Tips for using (and re-using) your KN95 masks
Although the rate of new COVID cases is dropping nationally, Hamilton County is still categorized by national and state health agencies as an area with “high risk of transmission” of COVID-19.
Therefore, masks continue to be required at all times while inside College buildings and garages.
The College has an ample supply of KN95 masks available for Cincinnati State employees, and instructors may request these masks for your students as well.
KN95 and N95 masks provide more robust protection against transmission of viral particles, and are currently recommended by the CDC and other health agencies as a preferred alternative to other face coverings. (See the chart below that compares the effectiveness of various types of masks.)
- Masks are available in all academic division offices.
- Anyone who needs additional masks for their division or department should contact Associate Provost Denise Rohr.
KN95/N95 masks are not washable, but they can be used more than once— provided the mask does not get wet, dirty, or damaged, and the straps remain tight so the mask fits snugly against your face.
- If you wear a KN95/N95 mask for only a few hours a day, and it remains clean and dry, the mask may remain usable for 20 to 40 total hours of wearing time.
- It’s recommended that you store your KN95/N95 mask in a paper bag for 24 to 48 hours between wearings or store in another a clean, dry place where the mask is not exposed to contaminants.
Click for CDC guidelines on how to wear your KN95/N95 mask to provide maximum protection.
The chart below (originally developed by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, and reproduced by numerous other sources) shows the increased protection provided by KN95/N95 masks compared to other options.
