To properly wear a mask with straps, follow these steps to ensure a secure and effective fit, referencing guidance from the YouTube video Steps to Wear an N95 Respirator:
Steps for Wearing a Strapped Mask
Here's a breakdown of how to wear a mask with straps:
- Position the Mask:
- Hold the mask with the straps facing you.
- Ensure the mask is right-side up, with the nose piece at the top.
- Place on Face:
- Bring the mask to your face, covering your mouth and nose.
- Adjust so the mask rests comfortably on your face.
- Secure the Straps:
- Place the top strap over and around the back of your head, positioning it above your ears.
- Position the bottom strap around the back of your neck, below your ears.
- Make sure straps are not twisted and are relatively taut.
- Adjust Nose Piece:
- If your mask has a nose clip, pinch it around the bridge of your nose to create a close seal.
- Check for Fit:
- Perform a respirator seal check, as shown in the reference video.
- Place your hands over the mask, and exhale forcefully to see if any air leaks out around the edges.
- Do the same during a strong inhale to check for inward leaks.
- Adjust the straps as needed if leakage occurs.
- Continue to adjust both the mask itself and the straps to obtain a good seal around the mask edges.
Key Considerations
- Comfort: Straps should be snug enough to secure the mask but not so tight that they cause discomfort.
- Seal: A good seal is crucial for the mask to function properly.
- Adjustment: Be prepared to adjust the mask frequently to maintain a good fit.
- Specific Guidelines: Always follow the specific instructions provided with your mask if available, as some brands or mask types might vary slightly.
- Respirator Seal Check: Always check for proper fit by performing a respirator seal check as described above.
