Face Mask Testing Services
Comprehensive Face Mask Testing Services
Face mask testing is meant to assess the performance of face masks to conform with the set standards and requirements necessary for public health. Face masks have become an essential part of public health, providing a vital line of defense against respiratory infections and contaminants. Used in medical environments or as protective equipment, the reliability of face masks depends on their ability to meet these standards.
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland we provide rigorous face mask testing services to examine various performance criteria that ensure the performance of these protective devices, thus ensuring that they meet the necessary safety and compliance requirements.
Why face mask tests are crucial
Available face mask testing services
To provide an all-around assessment of face masks, MIS provides face mask testing services that cover various performance aspects. Our face mask testing services are tailored to test various types of face masks including industrial masks, consumer-grade masks, and medical masks.
The following services are available to test different parameters of face masks:
- Filtration efficiency testing: This test procedure involves measuring how well a mask can filter minute particles, including bacteria, viruses, and dust.
- Bacterial and viral resistance testing: Evaluating the ability of the mask to resist penetration by biological agents.
- Breathability and comfort assessment: Ensuring that the mask provides sufficient airflow without compromising user comfort.
- Splash resistance testing: Assessing the ability of the mask to resist penetration by liquid splashes, such as blood or other potentially infectious materials.
All these services are intended to test face masks according to specific characteristics or performance, making sure that they meet the safety and usability criteria.
Surgical mask testing: Ensuring compliance
Surgical masks are primarily used in healthcare institutions to prevent cross-contamination between healthcare professionals and patients. Surgical mask testing involves rigorous tests to ensure that the mask complies with international standards such as ASTM F2100, EN 14683, and ISO 22609.
Filtration efficiency test is one of the most important tests for a surgical mask. This includes testing the BFE (Bacterial Filtration Efficiency) and PFE (Particulate Filtration Efficiency) of the mask. The BFE and PFE values must be significantly high for surgical masks to avoid infections in medical conditions. Splash resistance and breathability tests must also be checked to determine whether these masks are resistant to penetration by splashes and are comfortable for long-term use.
Testing for filtration efficiency
The filtration efficiency test is essential for determining the ability of a mask to prevent the transmission of airborne particles, mainly dust, bacteria, and viruses. At MIS, we make use of ASTM F2101 and ASTM F2100 to test the filtration efficacy of face masks. In these tests, masks are assessed to check the capturing abilities of both smaller and larger-sized particles.
Testing for filtration efficiency involves passing aerosol particles through the mask to determine to what extent potentially harmful substances are filtered out. Filtration efficiency testing is an important part of ensuring that the mask provides the intended levels of protection for its application.
For detailed information on ASTM 2101 test requirements and procedure, please read our service page: ASTM F2101
Bacterial and viral resistance testing
Face masks must resist both bacterial and viral penetration in order to effectively prevent infections. We conduct Viral filtration efficiency (VFE) and BFE (bacterial filtration efficiency) tests by the methods outlined in ASTM F2101 and ASTM F2100 to check the resistance of the mask against biological agents. These tests provide reliable data on the performance of the mask by testing them under conditions that mimic practical scenarios.
For detailed information on ASTM 2100 test requirements and procedure, please read our service page: ASTM F2100
Breathability and comfort assessment
A good face mask provides a good balance of filtration efficiency and user comfort. Breathability testing specifically focuses on checking the pressure drop in the mask material which directly affects the ability to breathe comfortably while wearing the mask.
We evaluate the breathability and comfort of face masks according to the EN 14683 standard. This standard specifies the measurement of differential pressure to ensure masks meet breathability requirements, providing effective protection while maintaining comfort. By assessing breathability according to the EN 14683 standard, we aid our clients in developing masks that are not only protective but also comfortable for long-term use.
For detailed information on EN 14683 test requirements and procedure, please read our service page: EN 14683
Benefits of choosing Microbe Investigations Switzerland
Regulatory compliance
Face masks, both in medical and general use, are required to follow specific regulations and standards. Testing will help ensure that the face mask complies with established standards of safety and performance. Testing also helps manufacturers ensure that their products meet the requirements necessary for obtaining compliance. Compliance helps ensure that masks provide effective protection for their users in different scenarios, including healthcare and personal use.
Experienced professional
Our face mask testing services are carried out by experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of face mask testing and the specific requirements for different applications.
State-of-the-art facilities
MIS makes use of modern equipment along with updated methodologies relevant to testing to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Risk management
We offer detailed reports on test analysis with short turnaround times to ensure your products meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
Conclusion
Face masks have become a vital part of protection equipment used by both healthcare professionals and the public. Therefore comprehensive face mask testing services provide an all-round analysis of face masks, assessing the filterability, bacterial and viral resistance, and breathability, while strictly adhering to the requirements set by the regulatory bodies.
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland (MIS), we aim to offer the most dependable and thorough face mask testing services to assist you in adhering to compliance and safety regulations. Our comprehensive testing services guarantee that your face masks are suitable for their intended use, ensuring both safety and comfort for users. For more information about our face mask testing services or to arrange a consultation, get in touch with us today.
Other Industries
Ready to test your product?
