Understanding ASTM Standards
Not all masks are made equal. They're made in facilities around the world, with varying degrees of protection and safety coverage. ASTM Standards help to ensure that products meet certain requirements - which is especially important in medical face coverings. We've put together a full guide to help our customers make informed purchases, and ensure they're getting the protection they need for their families and businesses. Our local ASTM expert, Octavian, is here to explain.
About ASTM Ratings
ASTM F2100 is an international standard from the American Society for Testing and Materials which informs specifications for medical face coverings. ASTM Level 1, 2, and 3 face masks must meet 5 different specifications in order to be rated and approved under ASTM, meaning mask quality standards can be upheld across various manufacturers and industries.
How are ASTM Masks Tested?
Our ASTM masks are tested by an accredited third-party testing lab in Ontario, Canada. Our in-house testing and quality assurance capabilities ensure we deliver the highest quality products.
What are ASTM Masks made of?
ASTM F2100 rated masks are made of a middle filtration layer made up of non-woven meltblown polypropylene sandwiched between two outer layers of spunbond polypropylene. The inner layer provides exceptional filtration capability, while the outer layers provide added filtration and durability.
How are ASTM Masks made?
Our ASTM rated masks are manufactured at our facility in Waterloo, Ontario, using our proprietary automation and vision systems. These systems allow us to produce large quantities of Canadian-made, quality-checked PPE products at cost-competitive prices. The masks are made by combining 3 material layers through a process called ultrasonic welding.
Why Purchase ASTM rated masks?
ASTM rated masks have proven filtration efficiencies. Unrated 3-ply masks are not ASTM approved, and may not have the middle meltblown layer which provides the majority of the mask's filtration capacity.
Find an ASTM rated mask with the protection you need.
We offer ASTM Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 masks for purchase in quantities as low as 50, or as high as 1,000 directly on our site.
Frequently Asked Questions About ASTM Standards:
What does ASTM stand for?
ASTM stands for American Society for Testing and Materials. The ASTM informs standards for various different products and industries. ASTM F2100 is the specific standard for medical face coverings.
What are the ASTM Standards for Medical Face Masks?
ASTM F2100 specifies the required performance levels for medical face masks using five basic criteria: Fluid Resistance, Pressure Differential (Delta P), Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE), Particulate Filtration Efficiency (PFE), and Flame Spread.
How do I know if my mask is ASTM rated?
Check the packaging of your product for information on the rating. ASTM F2100 Standards should be included on the label, and specify a Level 1, 2, or 3 mask. Some products may be rated as Type I, Type II, or Type IIR - this is the European Standard, which is not applicable in North America as the ASTM Standard is more stringent. When possible, always buy from a Canadian or North American manufacturer using the ASTM rating system.