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How to be Environmentally Responsible with Your Face Mask

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Face masks have been required in most parts of Australia at some point in time during the year and widely recommended everywhere. But despite the fact that billions of people worldwide have been advised to wear face masks, there has been little to no advice on how to be environmentally responsible with them, specifically how to dispose, clean and recycle face masks properly.

As a result, according to the United Nations, even if adequately disposed of properly, about 75% of used masks and other pandemic-related waste, such as gloves and face shields, will end up in landfills or oceans.

The majority of disposable masks are made of long-lasting plastic materials that, if discarded, will survive for decades to hundreds of years in the ground. Evidence suggests that they may lead to high levels of toxic microplastic fibres found on land and in waterways. The plastic endangers ecosystems and increases microplastic waste, which is ingested by marine life and as a by-product consumed by humans.

What’s the Solution?

According to a recent working paper from London’s Plastic Waste Innovation Hub, the UK’s current domestic demand is 24.7 billion face masks per year. However, if only reusable face masks are used, the market for domestic face masks in the UK decreases sharply – to about 136 million a year.

In addition, another study by the University College London measured and compared the total environmental effects of the manufacturing, usage, and disposal of reusable masks with disposable filters. Over the course of a year, they discovered that machine washing reusable face masks without filters had the least effect on the environment.

With this in mind, we should take the following precautions to minimise the adverse environmental effects of wearing a face mask:

  1. The best way to tackle this is by keeping a reserve of reusable face masks without disposable filters on rotation. But make sure you machine wash them daily, according to the fabric’s guidance.
  2. Keep a backup mask in your bag so that if something goes wrong with the one you’re wearing, you won’t have to use or buy a disposable face mask.
  3. If you do use a disposable face mask, take it home and dispose of it in a bin with a lid. Or correctly place it in a public bin if this isn’t possible.
  4. Don’t put disposable masks in the recycling. They will get stuck in the specialised recycling machines, posing a biohazard to waste workers.
  5. Whatever you do, don’t litter any type of face mask!

Affordable Reusable Face Masks Australia

Biomed has assisted many Australians through the COVID-19 pandemic by distributing high-grade medical mask and providing correct medical information to our customers with the help of medical professionals.

At Biomed, we proudly hold one of Australia’s best medical grade healthcare fabrics for reusable face masks in Australia. Our fabric manufacturing facilities create anti-bacterial fabric blends that are strong and adaptive. Our thoroughly checked and designed face masks offer optimum comfort and flexibility, making them suitable for wear by people of all ages.

Our fabric manufacturing facilities are capable of producing a wide range of face masks in a number of sizes, layers, and configurations. Custom designs, such as logos, can be created by Biomed for any customer. We sell five reusable medical masks in a variety of price ranges and for different applications.

  • Bioshield-05
  • 5-layer face mask
  • 7-layer face mask
  • Anti-bacterial face mask
  • 3-layer face mask

Healthcare Fabric

Our healthcare fabric manufacturing methods generate healthcare fabrics – also known as healthcare textiles or biomedical textiles – which are a type of medical fabric in which application takes precedence over aesthetics. These healthcare fabrics are used to provide medicinal benefits as well as for sanitation, fitness, and personal care reasons.

Even minor differences in healthcare fabrics may have a major effect on a patient’s wellbeing. As a result, the use of high-quality healthcare fabrics is critical for successful treatment.

Our face masks have some of the most amazing features on the market, such as being latex-free, allergen-free, anti-bacterial, breathable, strenuous-free, and durable for maximum reliability throughout any daily activity.

Stay Safe with BioMed

At Biomed, our mission as professional fabric manufacturers is to create high-quality healthcare fabrics and produce superior fabric manufacturing, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management.

Our dedication to strict Australian fabric manufacturing standards demonstrates the reliability of our products and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products. Our reusable face masks Australia offers a high level of comfort by minimising skin irritations, alongside anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic properties for safety and comfort.

