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safety is paramount

 Bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE)

BFE measures the efficiency of the face mask as a filter barrier designed to protect both the patient and the practitioner against any microscopic bacteria. It is expressed as the percentage of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) at 3 +/- 0,3 µm that the mask filters out under a determined air pressure. Masks of type I must ensure 95 - 98% bacteria filtration, though masks of type II must ensure at least 98%.

Breathability

The laboratory measures in Pascal (Pa) the differential air pressure (Delta P) on either side of the face mask. This measurement is a good indication of the level of breathability. The maximum differential pressure allowed for both face masks of type I and II is 3 mm H2O/cm² (29 Pa). On a scale of 1 to 5, masks between 1 and 1,99 are “very cool”, between 2 and 2,99 they are “cool”, from 3 they are “warm” and finally if their differential pressure is higher than 3,99 they are “very warm” and then “hot”.

Hydrophobia test / resistance to fluids

Hydrophobia tests measure the efficiency of a face mask in protecting against pathogens in blood, saliva and so on. This test measures the resistance of a mask under a jet of water.

The complexity of the choice of a good face mask is to find the best possible balance between all three tests’ results. Type II Helvemed prime face masks are hypoallergenic. They rate an exceptional bacterial filtration efficiency of 99,7%, an excellent Delta P of 2,16 mm H2O/cm² (19,6 Pa) and resist a jet of water higher than 35 cm. To sum up it all, thanks to such a combination, breathability is superb and safety is not compromised.

Compare the excellent combination that Helvemed prime face masks offer with your own standards for comfort, and make the right choice.