Darum sind Atemschutzmasken in der heutigen Zeit unumgänglich
Who could have imagined a year ago that respirators would be part of everyday use and life? Nevertheless, general respirators and especially FFP respirators are essential for health protection against pathogens and bacteria. They protect us not only from the corona virus and its mutations, but also from other serious diseases, such as influenza or colds. For more important information about corona click here.
Mund-Nasen-Bedeckung / Alltagsmasken
Everyday masks can be recognized by their different patterns and colors. These masks are often only made of commercially available textiles and do not have to be tested according to a corresponding legal standard. They can therefore be offered without official procedures. Unfortunately, fabric masks have not proven to be sufficiently protective. However, they can reduce the rate of respiratory flow or the expulsion of saliva or mucus droplets, thereby reducing the spread of viruses and bacteria by infected individuals.
Medical masks / op-Masks
Medical masks, also known as surgical masks, are medical devices developed for the protection of others. By wearing this mask, you primarily protect your counterpart from a possible droplet infection. The surgical mask prevents droplets from being ejected from the mouth and nose of the patient. However, due to the shape and fit of most medical masks, some of the breathing air flows past the edges. This means that the wearer cannot be effectively protected from aerosols containing pathogens.
FFP respirators
Atemschutzmasken – Filtering Face Piece
FFP respirators, also called particle-filtering half masks, are part of the personal protective equipment (PPE) in the context of occupational safety and protect against particulate pollutants such as dust, smoke and aerosols. FFP masks are divided into 3 levels, FFP1 respirators, FFP2 respirators and last but not least FFP3 respirators. These protective masks are used for external and personal protection. There are clear legal and technical requirements in the standard (EN 149:2001+A1:2009) that an FFP respirator must meet.
FFP1-Respirators
Level 1 respirators are suitable for work environments where only non-toxic substances are present. These masks protect against non-toxic dusts such as gypsum or limestone and have a filtering capacity of 80%. In areas of activity such as grinding and drilling concrete or masonry, these respirators are well suited.
FFP2-Respirators
FFP2 respirators are suitable for working environments where harmful substances such as smoke, dusts and certain aerosols are present. Class 2 respirators must have a filtration efficiency of at least 94%. In the current pandemic, FFP2 respirators are one of the most effective means of fighting the pandemic.
FFP3-Respirators
FFP3 masks have a filtration performance of at least 99% and provide sufficient protection even when the air you breathe is highly polluted. Even with toxic and harmful dusts such as asbestos, nickel or mold spores, an FFP3 mask can provide sufficient protection.
