Respiratory protection mask classes: This is how surgical and FFP masks protect

The different classes of breathing masks meet different requirements. We explain the protection that surgical and FFP masks offer, especially against the coronavirus.

According to the Federal-state resolution of January 19, 2021 From now on there is an obligation to wear “medical masks” in various public areas:

• in local public transport
• in shops
• in church services
• at the workplace if the distance rules cannot be observed

By medical masks, the federal government means both surgical masks and KN95, N95 and FFP masks.

We explain to you what distinguishes the different respiratory masks and how well they protect. You can find a detailed explanation of this on the website of the Federal Office for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).

Respiratory mask classes: what is the difference between medical masks and everyday masks made of fabric?

In addition to medical masks, everyday masks made of fabric are also very common. The main difference is that medical masks go through a test procedure. You must meet set requirements and only then will you receive one CE marking.

With an everyday mask, on the other hand, it is difficult to assess how well it protects against pathogens such as the coronavirus. Multi-layer everyday masks made from various close-meshed fabrics tend to provide the best protection. They hold back droplets and reduce the flow of air when you exhale. Overall, everyday masks therefore offer a certain degree of external protection and at most a low level of self-protection.

Respiratory mask classes: Surgical masks protect this well

Doctors wear surgical masks during operations so that the air they breathe does not get into open wounds. You can recognize the masks by the fact that they are light blue or green on the outside and white on the inside.

This class of respiratory masks therefore offers good third-party protection. It also protects you, the wearer, from droplets, but only very slightly from Aerosols.

Respiratory protection classes: FFP masks

FFP stands for “Filtering Face Piece”. Before Corona, this class of breathing masks was mainly used in crafts as protection against small particles. In contrast to surgical masks, FFP masks are primarily intended to protect their wearers: inside.

FFP masks are available in levels one, two and three. Against the coronavirus protect only FFP2 and FFP3 masks. Tests with a selection of aerosols show how well the masks protect:

• According to the BfArM, FFP2 masks hold back at least 94 percent of the aerosols tested,
• FFP3 masks even at least 99 percent.

This class of respiratory masks thus offers both internal and external protection against coronaviruses. FFP masks, which have a valve for exhaling, are an exception. They only protect their wearer: inside.

Note: KN95 and N95 masks are comparable to FFP2 masks in terms of protection against corona.

Wearing respirators correctly: this is how they protect you

Regardless of the respirator class, the following applies: For the mask to work properly, you have to wear it correctly. In particular, the masks must cover the mouth and nose and fit tightly. For this purpose, medical masks have a metal bracket that you can adapt to the shape of your nose. It is also sometimes necessary to shorten the straps so that the mask fits tightly. To do this, you can cross the ribbons or make knots in the ends.

In addition, you should only touch the mask by the straps and wash your hands before and after you put the mask on or off.

Reuse respirators and dispose of properly

Surgical and FFP masks are actually single-use products – so you should dispose of them after a single use. The Münster University of Applied Sciences points out, however, that especially the highly protective FFP2 masks are only available to a limited extent. That is why scientists there tested to what extent FFP2 masks can be used multiple times. You can read the results in this article: Can you clean and reuse FFP2 masks? What you need to know.

Accordingly, there are two methods how you can reduce the pathogens on and in the FFP2 masks to an acceptable minimum:

• Put in the oven at 80 degrees for 60 minutes
• Let dry for a week at room temperature

Other procedures are critical as high levels of heat, moisture, and some chemicals attack the mask’s filter material. You should also follow the instructions exactly.

According to the Münster University of Applied Sciences, you can process an FFP2 mask up to four times in this way. However, you should dispose of them afterwards at the latest.

Important: Medical masks are not allowed in the Yellow binbecause they are not recyclable. Instead, you have to use them in the residual waste to dispose.

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