Assessment of the Chemical Composition of Respiratory and Dermal Protective Equipment Used by the Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The use of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the majority of the global population. The use of face masks has been proven to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 by 53 % and to be an effective means of prevention, both separately and in combination with other non-pharmaceutical measures. Wearing of face masks and gloves was mandated in different regions of the Russian Federation depending on the epidemiological situation, and it is still required in certain areas and workplaces at high risk of this severe infectious disease. Our literature review has shown that the prolonged mask and gloves use has adverse health effects including headaches, difficulty breathing, and various skin reactions. Objective: To analyze chemicals contained in commercially available face masks and protective gloves as one of the stages of hygienic assessment of personal protective equipment and to assess whether the established chemical composition can pose a risk of adverse health outcomes. Materials and methods: In 2021, four types of commercial face masks and protective gloves were analyzed in an accredited testing laboratory center to establish concentrations of chemicals after modeling their release into the aquatic and air environment. Results: We established that, in all types of masks, the levels of detected chemicals did not exceed their appropriate permissible values. Formaldehyde was found in cotton and latex coated cotton gloves in concentrations exceeding the permissible ones by 1.48 and 1.16 times, respectively. A 1.17-fold excess of the acceptable limit was also registered for zinc in latex coated cotton gloves. Conclusions: Increased levels of formaldehyde and zinc were found in cotton and latex coated cotton gloves. Formaldehyde can induce adverse skin reactions. Stricter control over production of respiratory and dermal protective equipment and a comprehensive hygienic assessment of PPE are required.