How long do FFP3 masks last?

There are many standards for masks, such as domestic standards, American standards and European standards. This article mainly introduces the European standard masks. I believe many of you do not understand it well. Do you know how long do FFP3 masks last? FFP masks refer to masks that meet the European (CEEN1409:2001) standard. The European standards for protective masks are divided into three levels: FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3. The difference from the American standard is that its detection flow rate is 95L/min and DOP oil is used to generate dust.

This passage is going to talk about the followings of FFP3 mask:

FFP3 mask testing instrument

FFP3 mask filter material

How often do you change it?

FFP3 mask testing instrument

The detection of FFP3 masks, whether it is a European standard or an American standard, is designated to use the American TSI-8130 Automated Filter Testers instrument for detection. The American standard uses the NaCl method for class N, the R class uses the DOP method, and the European standard uses the DOP method.

The TSI-8130 instrument uses the NaCl method: the instrument can automatically generate salt particles, the average diameter of the particles is 0.2μm (aggregate average diameter 0.26μm, arithmetic average diameter 0.07μm) after the sample is set to pass through the sample under a certain flow, the instrument automatically prints out Flow, resistance, transmittance.

In the DOP method, DOP oil is used to generate dust. The particle diameter of the DOP oil is 0.33μm in aggregate average particle diameter and 0.20μm in count average diameter.

FFP3 mask filter material

Different FFP3 types of masks use different filter materials. On the one hand, the filtering effect is related to the particle size of the particles, and is also affected by whether the particles contain oil. FFP3 masks are usually classified according to filtration efficiency and whether they are suitable for filtering oily particles. Oil-free particulate matter such as dust, water-based mist, paint mist, oil-free fumes (welding fumes), microorganisms, etc. Although "non-oily particulates" filter materials are more common, they are not suitable for oily particulates, such as oil mist, oil fume, pitch fume, coke oven fume, etc. The filter material suitable for oily particles can also be used for non-oily particles.

How often do you change it?

In order to prevent infection, some people may wear medical masks all day long, but this will weaken the nasal mucosa, lose the original physiological functions of the nasal cavity, and reduce resistance. Therefore, in places with low population density and ventilation, there is no need to wear a mask.

It should be reminded that the protective effect of any type of mask is time-effective and must be replaced regularly. It is recommended to replace the mask every 2 to 4 hours. If the mask is contaminated, it should be replaced as soon as possible.

When not in use, the medical mask should be folded and stored in a zip-lock bag. It is not recommended to take the mask off and put it in your pocket or bag directly. This will easily cause secondary contamination of the medical mask. Be sure to fold it and put it in a clean zip-lock bag, and fold the side that touches the nose and mouth facing inward.

We hope this article has helped you understand more about what is FFP3 mask and how long do it last. If you need FFP3 masks, do not hesitate to contact us. Our products will be your best choice.