With the pandemic, masks have become a part of our lives. It is mandatory to wear a mask in many places. After the pandemic, we do hear the names of many kinds of masks, so what are the differences between the masks?

Daily masks

It consists of a piece of cloth that completely covers the mouth and nose. Likewise, a bandana, fabric scarf or scarf can be used for mouth and nose protection. These masks block the flow of air when exhaled. This significantly reduces the risk of infection for other people. Daily masks do not protect wearers from infection; It protects others from bacteria that can only be found in these people.

However, experts recommend using a surgical mask or a respirator with FFP standard in order to provide effective protection against coronavirus, which spreads rapidly, especially due to mutations.

Surgical masks

These are masks designed to limit the transmission of infectious from staff to patients and from patients to staff during surgical procedures in operating rooms and medical settings. If the wearer coughs or sneezes, most of the particles coming out of the mouth remain in the mask and do not spread to the environment.

However, today, when the corona epidemic is spreading rapidly, surgical masks do not provide sufficient protection for healthcare professionals. For this reason, doctors and nurses use special masks that cover not only the mouth and nose, but also the eyes.

FFP1

Although FFP1 protection level masks are better than surgical masks, they do not provide the desired protection against viruses. These masks are mostly designed for craftsmen who want to protect themselves from harmful dusts and effects such as smoke, fog and sprays called aerosols. Ideal for those working under heavy particulate conditions such as carpenters, construction workers or painters.

FFP2 (N95)

FFP2 is one of the most effective respiratory masks produced from special fabric layers to filter the air from particles harmful to health. FFP2 masks, which offer more filtering and protection than standard surgical or fabric masks, are increasingly used especially in the corona pandemic process. They provide a certain level of protection against viruses, but do not have a 100 percent protection effect in case of direct contact with infected patients.

In addition to the level of protection offered by the mask, there are some design elements that determine effectiveness. FFP2 masks can be with or without valves, depending on the filter system. Valveless masks are very light as the filtration system is placed on the fabric. It can be worn comfortably as it does not cause bulky and percentage weight. Although the valves make the mask a bit bulkier and heavier, they offer a better breathing environment as they allow air to escape. Valved masks usually cause less sweating. It has the advantage of better breathability and more comfortable use.

However, experts state that valve-less masks should be used in order to provide more effective protection against viruses.

FFP3 (N99)

Within the FFP protection class, FFP3 masks are the type that offers the highest level of protection. It can block both liquid and solid aerosols and protein molecules. FFP3 face masks provide the most effective protection for the control of virus and bacterial infections spread by coughing and sneezing. These masks are also frequently used in laboratories when working with hazardous chemicals. It protects even from very dangerous dusts such as asbestos fibers if fitted correctly.

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