In Europe, FFP2 medical masks (particulate respirators) are required to meet the European standard EN 149: 2001 standards. According to European standard EN 149: 2001 standards, there are three classes of disposable particulate respirators: FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. FFP2 medical masks are widely used by the healthcare providers to provide effective protection against certain viruses, such as influenza. This mask is designed as tightfitting masks to provide a secure seal around the nose and face. It is disposable and can be available as half-face or full-face masks.
The 3M FFP2 model features an adjustable metal nose strip to provide additional comfort. In addition, the two-strap ear-loop design provides a secure seal around the face. Light-weight construction also ensures secure fit while shifting during movement. This type of particulate respirator is widely used in healthcare facilities, design and construction industries, food handling and processing industries, mining, oil & gas industries, transportation and heavy infrastructure etc.
FFP2 particulate respirators offer at least 94% filtration efficiency against certain biological particles. This respirator can have a maximum 8% leakage to the inside of the mask. In Europe, the healthcare professionals are required to wear a particulate respirator of at least class FFP2 or FFP3. This ensures efficient filtration of particles and body fluids when the infected patient is treated by a health care professional. Non-valved respirators also provide two-way filtration, both inflow and outflow protection.
As a response to the emergency COVID-19 pandemic situation, FDA has cleared the certified European CE EN-149 FFP2 respirators to be used in medical emergencies where there is a shortage of NIOSH-approved N95 respirators.
Source:https://www.fda.gov/media/136403/download?from=singlemessage&isappinstalled=0
