Q. What is the difference between the N95 surgical mask and N95 respirators?

Answer

An N95 surgical mask is not designed to filter particulate air hazards like PM2.5, but it will only protect large particles, such as mucous and spit expelled by the wearer. An N95 respirator protects the wearer from inhaling hazardous atmospheres, including fumes, vapours, gases, and particulate matter. An N95 surgical mask protects the surroundings of the fluids spread out from an infected mask wearer. An N95 respirator has a NIOSH/EN/ISI certification seal stamped on the product surface.