Through the prevention of germs and bacteria, the life of medical products – such as CPAP masks, CPAP Chin Straps, Back Support Braces and many more CPAP Accessories – can be prolonged. As the build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabrics that are not of a medical-grade, to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed CPAP Supplies to supply medical grade healthcare fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of CPAP Accessories, Face Masks and other Medical-Grade Healthcare Fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

 

Addressing The Legality of Face Masks

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Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, citizens throughout Australia have legally been required to wear a face mask at one stage or another. While the large majority of people comply, there are many people – mostly online – who spread myths and conspiracy theories about the effectiveness of a face mask in preventing the spread of Coronavirus.

Even though many health care professionals have strongly advocated the importance of wearing a medical face mask, the myths still float around. As Biomed is a leading supplier of health masks and is Australia’s best supplier of medical-grade textiles, we wanted to bust some of the myths concerning the legality and effectiveness of the face mask, so you have ultimate peace of mind.

Do Masks Infringe on Constitutional Freedoms and Human Rights?

Some people have claimed that the mask requirement is unlawful to their human rights and a breach of their constitutional freedoms.

According to the Public Health and Wellbeing Acts – which are set independently by each state and territory in Australia – is the legal power that allows governments to issue public health orders during a public health emergency as they see fit. So snap orders like wearing a face mask, border closures and social distancing orders, is entirely legal in Australia.

Such emergency powers can detain any person or group who refuses such orders, as they are considered a severe risk to public health according to section 200 of the Act. This law is where the power of mandatory hotel quarantine detention comes from.

“Australia is indeed a signatory to a several conventions that impose broad obligations around human rights and anti-discrimination, to name a couple. But do they give you a right not to wear a face mask — or a right not to be treated differently or refused entry to a business if you refuse to wear one? No.” says Professor Sarre in his article published on the ABC.

According to Australia’s Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Act, wearing a face mask does not break this law. As in most cases, the right to be discriminated against on the basis of what you’re wearing – a face mask – does not exist.

In comparison to America, Australia does not have an explicit right to freedom of speech in our constitution. So, no-one can refuse to wear a face mask with the excuse of breaching “their freedom of speech”, because wearing a face mask is a public health order. Although, the government has provided exceptions to mandatory masks, including for children under 12, specific medical conditions, a professional reason or if in some activities such as running.

Can Businesses Legally Refuse Entry for Maskless Customers?

Absolutely! The bottom line is that store owners have an obligation to ensure their private property is as safe as possible for customers and staff. This becomes a little complicated in Covid-19 times. Still, in order to keep their private property safe, businesses are entitled to do whatever it is that will safeguard their patrons and staff effectively, hence the mandatory wearing of a medical mask.

Businesses are entitled to set any reasonable conditions on entry into their premises; businesses have been refusing customer entry for a range of reasons for a long time. For example, women have to wear heels into certain night clubs, and customers can not wear bike helmets into banks.

Are Other Face Coverings More Effective than Face Masks?

It is important to note that not all coverings are effective such as scarfs, bandanas and face shields.

A face mask and a face shield are two very different things; a shield protects the wearer’s eyes which is an area germs get into even when wearing a face mask. Hence, face shields are not adequate by themselves as they do not seal entirely around your face; healthcare workers recommended wearing both a face mask and shield at the same time.

In general, the best option for a face covering is a medical mask. Medical face masks provide a physical barrier to block germs coming into your body through your mouth and nose, while also preventing any germs from spreading from your body to others.

At Biomed, we proudly hold one of Australia’s best medical grade textile ranges for reusable face masks. Our complex and sensitive fabric combinations have anti-bacterial properties, and our designs provide maximum comfort and versatility, perfect for any age to wear comfortably.

Most importantly, at Biomed, we understand many workers must wear face masks for long hours on their shift. This is why we have highly tested and engineered our masks for superior quality and comfort. As a result, our masks are latex-free, allergen-free, anti-bacterial, breathable, stretchy and durable for maximum ease and reliability throughout the workday.

