As Americans approach a full year of clothing to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, a technical standards organization has published the first national standard for consumer face masks, CNN reports.
The new standards of the American Society for Testing and Material cover things like the minimum requirements of fit, design, performance and testing for facial masks, CNN said. It would also require instructions for use, package labeling and a permanent label.
“This standard adds value by specifying minimum design, performance and testing requirements and allows end-users to compare products where current guidelines have been limited,” according to the approved ASTM standard.
To receive certification, masks must be tested in accredited laboratories, registered and use the appropriate labeling system presented by ASTM.
Labels must have two test criteria: breathability and filtration efficiency. Filtration usually makes breathing more difficult.
According to the guidelines, a level 1 design would filter at least 20% of the particles, but would have easier breathability.
A level 2 certification would filter at least 50% of the particles, but would allow for lower breathability.
Fans, valves or any other device that allows unfiltered air to pass through the mask are not permitted in accordance with the standards.
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