Novel Manufacturing of Simple Masks in Response to International Shortages: Bacterial and Particulate Filtration Efficiency Testing

Bayersdorfer, Jennifer; Giboney, Sue; Martin, Rosemary; Moore, Andria; Bartles, Rebecca

Many healthcare systems have been forced to outsource simple mask production due to international shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Providence created simple masks using surgical wrap and submitted samples to an environmental lab for bacterial filtration efficiency testing. Bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE) rates ranged from 83.0 – 98.1% depending on specific material and ply, and particular filtration efficiency (PFE) rates ranged from 92.3-97.7%. Based on mask configuration, specific surgical wrap selected, and ply, the recommended filtration efficiency for isolation and surgical masks of 95% and 98%, respectively can be achieved. These alternative masks can allow for similar coverage and safety when hospital-grade isolation masks are in short supply.