Surgical mask—A loose-fitting, disposable
type of facemask that creates a physical barrier
between the mouth and nose of the wearer
and potential contaminants in the immediate
environment. Surgical masks are fluid resistant
and provide protection from splashes, sprays,
and splatter. Surgical masks do not seal tightly
to the wearer’s face, do not provide the wearer
with a reliable level of protection from inhaling
smaller airborne particles,* and are not considered
respiratory protection.
*
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2017-12-20
2017???
scroll down a bit on this and see a link about ...respirator vs surgical mask factsheet.. notice how its file missing 404...hmmm
From 2015 - scroll to page x https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3767.pdf
just a snippet - i found
Surgical mask—A loose-fitting, disposable type of facemask that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. Surgical masks are fluid resistant and provide protection from splashes, sprays, and splatter. Surgical masks do not seal tightly to the wearer’s face, do not provide the wearer with a reliable level of protection from inhaling smaller airborne particles,* and are not considered respiratory protection. *