MASKS

Respirators are devices designed to protect the respiratory system from airborne pathogens, such as fine particles, dust, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. These devices are crucial for personal safety in environments where exposure to such contaminants is a concern, such as hospitals, industrial environments, and health emergencies such as epidemics and pandemics.

Classification:

Respiratory masks are classified primarily based on their filtration and protection capabilities. The most common classifications include:

  • FFP1, FFP2, FFP3: These acronyms come from the English term "Filtering Face Piece" and indicate the filtration capacity of the respiratory mask.
    • FFP1: Offers minimum protection against non-toxic and irritating particles. Filters at least 80% of airborne particles.
    • FFP2: Offers moderate protection against fine particles, fumes, mists and biological agents such as bacteria and viruses. Filters at least 94% of particles.
    • FFP3: Offers maximum protection against fine particles, fumes, toxic mists and biological agents such as bacteria, viruses and fungal spores. Filters at least 99% of particles.
  • N95 and KN95: These are the classifications used primarily in the United States and China, respectively. Both indicate that the mask filters out at least 95% of airborne particles, including bacteria and viruses.
  • P95, P99, P100: Classifications in the United States that indicate the mask's ability to filter oily and non-oily particles. P100 filters at least 99.97% of particles.
  • EN 149:2001 + A1:2009: This is a European standard that classifies masks based on their filtration efficiency and airflow resistance.