We repeated the filtration tests after the masks had been through the wash five times, and gave equal weighting to the pre and post-wash filtration score.

NHS trusts are supplied through an auto-replenishment model through the PPE Dedicated Supply Channel. All other eligible beneficiaries can access free PPE through the PPE portal. Claire Horwell, professor of geohealth at Durham University, was researching the effectiveness of face masks before most of us gave them any thought - studying the health hazards of airborne volcanic ash. The IPC guidance and requirements aimed to control the spread of COVID-19 through preventing cross-infection and other forms of contamination. The guidance and requirements, among other things, require significantly increased use of PPE for COVID-19 infection control, including the use of different types of medical or clinical-grade PPE from those used before the outbreak. They're also pretty expensive, especially if you need to use them regularly. Most are classed as single-use, so can you get away with reusing one to save money (and the environment)? Our tests revealed significant differences in effectiveness between reusable masks. The best can be as effective as a disposable version, but the worst are nearly useless.Again, all the products passed this test. Any shrinkage was minimal and not enough to affect the fit. Ease of use

But evidence is mounting to support the view that FFP masks can be reworn, as they may remain effective for longer periods of time. Some have a fold down the middle of the front of the mask, others are more dome-shaped, and some have a horizontal panel across the front overlaid on a moulded dome. You may also opt to downgrade to Standard Digital, a robust journalistic offering that fulfils many user’s needs. Compare Standard and Premium Digital here. Updated call out to reflect that customer migration to the new portal is now complete and that the old portal will close on 26 April 2022. Also updated the customer service timings. With an increasing number of businesses currently exploiting the market in a time of crisis by profiteering from PPE sales, it is hard for the public to know who they can trust when sourcing low cost and reliable PPE. Certain businesses have been inflating prices by over 1,000% with other businesses importing illegitimate PPE from suppliers in Asia using fake and invalid certificates.

In our tests, we found huge discrepancies in how well face coverings were able to filter bacterial particles. If you'll be wearing it for extended periods, such as a long journey on public transport, you'll also want to ensure it feels comfortable. Most countries that require a Covid test will accept a PCR test, which will need to be done by a private provider. The best face coverings were able to filter 99.9% of particles, while the worst only managed a paltry 7%'

Updated to say that the previous IPC guidance for PPE is now the National Infection Prevention Control Manual (NIPCM) guidance, and the free PPE scheme has been extended until the end of March 2023 or until the NIPCM guidance is withdrawn or significantly amended.The NIPCM has been adapted for use within England to support and facilitate healthcare providers to demonstrate compliance with the 10 criteria of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 code of practice on the prevention and control of infections and related guidance.