What is a N95 FFP2 Mask (Respirator)?

During the coronavirus pandemic, masks have become a key strategy to reduce transmission risk. Many different types of masks came into the use such as the disposable masks, cloth masks, etc. While cloth masks were recommended during the first wave, many Countries in Europe now recommend well-fitted N95 FFP2 masks for the highest protection. Now what is FFP2 mask? Is this something that we have never heard of? Let’s find out.

Filtering facepiece(FFP) respirators, commonly referred to as N95 nanofiber masks, are regulated by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. So if you are baffled between FFP2 vs N95, they are the same things. N95 mask can be said as a short form for N95 FFP2 respirator or mask. Read further to learn in detail about the N95 FFP2 mask.

Here is a Breakdown of What an N95 Mask is:

N: The N letter of the N95 FFP2 mask is a Respirator Rating Letter Class. It is also called FFP2 mask rating. It stands for “Non-Oil” meaning that if no oil-based particulates are present, then you can use the mask in the work environment. Other masks ratings are R (resistant to oil for 8 hours) and P (oil proof).

95: Masks ending in a 95 such as N95 nanofiber mask, have a 95 percent efficiency. Masks ending in a 99 have a 99 percent efficiency. Masks ending in 100 are 99.97 percent efficient and that is the same as a HEPA quality filter.

.3 microns: The N95 FFP2 mask filter out contaminants like dusts, mists and fumes. The minimum size of .3 microns of particulates and large droplets won’t pass through the barrier, according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.). A new class of masks has recently emerged using nanofiber media that has >95% down to 0.1 microns.

FFP2: So, most of us would be wondering what is FFP2? FFP stands for “filtering face piece”. It is a European standard for mask efficiency - FFP2 masks filter at least 94% of all aerosols, including airborne viruses such as covid-19. Masks having this filtering capacity get the FFP2 mask rating.

A study published in December by the Max Planck Institute, a German research organisation, found well-fitting FFP2 masks or a FFP2 respirator reduced the risk of infection with COVID-19 to 0.1%.

Nirvana Being has been at the forefront on mask science and introduced reusable/washable Airific & Nirvana N95 FFP2 community masks with N95 nanofiber filters back in April, 2020.  In a Country with the worst air pollution and communicable disease record on the planet, we felt strongly about delivering the highest filtration efficacy, to drive safety and well-being. Looking for the best quality FFP2 masks? Grab yours today online.