FFP2 Face Mask

What are FFP2 Face Masks?

FFP2 masks, also known as N95 masks, are a type of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), normally used to protect the user from harmful particles in the air. They are designed to achieve a close and secure fit to the face. They provide a high level of protection by preventing contaminated and harmful airborne particles from entering your body through the mouth and nose. N95 and FFP2 masks offer the same level of protection, but have different names depending on where they are used. FFP2 masks and N95 masks filter up to 95% of particles from the air. These masks are recommended for use by the World Health Organisation by vulnerable patients and healthcare workers in the current COVID-19 pandemic. "FFP" stands for "Filtering Face Piece", and is the standard used in Europe, to grade medical masks. The "N" in N95, means that the mask is not resistant to oil, which means that these masks can be used safely if protection is required against non oil-based particulates. 

See our FFP2 mask reviews.

FFP2 mask protection level

FFP2 masks have a filtration rate of up to 95%, and usually have three layers of protection. These masks are resistant to fluids and are commonly used by those working in healthcare settings, as they are filtering masks offering a high level of protection. 

How to wear an FFP2 mask

FFP2 face masks cover half of the face, more specifically the mouth and nose area. They are fitted with two elastic headbands that either go over the head or the ear, ensuring a tight and secure fit. There is a metal strip over the nosepiece, which can be adjusted to ensure that there is a tight fit around the bridge of the nose. This prevents air from entering through any gaps in the mask. 

Please contact us if you require a specific type of mask.

Are FFP2 masks reusable?

FFP2 masks are not reusable and should be disposed of after one-time use. These masks often contain the letters “NR” on the mask, which stand for “Not Reusable”. This is because contaminated particles may not be visible on the exterior of the mask. Reusing these masks would mean that they would need to be kept, which can cause cross contamination if infectious particulate is on the mask. Washing these masks may also destroy the structure of the mask, rendering them ineffective. If you wish to use masks that can be washed, you should look for washable face masks which do not display reduced effectiveness with high heats. If you do need to reuse your mask, you should consider the following points:

• Whether the mask has been contaminated with blood, bodily fluids, or any other respiratory or nasal secretions from a patient
• Whether close contact has been made with any person that may be infected with an infectious disease requiring contact safety measures

• Used respirators should be hung in a designated storage area, or stored securely in a breathable container such as a paper bag between uses
• Hands should be cleaned with an alcohol-based sanitiser or soap and water before and after touching the respirator, even if you are just adjusting it
• Use a clean pair of gloves when fitting the mask and ensure that it is on securely. Once the mask is on and in a comfortable position, discard the gloves.

Are FFP2 masks washable?

FFP2 masks are not washable, as high temperatures and certain liquids may damage the fibres of the mask, reducing the effectiveness of the mask. FFP2 (N95 masks) should only be used once and should be replaced each time they are removed.  

How do FFP2 face masks work?

FFP2 masks are constructed of a network of tangled fibres, which are designed to trap tiny particles. This prevents harmful substances from travelling through the mask, protecting the nose and mouth. N95 masks also provide an electrostatic charge, attracting small particles to the fibres of the mask. FFP2 masks are also resistant to fluids, preventing contaminated liquids from making contact with the face.

The shape of the mask is designed in line with the ergonomics of your face, to ensure a secure fit. This allows maximum breathing capability and comfort while still providing protection from harmful substances in the air.

Do FFP2 masks protect against Covid?

FFP2 masks protect the user from contaminated particles in the air, such as bacteria and viruses. FFP2 masks can filter particles up to 0.3 microns in size. Some virus particles are smaller in size that 0.3 microns. Particles smaller than 0.3 microns exhibit a random zig-zag motion, where they pinball off other particles in the air. This movement makes it easy for mask fibres to capture the particles. It is also a rarity for naked particles to be present in the air, unattached to other substances. Virus particles will usually be attached to liquids and aerosols from sneezes and coughs, which are easily filtered by FFP2 and N95 masks.  

Who uses FFP2 face masks?

FFP2 respirators are used to stop harmful substances entering the respiratory system through your mouth and nose. This can be useful in several different scenarios which include:

• In healthcare environments to provide protection from germs and infection
• On construction sites to provide protection against dust and other harmful particles
• In agriculture to provide protection from dust, harmful vapours, fumes, and mould spores
• Personal use to reduce the risk of transmitting infectious viruses and bacteria

Although our N95 face masks are purchased from a UK-registered pharmacy wholesaler, they are not designed to be used by healthcare professionals. 

How effective are FFP2/N95 face masks?

FFP2 masks filter up to 95% of airborne particles. Droplets from sneezes and coughs can travel up to 7 meters and wearing a face mask can help to prevent inhaling airborne viruses.

How long can you wear an FFP2 mask for?

FFP2 masks can be worn for up to 8 hours. Once a mask is removed, it should be discarded and should not be reused.

What is the difference between FFP2 and FFP3 masks?

N95 and FFP2 masks provide the same level of protection. The only difference is the name, which differs depending on what part of the world you are in (N95 is the name given to these masks in the USA and FFP2 in the EU, including the UK). These masks have a Bacterial Filtration Efficiency of up to 95%. FFP3 masks offer the highest level of protection, providing a filtration efficiency of up to 95%.

To find out more, you can read our blog post about the difference between FFP2 and FFP3 masks.

Can children wear FFP2 masks?

FFP2 masks are not designed to fit the face of a child. Children's face masks are available, but they will not offer the same level of protection as medical grade masks.

What is a duckbill FFP2 mask?

A duckbill FFP2 mask has a shape that resembles the beak of a duck. They cover a larger surface area of the face and are suitable for those that wish to cover a large area of their face.

What is an FFP2 mask with a valve?

Valved FFP2 masks contain a small device embedded into the mask, which allow air to be expelled, without allowing air into the mask. They are best suited for those with breathing difficulties, who are unable to wear masks for prolonged periods of time. N95 masks with a valve provide protection to the wearer, but not to those around them.

Where can I buy an FFP2 mask?

You can buy an FFP2 or N95 mask from Chemist Click UK. We provide masks with certification from EU notified bodies. This means that they have been passed as fit for purpose by a regulated body.