EN 149- Protection from dust,mist or fibres
The EN 149 standard for dust masks shows that they protect against dust, mist or fibres. The filters are tested to determine that they work properly (filter penetration, also called efficiency). Leakage around the edges, breathing resistance and the uptake capacity are also tested.
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Filtering Face Piece
Dust masks are marked with the code FFP. This stands for ‘filtering facepiece’. They can be classified as FFP 1, FFP 2 or FFP 3.
The higher the number, the better the protection. When you do a task that involves toxic substances, it is best to choose the highest protection.
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A face mask with code FFP1 protects against large, solid particles. Only suitable for protection against irritating, not harmful substances. Minimum filter efficiency of 78%.
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A face mask with code FFP2 protects against solid and liquid irritating aerosols. Minimum filter efficiency of 92%.
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A face mask with code FFP3 protects against solid and liquid toxic aerosols. Minimum filter efficiency of 98%.
Extra Markings:
For some dust masks the FFP score is followed by another extra indication. This can be handy to help you choose.
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D
Dust masks with the ‘D’ indication have passed the dolomite test. They are more resistant against clogging over time. There is also less breathing resistance, which makes work more pleasant.
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V
Dust masks with the ‘V’ indication have a valve for exhalation. This reduces breathing resistance and also ensures that the CO2 and moisture level in the dust mask stays as low as possible.
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R​
The R indication on the dust mask shows that it is reusable. Standard dust masks can only be used for one session.
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NR​
Standard dust masks can only be used for one session. To clarify this, the indication NR may be stated on the packaging. If nothing is stated, the dust mask should in any case only be used once.