KN95 mask vs N95
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- NIOSH Approved N95 respirator. Best for: People who want verified US approval. See options on Amazon
- KN95 mask from a clearly identified maker. Best for: People who understand it is not NIOSH approved. See options on Amazon
KN95 and N95 are not the same thing
NIOSH's bulletin on imported respirators lists KN95 among China's respirator classifications. NIOSH says it does not recognize or validate claims that a product meets a particular international standard, and does not approve any respiratory protective device solely certified to international standards.
NIOSH also reported that some products claiming to meet European and Chinese standards did not provide the expected level of protection: while some had filtering efficiencies close to 95%, most measured well below 95%. That is why NIOSH encourages NIOSH-approved models, regardless of country of origin, for health care workers.
Misleading KN95 claims
NIOSH keeps a list of misrepresented masks. Entries include KN95 masks marketed as adopted by the CDC, and makers misusing NIOSH test information. NIOSH explains that its International Respirator Assessments measured filter efficiency for respirators represented as certified to other standards, that these assessments were not part of its approval process, and that makers cannot use the results to claim their products meet NIOSH approval requirements.
So a KN95 box that says CDC approved, NIOSH certified or NIOSH tested is not evidence of NIOSH approval.
Examples on the NIOSH list include KN95 masks whose packages say they meet Chinese standard GB 2626-2006 while the seller misuses NIOSH test information, a KN95 marketed as adopted by the CDC, and companies that are not NIOSH approval holders using NIOSH marks. NIOSH's 2020 bulletin adds that devices made to a recognized foreign standard by companies that are not NIOSH approval holders should have a certificate of approval from an authorized test laboratory. Ask the seller for that certificate if you are buying KN95s for work.
How to check an N95
| Check | What to look for | Why, per NIOSH |
|---|---|---|
| Approval label | A TC approval number, for example TC 84A-XXXX | All NIOSH approved respirators come with an approval label |
| Facepiece markings | Maker name, part number, filter series and efficiency such as N95, TC number, NIOSH in capitals | Missing any required component means it is not approved |
| Certified Equipment List | Search by TC number and match the model name | The easiest way to confirm approval |
When you search the list, check that the model name matches as well as the number. NIOSH's bulletin also says that if there is no TC number on the packaging, user instructions or product, that is a warning sign. NIOSH's identification page also lists a lot number on the label or packaging among the required items, so keep the box until you have checked everything and know which lot you bought.
Signs of a counterfeit N95
NIOSH lists signs that a filtering facepiece respirator may be counterfeit:
- It does not include all the required label markings.
- NIOSH is spelled incorrectly.
- It has decorative fabric or add-ons such as sequins.
- It claims to be approved for children; NIOSH does not approve any type of respiratory protection for children.
- It uses ear loops without a fastener connecting them behind the head.
NIOSH notes that approved respirators typically use two headbands, or ear loops designed to work with a connecting fastener. If a product shows any of these signs, treat its approval claim with suspicion.
Fit matters as much as the label
NIOSH's bulletin says a respirator provides its advertised level of protection only if a proper fit is achieved, and only as long as it fits properly and is worn correctly. Follow the maker's instructions for sizing, putting it on and replacing it, and choose a size that fits your face.
Children
Because NIOSH does not approve any type of respiratory protection for children, a mask sold as an approved N95 or KN95 for kids is making a claim NIOSH does not support. Ask your child's health care provider for advice on protecting a child with asthma or other lung conditions during smoke or illness season. For home monitoring, see our pulse oximeter guide and peak flow meter guide.
What to look for when you buy
NIOSH Approved N95 respirator
Best for: People who want verified US approval
Its TC approval number can be checked on NIOSH's Certified Equipment List.
Watch out: Confirm the model name and TC number both match the list.
See options on AmazonKN95 mask from a clearly identified maker
Best for: People who understand it is not NIOSH approved
KN95 is a Chinese standard classification; NIOSH does not approve KN95 masks.
Watch out: Ignore CDC or NIOSH approval claims on KN95 packaging.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Is a KN95 the same as an N95?
- No. KN95 is a Chinese standard classification; N95s are approved by NIOSH in the US.
- Are KN95 masks NIOSH approved?
- No. NIOSH says it does not approve KN95 masks, and claims that it does are misleading.
- How do I know an N95 is real?
- Look for a TC approval number and NIOSH markings, then match it on the Certified Equipment List.
- Do KN95 masks filter 95%?
- NIOSH found some imported respirators near 95% filtration but most measured well below 95%.
- Does fit matter?
- Yes. NIOSH says a respirator gives its advertised protection only if it fits properly and is worn correctly.
Sources
- Misrepresented Masks and Other Face-Worn Products (cdc.gov), CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
- Identifying NIOSH Approved Respirators (cdc.gov), CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
- Counterfeit/Misrepresented FFR Examples (cdc.gov), CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
- Understanding the Use of Imported Non-NIOSH-Approved Respirators (cdc.gov), NIOSH Science Blog, CDC