New sensor called FaceBit can tell if health mask fits properly and provide other data

Health care workers now must undergo cumbersome 20-minute tests to ensure proper mask fit. The test involves wearing a shield over the face, then spraying a sweet or bitter aerosol at the face and seeing if the worker can smell it. If so, the mask isn’t tight enough. — AP

A new smart sensor that measures face mask fit may come in handy for workers who need to know their masks are working, Northwestern University researchers say.

FaceBit, as it is called, also measures heart rate and respiration, similar to the fitness wearable Fitbit, but with special attention to mask fit.