What is the resistance of an "N-95" respirator to oil mists?

The N-95 respirator is specifically designed to filter out particulates, including dust and certain biological aerosols, but it has a notable limitation when it comes to oil mists. The designation "N" in N-95 indicates that the respirator is not resistant to oil—meaning it is not effective in filtering out oil-based aerosols. Therefore, it will not provide adequate protection against environments or situations where oil mists are present.

Understanding the implications of this limitation is crucial for those using respiratory protection in various contexts, especially in occupational settings where exposure to oil-based substances may occur. If an N-95 respirator were to be used in such scenarios, it would not perform to the expected safety standards, which could lead to inhalation exposure and health risks.