Our range of face masks fabrics are available in a variety of sizes, layers and specifications. Biomed can assist any customer with custom designs such as logos. We offer five reusable medical masks which suit different price ranges and different usages;

  • Bioshield-05
  • 5-layer face mask
  • 7-layer face mask
  • Anti-bacterial face mask
  • 3-layer face mask

Stay Safe with BioMed

Biomed’s mission is to create high-quality medical textiles, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management. Our dedication to strict Australian standards demonstrates the reliability of our products and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products that offer a high level of comfort through the minimisation of skin irritations, alongside anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic properties for safety and comfort.

Through the prevention of germs and bacteria, the life of medical products such as CPAP masks can be prolonged, as the build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabric that is not of a medical-grade to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply medical grade fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of medical-grade fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

Safeguard Your Children with These Medical Products

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As Australian children continue attending school during the Covid-19 pandemic, adults should continuously monitor their children’s health and keep them home with even the slightest of flu symptoms.

Parents and guardians should teach good hygiene and health practices to their children, including wearing a facemask, appropriate handwashing, hand sanitising, coughing and sneezing into a tissue or elbow, and avoiding touching face, eyes, mouth and nose.

Face Masks for Children During the Covid-19 Pandemic

A medical mask controls the spread of the virus and protects the wearer. Face masks provide a physical barrier that blocks germs from your body through your mouth and nose while also preventing germs from spreading from your body to others.

The incubation period for children is the same as in adults. The time between exposure to COVID-19 and when symptoms start is commonly around 5 to 6 days and ranges from 1 to 14 days.

WHO and UNICEF advise that children aged 12 and over should wear a mask under the same conditions as adults. However, in countries like the USA, which have higher cases, children aged two and above must wear a face mask. In particular, children should wear face masks when a 1-metre distance from others cannot be guaranteed, or if there is widespread transmission in an area.

Children who are in general good health can wear a non-medical or fabric mask. But it is important to note that not all coverings are effective such as scarfs, bandanas and face shields. You should make sure the face masks you use for children are medical-grade fabrics to certify maximum protection.

The adult providing a face mask to a child must ensure it is the correct size which sufficiently covers the child’s nose, mouth, and chin. At Biomed, we proudly hold one of Australia’s best medical grade textile ranges for reusable face masks. Using complex and sensitive fabric combinations, our designs provide maximum comfort and versatility, perfectly comfortable for any age.

Our range of face masks are available in various sizes, layers, and specifications. Biomed can assist with custom designs such as logos, colours or prints, which might be more attractive for children. We offer five types of reusable medical masks which suit different price ranges and different usages.

Children’s Support Braces

Besides the medical accessories that safeguard children during a pandemic, Biomed also specialises in mineral embedded health care fabrics that aid injuries and assist in a fast recovery. Using nanotechnology to infuse medical materials with coppers and silvers, the minerals have an abundance of health benefits.

Biomed has introduced a new range of sporting compression goods with embedded mineral fabrics, to help you and your children recover faster and perform better. The most significant benefit of copper fabric support braces is FIR reflection, which promotes blood circulation and increases oxygen levels in the blood.

Relieve pain in your child’s spine or knee with our light, elastic and breathable back support braces and knee support braces.

Sleep Disorders in Children

It is expected that young children go through phases of difficulty sleeping; however, this period should be temporary. When sleeping disorders in children are not fixed, they can have permanent effects on their general well-being and functioning. It is best to see a paediatrician if your child exhibits extended signs of sleep problems.

Depending on the type of sleep disorder – parasomnia or dyssomnia, the length and severity of the condition, will affect what treatment is best suited for the child.

