Which face mask?

We’ve been doing some work sourcing face masks and visors for a growing number of customers…

It’s quite a confusing area for people to understand, which is the right mask for them. And we’ve had to learn a lot about them ourselves too.

With us soon to be easing out of the lock down. The government may well advise it would be a good idea to wear them in certain situations.

So, we’ve pooled our little knowledge and detailed down what we’ve learnt.

Hopefully. It will help you in some small way…

Face coverings / fashion face mask:

Currently, they are no medically proved health benefits to wearing these, and they are said to be many more times less effective than a medical face mask. Although they will stop the wearer from touching their own face.

Type I (1) Disposable Face Mask:

These have a BFE (bacterial filtration efficiency) of 95%. Said to be good at filtering very large particles. Like dust and rubble.

Type II (2) EN14683 3 ply Medical Face Mask:

These have a BFE (bacterial filtration efficiency) of 98%. They have a built-in filter to help block transmission of large-particle microorganisms from droplets, sprays, splatters, and splashes. And will reduce the likelihood of hand-to-face contact.

Type IIR (2R) EN14683 4 ply Medical Face Masks:

These have a BFE (bacterial filtration efficiency) of 98%. They’ll do everything the Type II (2) mask will do. Plus. Includes a splash resistant layer to protect against blood and other bodily fluids.

Type III (3) FFP2 face mask:

Also called N95 or K95. These masks have a minimum of 94% filtration percentage and a maximum of 8% leakage to the inside. These masks are not shaped to your face but are simply held in place by the elastic ear loop and have a typical lifespan of 3-8 hours.

Type IIII (4) FFP3 face mask:

Also called N99 or K99. These are the most effective at filtration, with a minimum filtration of 99% and a maximum leakage of 2% to the inside. They are better shaped to your face for a snug fit and typically have a valve to help breathe as the filtration material is much thicker. The valve also reduces the build-up of moisture, lengthening the lifespan of the mask.

Full Face Visors:

Used to protect from projections of particulate matter in good visibility conditions. Usually manufactured from clear rigid PVC. Mainly used by NHS, Hospice, and care workers.

Conclusion:

From our current (but limited) experience. The NHS are using (depending on situation) Type IIR (2R), Type III (3) FF2 (N95 & K95) and Type IIII (4) FFP3 (N99 & K99) face masks, together with full face visors.

Most other organisations, business and people seem to be purchasing the Type II (2) EN14683 3 ply Medical Face Mask, as it offers 98% BFE filtration and are readily available at affordable prices.

Please note: We're not medical experts. This info has been collated from medical experts and through talking directly to the NHS, NHS Trusts, Care Homes, and our own customers.