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The FFP or Filtering half Face Masks are available in three main types. Masks such as the FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 types are mainly used in industries for the protection against airborne particles. They should be CE marked to show that the design has been tested to a recognised standard. They must also be marked with that standard, which for disposable respirators is EN 149: 2001. Additional markings, such as FFP1, FFP2 or FFP3, indicate the protection level available if the respirator is a good fit and you use it correctly. The higher the number, the better the protection. FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 respirators can reduce the amount of dust you breathe by factors of 4, 10 and 20 respectively. An FFP3 respirator is advisable if you are exposed to high levels of grain, dust or mould spores.FFP3 respirators are recommended for use in UK healthcare settings by the Health and Safety Executive or HSE to protect healthcare workers from infectious aerosols. The HSE stipulate that FFP3 respirators must comply with British Standard BS EN149.2With infection protection for viruses such as COVID 19, the FFP3 will give the best level of protection although there are of course no guarantees that they will protect you. You should carry out a pre-use check every time you put on your respirator. Always check that it is fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions, so ensure that the straps and strip for moulding the respirator around your nose are correctly adjusted, to test its effectiveness, hold the mask in place and breathe in or out sharply. You should readjust the respirator if you detect any leakage around your face or your glasses steam up when you breathe out.
Filtering Face Piece (FFP) masks come in three main types: FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3. These masks are primarily utilised in industries to safeguard against airborne particles.
For FFP masks:
The additional markings (FFP1, FFP2, FFP3) denote the protection level:
However, while FFP3 masks offer the best protection against Coronavirus COVID-19, effectiveness cannot be guaranteed.
Before using an FFP mask: