The emergence of a pandemic affecting the respiratory system has resulted in a significant demand for face masks. Masks have always been mentioned as an effective tool against environmental threats. This includes the use of double masks by large sections of the public, as can be seen during the current global spread of COVID-19. However, there is limited knowledge available on the performance of the various commonly available double face masks used. In this study, we have compared the performance of single and double face configurations. Three types of 3-ply face mask (FM), three types of fabric face mask (CM) and nine configurations of these face masks were investigated based on morphology, filtration efficiencies, breathing resistance and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) content. The filtration efficiencies of the double face masks are enhanced when combined with a fabric mask, and were found to improve by 500% compared to those of a fabric mask. The lowest breathing resistance among the double masking was observed in the combination of FM1 and fabric face masks. From the results, it was found that all combinations of double face mask are suitable to use since the measurements indicate that the breathing resistance and CO 2 contents are still lower than the acceptable value set by the Malaysian Standard (MS 2323:2010) and European Standard (EN 149:2001 + A1:2009). The performance of double masks is comparable with that of N95 respirators. The double masking combination can be used as an alternative method to reduce inhalation exposure to airborne contaminants.

The elevated use of petroleum‐based polymers to manufacture single‐use disposable face masks is a serious environmental concern that has detrimental effects on the ecosystem. The research on using biodegradable facemasks is promising to reduce the environmental impacts of the single‐use non‐degradable facemask. A reusable cloth‐based facemask with effective filtration could benefit society. Many studies suggest polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), and polylactic acid (PLA) as viable biopolymers for facemask filter layer fabrication. In this work, an electrospun filter layer inserts with PVA, PBAT, and PLA polymers were produced by depositing electrospun nanofibers on non‐woven cotton layers followed by conventional sealing. The fabricated filter inserts were used in cloth‐based facemasks and were tested for filtration efficiencies and breathability. PVA facemask insert showed the best performance with 66.7% filtration efficiency and breathability of 0.66 m bar, whereas the lowest filtration efficiency was found for PBAT electrospun filter medium. The relation between filter membrane morphology and facemask performance indicates that a smaller diameter and uniform morphology results in better filtration and breathability of the facemask filter inserts.Highlights Petroleum‐based facemasks harm ecosystems. Biodegradable facemasks reduce environmental impact. Electrospun nanofibers of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate, and polylactic acid on cotton. PVA insert showed 66.7% filtration and 0.66 m bar breathability. Smaller, uniform fibers enhance filtration and breathability.

Filtering Facepieces (FFPs) are commonly use as personal protective equipment (PPE). It is disposable Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE). Basically it is used for protection against dusts, particles and aerosols. Available in 3 classes FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. Various Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) offered in Malaysia’s market today are not being controlled and monitored by expert bodies and authorities. This has led to various perceptions among the users, especially on the quality and safety and health features of the products offered by different companies. This situation also makes it difficult for users to decide appropriate RPE based on quality and standard compliance. The tendency of consumers to choose RPE is mainly based on the price but not the technical aspect of RPE. Hence, the RPE they purchased not necessary enhance user protection, as there is no guidance available to assist user before they purchase the most appropriate RPE. This study describes market surveillance testing of FFP2 respirator from 30 different brand in Malaysia. The objective is to determine performance requirements required by the Malaysia standard. 3 types of testing were used on this study Filter Penetration, Breathing Resistance and Carbon Dioxide Content. All testing was carried out based on Malaysia Standard; MS 2323:2010 and MS2553:2014.All 30 sample were passed the breathing resistance and carbon dioxide content except 10 brand was failed the filter penetration testing. It is noticed that the user and consumer should aware with their PPE basic requirement.

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