Protection classes of FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 masks
In today's world, the right respiratory protection is more important than ever. There are different types of respirator masks, each designed for different protection needs. In this blog article, we explain the differences between FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 masks and their typical applications.
FFP1 masks
Protection level and area of application:
- Maximum pollutant concentration: Up to 4 times the occupational exposure limit value (OEL).
- Protection against: non-toxic water- and oil-based particles.
- Does not protect against: carcinogenic and radioactive substances, airborne biological agents of risk groups 2 and 3, and enzymes.
Performance:
- Total leakage: Maximum 22%.
- Filter performance: At least 80% of the pollutants are filtered out of the air.
Typical applications:
food industry.
FFP1 masks provide basic protection against non-toxic particles, making them suitable for less hazardous environments.
FFP2 masks
protection level and area of application:
- Maximum pollutant concentration: Up to 10 times the occupational exposure limit value (OEL).
- Protection against: harmful water- and oil-based particles.
- Does not protect against: carcinogenic substances, radioactive particles, airborne biological substances of risk group 3 and enzymes.
Performance:
- Total leakage: Maximum 8%.
- Filter performance: At least 94% of the pollutants are filtered out of the air.
Typical applications:
handling softwood, glass fibres, metal, plastics (not PVC) and oil mist.
Recommendations:
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) recommends FFP2 masks for the treatment and care of patients with an infection from the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.
FFP2 masks provide increased protection against harmful particles and are useful in many industrial and medical settings.
FFP3 masks
protection level and area of application:
- Maximum pollutant concentration: Up to 30 times the occupational exposure limit value (OEL).
- Protection against: harmful and carcinogenic water- and oil-based particles, as well as radioactive particles, airborne biological agents of risk groups 2+3 and enzymes.
Performance:
- Total leakage: maximum 2%.
- Filtration performance: At least 99% of the pollutants are filtered out of the air.
Typical applications:
handling of heavy metals, hardwood, brake dust, radioactive substances, pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungal spores, and stainless steel welding.
Recommendations:
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) recommends FFP3 masks for the treatment and care of patients with an infection from the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.
FFP3 masks offer the highest protection and are suitable for environments with particularly dangerous particles.
Summary
The choice of the right respirator depends on the specific environment and hazards. FFP1 masks provide basic protection in less hazardous environments, while FFP2 and FFP3 masks are designed for use in more dangerous environments. FFP2 and FFP3 masks are particularly recommended when fighting COVID-19 to ensure the best possible protection.
