HOW EFFECTIVE ARE PROTECTIVE MASKS AVAILABLE ON THE CZECH MARKET

Abstract

Between 2003 and 2014, extensive research was carried out on an assessment of the
possible use of protective masks offered on the Czech market, which are stored in the
warehouses of the Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic. Target groups for the use of
protective masks are the population of the Czech Republic, members of the Fire Rescue Service
and of the Integrated Rescue System.
The research was launched in 2003 with subjective assessments of protective masks
that were available on a domestic market at that time, which could be used to protect the
population and members of the Integrated Rescue System.
The first phase of the research, which was implemented in 2003-2004, was followed in
2007 by the objective assessments. One of the basic parameters of a protective mask - its
tightness (in professional circles known as penetration) was tested during the second phase of
the research. This parameter became decisive to the objective evaluation of protective masks
and to the subsequent recommendation of what protective mask should the user obtain,
depending on the sex, morphological-metric parameters and a shape of his/her face.
Outcomes of the research resulted in recommendations that give guidance to the
population of the Czech Republic and members of the Integrated Rescue System on a selecting
of optimum protective mask that would both meet requirements for user comfort, and deliver
high protection properties.