Reducing the Spread of Germs: When Shopping and on Public Transport! Daily infection numbers are still high in some places. When people gather in close quarters – especially in enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces, while shopping or on public transport – the likelihood of infection increases. To protect themselves and others from possible infection, more and more people are turning to FFP2 masks. Bavaria has made FFP2 masks mandatory in shops and on public transport since January 18, 2021. Other federal states intend to follow this directive. We explain what FFP means and how the FFP2 masks offered by emmi®-dent work in today's blog post.
What does FFP mean and how do FFP2 masks work?
"Filtering Face Pieces": FFP serves as personal protective equipment! The term FFP comes from English and stands for "Filtering Face Pieces". FFP masks are masks that have particle-filtering properties. Designed as a half-mask, it covers the mouth and nose and was originally conceived as a protective mask against dust and the smallest dirt particles. In occupational safety, it serves as personal protective equipment and is therefore part of daily work clothing in some professions. In medical and care professions, FFP masks have long been integrated into daily work for self-protection.
As the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) makes clear, FFP2 masks primarily serve for self-protection. The protective function of FFP2 masks is standardized throughout Europe according to DIN EN 149:2009-08. FFP2 masks are characterized by a special filter layer that is electrostatically charged. This means that even smaller, but much more easily transmissible, aerosol droplets can be filtered from the breathing air.
In addition to FFP2 masks, there are also FFP1 and FFP3 masks. They differ – presented here in a simplified way – in their filter performance as follows:
- FFP1 masks can filter up to 80% of pollutants in the breathing air
- FFP2 masks can filter up to 94% of pollutants and aerosols
- FFP3 masks can filter up to 99% of pollutants and aerosols
For self-protection, FFP masks are therefore much more effective than everyday masks or so-called community masks. In contrast to standardized masks such as FFP2 masks, everyday masks do not comply with any standard. Their filter performance is highly variable and not proven.
And although FFP2 masks, when used correctly, have a filter performance of at least 94 percent, they do not offer 100 percent protection against harmful aerosols. It is the combination of distance, self-protection and protection of others through wearing an FFP2 mask, as well as adherence to valid hygiene measures, that can reduce the risk of infection.
Can FFP2 masks be reused?
Cleaning or airing out FFP2 masks? Officially, FFP2 masks are not suitable for reuse. Since the additional filtering performance of FFP2 masks is achieved by a special layer with electrostatic charge, the filtering performance is reduced by moisture. It is not possible to wash FFP2 masks. Even with prolonged wear and the associated moisture from breathing, regular changes should be made.
Whether decontamination by drying for several days or by heating in the oven is responsible, each wearer must decide for themselves. We at emmi®-dent recommend regular changes, even if FFP2 masks are significantly more expensive than normal makeshift and community masks.
At the same time, we would like to draw your attention to the study conducted by the FH Münster, which is also referenced by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) in its lead article. It answers the question of the possibilities and limitations of self-responsible reuse of FFP2 masks for private use in the context of an epidemic situation.
In this article, in addition to the project's intention, you will find:
- useful information on the stability of SARS-CoV-2 viruses on and in FFP2 masks,
- valuable information on mask construction,
- information on the possibilities and limitations of simple disinfection procedures,
- details on the disinfection procedure: 7 days drying at room air,
- information on the disinfection procedure: 80°C drying with heat
- as well as various notes on other procedures.
The correct way to wear, put on, and take off FFP2 masks is also described there. If you are over 60 years old or belong to a risk group, you had the opportunity to pick up 3 free FFP2 masks at your trusted pharmacy until December 31, 2020. Since the New Year, the regulation applies to 12 additional masks with a co-payment. Two counterfeit-proof coupons for six masks each will be sent to you by your health insurance company. You can redeem these coupons at your pharmacy for a small co-payment during two specified periods.
