No matter where you get your mask, know the facts first
by David Rosow
With all the talk about the different types of masks out there and their respective performance, we thought it would be helpful to provide clear information about each one.
| Connecticut Mask Company's CMC10 / CMC30 | N95 | KN95 | |
| Testing & Approval | Both masks are authorized by the FDA | FDA | NIOSH (a division of the CDC) |
| How to verify a masks legitimacy and warnings about approvals | Verify the CMC masks on the FDA's Appendix A list. | Enter the TC (approval number) found on the mask to the NIOSH Certified Equipment List lookup | Real KN95s will be stamped with either “GB 2626-2006” or “GB 2626-20". However, it it is nearly impossible to verify the mask and its markings against the Chinese registry. This type of mask is most likely to be a fake. |
| Fit Test Requirement | No | Yes | Yes |
| User Seal Check Requirements | No | Yes, required each time the users dons (puts on) the mask | Yes, required each time the users dons (puts on) the mask |
| Washable or Reusable? | Not washable, reusable, or shareable | Not washable, reusable, or shareable | Not washable, reusable, or shareable |
| Single use, disposable? | Yes | Yes | Yes |