Can We Re-use Disposable Masks?

With increasing pressure due to COVID for everyone to wear a mask when near other people in public areas or at work we need to understand correct usage and disposal.

Incorrect Use of Masks Spreads Germs & Viruses

The first important point is, disposable masks are only intended for single use and if we mishandle any type of mask, they will only give a false sense of security and actually increase the risk of spreading germs and viruses.

Watch a video demonstrating how easy it is to accidentally spread germs and viruses while handling a mask here.

Can we Re-Use Disposable Masks?

Yes, it is possible to re-use disposable masks during a shift if they are still in good condition and handled correctly. This response recognises both the ability to maintain integrity of the mask’s barrier and the need to minimise waste and conserve valuable resources.

However, if we intend to re-use any masks, we need to ensure all personnel are properly trained in the potential hazards and correct storage, use, and disposal procedures.

Correct Use of Disposable Masks

Below is a summary of the key steps for correct use of disposable masks.

Donning Disposable Mask:

1. Wash hands and or apply hand sanitiser.

2. Pick up mask by the ear straps and identify the outside surface.

3. Mark outside of mask with a pen e.g. with your initials or unique symbol.

4. Hold mask open using the ear straps.

5. Place on one ear, pull across face and hook on the other ear.

6. Pinch mask over nose and pull down under chin for good comfortable fit over your face.

Donning a Disposable Mask

During Use:

1. Never touch the outside of your mask while it is on your face. The outside of the mask is considered dirty. If need to adjust the mask hold the ear straps or top or bottom elastic edges, and apply hand sanitiser again and periodically.

2. Don’t pull mask down around neck eg to talk to someone, as the mask over the face is critical when talking or coughing, and pulling it down can cause contamination of the inside of the mask.

Doffing Mask eg Taking off Mask:

1. Clean hands or use hand sanitiser.

2. Lift mask from face only touching clean areas e.g. ear straps.

3. Check mask is still in good condition and suitable for re-use e.g. no tears and not saturated or visibly soiled. Dispose of mask if not in good condition.

4. If mask is in good condition fold mask in half (long ways) with dirty outside folded in.

5. Then carefully place mask in a labelled bag for temporary storage during the day and seal bag e.g. zip lock or fold paper bag.

6. Clean hands again e.g. hand sanitiser or soap and water.

Donning Used Mask:

1. Wash hands and or apply hand sanitiser.

2. Open bag and grasp mask by the strap only.

3. Identify outside of mask per pen marking eg initials.

4. Place on one ear then the other and adjust per earlier points.

5. Apply hand sanitiser.

6. Dispose of mask at end of shift.

Note: The same good hygiene practices are necessary for non-surgical type masks e.g. home-made fabric masks.