Do Cloth Masks Increase the Risk for Heat Stress?

You may have people on your crew who are reluctant to wear a cloth mask because they’re concerned that doing so could increase their risk for heat stress. In general, there have been very few studies about cloth masks. However, we may be able to make inferences about heat stress and cloth masks based on how workers react to wearing more heavy-duty respiratory protection.

Study Shows: No Negative Impacts of "Heavy" Respiratory Protection

In 2018 the Centers for Disease Control published a study on non-occupational uses of respiratory protection. In it, the researchers discussed whether the use of an N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) could lead to heat exhaustion. They said that although users may find it uncomfortable to wear an FFR because it traps warm, moist air around the face, the good news is:

• Most people don’t even notice that they are making an effort to move air in and out of the device.
• FFR use does not cause physical stress to most wearers—including women who are pregnant.
• FFR use does not contribute to heat stress.

It seems likely that if an N95 facepiece respirator doesn’t contribute to heat stress, then a cloth mask won’t either. That said, keep these two ideas in mind: One, people wear scarves and other face coverings to keep their faces warmer in cold weather. Two, anytime we add a layer of material between our skin and the air, we change how heat is being transferred.

Always Model and Encourage How to Prevent Heat Illness 

No matter what the findings suggest, a CDC study can’t prevent heat illness. But you can:

1. Pay attention to your employees
2. Encourage them to use good judgment
3. Make sure that they take breaks to cool down and when they take those breaks and remove their masks, remind them to stay at least 6 feet apart.

Science Suggests: Wearing Masks May Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus

Remember, the Centers for Disease Control is asking people to consider wearing masks at work and in public because current science suggests that doing so may prevent the spread of coronavirus. When masks are worn, social distancing is observed, and hands are frequently washed, the virus is less likely to hurt and kill those among us who are vulnerable.

Stay Safe, Stay Connected 

There isn’t much of a bright side to the current pandemic, but it has worked to remind us just how much we are all interconnected and dependent upon each other.