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As face masks become more and more prevalent it’s smart to consider how much protection different types of mask can offer.
FFP2 and FFP3 masks (the “FFP” bit stands for “filtering facepiece”) can be made by different manufacturers, but in order to carry these certifications, they must perform to specific minimum standards under testing as set out in the catchily-named “EN149:2001” document.
This is an EU standard which has fairly similar counterparts in other regions. As such, the FFP3 standard is often considered broadly equivalent to the US N99 standard and the Chinese KN99 standard. Similarly, the FFP2 standard is often considered broadly equivalent to the US N95 standard and the Chinese KN95 standard.
FFP2 | FFP3 | |
Example |
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Conforms to | EUROPE: EN 149:2001+A1:2009 | EUROPE: EN 149:2001+A1:2009 |
Minimum filter efficiency requirement | 94% | 99% |
Filter efficiency tested using | Sodium chloride and paraffin oil | Sodium chloride and paraffin oil |
Filter efficiency test flow rate | 95l/min | 95l/min |
Filter efficiency test particle diameter | 0.3 microns (approx.) | 0.3 microns (approx.) |
Maximum total inward leakage requirement | 8% | 2% |
Maximum permitted inhalation resistance |
0.7mbar at 30l/min 2.4mbar at 95l/min |
1.0mbar at 30l/min 3.0mbar at 95l/min |
Maximum permitted exhalation resistance | 3.0mbar at 160l/min | 3.0mbar at 160l/min |
Sources: Smart Air, 3M, Health and Safety Executive
Through tougher testing requirements for factors such as filtering efficiency, FFP3 masks offer a greater degree of protection than FFP2 masks – and that’s with minimal impact on breathability. The higher the FFP rating, the more protection the mask affords the wearer.
Consider the fit of any mask before you buy. FFP2 masks may have simple, thin, behind-the-ear loops while a good FFP3 mask should have a thicker, adjustable pair of head bands, offering a better seal.
The NHS has specified FFP3 masks for its staff as part of their personal protective equipment (PPE). The World Health Organization has advised that healthcare workers “should use a particulate respirator at least as protective as a US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-certified N95, European Union (EU) standard FFP2, or equivalent”.
Amazon
N95 and respirator masks
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eBay
KN95 Masks
KN95 masks stop 95% of 0.3 micron particles! Easier to get a good fit than surgical masks.
Chemist Direct
KN95 masks - Individually wrapped
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CBD Armour
Shop N95 face masks from UK
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N95 and FFP3 are the best known types of respirator masks, but there are key differences in their capabilities.
These retailers offer N95, FFP3 and disposable surgical face masks and coverings in bulk. See your options and get fast shipping on in-stock orders.
Looking for face masks for sale? Which should you buy, a surgical mask or a FFP2, FFP3, N95, P2 respirator mask?
what is the face mask that provides the greatest protection from airborne covid virus
Hello Edmund,
Thank you for contacting Finder. Hope you’re doing well!
I understand you’d like to know which mask provides the greatest protection from the COVID virus. Between FFP2 and FFP3 respirators, if you look at our comparison table above, FFP3 has a 99% filter efficiency requirement.
FFP3 masks offer a greater degree of protection than FFP2 masks – and that’s with minimal impact on breathability. The higher the FFP rating, the more protection the mask affords the wearer. You may also need to consider the fit of any mask before you buy it. FFP2 masks may have simple, thin, behind-the-ear loops while a good FFP3 mask should have a thicker, adjustable pair of headbands, offering a better seal.
A gentle reminder that it is now mandatory to wear a face-covering on public transport and in shops in England. Face coverings will be compulsory in more indoor spaces from 8 August including cinemas, museums, and places of worship. Full advice on our masks hub here.
Some sellers will charge prices far above the average, also known as “price gouging”. We encourage consumers to compare options before making a purchasing decision.
Hope this helped. Should you have further questions or clarifications, please do not hesitate to contact us again.
Best Regards,
Robyn