3. Respiratory Protection EN 149 2001

Respiratory Protection  EN 149:2001

A particle filtering half mask covers the nose and mouth and the chin and may have inhalation and/or exhalation valve(s). The half mask consists entirely or substantially of filter material or comprises a facepiece in which the main filter(s) form an inseparable part of the device.

It is intended to provide adequate sealing on the face of the wearer against the ambient atmosphere, when the skin is dry or moist and when the head is moved.

Air enters the particle filtering half mask and passes directly to the nose and mouth area of the

facepiece or, via an inhalation valve(s) if fitted. The exhaled air flows through the filter material and/or an exhalation valve (if fitted) directly to the ambient atmosphere.

These devices are designed to protect against both solid and liquid aerosols.

Particle filtering half masks are classified according to their filtering efficiency and their maximum total inward leakage. There are three classes of devices: FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3.

The protection provided by an FFP2 - or FFP3 - device includes that provided by the device of lower class or classes.