The respirators are designed to protect the wearer from toxins, harmful particulate matter and pathogens, in addition, the protective masks also protect people in the immediate vicinity from bacteria and viruses. The respirators are also widely known as FFP masks, which stands for "filtering face piece" and is called "particle filtering half mask" in the German-speaking area. Unlike conventional hygiene masks, they are made entirely of a filtering material and fit very closely to the wearer's face. In Heros Hygiene Onlineshop you can buy FFP2 respirators at good prices and order FFP3 protective masks.
Explanation of terms
In the field of masks there is often confusion due to different terms and synonyms, especially among laymen. Basically, a distinction is made between three types, which may have several synonyms:
- Textile masks / community masks
- Medical masks / surgical masks / OP masks / hygiene masks / NMS
- Respirators / FFP masks
Textile masks are often sold untested and in some cases do not have a filter insert, which significantly reduces their effectiveness. However, they can be washed and reused, which makes them an ecological option. Since they are not sold as a medical product, they do not need to be certified. Therefore, we do not recommend these masks in public areas.
The conventional mouth-nose protection, also often called surgical mask or hygienic mask, is mainly intended to protect the people around the wearer from viruses and bacteria. The protective effect for the wearer is only partially guaranteed, which is why they are often used in surgeries or clinical facilities to protect the patient. In pandemic situations, these masks are recommended for public use.
The respirators have the highest filtering efficiency and provide optimal protection from pathogens for both the wearer and fellow patients. Due to their tight fit around the mouth and nose, they have a decisive advantage over the other masks.
Advantages of FFP masks
Especially for handling toxic substances, as well as viruses and bacteria, we recommend the use of FFP2 or FFP3 masks. Mainly because they also effectively protect the wearer himself from harmful substances in the air. The decisive advantage compared to other masks is that FFP masks are very close to the face and therefore no harmful substances in the form of droplets or particles can enter from the side and no bacteria can escape. This characteristic is also the reason for the effective self-protection, which is only partially provided by hygiene masks.
Filter performance
Filtering efficiency is defined by the BFE value (bacterial filtration efficiency) and indicates the percentage of viruses and germs that the mask can retain. Depending on the value, masks can be divided into the following groups:
- FFP1 min. 80% of pollutants are filtered
- FFP2 min. 94% of pollutants are filtered
- FFP3 min. 99% of pollutants are filtered
Application
FFP1 masks are often used when dealing with non-toxic particles. A typical application of such a mask as a mouthguard is the environment of the food industry.
To protect against harmful particles, but which are not carcinogenic, FFP2 masks are used. In industry, for example, they are often used in the handling of fiberglass plastics, metal and plastic processing and processing of soft wood, that is, especially when harmful dusts can be generated.
FFP3 masks protect against harmful and carcinogenic particles and thus represent the highest safety level of this mask type. They are used, for example, when working with heavy metals, when handling radioactive substances or when working with hardwood.
The use of FFP2 masks is recommended for the treatment and handling of contagious diseases (e.g. Covid-19). In Austria, FFP2 was even made compulsory in public places for a time.
FFP with or without valve?
FFP masks without a valve filter the air in both directions, i.e. when inhaling and exhaling. This means that not only the people around you, but also the person wearing the mask are well protected against viruses and bacteria. Some masks, however, have an exhalation valve, which means that the protection from others is much lower. These masks are not recommended in pandemic situations, because in the event of illness, transmission to strangers cannot be effectively prevented. However, these masks have great advantages in industry, since exhalation is greatly facilitated and, accordingly, a wearing time of a whole working day is much more comfortable.
Can respirators be worn more than once?
FFP masks, like hygiene masks, are disposable and should be disposed of after each use. The masks are designed for a maximum of one work shift of 8 hours. If the mask is soaked or damaged by the breathing air, it should also be replaced with a new, dry mask. The masks should only be touched by the rubber bands and disposed of directly in the waste. Thorough hand cleaning or hand disinfection is recommended after disposal. Under proper storage conditions, masks can usually be stored for 3-5 years. For more specific information, the shelf life can be found on the packaging or on the data sheet.
Quality inspection
Since FFP2 and FFP3 masks are often in contact with harmful substances, it is even more important that the products are strictly controlled. As part of personal safety equipment (PPE) and as a medical device, the mask must undergo a conformity assessment. This is indicated by the CE mark on the packaging and the mask itself. Likewise, products must comply with technical standards and meet certain requirements. In the case of respiratory protection masks, this primarily involves testing the filter performance. The European standard EN149:2001+A1:2009 specifies the necessary BFE value. For an FFP2 mask, at least 94% of aerosols must be filtered, while for FFP3 masks, this value must be as high as 99%. The certificates of each product should be visible on the packaging, the mask itself and/or on the product-specific data sheet. These data should always be checked before buying, so that your health and that of your fellow human beings is not endangered and the quality standards are met.
Manufacture
A large number of protective masks are produced in Asia. However, we also offer FFP2 masks that are produced in Switzerland. With this choice you support the domestic market and in return you get high quality products that are produced ecologically. For the production of Swiss respirators we count on FLAWA Consumer GmbH in Flawil, which can count on more than 100 years of experience in the field of hygiene.
How are respirators worn correctly?
1. Hands should be washed or disinfected thoroughly with soap for 20 seconds.
2. The mask should be held over the mouth and nose and the ear loops should be pulled over the ears.
3. If the mask is not tight enough, the ear loops should be shortened with a knot or clip.
4. Press the nose clip against the nose with the index fingers. No more air should escape over the sides.
5. To check, hold both hands in front of the mask to test its tightness.
Buy FFP2 and FFP3 respirators
Order various respirators with high wearing comfort and other hygiene items from us, we offer a wide range of various items. Benefit from low prices and fast delivery from Swiss warehouse. If you are unclear or have any questions, we will be happy to help you find the appropriate item for each case. Contact us via live chat through the online store, by mail or also gladly on the phone. You can count on fast and competent advice.
