Medical and dental care professionals are exposed to hazardous infectious pathogens on a daily basis. With the spread of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other deadly and presently incurable diseases, the protection of these professionals from nasal and oral emissions, blood, and other bodily fluids has become more vital than ever. Because the eyes, nose and mouth include regions of thin and penetrable membranes, the face is an area requiring appropriate protection from flying contaminants and particulates.
Several requirements must be met by a facial protection device of this type. It must be light weight and easily worn and removed. It must adequately shield the vital areas of the face yet not obstruct vision. It must provide ample ventilation as not to hamper breathing and to further avoid fogging and accumulation of moisture. In addition, it should be disposable for adequate and safe disposition of contaminants. Because such face protection is disposable and a large number of them may be used, ease of packaging and storage is also an important criteria.