Specifically, if a child’s sleep disorder is caused by obstructive sleep apnoea, CPAP therapy is a standard treatment which alleviates discomfort. Biomed offers three variations of CPAP therapy, including full face masks, nasal pillows and nasal masks. Biomed also provides a range of CPAP accessories that will improve the effectiveness of CPAP therapy and are very cost-effective ways to provide comfort to patients.

Keep Children Safe with BioMed

Biomed’s mission is to create high-quality medical textiles, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management. Our dedication to strict Australian standards demonstrates our products’ reliability and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products that offer a high comfort level by minimising skin irritations, alongside antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties safety and comfort.

By preventing germs and bacteria, the life of medical products such as CPAP masks can be prolonged. The build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabric that is not of a medical-grade to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply medical grade fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of medical-grade fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

How to Prepare for a Safe Covid Christmas and New Years

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Even as society returns to a ‘new’ normal, it is still important to consider how you can modify your traditional holiday plans to reduce the spread of illnesses. There are a few helpful tips that can keep our friends and family healthy and safe this holiday season, which is particularly important for those of us planning to spend time with older relatives this holiday season.

 

Medical Masks and Reusable Face Masks

Wearing a face covering is still the number one recommendation to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Face masks provide a physical barrier to block germs coming into your body through your mouth and nose, whilst also preventing any germs spreading from your body to others.

But it is important to note that not all coverings are effective such as scarfs, bandanas and face shields. You should make sure the face masks you use for upcoming celebrations are medical grade.

At Biomed, we proudly hold one of Australia’s best medical grade textile ranges for reusable face masks. Using complex and sensitive fabric combinations, our designs provide maximum comfort and versatility, perfect for any age to wear comfortably.

Our range of face masks are available in a variety of sizes, layers and specifications, Biomed can assist with custom designs such as logos. We offer five types of reusable medical masks which suit different price ranges and different usages.

  • Bioshield-05
  • 5-layer face mask
  • 7-layer face mask
  • Antibacterial face mask
  • 3-layer face mask

Most importantly, at BioMed, we understand that face masks are worn for long periods, which is why we have thoroughly tested and engineered our masks for superior quality and comfort. As a result, our masks are latex-free, allergen-free, antibacterial, breathable, stretchy and durable for maximum use and reliability throughout the holiday season.

 

            Gift Ideas for People with Chronic Pains

In addition to safeguarding your family against illness this holiday season, it would also be beneficial to surprise your family with gifts that support a healthy lifestyle and future. Not only would BioMed’s leading medical grade face masks be great presents, but we also have an extensive range of products which can help relieve pain.

Particularly, Biomed specialises in mineral-embedded health care fabrics, with the use of nanotechnology to infuse medical materials with coppers and silvers. The minerals have an abundance of health benefits, aiding your injuries and helping you to recover faster.

The fabrics help to kill bacteria, make clothing odour-resistant and provide superior insulation. It is possible to get self-cooling fabrics, which have been proven to lower body temperatures between 1-2 degrees, thus increasing your ability to perform.

 

  • Support Braces

Help relieve the pain of your loved ones this holiday season with BioMed’s light, elastic and breathable back support braces and knee braces. Our range of sporting compression goods is imbedded with mineral fabrics, to help you recover faster and perform better. The most significant benefit of copper fabrics is FIR reflection, which promotes blood circulation and increases oxygen levels in the blood.

Our anatomically contoured corset supports back orthosis, while an individually adjustable compression acts upon the lumbar spine to control motion and limit pain. At the same time, our knee brace stabilises the kneecap and activates the musculature, to accelerate your healing process and achieve faster mobilisation.

 

  • CPAP Supplies

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a loud snorer or a sleep apnea sufferer? CPAP therapy is a common treatment to alleviate these types of discomfort. Biomed also offers a range of CPAP accessories that will improve the effectiveness of CPAP therapy and are very cost-effective ways to provide comfort to patients.

CPAP headgear is used to keep sleep apnea masks secure whilst you sleep. Our mineral embedded health care fabrics increase your comfort and eliminate skin irritations, with stretchy and durable latex-free fabric.

