Discover the key differences between masks and half-masks for respiratory protection

In industrial, chemical and construction environments, selecting the right respiratory protection equipment is vital for preventing irreversible occupational illnesses. A frequent source of confusion among occupational health and safety managers is the indiscriminate use of the terms mask and half-mask. Whilst both protect the respiratory tract against the inhalation of harmful agents, they comply with different regulations, structures and levels of protection depending on the type of hazard and its concentration in the air (TLV and OEL).

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION MASKS (FILTERING MASKS/FFP)

Self-filtering masks (commonly known as anti-dust masks or FFP) cover the nose, mouth and chin, and are made wholly or partly from a filtering material that forms the body of the mask itself. The applicable standard is EN 149 which specifies the safety requirements and test methods for filtering half-masks for protection against particles such as solid and liquid aerosols. Below is the classification by efficacy.

• Classification by efficacy:

  • FFP1: Minimum filtration efficiency of 80% (indicated for non-toxic dust, masonry or DIY work).

  • FFP2: Minimum filtration efficiency of 94% (protection against solid and liquid aerosols of low/medium toxicity, pharmaceutical industry, joinery).

  • FFP3: Minimum filtration efficiency of 99% (high toxicity, fine asbestos dust, welding fumes, fine chemical industry and biological hazard).

• Use and lifespan: as a general rule, these are single-use equipment (marked R or NR) and their maximum lifespan is limited to a working day (single-shift), depending on filter saturation and breathing resistance.

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RESPIRATORY PROTECTION HALF-MASKS (REUSABLE EQUIPMENT)

Unlike masks, the half-mask is a reusable facial component (made from elastomer, silicone or thermoplastic rubber) designed to accommodate interchangeable filters (against particles, gases, vapours or combined filters). It seals the nose, mouth and chin hermetically through an optimised facial adjustment harness. The applicable standard is EN 140 (for the facial piece), combined with EN 143 (particle filters) or EN 14387 (gas and vapour filters). Below is the classification of its mountable filters.

• • Particle filters (P1, P2, P3): retain dust, fumes and mists.

  • Chemical filters (Types A, B, E, K): designed to retain organic and inorganic gases and vapours, sulphur dioxide or ammonia according to the normative colour code.

• Use and industrial advantage: as they are reusable, only filters are replaced when they reach their saturation or maximum resistance, which represents a highly cost-effective and sustainable solution for continuous industrial operations.

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TECHNICAL COMPARISON TABLE: MASK VS. HALF-MASKS

MASKS AND HALF-MASKS – WHICH TO CHOOSE ACCORDING TO THE HAZARD?

EQUIP YOUR STAFF WITH CERTIFIED RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

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