areas to be covered without interruption
The nose, mouth and chin must remain covered during the port.
04Respiratory prevention
Wear a mask: choice, adjustment and withdrawal
A mask is useful when it fits the situation, actually covers the nose, mouth and chin, and remains well adjusted. It complements ventilation, reducing risk contacts and other measures adapted to the context.
AnswerThe essential first
In practice
The short answer
Choose a clean mask, in good condition and adapted to the context. Wash or rub your hands before handling it, place it on the nose, mouth and chin, adjust the nasal bar and limit leaks on the sides. Change it if it becomes wet, dirty, damaged or difficult to breathe, then remove it by the attachments.
Leak sought on edges
A face-plated mask better limits the passage of unfiltered air on the sides.
for a disposable mask
Replace it according to the package leaflet and as soon as it is wet, dirty or damaged.
01Understanding the situation
When the mask provides useful protection
The benefit depends on the circulation of infections, ventilation, proximity, duration and vulnerability of those present. The rules of an establishment or care remain a priority.
Upon onset of symptoms
Wear a mask in frequent places and in contact with other people, in addition to ventilation and respiratory hygiene.
With a vulnerable person
Strengthen precautions if you visit an elderly, immunocompromised, pregnant or chronically ill person.
In a closed place very frequented
Promiscuity, duration and low renewal of air may justify enhanced protection depending on the health context.
In a place of care
Follow the establishment's instructions: the mask type and duration can meet a specific protocol.
In the face of occupational risk
A respiratory protective device is chosen after risk assessment and may require an adjustment test.
02Step by step
Put and remove a mask in six gestures
Always check the template instructions. If a professional or medical instruction exists, it will take precedence over this general method of employment.
Preparing clean hands
Wash or rub your hands and check that the mask is clean, dry and intact.
Identify common sense
Identify the top, inside and fasteners without unnecessarily touching the filtering part.
Cover the three areas
Place the mask on the nose, mouth and under the chin, then attach the fasteners.
Adjust to face
Mould the nasal bar if it exists and smooth the edges to reduce visible spaces.
Avoid touching it
If it needs to be adjusted, handle it with clean hands and avoid leaving it under the nose or chin.
Remove by attachments
Remove it without touching the front, throw it away or place the reusable according to its instructions, then clean your hands.
03Decision points
Choose by situation
The context determines the right measure. Use these markers to choose the next action and when to ask for help.
Mask for medical use
In particular, it helps to limit the emission of respiratory particles; choose a well-fitted and consistent model.
Filtrate or respirator mask
A FFP model can be used to better protect the wearer, provided that it is adapted to face and risk.
Professional environment
The employer defines protection after evaluation: model, training, compatibility with other equipment and adjustment test.
04Not to be done
Frequent errors
- Leave the nose uncovered or wear the mask under the chin.
- Choose a model that yawns widely on or around the cheeks.
- Touch the front part frequently and then objects around you.
- Reuse a wet, dirty, damaged or deformed disposable mask.
- Consider the mask as a replacement for ventilation or local instructions.
Important limitA mask may interfere with certain people or activities and not all models protect against all hazards. For a particular occupational, chemical, biological or respiratory hazard, ask for the protection defined by the job evaluation. In case of acute respiratory difficulty, withdraw from exposure if possible and contact rescue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my mask is well adjusted?
It remains stable, covers the nose, mouth and chin and does not have obvious space on the sides. For a respiratory protective device at work, a real adjustment test may be necessary: a simple impression of comfort does not replace it.
Can we wear a mask under our nose?
No. The nose also emits and inhales respiratory particles. A mask worn under the nose loses an important part of its usefulness.
When do you need to change a mask?
Follow the package leaflet and replace it if it is wet, dirty, damaged, deformed or difficult to breathe. The rules may be stricter in care or work.
Is a mask enough in a poorly ventilated room?
No. The mask integrates into a combined strategy: cleaner air, limited duration and density of occupancy, respiratory hygiene and applicable health recommendations.
Check implementation
These points serve as a reminder to prepare the action. The boxes are not registered.
Sources used
These institutional references provide a means of checking the guide and accessing the full recommendations.
PratiqueCheck before deciding
Votre liste de vérification
- Choisir un dispositif adapté à l’usage et aux consignes.
- Vérifier couverture du nez, de la bouche et ajustement.
- Replace a damaged or damp mask according to the instructions.
- Conserver ventilation et autres mesures de prévention.
Use alongside the guide’s steps, limitations and sources.
Choosing respiratory protection: three separate checks
A device’s stated performance does not describe the protection achieved in a specific situation. Model, facial fit and conditions of use require separate assessment.
Device
Check that the respirator type matches the identified hazard and the organisation’s procedure.
Fit
A tight-fitting model must suit the wearer; the size on the box does not establish a successful fit test.
Use
Check training, pre-use inspection and replacement rules; equipment does not cancel other preventive measures.