BioMed’s CPAP Chin Restraints for Sleep Apnea encourage soundless sleep by ensuring the mouth does not fall open during sleep. Chin Straps are most beneficial to patients who snore, as more than 80% of people snore more intensely when their mouth is open.

 

Stay Safe with BioMed This Holiday Season

Biomed’s mission is to create high-quality medical textiles, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management. Our dedication to strict Australian standards demonstrates the reliability of our products and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products that offer a high level of comfort through the minimisation of skin irritations, alongside antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties for safety and comfort.

Through the prevention of germs and bacteria, the life of medical products such as CPAP masks can be prolonged, as the build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabric that is not of a medical-grade to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply medical grade fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of medical-grade fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

Products to Claim on Your Health Insurance

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Even though 60% of Australians have private health insurance, the truth is most of us do not use the extras we pay for. Roughly 4.5 billion dollars of extras go unclaimed every year.

 

While health services such as physios and chiros are the go-to’s, health products are often overlooked as items to claim. For example, ‘back care’ items, such as supporting braces and compression garments that help you relieve constant pain or recover from injuries, can be claimed through health insurance.

 

Obviously, the rebates you receive will depend on your private health care provider. We recommend contacting your Fund prior to purchasing, to clarify if you are eligible.

 

Health Care Fabrics

Biomed specialises in mineral imbedded health care fabrics, with the use of nanotechnology to infuse medical fabrics with coppers and silvers. The minerals have an abundance of health benefits, aiding your injuries and helping you to recover faster.

 

The fabrics help to kill bacteria, make clothing odour-resistant and provide superior insulation. It is possible to get self-cooling fabrics, which have been proven to lower body temperatures between 1-2 degrees, thus increasing your ability to perform. Our range of sporting braces ranges from compression goods, knee braces, elbow braces, wrist braces, ankle braces, back support braces and full bodysuits.

 

Support Braces for Sport

Biomed has introduced a new range of sporting compression goods with our imbedded mineral fabrics, to help you recover faster and perform better. The biggest benefit of copper fabrics is FIR reflection, which promotes blood circulation and increases oxygen levels in the blood.

 

Back Support Braces

Relieve pain in your spine with BioMed’s light, elastic and breathable back supports, to align your lumber spine and relieve pressure from the intervertebral discs. Our anatomically contoured corset supports back orthosis, while an individually adjustable compression acts upon the lumbar spine to control motion and limit pain. Dual adjustable velcro allows the brace to easily adapt to any body shape, providing the perfect fit.

 

Knee Braces

Relieve pain in your knees, with BioMed’s corrective support straps. Our knee brace stabilises the kneecap and activates the musculature, to accelerate your healing process and achieve faster mobilisation. If your knee feels weak, swollen or painful, the knee supporting brace can help you.

 

CPAP Supplies

For sleep apnea sufferers or loud snorers, CPAP therapy is a common treatment to alleviate discomfort. There are three variations, including full face masks, nasal pillows and nasal masks. Biomed also offers a range of CPAP accessories that will improve the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy, and are very cost-effective ways to provide comfort to patients.

 

CPAP headgear is used to keep sleep apnea masks secure whilst you sleep. Our mineral imbedded health care fabrics increase your comfort and eliminate skin irritations, with stretchy and durable latex-free fabric.

 

BioMed’s CPAP Chin Restraints for Sleep Apnea encourage soundless sleep by ensuring the mouth does not fall open during sleep. Chin Straps are most beneficial to patients who snore, as more than 80% of people snore more intensely when their mouth is open.

 

BioMed’s Mission

Biomed’s mission is to create high-quality medical textiles, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management. Our dedication to strict Australian standards demonstrates the reliability of our products and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products that offer a high level of comfort, through the minimisation of skin irritations, alongside antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties for safety and comfort.

