Protection mask

Protective mask how to choose

Respiratory protection mask, what you need to know

It is sometimes complicated to clearly define the different types of masks, their context of use, the real performance that a particular standard validates.
Thus, it is already important to clearly distinguish what differs between a surgical type 3-ply mask and an FFP mask (more common FFP2) in particular.
In both cases, filtration is effectively provided by what is called the "filter medium" made up of the association of several layers of material. The quality of filtration is therefore linked to this association.
Then, it is important to understand that a surgical mask only validates through the EN14683 standard this filtration aspect and the same is the case for the washable UNS1 masks which for the record do not meet a standard but an Afnor specification. ..
There is therefore no guarantee of waterproofness to the face on this type of mask . The implementation of this type of mask, its adaptation to the face, the use of a nasal bar will therefore have a significant influence on the final result. To take a reducing image, it's as if you insulated your house with a lot of materials and a HI Tech solution but you left a window open ...
Conversely, FFP masks are subjected to leaktightness tests which guarantee, beyond the performance of the filter media, a demonstrated effectiveness on the penetration of fine particles .
It therefore seems obvious that in the event of a major risk, an FFP mask is an additional guarantee of protection . As soon as the Covid "Variants" appeared, certain states, provinces or professions switched to the FFP2 mask. The French state has banned the use of "homemade" masks and UNS2 masks now deemed insufficient without making the FFP2 compulsory.

FFP mask filter / protective mask

An FFP mask is a respiratory protection device that must comply with standard NF EN 149. It is intended to protect the wearer against inhalation of both droplets and particles suspended in the air. Wearing this type of mask is more restrictive (thermal discomfort, respiratory resistance) than that of a surgical mask. There are three categories of FFP masks , depending on their effectiveness (estimated based on the effectiveness of the filter and the face leakage).
Thus, we distinguish:
-> FFP1 masks filtering at least 80% of aerosols of average size 0.6 µm (total inward leakage <22%).
-> FFP2 masks filtering at least 94% of aerosols of average size 0.6 µm (total inward leakage <8%).
-> FFP3 masks filtering at least 99% of aerosols of average size 0.6 µm (total inward leakage <2%).
- Only FFP2 or higher type masks will be effective against the risk of contagion.
- Masks equipped with valves and not intended for medical use are not suitable for the fight against the pandemic

Surgical mask / medical mask

A surgical mask is a medical device (standard EN 14683) . It is intended to prevent the projection towards the entourage of the droplets emitted by the person wearing the mask. It also protects the wearer against projections of droplets emitted by a person opposite. However, it does not protect against the inhalation of very small airborne particles.
There are three types of masks (efficiency class):
Type I surgical mask : bacterial filtration efficiency> 95% of an aerosol of average size 3 µm.
Type II surgical mask : bacterial filtration efficiency> 98% of an aerosol of average size 3 µm.
Type IIR surgical mask : bacterial filtration efficiency> 98% of an aerosol of average size 3 µm and splash resistant.
- Standard NF EN 14683 adds a test of resistance to projection (type 1R and 2R)
- worn by the caregiver, it prevents contamination of the patient and his environment (air, surfaces, products),
- carried by the contagious patient, it prevents contamination of his entourage and his environment.

Washable mask for the general public (Example BARRAL mask)

A washable mask is neither a medical device within the meaning of Regulation EU / 2017/745 (Surgical masks), nor personal protective equipment within the meaning of Regulation EU / 2016/425 (FFP2 type filtering masks). This mask is intended for the general public and the professional environment and is exclusively reserved for non-sanitary uses. It is intended to prevent the projection of droplets. This individual mask is intended to be offered in particular to professionals who have to meet a large number of people during their activities (cashiers, law enforcement officers).
- Its permeability is 152L.m-².S-1 for a depression of 100Pa (standard> 96L.m-².S-1)
- Filtration efficiency is 99.9% of the 3µm particles emitted (standard> 90%).
- This mask is strictly adapted to the health crisis linked to COVID 19.

Hygiene mask

This hygiene mask protects the work environment and the products made there by limiting all the spread of accidental oral and nasal projections (sneezing, cough, etc.). Certified EN ISO 9001. Is neither a medical device, nor a personal protective equipment.

Screen mask

Is not a medical device and does not replace the wearing of a filtration mask.

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