The Difference Between Surgical Masks and N95s
With the entrance of PPE in the publicâs everyday vocabulary, it is important to note differences in masks and respirators.
By Jeffrey Birkner, Chris Arey
Feb 01, 2021
It’s a question that has grown in popularity this year and with good reason: What is the difference between a surgical mask and a N95 respirator?
While both may be referred to as “masks,” these two protective devices are actually used for different functions. From how they fit the user’s face to the intended uses, surgical masks and N95 respirators are very different kinds of masks. Below is a breakdown of what separates surgical masks from N95s and the levels of protection that they provide.