Thanks to special filters, an FFP2 mask provides more reliable protection against infection with the coronavirus than a cloth mask. However, you can go wrong with carrying, disposing and cleaning. Five common mistakes:
1. Dispose of the FFP2 mask incorrectly
FFP2 masks belong in the residual waste – and not in the yellow bag. However, a lot of masks are currently landing there, says the Federal Association of the German Waste Management, Water and Raw Materials Management (BDE). Many people also incorrectly dispose of rubber gloves and surgical masks in the yellow sack.
However, the materials cannot be recycled – the masks and co. Interfere with the recycling process: “In the sorting process in the disposal companies, these materials, i.e. masks and rubber gloves, then have to be separated from the packaging materials, sometimes by hand,” said Bernhard Schodrowski from BDE in an interview with the WDR.
2. Spray the mask with disinfectant
If you want to keep your mask clean, you should definitely not spray it with disinfectant. The agent makes germs and pathogens harmless, but the moisture damages the filter of the mask. The washing machine or hand washing is therefore unsuitable.
Instead, you can disinfect the mask in the oven or air it out for seven days. How it works and what to look out for: Clean and reuse FFP2 masks
3. Wear the mask incorrectly
An FFP2 mask can only provide effective protection if it is fitted correctly to the face. If the mask is too loose or too small, it lets unfiltered air through. Therefore the following applies:
- The mouth and nose must be completely covered.
- The mask should fit snugly around the edges.
- Avoid moving the mask while wearing it.
- Replace moistened masks.
4. Use the FFP2 mask for too long
FFP2 masks are actually single-use and generate a lot of garbage. It’s good that you can wear it several times. However, you shouldn’t use them too often either.
As a rule, the filter performance only lasts for a total of eight hours. The masks are electrically charged and this charge wears off over time. If you wear the same FFP2 mask over and over again and exceed the eight hours, you no longer have the full protective effect.
5. Wear a non-certified mask
The protection provided by FFP2 masks without valid certificates is also insufficient. Especially those who order masks online should take a closer look – there are some counterfeits in circulation. This is how you can recognize a tested mask:
- The name of the manufacturer is on the mask.
- The number of the European standard EN 149 and the year of its publication are noted. The German version is: 149: 2001 + A1: 2009
- The mask bears a CE mark, followed by a four-digit test number (you can find the number on the website the European Commission.)
The Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health also provides a database that lists FFP2 masks that do not meet the requirements. Click here for the database.
Read more on Techzle.com:
- FFP2 masks at Stiftung Warentest: Rossmann and dm models are not recommended
- Despite Corona: Don’t let yourself be turned into environmental sinners
- Wash your hands: this is how you get your hands really clean