UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES – MANILA Biology 110

1st Semester AY 2021-2022 Integrated Principles of Biology

Chavez, Maria Cristina

Jocson, Mariella Ann
Members: Ramos, Kelzey Nicole
Trinidad, Cyanna Joane

Year and 2nd Year

Date Submitted: 09-12-2022
Program: BS Applied Physics - Biology 110 Lec 6

Filtration efficiency of hospital face mask alternatives available for use

during the COVID-19 pandemic

Throughout the height of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic

cases, there had been a huge concern about the allocation of protection resources for
healthcare professionals. This has caused them to experience insufficiencies in health
care materials and the practice of nonstandard, decontaminant alternative procedures
to preserve face masks lifespan. Consequently, this study aims to examine the fitted
filtration efficiencies (FFEs) of these alternative respirators and face masks used
during the pandemic. The study used the Health Administration’s Quantitative Fit
Testing Protocol through adult male and female volunteers. Participants were then
modeled to use new, expired, and sterilized face masks through a series of repeated
movements that stimulates the working environment of face masks users. In line with
this, the utilization of particle generators and face masks fitted with probes were used to
continuously monitor the particles outside. Accordingly, this study revealed that out of
the face masks alternatives, use of worn-out N95 masks with secure elastic bands and
ethylene oxide-sterilized masks remained a FFE performance of over 95%, however,
using incorrect size of this mask resulted in a marginally lower range—between 90% to
95% FFE. Surgical and procedure masks exhibited low FFEs, with elastic ear
loop-secured masks inhibiting the worst result—38.1% FFE. This study suggests that
when N95 respirators are not available, alternative options are acceptable but may also
not be as effective. Thus, ensuring importance on the face mask’s fit to one’s face, and
emphasizing the quality of the material can guarantee greater protection.