N95 RESPIRATOR MASK TYPES: BASIC INFORMATION
The N95 is the most popular series of particulate respirator masks that meet United States government standards. The face masks are tested to reduce exposure to airborne contaminates by NIOSH - the National Institiute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH has nine total approval classes, N95, N99, N100, R95, R99, R100, P95, P99, P100 organized by oil compatibility and filter efficiency. The letter signifies how the filter tests in environments exposed to oil aerosols: N95, N99, & N100. These filters are not to be used with oil aerosols. These should be used in environments exposed to particulates which do not contain oil. In many cases, the n- respirators can be reused multiple times. R95, R99, & R100. These filters are oil resistant. The r- respirators can be used in atmospheres containing particulates any solid or liquid hazard including oil-based hazards. These are one-time use masks. P95, P99, & P100. These filters are oil proo...