CPR Face Shields vs CPR Training Masks: Which Is Better for First Aid Training?

CPR face shields and CPR training masks are both commonly used during first aid and CPR training, but they serve slightly different purposes in the classroom.

For first aid trainers and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), choosing between them often comes down to class size, training activities, hygiene procedures, cost per learner and how the equipment will be used during practical CPR sessions.

In many training environments, the best answer is not necessarily one or the other. Face shields and training masks can complement each other as part of a well-organised CPR training setup.

In this guide, we compare the two options and explain when each may be useful for first aid trainers, RTOs, schools, workplaces and other organisations delivering CPR education.

Looking for classroom supplies? Browse our first aid and CPR training supplies for trainers and RTOs across Australia.

What is a CPR face shield?

A CPR face shield is a lightweight barrier placed between the learner and the CPR manikin during ventilation practice.

Training face shields are particularly useful in group classes because they can be distributed individually to participants and take up very little storage space.

For trainers running regular courses, face shields can provide a simple way to organise practical activities across larger groups.

Enzo Medix supplies CPR Manikin Face Shield Rolls containing 36 face shields per roll for first aid and CPR training.

What is a CPR training mask?

A CPR training mask is a mask-style training accessory used during simulated CPR practice.

Compared with a flat face shield, a training mask provides learners with a different style of barrier device and can be useful when trainers want participants to practise using a mask-and-valve style product during supervised CPR activities.

Enzo Medix supplies a CPR Training Mask with Valve designed for CPR courses, classroom demonstrations and supervised participant practice.

Compatible training setups may also use CPR Training Filter Valves. Always check compatibility with the particular training mask or manikin before ordering replacement components.

CPR face shield vs CPR training mask: what is the difference?

Which is better for first aid training?

For many first aid trainers, CPR face shields are the more practical option for high-volume general CPR classes.

They are compact, easy to distribute and straightforward to incorporate into sessions involving multiple participants.

A CPR training mask, however, can be useful when the trainer wants learners to practise using a mask-style barrier or demonstrate a different method of providing ventilations during CPR practice.

Therefore, rather than viewing one product as universally better, it can be helpful to think about the purpose of the session:

• Large CPR classes: face shields may be easier to distribute efficiently.
• Regular RTO courses: face shield rolls can simplify consumable stock management.
• Mask-based demonstrations: training masks may provide a more appropriate training experience.
• Mixed practical sessions: keeping both available gives trainers greater flexibility.

Why CPR face shields work well for large training classes

Class size can have a significant effect on the amount of equipment a trainer needs to prepare.

If a course includes 10, 20 or more learners, individually distributing CPR barriers can quickly become part of the regular setup process.

Face shield rolls can be particularly convenient because trainers can keep a larger quantity of barriers together in a compact format.

This can be useful for:

• RTO training rooms;
• mobile first aid trainers;
• workplace CPR courses;
• school-based training;
• healthcare education;
• community training programs; and
• high-volume CPR refresher courses.

The Enzo Medix CPR Manikin Face Shield Roll contains 36 face shields, making it easy to keep multiple barriers together as part of a trainer's regular course stock.

When is a CPR training mask useful?

CPR training masks can be particularly useful when the learning activity involves becoming familiar with a mask-style CPR barrier.

Rather than simply placing a flat barrier over the manikin, participants can practise positioning and using the training mask according to the equipment, course instructions and trainer guidance.

This can make training masks useful for:

• trainer demonstrations;
• supervised participant CPR practice;
• first aid training centres;
• workplace emergency-response training;
• healthcare education environments; and
• courses where different CPR barrier types are being demonstrated.

Enzo Medix's CPR Training Mask with Valve is individually packaged and designed specifically for training environments.

What about CPR training filter valves?

Some CPR training masks and manikin configurations use compatible replacement valves or filters.

For busy training providers, these can become another recurring consumable that needs to be included in stock planning.

Enzo Medix supplies CPR Training Filter Valves for Manikin Practice in packs of 20.

Compatibility can vary between training masks and manikins, so trainers should check their existing equipment before ordering replacement filters, valves or accessories.

Hygiene considerations during CPR training

CPR practical sessions may involve multiple learners using the same resuscitation manikins throughout a class. Training providers should therefore have a clear process for managing manikin hygiene and shared training equipment.

CPR face shields and training masks form only one part of that process. Trainers may also need:

• replacement manikin lungs or airways;
• suitable manikin cleaning products;
• disposable gloves;
• hand hygiene supplies;
• waste bags;
• replacement mask filters or valves where applicable; and
• a system for preparing equipment between learners or classes.

