An N95 respirator is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles. The 'N95' designation means that when subjected to careful testing, the respirator blocks at least 95% of very small (0.3 micron) test particles. Unlike a surgical mask, which is loose-fitting, an N95 respirator provides a tighter seal and is designed to reduce the wearerâs exposure to airborne particles.