An analysis of imported Chinese KN95 masks by the not-for-profit organization ECRI showed that up to 70% of these masks fail to meet the minimum U.S. standards for effectiveness, according to a news release.
ECRI tested 15 different manufacturer models of masks and nearly 200 total masks that had been purchased by large U.S. health systems. The tests, which ECRI indicated were performed according to "rigorous product testing protocols," showed that a majority of the masks did not filter 95% of aerosol particulates, as the "95" in KN95 is supposed to indicate. Thus, they do not meet the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) N95 standard.
While this analysis further supports that non-certified KN95 masks should never be used as an alternative to N95s, they can serve as a "surgical mask" alternative, states Infection Control Consulting Services Founder Phenelle Segal, RN, CIC, FAPIC.
Such sentiment was reflected in the ECRI news release, with Michael Argentieri, vice president for technology and safety for the organization, quoted as stating, "KN95 masks that don't meet U.S. regulatory standards still generally provide more respiratory protection than surgical or cloth masks and can be used in certain clinical settings."
ECRI also noted its researchers found that many non-certified masks with head and neck straps, as opposed to masks with ear loops, better conform to and seal against the wearer's face, which helps ensure air being breathed is filtered.
