Despite all the problems that have weighed us down in 2020, we can find some comfort in the amazing ability of the world to come up with solutions to each of them. Cloth masks are among the most practical tools that we have to prevent the spread of the virus without depleting the supply of medical grade masks for health workers. Some are also advocating for the use of clear face guard as an alternative or an additional layer of protection. Proponents cite the following reasons:
Avoid Touching Your Face
These clear face guard cover the entire face unlike cloth masks that only come up to the bridge of the nose. The latter leaves the eyes and the ears exposed to projectiles in case anyone coughs in the vicinity. The former covers them completely such that there is less likelihood of infection. It also prevents the wearer from touching his own face. The surfaces we touch can contain germs but it can be difficult to keep our hands under control. This barrier does a good job of avoiding the situation.
Breathe Better
Perhaps the most common complaint about cloth masks is that people have difficulty breathing through them. They end up lowering the masks to free up their noses which renders them ineffective. A face shield protects the nose, eyes, mouth, and ears without severely restricting airflow. Wearers can still breathe as normal which may be necessary when performing demanding jobs or exercising outdoors. It may be a more comfortable option for individuals that feel constricted in cloth masks. When people like something, they are more likely to use it which is what’s important.
Full Facial Recognition
Most masks obscure the lower half of the face. It can be difficult to identify people which may present a security risk in certain cases. There may be businesses that are strict about facility access such that they want all personnel to be visible at all times. Entertainers need to be seen to be effective. The hard of hearing prefer interactions where they can read the lips of their caretakers. A clear face shield allows them to do this.
Clean and Reuse
Medical masks are mostly meant to be disposable which leads to lots of garbage. Cloth masks are washable up to a certain point. Clear masks are plastic so they are durable and virtually indestructible. They are easy to wash with soap or other disinfectants.
