Selecting the Correct Medical Face Mask

Medical face masks are an essential component of personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare, clinical, and laboratory environments. Correct selection and use protect staff and patients from infection risk, support compliance with regulatory standards, and mitigate occupational hazards. This guide clarifies mask types, performance standards, compliance criteria, and practical selection factors for healthcare practitioners.

What are Medical Face Masks?

Medical face masks are single‑use PPE devices designed to reduce the transmission of infectious droplets in clinical settings. They offer barrier protection for both the wearer and others by reducing the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain bacteria or viruses. 

These masks differ from tight‑fitting respirators (e.g., N95/P2), which are designed for airborne hazards. Medical face masks should be selected based on task-specific risk assessment and regulatory requirements. Below is a table that indicates common types of masks on the market and their intended use.

Type of Mask	Example	Protection	Type of Protection	Used By
Particulate filter respirators	P2 or equivalent (N95/KN95)	Airborne transmission prevention	Wearer protection good/Not recommended for source control	Health Care Workers (HCWs) only, mainly recommended for aerosol-generating procedures
Medical-grade masks	Surgical masks (Levels 1, 2, and 3)	Droplet protection	Wearer protection (in healthcare setting) reasonable/Source control good	HCWs who are not performing an aerosol-generating procedure or involved in other risk-assessed procedures or situations requiring airborne precautions
Manufactured non-medical grade face coverings, including homemade (sewn) coverings (these coverings are not regulated by TGA)	Fabric face coverings e.g., multi-layered cloth coverings made from fabric and reusable woven shopping bags	Limited evidence for protection	Wearer protection possible/Possible source control	Public use in community transmission, where physical distancing cannot be achieved, not for use with no community transmission
Non-manufactured non-medical grade face coverings	Handkerchief, scarf, bandana	No evidence for protection	Wearer protection unknown/Source control unknown	Public use  when a manufactured non-medical grade face covering is not available, and there is community transmission, not for use with no community transmission

 

Key Medical Mask Standards

Medical-grade face masks, like examination gloves, are regulated under specific test standards that determine performance, protection level, and appropriate clinical use. Healthcare facilities in New Zealand and Australia generally reference two recognised standards for single-use medical masks:

AS 4381:2015 (Australian/New Zealand Standard)

Medical face masks are assessed on three core performance metrics:

• Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE)
• Fluid Resistance (synthetic blood penetration)
• Breathability (Differential Pressure)

Masks are rated by fluid resistance levels ranging from 80–160 mmHg, indicating barrier performance under varying exposure risks.

EN 14683:2019 (European Medical Mask Standard)

This standard evaluates masks based on:

• Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE)
• Breathability (<5)
• Splash Resistance (Type IIR)
• Microbial Cleanliness
  
• Biocompatibility

EN 14683 Type IIR masks are widely recognised for fluid-resistant surgical applications and are commonly accepted as an international equivalent to AS 4381:2015.

Medical Mask Levels & Clinical Applications

Medical masks are classified by performance level, which helps determine their appropriate clinical use:

Level 1 - 80 mm Hg (low)

• Evaluated for bacterial filtration, differential pressure, and synthetic blood penetration at minimum velocity.
• Applications: General-purpose medical procedures where blood or bodily fluid exposure is minimal, e.g., patient visits for upper respiratory tract infections.

Level 2 - 120mm Hg (moderate)

• Evaluated at middle velocity for fluid resistance, BFE, and breathability.
• Applications: Emergency departments, dentistry, minor wound care, or procedures with minimal blood exposure (e.g., endoscopy).

Level 3 - 160 mm Hg (high)

• Evaluated at maximum velocity for fluid resistance, BFE, and breathability.
• Applications: Surgical procedures, major trauma, or any area with a high risk of blood or bodily fluid splash (e.g., orthopaedic, cardiovascular).

The following infographic highlights why fluid resistance matters in clinical environments:

The Australian Standard (AS 4381:2015) also assesses BFE, fluid resistance, and breathability on a pass/fail basis using visual evidence of synthetic blood penetration. Medical masks supplied in New Zealand must comply with AS 4381:2015 or an accepted international equivalent.

 

Practical Factors for Choosing the Right Mask

When selecting medical masks for your healthcare facility, evaluate the following criteria:

1. Fit & Seal: Contoured to the chin, nose, and upper neck. Avoid gaping to reduce microorganism exposure.
   
   
2. Convenience: Easy to put on and remove. Choose between ear loops or tie-ons; ensure packaging allows individual mask removal.
   
   
3. Material Quality & Ply: Multi-layer constructions (e.g., 3-ply) enhance fluid absorption and bacterial capture while remaining breathable.
   
   
4. Filtration and Fluid Resistance: 
   1. BFE ≥98% is recommended for clinical environments with moderate to high exposure risk.
      
      
   2. Fluid resistance ≥120 mmHg should be prioritised in settings where splashes are possible.
      
5. Differential Pressure, i.e Breathability: <5 for comfort; anti-fog properties help maintain eyewear visibility.
   
   
6. Flammability: Class 1
   
   
7. Packaging Transparency: Clear labelling of standards (AS 4381:2015, EN 14683:2019) enables staff to confirm performance levels and regulatory alignment.

 

Why Quality and Compliance Matter

Not all face masks meet required medical standards. Substandard or counterfeit masks can compromise infection control through inadequate filtration, poor fluid resistance, or inconsistent breathability, placing healthcare workers and patients at risk. Verification of accreditation, test reports, and manufacturer traceability should be a standard part of PPE procurement.

How to Verify Mask Compliance

Mask packaging or accompanying documentation should explicitly indicate:

• Standard(s) met (AS 4381:2015, EN 14683:2019, etc.)
• Level rating (Level 1, 2 or 3)
• Manufacturer and batch/test certification

If this information is absent, request supporting documentation from your supplier before use.

Selecting the correct medical face mask is critical for infection control and occupational safety in healthcare settings. Mask choice should be guided by recognised performance standards, clinical risk assessment, and documented compliance to ensure both staff and patient protection.

Contact Eagle Protect today to request product samples, verify compliance, and explore our Eagle mask dispensers for secure, hygienic storage. Our experts help your facility maintain infection prevention measures that meet both international standards and practical clinical needs.