What are the best ways to avoid fake N95 masks?

A genuine KN95 mask is branded with information such as the name of its maker as well as the words “GB2626-2019,” which refers to the most recent quality control standard recognized by the Chinese authorities. If the GB number on your mask ends in 2006, it was manufactured by earlier Chinese respirator requirements, but it is still functional if it has not yet reached its expiration date.

A check on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List will reveal that N95 mask are the gold standard among FDA-approved masks in the United States, and you can verify their legitimacy by searching on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List. All NIOSH-approved respirators are labeled on the front with the letters “NIOSH” and the model and lot numbers of the respirator. A TC approval number (for example, TC 84A-XXXX) will be included, which you can use to verify that it corresponds to the correct one.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are a few signs that your N95 may be a fake:

Because it contains ear loops without a clip to attach them behind the head, it does not qualify as an N95. N95s normally have elastic bands worn behind the head, and earloops would need to have been approved for use with a connecting clasp — not just hanging loose around the ears.

According to its description, it is appropriate for children: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) does not endorse any sort of respiratory protection for children.

It is embellished with decorative elements such as sequins.

It does not have all of the mandatory label markings on the front of the package: Examples of the markings can be found here, as well as farther down on this page.

What’s the difference between N95 and KN95?

The most significant distinction between the two major options is that N95 masks are the US Standard and have been approved by the FDA, whereas KN95 masks are the Chinese Standard but have not been approved by the FDA.

Occupational safety and health regulations are administered by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The N95 mask is so named because it has the potential to filter out 95% of airborne particles when worn appropriately. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost all masks come with a head strap (two elastic bands that attach behind your head), which is the gold standard in masks.

Although the KN95 mask is manufactured to fulfill Chinese regulations for medical masks, there is a greater range in fit and construction; you can buy KN95s with ear loops as well as elastic bands behind the head. However, they are not subject to the same level of regulation as N95s.

While the FDA granted temporary emergency-use authorization to KN95s to provide more options for high-quality protection to healthcare workers in the United States. If you’re seeking the highest-quality, most dependable mask, go only for N95.