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What are the protection levels of face masks?

Published in Face Mask Protection Levels 2 mins read

Face masks offer different levels of protection depending on their design, material, and filtration capabilities.

Here are some of the most common types and their corresponding protection levels:

  • N95 Respirators: These respirators are designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including small particles like viruses. They are commonly used by healthcare workers and in industrial settings.
  • KN95 Respirators: Similar to N95s, these respirators are designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles. They are often sourced from China and may not meet the same standards as N95s.
  • Surgical Masks: These masks provide a barrier against droplets and splashes of bodily fluids. They are commonly used in healthcare settings, but they are not designed to filter out small airborne particles like viruses.
  • Cloth Masks: These masks offer limited protection against airborne particles and droplets. Their effectiveness can vary greatly depending on the material and the fit.
  • FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3 Respirators: These respirators are commonly used in Europe and provide different levels of protection based on the filtration efficiency. FFP1 masks filter out at least 80% of airborne particles, FFP2 masks filter out at least 94%, and FFP3 masks filter out at least 99%.
  • ASTM Levels for Medical Masks: ASTM International has established standards for medical face masks based on their resistance to fluid penetration. Level 1 masks provide the lowest level of barrier protection, while Level 3 masks provide the highest level of protection.

It's important to choose a mask that is appropriate for the situation. For example, if you are working in a healthcare setting, you should wear an N95 or surgical mask. If you are in a crowded setting, you may want to wear a cloth mask or a KN95 respirator.

Remember: Always check the fit of your mask and make sure it fits snugly against your face.