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22 October 2020

Visor Face Shields – A 2020 Review

Before 2020 came around, most consumers might never have had to interact with face shields in their life, especially if they didn’t work in the sectors where this type of personal protective equipment is most prevalent. When the COVID-19 pandemic first emerged, all of this changed, and face masks, shields and other equipment became standard practice in the day-to-day dealings of work and life. So what exactly is a visor face shield, and is there a right way to wear one? Our review aims to test their comfortability, durability and answers which type is the best to consider based on the needs of your individual circumstances in a post-pandemic world. 

What is a Visor Face Shield?

A visor face shield refers to a clear plastic shield that flips up and down like a visor would, used predominantly to protect the wearer’s face from hazards like flying objects, chemical splashes or harmful viruses. These shields are a necessity in many industrial sectors in South Africa, and are seeing an increase in demand in retail outlets and other workplaces that require direct human interaction or contact. Face shields are meant to provide physical protection from harmful objects in dangerous workplaces, and in 2020, they act predominantly as a protection from exposure to airborne germs that may be spread from coughing or sneezing. 

The Right Way To Wear a Face Mask or Shield

In testing a face shield for the first time, it got us thinking about the correct way to wear and use any type of face protection. Many people miss out on the most important first step, which is to ensure that you handle and put on the mask or shield with clean hands, which have been washed using alcohol-based sanitizers or common household soap. When applying the shield or mask, ensure that it is securely fastened and that there are no gaps in the core areas you are trying to protect, namely your eyes, nose and mouth. Do your best to avoid touching the mask or shield, especially if you have been going about your daily tasks while wearing either. 

Exploring the Balance: Cleaning and Comfort

One thing to know about face shields is that it will take some effort to keep them clean and well maintained. While typically comfortable to use and wear, depending on your work environment you may need to do regular sanitising and cleaning of these shields, especially if you’re at a higher risk of exposure based on the demands of the workplace itself. Make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions for keeping them clean, ask for training at the office if need be, and remember that when cleaning them, the most important step is to ensure that you wear disinfected gloves while doing so. 

Reusable or Disposable: Both Types Do The Trick

Companies like G.Fox sell reusable and disposable face shields and masks, which may leave you wondering about which type will be better to consider. Their anti-fog face shield is a winner, as it helps to give the wearer clear vision regardless of needing to breathe into a confined space for an extended period of time. Face shields come in various forms, and can typically be reused indefinitely if you ensure that they are regularly cleaned by soap and water, or better yet, common household disinfectants. Face shields are easy to use, relatively simple to clean, and can be a great way to take your health and wellbeing seriously in some of the most dangerous of environments. At the end of the day, you will need to make an assessment around which type is best considering your unique set of working conditions. 

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