FFP2 or similar quality masks are already mandatory in some European countries. Doctors also recommend wearing them, emphasizing that the FFP2 mask provides much more effective protection than fabric masks or disposable surgical masks. So it can be expected that the FFP2 mask will also be mandatory in Poland. How does the FFP2 mask differ from other types of masks, how does it look, how much does it cost? How long can the FFP2 mask be worn?

FFP2 maskis a mask belonging to the FFP standard (filtering face piece). It is a reusable mask, used to protect against air pollution and smog, dust, aerosols (also industrial), as well as against pathogens, including the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causing COVID-19.

Apart from the FFP2 mask, there are also FFP1 and FFP3 masks in the FFP mask group. These masks differ slightly in appearance, they are also distinguished by the parameter called the limit of maximum leakage, which determines how much air will get under and under the mask due to its inaccurate adherence to the skin. In the case of FFP1 masks, this limit is 25 percent, FFP2 - 11 percent. The most effective protection is provided by FFP3 masks, for which the maximum leakage limit is 5%.

What does the FFP2 mask look like?

The FFP2 maskis made of plastic and equipped with a strap, thanks to which it fits tightly to the skin. Some models of FFP2 masks are additionally equipped with an air valve for easier breathing. A good quality mask should have special markings (printed on the material) such as information about its effectiveness, CE mark, standard number (PN-EN 149: 2001 standard). Masks equipped with an air valve (filter) should also have information on how to replace the filter and how to maintain the mask.

It is worth knowing that the equivalent of the EN 149 standard used in Europe is the American standard (42 CFR 84), which also sets three classes of air filtering, but marked in a different way - asN95 , N99, N100. FFP2 masks have the same level of filtration, and therefore safety, as N95-certified masks. Such a marking can sometimes be found on masks sold in stores or on the Internet.

FFP2 mask without air valve (filter):

FFP2 mask equipped with an air valve (filter):

FFP2 mask - filtration efficiency

The filtration efficiency of the FFP2 maskis estimated at 94 percent. For comparison, the filtration efficiency of surgical masks according to various data is about 70%, the filtration efficiency of FFP1 masks is 80%, and FFP3 masks - 99%. Ordinary cloth masks give - depending on the type of fabric they are made of - a filtration efficiency of about 40-50 percent.

FFP2 mask - price

The price of the FFP2 maskdepends on many factors - point of sale, place of manufacture, and whether the mask is equipped with a filter. The cheapest FFP2 masks can be purchased for PLN 1.5 per piece (in online stores). Models equipped with a filter usually cost from about 5 to even 40 PLN per piece.

How long can the FFP2 mask be worn?

The FFP2 mask is a reusable mask. However, how long you can wear it depends on the specific product. Information about the time of using the mask should be provided by the manufacturer or on its packaging or in the attached leaflet. Usually this time is from a few hours to three days.

Most models of FFP2 masks can be disinfected (also in the manner specified by the manufacturer) - among the methods allowed are, for example, the use of hydrogen peroxide or disinfection with UV radiation. The FFP2 masks are not washable.

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