Not all face masks and respirator masks are created equal. It’s for this reason that these types of medical devices are subject to a rigorous testing process to ensure they offer the same level of safety, comfort and performance across the board.
At Detmold Medical, we’re committed to providing high-quality face masks and respirators while ensuring continuous improvement across our product range. In an Australian first, we’ve created our very own testing facility to consistently measure, validate and enhance product performance.
Read on to learn more about the importance of testing, how it works and what makes Detmold’s approach unique.
Why face mask and respirator testing matters
From construction workers to hospital staff and aged care employees, there are a number of industries that depend on reliable personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard their staff and those around them. Standardised testing methods ensure that face masks and respirators meet strict regulatory standards set out by key organisations, like the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Face masks and respirators that fail to meet the requirements risk contamination, low filtration, discomfort or failure during use. As a result, these devices can’t be approved for use in medical settings or other regulated environments.
Key tests conducted on face masks and respirators
Single-use surgical and medical face masks are tested in line with several key performance indicators, including:
- Resistance to penetration by synthetic blood (fluid resistance): Mimics a blood splatter to assess how well the mask blocks fluids.
- Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE): Evaluates the mask’s ability to filter airborne bacteria, which is essential for maintaining infection control
- Breathability: Ensures the mask is easy to breathe through and comfortable to wear.
The performance criteria for respirators are slightly different to medical and surgical face masks. While standard respirator masks are also tested for breathability, they undergo further testing for:
- Particulate filtration efficiency (PFE): Filtration efficiency is a critical performance measure that determines whether a respirator can remove the required percentage of airborne solid and liquid particles.
- Fit (leakage): Ensures the mask creates an airtight seal on the wearer’s face.
On top of the standard respirator performance requirements, surgical respirator masks must also demonstrate the appropriate level of fluid resistance under the same conditions as medical and surgical face masks.
Thanks to our on-site testing capabilities, Detmold Medical can run these tests regularly, ensuring strict quality control and compliance with the relevant Australian and international standards.
How in-house testing supports quality and innovation
At Detmold, we don’t believe in only meeting the minimum standards. We’re proud to have developed a world-class testing laboratory that enables us to invest time and resources in comprehensive internal testing that goes above and beyond the standard requirements.
Our Launchpad Laboratory sets a new benchmark for product capability testing, both in Australia and internationally. As part of our broader Launchpad facility, it serves as a hub dedicated to innovation, new product development and advancing more sustainable solutions for local and global markets.
Beyond our ability to complete on-shore testing for products, our in-house testing facility offers several other key benefits, including:
- Faster development cycles: On-site testing accelerates material trials, new designs and performance iterations.
- Immediate quality assurance: Any issues can be identified and corrected without relying solely on external labs.
- Supports continuous improvement: Internal data feeds innovation and product enhancement over time.
Local manufacturing, local testing: Why it matters
Australian-made PPE means shorter supply chains and quicker delivery. That said, it also allows for higher accountability on behalf of the manufacturer when they’re closer to home. Combined with the ability to complete in-house testing, Australian-made face masks and respirators are often better positioned to meet the expectations of the local market.
The local advantage was made even more apparent in light of the medical supplies shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Australia’s demand for critical medical PPE surged during the pandemic, it highlighted an urgent need for a local manufacturer with on-site testing capabilities. In response, Detmold Medical was established and has since grown to become the largest manufacturer of high-quality respirators and face masks in the Southern Hemisphere. We’ve also become the go-to supplier for some of Australia’s biggest healthcare departments, hospitals and distributors.
Ultimately, Detmold’s local presence and trusted reputation mean that healthcare providers can rely on our range of medical face masks and respirator masks to perform in line with relevant Australian and international standards.
Going above and beyond: Detmold’s commitment to safer, smarter PPE
Testing isn’t just about passing checks. It’s about building confidence and providing protection to wearers and the wider community. Detmold Medical’s on-site testing facilities demonstrate a proactive approach to innovation and product excellence. When it comes to medical PPE, testing is the foundation for trust, and Detmold’s world-class facilities are a testament to this commitment.
To learn more about Detmold’s quality standards, browse our comprehensive technical information sheets for each of our face masks and respirators.
