DU Health Care Providers: Here is how to know if any donated N95 masks are "real" /not counterfeit

[hlthe2b]

I was just among the recipients of donated N95 masks and since I've always used those from 3-M, I wanted to make sure these (Moldex--one of three American companies making them including 3-M) were 'real' before sharing with other colleagues. And yes, counterfeit N95 masks is a real issue now.

Here is the info CDC-NIOS and FDA have provided to help you know for sure. (Yeah, these donated ARE actually real): https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/usernotices/counterfeitResp.html

How to identify a NIOSH-approved respirator:

NIOSH-approved respirators have an approval label on or within the packaging of the respirator (i.e. on the box itself and/or within the users’ instructions). Additionally, an abbreviated approval is on the FFR itself. You can verify the approval number on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List (CEL) or the NIOSH Trusted-Source page to determine if the respirator has been approved by NIOSH. NIOSH-approved FFRs will always have one the following designations: N95, N99, N100, R95, R99, R100, P95, P99, P100.

Signs that a respirator may be counterfeit:

No markings at all on the filtering facepiece respirator
No approval (TC) number on filtering facepiece respirator or headband
No NIOSH markings
NIOSH spelled incorrectly
Presence of decorative fabric or other decorative add-ons (e.g., sequins)
Claims for the of approval for children (NIOSH does not approve any type of respiratory protection for children)
Filtering facepiece respirator has ear loops instead of headbands

See the link above for more detail and photos of counterfeited masks.

[hlthe2b]

2. These were collected from dentist, veterinary and other provider groups and donated through

county medical groups and local public health. I'd think that is reputable enough, but even those sources can be scammed.

I posted this as a service to others like me dealing with the shortage and have provided valid information.

I'd appreciate your realizing that this is a real damned issue for those of us working right now. Perhaps you didn't mean to be snarky, but I took it as such.

[2naSalit]

3. Thank you!

I am possibly going to be involved with a mask donation drive in my county and this is good info for us to have.

[OhioChick]

4. You can also authentic via 3M

https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/worker-health-safety-us/3m-safeguard/

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