FFP1 mask
FFP1 mask is the least filtering mask of the three.
Aerosol filtration percentage: 80% minimum
Internal leak rate: maximum 22%
It is mainly used as a dust mask (for example for DIY jobs). Dust can cause lung diseases, such as silicosis, anthracosis, siderosis and asbestosis (in particular dust from silica, coal, iron ore, zinc, aluminium or cement are common particulate risks).
FFP2 mask
FFP2 face masks with and without exhalation valve
Aerosol filtration percentage: 94% minimum
Internal leak rate: maximum 8%
This mask offers protection in various areas such as the glass industry, foundry, construction, pharmaceutical industry and agriculture. It effectively stops powdered chemicals. This mask can also serve as protection against respiratory viruses such as avian influenza or severe acute respiratory syndrome associated with the coronavirus (SARS), as well as against the bacteria of pneumonic plague and tuberculosis. It is similar to the US-standard N95 respirator.
FFP3 mask
FFP3 face mask
Aerosol filtration percentage: 99% minimum
Internal leak rate: maximum 2%
The FFP3 mask is the most filtering of the FFP masks. It protects against very fine particles such as asbestos and ceramic. It does not protect against gases and in particular oxides of nitrogen.