The new national standard for Medical Protective Masks came into force on December 1st

The new national standard for Medical Protective Masks came into force on December 1st: the revised mandatory national standard **GB 19083-2023 Medical Protective Masks** took effect on the same date, with three core requirements. Firstly, disposable medical protective masks are strictly prohibited from being equipped with exhalation valves, so as to prevent the spread of pathogens through unfiltered exhaled air from the wearer and achieve bidirectional protection in medical scenarios. Secondly, masks shall be equipped with a nose clip or an alternative design to ensure fixation and sealability during wearing and reduce the risk of air leakage. Thirdly, the minimum sales unit shall clearly mark the service life, execution standard number and the word "disposable" to facilitate consumers to identify compliant products. It should be noted that non-medical masks with exhalation valves, such as those for industrial dust protection and daily smog prevention, are not subject to sales restrictions.