 

Through the prevention of germs and bacteria, the life of medical products such as CPAP masks can be prolonged, as the build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabric that is not of a medical-grade, to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

 

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply medical grade fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of medical-grade fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

Medical Accessories for Hospitality Workers

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Many Australian industries have been largely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, but among the top is Australia’s hospitality sector. Medical accessories for all hospitality workers are now the new norm, with “no face mask, no work” mandated across almost all customer-facing positions.

 

Service workers, such as baristas, waiters and fast-food attendants are at the greatest risk of both catching and transferring Covid-19. These workers are exposed to disease and infection because they are put in close physical contact with many others. Hence it is crucial to supply all hospitality workers with medical masks so they can work safely, and our stores can stay open and operational.

 

Of particular concern are those on casual contracts with lesser benefits. Usually, these lower-paying or gig jobs have no paid sick leave, forcing many workers to go to work even if they have flu-like symptoms or lose their opportunity for income. Additionally, the Australian Government has identified that younger Aussies (aged 18-30) are more likely to spread the disease. Importantly they are the age group that generally do casual, people-orientated jobs where workers are face to face with different customers every few minutes.

 

Wearing a face covering provides a physical barrier to block germs coming into your body through your mouth and nose. A medical face mask also works in reverse to protect any germs from your body being spread to others. It has been shown that a medical mask is a simple and effective way to prevent the spread of coronavirus, especially when compared to other coverings such as scarfs, bandanas and face shields.

 

At Biomed, we proudly hold one of Australia’s best medical grade textile ranges for reusable face masks. Using complex, sensitive fabric combinations, our designs provide maximum comfort and versatility to adequately meet the requests of any hospitality, retail or other customer-facing workers.

 

Most importantly, at Biomed, we understand many workers are required to wear face masks for long hours on their shift. Which is why we have highly tested and engineered our masks for superior quality and comfort. As a result, our masks are latex-free, allergen-free, antibacterial, breathable, stretchy and durable for maximum ease and reliability throughout the workday.

 

Our range of face masks fabrics are available in a variety of sizes, layers and specifications. Biomed can assist any customer with custom designs such as logos. We offer five reusable medical masks which suit different price ranges and different usages;

  • Bioshield-05
  • 5-layer face mask
  • 7-layer face mask
  • Anti-bacterial face mask
  • 3-layer face mask

 

Biomed’s mission is to create high-quality medical textiles, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management. Our dedication to strict Australian standards demonstrates the reliability of our products and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products that offer a high level of comfort through the minimisation of skin irritations alongside antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties for safety and comfort. Through the prevention of germs and bacteria, the life of medical products such as CPAP masks can be prolonged, as the build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabric that is not of a medical-grade to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

 

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply medical grade fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of medical-grade fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

How to Choose an Effective Face Mask

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Face masks/healthcare masks help to prevent the spread of bacteria and respiratory infections and have become crucial in reducing the spread of Covid-19. The Victorian Government along with many retail stores, in some states, have now made it mandatory for people to wear face masks, in an effort to slow the spread of Coronavirus.

 

Not all face masks are the same, with different types offering different levels of protection. So how do you choose a face mask and what makes a face mask effective?

When selecting the best face mask, it’s important to first understand what the purpose of wearing a face mask is? Respiratory illnesses such as Covid-19 are spread via coughing, sneezing and speaking. The particles that are released into the air and onto surfaces are highly contagious, meaning that people are able to contract the virus through close interaction with someone who is infected, or via touching a surface that has been contaminated with the virus. The role of a healthcare mask is to prevent people who have contracted the virus from spreading it within the community, by forming a barrier that limits the amount of particles released.

In the case of Covid-19, carriers of the virus are not always aware, with some people proving to be asymptomatic. This means that they do not experience any symptoms to alert them to the fact that they are ill. Therefore, wearing a healthcare mask is highly beneficial in slowing the spread of Covid-19, as anyone could be carrying the virus.

