Filtering Face Pieces 1 FFP1

Nose masks come in all shapes and sizes. These nasal masks also all have a different function. Different protective equipment is therefore used for each type of isolation. Most nasal masks are indicated with FFP and a number after it. FFP stands for Filtering Face Pieces. The numbers show the category to which the respective nasal mask belongs. Thus, the numbers represent the degree of protection, with FFP1 offering the least protection and officially called a respiratory protection mask. In drip isolation, such an FFP1 nasal mask is used. In aerogenic isolation, an FFP2 mask is more suitable. In healthcare, these FFP1 and FFP2 masks are mainly used. The purpose of a surgical mouth-nose mask is to filter exhaled air and protect the wearer's environment from droplets created by speaking, coughing and sneezing. A surgical mask is not suitable as a respiratory protection mask, like the FFP1 and FFP2 masks.

An FFP1 nasal mask should block at least 80% of the (moist) air particles. Wearing an FFP1 mask is suitable when large droplets are released when talking, coughing and the like. You can think of flu or respiratory tract infections. As these droplets are relatively heavy, they do not float through the air as long and are therefore spread over a shorter distance. So especially in close contact with another person, these masks come in handy.

All FFP nasal masks have a CE mark. The masks must comply with the European Personal Protective Equipment Regulation (EC 2016/425) and are tested based on the NEN-EN 149 +A1 standard. An inspection called Inspectorate SZW supervises this if the masks are intended for professional use. In addition, each FFP category therefore sets specific requirements for respiratory protection masks. In any case, a mouth mask must fit properly, be replaced on time and thus not be reused.