The world was shaken when the pandemic conquered humanity. Face shield became a necessity that serves as your protection to prevent the transmission of the virus. Not only it is vital to health workers, but even ordinary persons need to have one. To protect your life and other people surrounding you, you must know how to clean your face shields to prevent the spread of the virus.
Face Shield on Travel
Today, from local to international flights, travels are guided with protocols and restrictions before you depart. Traveling on public transportation increases a person’s risk of getting and spreading COVID-19 by bringing people in close contact with others, often for prolonged periods, and exposing them to frequently touched surfaces. Air travel often requires spending time in security lines and busy airport terminals. Wearing of masks and face shields that completely cover the mouth, nose and face, reduces the spread of the virus. A face shield is effective at protecting the person wearing it from splashes to the face, particularly the eyes, in addition to face masks.
>> Always keep yourself safe with a hand sanitizer spray.
Proper Way to Wear
It is never difficult to wear a face shield. But then, it is the “proper” way of wearing is the concern. Some face shields are made of Plexiglas panels responsible for the curve around your face. Others are made of plastic that is easily torn and crumpled. Ensure to remember these following tips:
- The face shield should be clean at all times.
- In case your face shield has an adjustable strap, it should hold your face shield in place.
- The panel of your face shield must cover your chin and curve around the sides of your face.
- No gaps should be noted between your forehead and your face shield.
Faces Shield Life Span
It is recommended that you should wear a disposable face shield. Meanwhile, you may continue to use your face shield, given that it is not cracked, damaged, or warped. If your face shield becomes damaged, change it immediately as it is reasonably priced and easy to replace. Buy in bulk for disposable ones for some saving tips.
How to Put on Face Shield
Safety should always be your priority. The following methods below describe how to put on your face shield.
First, slightly bend your head forward. It would be best if you held the face shield strap with both hands. You mustn’t touch the front area of your face shield.
Second, using your thumb, stretch the elastic and put it behind your head. It allows the foam to rest on your forehead.
Third, ensure that your face shield covers the front and sides of your face. There should be no areas left exposed. The distance of the band on your forehead should be 3 centimeters above your eyebrow. Also, the bottom of the face shield should sit just below the level of your chin.
Fourth, the face shield should always be “side down” and do not push the “up” position. And if your face shield seems to loosen, adjust the elastic side by tightening it.
Lastly, face shields should be well kept and taken care of to remain in shape and intact. Avoid placing it in unsafe areas to avoid cross-contamination.
Guides To Keep in Mind
- Wearing a face shield paired with a face mask is protecting yourself as well as others. It is more effective when everybody around you wears one.
- Face mask and face shield is not a substitute for social distancing. Keeping your distance and complete gear to combat the virus is still the best solution.
- You should wear your face shield anytime, anywhere, whenever you travel on a plane or any form of transportation. Airports and stations are places which can become crowded so take extra precautions.
Face Shield Cleaning and Disinfecting
On Re-use of Face Shield
Experts do not recommend reusing face shields as they should be discarded immediately. You may resort to reusing the face shield in case supply is critical. Also, if you need instructions for use for adequate protection. Otherwise, seek an infection consultant.
Two Ways in Disinfecting Face Shields
There are two options for cleaning and disinfecting reusable face shield:
1st Option – each face shield user should clean and care on their own.
2nd Option – mass or bulk disinfection of face shield.
1st Option – Per User
- Use a clean cloth soaked with neutral detergent solution. Also, a wipe can be used. Start by wiping carefully the inside of the face shield, followed by the outside area.
- On your face shields’ outside area, use a disinfectant or alcohol not lower than 70% solution as it improves visibility. Follow through with clean water to remove residue.
- Let your face shield air-dry. Ensure that you place it in a “breathable” area.
2nd Option – Mass Disinfection
- It would help if you had a container mixed with a neutral detergent to hold or dip the face shields.
- On your face shields’ outside area, use a disinfectant or alcohol not lower than 70% solution as it improves visibility. Follow through with clean water to remove residue.
- As for the drying procedure, take out the face shield from the container individually by wearing gloves. Ensure that you follow proper hand hygiene before using the gloves. Air-dry the face shield. Once done, store in a dry location for redistribution.
Conclusion
Many studies recommend that wearing of face shield interrupts airborne diseases. That is why you must know how to clean your face shields. The safety of everyone is dependent on each other. Prevention is better than cure. The pandemic not yet over. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow safety protocols at all times.