 

What type of mask should you use to protect you from coronavirus?

When choosing the best face mask, you should consider the following factors:

  • Is the face mask the correct size? Healthcare masks generally come in different sizes, ranging from small through to large. It’s important to choose the right size for your face so that you can achieve a snug fit. If the face mask is too small, it may not cover your mouth and nose effectively. Whereas, if the mask is too large, it will allow particles to escape, which could potentially spread the virus.
  • Is the fabric breathable? For a healthcare mask to be effective, users must keep the face mask on. However, this won’t be possible if the fabric isn’t breathable, therefore rendering the mask ineffective.
  • Is the fabric medical grade? Medical grade fabrics have antibacterial properties, making them suitable for use over long periods of time. Medical textiles are also designed to be breathable and comfortable to wear.
  • Is the face mask reusable? Rather than having to throw away your face mask after each wear, which negatively impacts the environment, it’s a good idea to find a reusable face mask. Reusable face masks can be washed multiple times, making them a more environmentally friendly and convenient option.

 

Biomed is a leading medical fabrics company, who has been providing quality medical textile products for decades as well as many other industry sectors. We understand the importance of robust and safe fabrics which ensure maximum comfort and reliability. For more information on our range of medical textile applications and reusable face masks, please do not hesitate to contact the Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

Reusable Face Mask FAQ’s

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Face Masks are now becoming more commonplace, with many places and some governments now making it mandatory for people/visitors to wear a mask. If you are new to wearing a Face Mack, you may have some questions about how to best maintain your mask. Below are some commonly asked questions in regards to Reusable Face Masks/ Anti bacterial Face Masks:

How do I clean my Reusable Face Mask?

There are different cleaning requirements for different types of Reusable Face Masks. Outlined below, are the cleaning methods for Biomed’s range of Reusable Face Masks. If you have obtained a mask from another manufacturer, then it is best to check with them which cleaning method is most effective for your mask.

It’s important that you clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser, both before and after touching your Face Mask.

Bioshield-05 & Anti bacterial Face Mask

To clean your Bioshield-05 Reusable Face Mask or Anti bacterial Face Mask, first boil some water (enough to cover the entire Face Mask). Then submerge the mask in the boiling water for three minutes. Be careful not to come into contact with the water as you may burn yourself during the process. Then wait until the water has cooled down before removing the mask from the water. Air dry the mask once it has been cleaned.

3 Layer, 5 Layer & 7 Layer Reusable Face Mask

When cleaning your 3 Layer, 5 Layer & 7 Layer Reusable Face Mask, be sure to not rub the mask whilst cleaning it, as this can cause the n-PTFE to burst. To wash the mask, spray 75% alcohol on the front and back of the mask. Leave the alcohol spray on the mask for a period of 15 minutes and then wash the Reusable Face Mask either by hand or in the washing machine with antimicrobial washing detergent. If you choose to wash the mask in the washing machine, place the mask in a 3D Laundry Net for protection. Once washed, dry the mask in the shade and avoid contact with sunlight.

How often should I wash my Reusable Face Mask?

If you are feeling sick with hay fever, cold or flu symptoms, you should wash your Reusable Face Mask every day. If you are feeling well, then it is fine to wash your mask every 3 days. It is important to note that each Reusable Face Mask can only be washed a certain number of times. Be sure to check how many times your Face Mask is able to be washed before disposal. Once you have washed your Face Mask for the final time, you can wear the mask for another 3 days if you are feeling well. If you are experiencing hay fever, cold or flu symptoms, only wear the mask for 1 day after the final wash and then move on to a new Reusable Face Mask.

How do I take my Reusable Face Mask off and put it on?

Before touching your Reusable Face Mask, ensure your hands have been washed with soap and water or hand sanitiser.

With clean hands, hold the ear loops and place the mask on your face so that it covers your mouth and nose. Then secure the ear loops around your ears. In order to be effective, the mask should fit snugly with no gaps.

