Choosing the right particle filters:
When it comes to respiratory protection making sure you have the right filter for the right job is greatly important, take the time to safeguard yourself and your workers by familiarising yourself with the different filters available.
Making the right choice
- Identify type and level of contaminant exposure.
- Evaluate airborne hazards in the workspace.
- Choose mask based on FFP rating.
- When in doubt go with a higher level of protection.
- If you are unsure about what mask you require contact your H&S representative or consult the HSE website for Standards and Marking of respiratory protection.
OEL - Occupational exposure limits
The Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL) is defined as the airborne concentration of a substance that workers may be repeatedly exposed to without adverse health effects. For more information about OEL limits please consult the HSE website.
APF – Assigned Protection factor
The Assigned Protection factor (APF) is defined as the workplace level of respiratory protection that a respirator or class of respirators is expected to provide to employees. For more information about APF’s please consult the HSE website.
FFP1 Masks
FFP1 Dust Masks protect against low levels of dust, as well as solid and liquid aerosols. It protects against materials in concentrations up to 4x occupational exposure limit (OEL) or 4x assigned protection factor (APF). FFP1 Dust Masks are suitable for hand sanding, drilling, and cutting.
FFP2 Masks
FFP2 Dust Masks protect against moderate levels of dust, as well as solid and liquid aerosols. FFP2 Dust Masks have a higher level of protection than FFP1. FFP2 masks protect against materials in concentrations up to 12x OEL or 4x APF. FFP2 masks are ideal for plastering and sanding.
FFP3 Dust Masks
FFP3 Dust Masks protect against higher levels of dust. They also protect against solid and liquid aerosols. FFP3 masks protect against materials in concentrations up to 50x OEL or 20x APF. FFP3 masks are suitable for handling hazardous powders, such as those found in the pharmaceutical industry.