There are so many masks available, from respirators to medical masks and reusable face coverings that you can pop in the washing machine.
Masks have been in great demand throughout the Coronavirus pandemic and suddenly people who never needed them now require them for work, commuting and even medical appointments.
Some individuals and business are also concerned about purchasing the wrong mask and in turn leaving less stock available for the NHS.
With so many variations, how do you know which mask is right for you and your needs?
Single Use Mask
FFP2/FFP3
- EN149 compliant
- Maximum filtration
- High fluid resistance
- Adjustable head strap
- Create a facial seal around the nose and mouth
Medical Mask
Type IIR
- Bacterial filtration efficiency > 98% and splash resistance > 16,0
- Filters the inflow and outflow of air
- Covers the nose and mouth without creating a seal
- Ideal for medical environments where heavy amounts of fluids, spray and aerosols are produced
Type II
- Bacterial filtration efficiency > 98%
- Filters both the inflow and outflow of air
- Covers the nose and mouth without creating a seal
- Ideal for medical environments where light amounts of fluids, spray and aerosols are produced
Civilian Mask
- NOT recommended for medical use.
- Adjustable nose clip for secure fit
- Inhibits the transmission of bodily fluids and droplets
- Single use only
Reusable MaskÂ
Health Mask
- Reusable half face mask
- Ideal for general public use in indoor spaces
- Non-medical and non-PPE
- Inner layer: 100% Cotton
- Breathability with water vapor: 16.3 mg/cm²*h
- Waterproofness (Outer layer): 0 mm water dragging
Premium Reusable Mask
- Reusable face mask
- Ideal for general public use in indoor spaces
- 100% anti-droplet polyester outer layer
- Anti-bacterial OEKO-TEX® 100% cotton inner layer
- Prevents the spread of disease by capturing coughs and sneezes
- Machine washable
Branded Reusable Mask
- Washable cotton mask
- Ideal for general public use in indoor spaces
- Personalised to your brand
- Made from two layers of anti bacterial cotton
- Environmentally friendly
- Minimum order quantity of 250 masks
Points to remember
FFP masks are classed as PPE and must conform to EN149 when sold in Europe
Medical masks must conform to EN14683
Health masks are an ideal choice for most of the general population – they can be washed at higher temperatures to kill the virus, they are reusable, and are kinder to the environment.
With a wide range of face masks available from IIR, to FFP and reusable, the choice can feel overwhelming, but it is vitally important that we all wear the appropriate mask for our environment.