Always follow the CPR manikin and training-device manufacturer's cleaning, maintenance and replacement instructions, together with your organisation's infection-control procedures.

Which option is better for RTOs?

RTOs delivering CPR and first aid courses regularly may benefit from keeping both CPR face shields and training masks available.

Face shields can form part of the high-volume consumable stock used across regular courses, while training masks can be kept for demonstrations or practical activities where a mask-style barrier is appropriate.

The best stock mix will depend on:

• learner numbers;
• course frequency;
• the practical activities being delivered;
• the manikins being used;
• your training and assessment strategy;
• equipment compatibility;
• your cleaning and infection-control procedures; and
• how frequently consumables need to be restocked.

CPR face shields vs training masks for mobile first aid trainers

Equipment size becomes especially important for trainers who travel between workplaces, training rooms and client locations.

CPR face shield rolls require relatively little storage space and can be convenient when a trainer needs to carry enough consumables for multiple sessions.

Training masks take up more space but may still be worth carrying where the trainer wants participants to practise with that particular style of device.

A mobile trainer may therefore keep a larger supply of face shields alongside a smaller quantity of training masks and replacement filters.

How many CPR face shields should a trainer keep?

There is no single quantity that will suit every first aid training business.

A practical approach is to consider:

• your average number of learners per class;
• the number of CPR courses delivered each week or month;
• whether each learner receives an individual barrier;
• how your manikins are rotated between participants;
• your organisation's hygiene procedures; and
• how frequently you place supply orders.

Keeping a buffer of additional stock can also help avoid last-minute shortages when class numbers increase unexpectedly.

Buying CPR training consumables in bulk

Small consumables can become a significant recurring expense for training organisations delivering CPR courses throughout the year.

RTOs and first aid training businesses may be able to simplify purchasing by consolidating regularly used products such as:

• CPR face shields;
• CPR training masks;
• replacement filter valves;
• manikin lungs and airways;
• manikin hygiene products;
• disposable gloves;
• AED training pads; and
• other first aid training consumables.

For larger or recurring requirements, visit the Enzo Medix bulk first aid supplies and account pricing page.

So, should you choose CPR face shields or CPR training masks?

For most high-volume CPR training environments, CPR face shields are a practical option for routine learner distribution because they are compact and easy to organise.

CPR training masks are useful when trainers want participants to practise with a mask-and-valve style training accessory.

For RTOs and trainers delivering regular courses, keeping both can provide the greatest flexibility:

• use face shields as convenient high-volume CPR training consumables; and
• use training masks when a mask-style barrier is appropriate for the practical activity.

Ultimately, trainers should select products according to their course requirements, training equipment, learner numbers, manufacturer instructions and organisational procedures.

CPR training supplies for Australian first aid trainers

Enzo Medix supplies CPR and first aid training equipment to RTOs, independent first aid trainers, schools, workplaces, healthcare educators and training organisations across Australia.

Our range includes CPR manikin face shields, CPR training masks, replacement filter valves, manikin consumables, AED trainers, training pads and other practical first aid training supplies.

Browse First Aid & CPR Training Supplies Australia

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a CPR face shield and a CPR training mask?

A CPR face shield is a lightweight barrier placed between the learner and manikin during ventilation practice. A CPR training mask is a mask-style training accessory that can be used when practising or demonstrating a different type of CPR barrier.

Are CPR face shields good for first aid training?

Yes. CPR face shields are commonly used during first aid and CPR training and can be particularly convenient for classes with multiple participants because they are compact and easy to distribute.

Are CPR training masks reusable?

This depends on the specific product. Trainers should check the product instructions and their organisation's hygiene and replacement procedures before reusing any CPR training accessory.

Which is better for a large CPR class?

Face shields can be particularly convenient for larger classes because multiple barriers can be stored and distributed in a compact format. Training masks may still be useful when mask-style practice is included in the session.

Do CPR training masks need replacement filters?

Some compatible CPR training masks or manikin setups may use replacement filters or valves. Always check the specifications of the training equipment being used before purchasing replacement components.

Can RTOs buy CPR training supplies in bulk?

Yes. Enzo Medix supports bulk and recurring orders for RTOs, first aid trainers, schools, workplaces, training centres and organisations across Australia.

Where can I buy CPR face shields and training masks in Australia?

Enzo Medix supplies CPR face shields, CPR training masks, replacement filter valves and other first aid training consumables Australia-wide from Canberra. Browse our CPR and first aid training supplies range for current products.

Products discussed in this article are intended for training where stated. Training providers should follow applicable course requirements, organisational procedures and the cleaning, compatibility and use instructions supplied with their CPR manikins and training equipment.