Frequently Asked Questions
The F0230 model mask is a very unique design, which was conceptualized with maximum flexibility in mind. Almost all reusable respirators have exhalation valves and most disposable models have a version with and without exhalation valves.
Instead of multiple models, our F0230 mask can be either vented or not depending upon the users needs. During the warmer months, our F0230 masks came only with the vent hole precut. Our unique design has several millimeters of filter overlap, which covers the valve seal point so it is never totally unfiltered. This is also a safety measure to prevent leakage.
This valve can also be totally filtered per our instructions, and we also provide full coverage filters with no vent hole for those who never need the moisture vent for full filter efficiency. With the full cover filters, you may remove the valve disc or leave it in place.
A great way to perform a fit test is to use a piece of plastic, such as a plastic bag, to cover the entire front of the mask. When inhaling, the silicone gasket should seal around the face and create a tight vacuum. If any parts of the gasket are allowing air to pass between the mask and your face, simply reposition the mask until you have a tight seal. In addition, a well sealed mask on the top portion will not allow glasses to fog up.
Yes,
But the CDC mandated over the summer that absolutely no valved masks are allowed on planes. An exposed valve on our mask is very visible, so you will need to either filter the valve or use our no-hole filters to comply with the rules.
The F0230 model mask is designed to function similar to classic cloth surgical masks, which are typically tied behind the head each use.
The slider is intended to help find your tension level and keep the straps even, and not hold enough tension to maintain a seal. Once you have found your desired tension level, tie the elastic strap to lock in the tension, per the instructions. Then it can be slid on and off over the head and does not need to be tied each time for a proper fit thereafter.
The F0230 mask was designed for flexibility. The heart of our masks is the Hollingsworth & Vose Technostat® Plus filter media. In independent lab testing by Nelson Labs, our filter media will filter 99.9% of particulates at .3 microns and has notable filtration as low as .1 micron.
This filtration level is achieved by electrostatic charging, which acts as a static charge to make particulates cling to the fibers of the filter. Moisture can reduce filter efficiency and this is why the moisture valve is needed for some uses to maintain filtration efficiency.
Our valve is uniquely designed to have significant filter overlap, and functions much differently versus most exhalation valves. Furthermore, a plastic ring was built into the outer frame to cut a secondary piece of filter and completely seal off the valve when needed. We also have full coverage, no-hole filters available.
During the pandemic, we recommend filtering the valve whenever your specific use does not require excess moisture ventilation. Please see our instructions for more information regarding the valve.
We created the F0230 during the COVID-19 pandemic to help global healthcare providers with the dire N95 mask shortage.
Most respirators are quite deep, while surgical masks are very low profile. Prior to the pandemic, most healthcare practitioners would use low profile surgical masks as a liquid barrier along with other medical equipment such as loops, lights, shields, etc.
Our design was initially intended to preserve downward visibility, as well as function with the other aforementioned medical equipment and PPE. The main attributes we were given while designing with clinicians was: reusable, easy to sanitize, wears like a low profile surgical mask, filters like a respirator and breathes easy.
While anyone can wear the NXTGEN F0230 mask, it was designed for functionality over comfort in frontline critical care. We are also in the process of creating a deeper inner gasket design for more general use. It should be ready Fall 2020.
Yes!
The inner and outer frame is made of medical grade impact copolymer. Should your mask lose its shape, this can be corrected by gently and slowly heating it up and reshaping the needed components. It is important to take it slowly and do not get the mask too close to the heat source. This can be done with a heat gun on low, or with a hairdryer.
Always remove the filter, as they will be degraded by heat. It is also a good idea to remove the strap if using with a heat gun.
The filters included with your NXTGEN EasyFlow™ F0230 mask are reusable. The general use guidelines are to change the filters either every 40 hours of use, or once per month if your use is more limited.
You should also change the filter right away if they become damaged, soiled, or if there is increased breathing resistance.
Use in areas with a lot of particulates, such as around wildfires, industrial areas, or very dusty environments may also require quicker filter change intervals.
When in doubt, change your filter to maintain maximum filtration efficiency and never use your mask with a damaged filter. Safety first is always the best practice.
The HEPA filters used in our masks will filter properly in either direction. Therefore, a specific direction is not required for proper use; however, one side is more ‘fuzzy’ than the other. Some users find it more comfortable facing the fuzzy side out, so it does not touch their face.
The shallow nature of our F0230 mask is required for many clinicians to preserve downward visibility, layer other PPE and allow the use of medical optics, cameras, loops, lights, etc. Our unique design was created to combine the low-profile fitment of a surgical mask with the tighter fitting, sub-micron filtration of a respirator.
Users with larger noses who experience some rubbing on the inner frame may trim away some of the circular inner frame portions for a more customized fit. Doing so will free a bit more space and allow the nose to touch the felt, instead of the plastic, for a more traditional mask feel.
Mask Valve Information
The EasyFlow mask™ uses electrostatic filter media to achieve its notable breathability, while still providing excellent sub-micron filtration between .1 and .3 microns. Extreme heat and moisture are two factors that may reduce filter efficiency. We have integrated a unique moisture vent system to allow for better moisture control in warm outdoor conditions or during intense physical activity. This moisture vent does not allow as much unfiltered exhalation as typical exhalation valves; however, it is recommended that you filter the valve when this vent is not needed. The filter cutout is several millimeters smaller than the seal point of the disc to prevent leakage. As of September 2020 we also provide filters with no valve cutout as we head into the cooler months. When using the no-hole filters you may either remove the silicone disc or leave it in place.
Filtering The Valve
A piece of filter about the size of the silicone disc can be cut and layered with the main filter to seal the valve. When assembling the mask, place this cut piece first on the outer frame, then place the main filter over it and ensure the entire hole of the main filter is covered. The circular ridge on the outer frame was specifically designed and placed to hold this extra piece in place to filter the valve as needed.
Mask Placement
The EasyFlow Mask™ is a one size fits most product, designed with flexibility in mind. The upper and lower portions were designed to be moved up and down several inches to fit many facial types. The slider included with the strap is not intended to hold tension, rather it is there to help find the best fit. Once you have found your desired level of tension, pinch the straps at the slider, remove the upper strap and tie it in a bow to lock in place.
Adjustments For Nose Rubbing
The shallow nature of our F0230 mask is required for many clinicians to preserve downward visibility, layer other PPE and allow the use of medical optics, cameras, loops, lights, etc. Our unique design was created to combine the low-profile fitment of a surgical mask with the tighter fitting, sub-micron filtration of a respirator.
Users with larger noses who experience some rubbing on the inner frame may trim away some of the circular inner frame portions for a more customized fit. Doing so will free a bit more space and allow the nose to touch the felt, instead of the plastic, for a more traditional mask feel. The perimeter of the inner frame and gasket should not be adjusted, so a proper seal is still achieved.
All modifications are done at the users own risk.
Mask Overview
CDC Facial Hair Guidelines For Wearing Masks & Respirators
