抄録
The N95 is a type of particulate respirators certified by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health （NIOSH）. On the other hand, the DS2 respirator is the device that conforms Japanese standard for dust respirators prescribed by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, and has the same performance as the N95 respirator. Respirators are personal protective devices which used to prevent respiratory diseases caused by inhalation of hazardous particulate matter suspended in the working environment, unlike masks for the public such as surgical masks. Although the N95 and DS2 respirators are also effective for minimizing the risk of infection in the medical facilities, proper selection and training are required to ensure respiratory protection while wearing them. This is because the fit between the wearer’s face and the respirator facepiece is important for the protective performance in the actual use. In the United States, workers are required to perform pre-work and annual fit tests. It is thought that in Japan as well, the spread of fit tests and seal checks will enable more effective respiratory protection.
