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 to decide what masks will best help protect you and others. We have compiled resources and information on different types of masks (including N95s, KN95s, KF94s, etc.) and how to find one that is right for you.

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.

Learn More About Masks

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

CDC-Types of Masks The CDC provides a website that can help people understand the different types of masks available.
FDA The Food and Drug Administration provides an article with more information regarding N95s, surgical masks, and face masks.
How well do face masks protect against COVID-19? The Mayo Clinic provides an article citing how well face coverings protect from COVID-19.
How to Find a Quality Mask How to find a quality mask and how to spot counterfeits.
MaskNerd (Aaron Collins) Aaron Collins is a mechanical engineer by trade who has tested, evaluated, and examined numerous N95, KN95, KF94, and other masks since the beginning of the pandemic. Watch his YouTube videos here, see his test data here on GoogleDrive, and follow him on Twitter here.

N95 Masks

N95 masks offer a very high level of protection against COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses.

These masks fit tightly to the face and allow very few particles to come in contact with the mouth and nose.

Facial hair may prevent the mask from sealing properly to your face.

N95 masks never have earloops.

N95s are approved for healthcare settings, medical use, and 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

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.

Although KN95s do not require a fit test, a good seal with your face still ensures you get the most protection possible.

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 to indicate the 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 number

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

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.)

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, sometimes labeled as 2D.

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

Aaron Collins: MaskNerd