As per the report on Economic Times, almost 12.4 lakh people in India die from air pollution. Looking at the record, nearly 1 out of 8 deaths that happened last year was because of air pollution. At present, air pollution is a severe concern in most cities and metros with Delhi emerging as the most polluted metro city in the world. As the world faces an imminent pandemic situation, there is a common sight to behold these days, people wearing masks.
If we do not check the pollution levels and the recklessness, we have shown towards nature rehabilitation and protection program, wearing of the masks will become a new normal in the coming years. Most face shields can protect the user from 95% to 99% pollution or viral infection. Lately, you might have resonated at a personal level with N95 masks for protection against viruses. Also, ever since then, two variants might have confused you: N95 masks & KN95 masks. The point is, are they similar or altogether different?
Well, they have different names in different countries, but the purpose or functionality is the same. Even they have standard features, but just a few minor differences. If you want to buy N95 masks or KN95 masks or anything that serves to protect you against infection, here are a few points based on which you can judge their effectiveness:
- Fabrics
- Woven Styles
- Layering
- Knit Materials
- Quality of filters
Key Indicators That Determine the difference between KN95 & N95
For KN95: The following indicators specify the effectiveness of the mask: Filtration efficiency, expiratory valve airtightness, respiratory resistance, visual field, headband, connections, and connecting parts, lenses, leakage, dead space, airtightness, flammability, cleaning and disinfection, the information provided by manufacturer, packaging.
Whereas,
For N95 masks: You need to check the following indicators;
Filtration efficiency, expiratory valve airtightness, breathing resistance, visual field, headband, inspiratory and expiratory valve requirements, instructions for use, parts and attributes requirements, packaging, marking.
Difference Between N95 & KN95
Once you analyze the above-mentioned vital indicators, there are many similar points between the two, but marginal differences exist. Let’s have a look at them to make up your mind when you opt-out to purchase N95 masks online or offline.
Key Highlighted Point of Differentiation
| Key Indicators | KN95 Masks | N95 masks |
| Filter Performance | >= 94% | >=95% |
| Testing Agent | NaCl | NaCl |
| Flow Rate | 85L/Min | 85L/Min |
| Inward leakage as per testing on human subjects | =< 8% leakage | N/A |
| Inhalation resistance Max Pressure on airdrop participates | =<350 PA | =<343 PA |
| Exhalation Resistance | =<250 Pa | =< 250Pa |
| Exhalation Valve Leakage Requirement | Depressurization to 0 Pa>=20 sec | Leak rate is =<30 mL/min |
| Co2 Clearance | =<1% | N/A |
Conclusion
Death due to air pollution happens more in old age people, who are above 50 years, and they have been the primary ones affected by the pandemic Novel Corona Virus. Those living in the northern states in India, especially in New Delhi and Haryana, have been facing more threats to life because of pollution. Even the Novel Corona Virus has impacted more to New Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, where the use of N95 masks can protect lives in a significant way.
