6.5.1 Protection of the face and prevention of droplet inhalation

The use of “masks” to prevent spray droplet inhalation and protection of the operator's nose and mouth is a generally accepted protective measure.

It has been understood for a long time that surgical and ordinary cloth face coverings provide incomplete protection, but the COVID-19 pandemic has focused design, development and awareness about commercial masks and quantification of their effectiveness.[1]

Failing the use of respirators designed for this purpose, inexpensive, comfortable and well-fitting masks can achieve up to 99% filtration and standards have been established: in Europe, the FFP2 standard is recommended for the general public, which is approximately equivalent to NIOSH N95 in the US and KF94 in South Korea; the KN95 “standard” in China lacks strict government regulation and may under-perform. [2]

Face visors protect the face from irritating or toxic sprays, but commercial equipment is expensive and may cost more than €/$20. The INIAP, Ecuador face visor (as shown here) was developed as a very low- cost alternative. It can be made from a 2 L plastic (but not ribbed) soft drinks bottle, tied on with strings.