What is ASTM F3502?
ASTM F3502-compliant barrier face coverings are Designed to fit snugly to the face, covering both the mouth and nose, and reducing gaps Primarily intended for use as source control and are not considered medical masks. Since February of 2020, we’ve been asking for standards for masks/face coverings used by our communities. Finally, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has established a national standard ( ASTM F3502 ) for “Barrier Face Coverings” that are neither medical masks according to ASTM F2100 standards nor respirators according to NIOSH standards. This new standard establishes minimum requirements for design, performance, and testing that will allow users to compare mask options, and provides mask makers standards to strive for. These standards are not mandatory, but can help distinguish well-tested masks in the marketplace. For home sewists and small manufacturers, the ASTM guidance can help clarify what types of testing to look for in our reading, and clarify