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Most face masks on sale do not comply with regulations, according to the National Standards Authority of Ireland.
The Irish Times reports that the agency has worked with the Department of Health, the HSE, and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to accelerate a new standard for face coverings.
The standard, known as SWiFT 19, must be printed on the packaging of products that meet the criteria. This label shows buyers that a mask has been tested and found to be adequate to comply with public health advice during the pandemic.
It is designed to assure consumers that a mask protects against the spread of the virus, is made of a suitable material, and is comfortable to wear over a period of time.
Breathable
SWiFT 19 and a European standard, known as CEN / CWA 17553, certify that a mask is made of a suitable material, is breathable, protects people from the spread of Covid-19, and is comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Elizabeth O’Ferrall of the NSAI, who was in charge of the work to develop the SWiFT 19 standard, said that most of the masks on sale do not meet the minimum requirements.
“I would say, of the drag products, that most do not meet any specification,” he told The Irish Times.
“That is really a challenge in terms of consumer protection.”
Ms. O’Ferrall said that many people buy designer masks that celebrities have warned “don’t meet any specifications.”
He said homemade face masks were a problem too.
However, he also noted the international public health council that states that “any mask is better than none.”
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