you entered

Mask Nerd Short - What is a KN95/KF94/N95

Aaron Collins: MaskNerd

Aaron Collins, aka The "MaskNerd"(https://twitter.com/masknerd) inroduces himself on his YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/coll0412