Whilst wearing a Face Mask, be careful to not touch the mask, as it may be contaminated. If you accidentally touch the mask, wash your hands.

When removing the mask, be careful not to touch the front of the mask which may have been contaminated. Hold the mask by holding the ear loops and then lift the mask up and remove it. After removing the mask, wash your hands again.

How do I store my Reusable Face Mask in between use?

When storing your Reusable Face Mask in between usage, be sure to fold it in half so that the inside of the mask that touches your face doesn’t come into contact with other surfaces which may have been contaminated. It’s best to store your mask in a dry place that has good ventilation, such as a paper pag.

Biomed is a leading medical fabrics company, who has been providing quality medical textile products for decades as well as many other industry sectors. We understand the importance of robust and safe fabrics which ensure maximum comfort and reliability. For more information on our range of medical textile applications, please do not hesitate to contact the Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

How do Face Masks protect us?

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Face Masks have been highly prominent during these current times of health uncertainty. With the Covid-19 pandemic continuing and Winter upon us, more and more people are choosing to wear face masks to protect their health.

Commonly people wear face masks for one of two reasons. They are either trying to prevent themselves from spreading an illness they’ve knowingly or unknowingly contracted, or they are trying to prevent themselves from contracting a virus from others in the community. With that said, it is important to understand what face masks can do and how they can protect us?

The main purpose of a face mask is to prevent the spread of respiratory infections and bacteria. They should be worn by those who have symptoms that suggest that they may have a respiratory infection. Key identifying symptoms include coughing and sneezing. Healthcare masks are designed to cover the nose and mouth, so that when a person coughs, sneezes or speaks, particles that are expelled from their mouths do not spread widely and are less likely to contaminate people and surfaces. This in effect, will reduce community transmission, particularly in pandemics such as Covid-19 which are highly communicable.

Whilst face masks help to reduce the chances of spreading an illness, if you know for certain that you have a respiratory infection, it is best to refrain from coming into contact with other people, until you are fully recovered.

Face masks are also often worn to prevent the spread of illness from people who are unaware that they have contracted a respiratory illness. For example, it is possible for people with Covid-19 to be asymptomatic and fall ill without being aware that they have contracted the illness. Hence, wearing a face mask even if you do not have symptoms, will prevent you from spreading an illness that you may not be aware that you have. Asymptomatic people can spread the virus within the community unknowingly and very quickly. That is why wearing a face mask even if you are feeling well can be beneficial in reducing community transmission.

A healthcare mask is an excellent way to prevent those that are ill from spreading their illness within the community. But for those that wish to protect themselves from contracting a virus by wearing a face mask, it is a bit more complicated. In order for the person wearing the mask to be thoroughly protected, a medical grade respirator face mask that is fitted correctly should be worn. Special attention should be paid to how the healthcare mask is put on, worn and removed. Before putting a healthcare face mask on, hands should be washed thoroughly. If you touch the healthcare mask whilst wearing it, you should clean your hands. Also, when removing the mask, try not to touch the front of the mask and wash your hands properly afterwards.

Biomed specialises in producing medical grade fabrics and respiratory face masks in Australia. Our high quality healthcare face masks feature antibacterial properties that are a result of using medical grade fabrics. Biomed face masks are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, as the fabric is highly breathable and lightweight. Additionally, all of our face masks can be washed multiple times and reused. If you are concerned about your health and/or spreading a respiratory illness such as Covid-19, consider the Biomed face mask range available to purchase online via our website.

Biomed is a leading medical fabrics company, who has been providing high quality medical textile products for decades. We are committed to maintaining an ISO 9001 certification for quality management, with our medical textile products satisfying strict Australian and business standards. We understand the importance of robust and safe fabrics which ensure maximum comfort and reliability. For more information on our range of medical textile applications, please do not hesitate to contact the Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.