Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What type of respirator mask is designed to protect against airborne particles?

1. N95

2. KN95

3. Surgical mask

4. Half-mask respirator

The correct answer is: N95

The N95 respirator is specifically designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including large respiratory droplets and smaller aerosols that may contain viruses and bacteria. It achieves this through a close-fitting structure that creates a seal around the nose and mouth, which minimizes the risk of particulate exposure. The N95 mask is commonly used in healthcare and laboratory settings, especially during outbreaks of respiratory diseases, as it meets established standards for filtration efficiency and airflow resistance. It is particularly effective for individuals who are in close contact with infectious agents or environments where airborne transmission is a concern. While KN95 masks are also effective in filtering airborne particles and are similar in performance, the N95 mask is recognized and regulated under specific U.S. guidelines, making it a common choice in various settings. Surgical masks primarily provide a barrier against larger droplets and do not provide a tight seal, so their effectiveness against airborne particles is limited. Half-mask respirators can also filter airborne particles but typically require additional filtration cartridges for specific contaminants and are used in more industrial or hazardous environments.