Fackelmann Protection
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know to choose, wear and store an FFP2 mask — and why the TF Protect 10M meets the demands of healthcare professionals.
What does FFP2 stand for?
FFP is short for “Filtering FacePiece”. The number 2 indicates the level of protection.
FFP2 masks meet the EN 149:2001 + A1:2009 standard, which sets out the European requirements for respiratory protective devices. They protect the wearer against inhaling airborne particles and droplets: they filter at least 94% of 0.6 µm aerosols and their total inward leakage remains below 8%.
What do the markings NR, R and D mean?
NR means non-reusable and R means reusable: an FFP2 mask always bears one or the other of these markings.
D indicates that the mask’s clogging resistance has been tested and meets the requirements. This test is optional for single-use masks. The TF Protect 10M is classified FFP2 NR D.
What is the difference between a surgical mask and an FFP2 mask?
A surgical mask primarily protects the people around the wearer from aerosols emitted when speaking, coughing or breathing. Its limited seal offers only moderate protection to the person wearing it.
An FFP2 mask filters both inhaled and exhaled air, thanks to higher-performance filter materials and a better fit to the face. It therefore protects both the wearer and those around them — provided it has no exhalation valve.
What is the difference between FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3?
These filtering half masks cover the nose, mouth and chin. They are classified according to their filtration efficiency and their seal: the higher the class, the greater the protection.
| Class | Minimum filtration (0.6 µm aerosols) | Maximum total inward leakage | Examples of use |
| FFP1 | 80% | 22% | Small amounts of dust, filler, rust |
| FFP2 | 94% | 8% | Healthcare, allergies, cutting, glass and fibreglass, waste sorting, welding, spraying |
| FFP3 | 99% | 2% | Drilling, pesticides, asbestos, brazing |
What is an exhalation valve for?
A valve dissipates heat and moisture and improves breathing comfort. It only opens when you breathe out, so it does not make breathing in any easier.
Above all, it filters little or none of the exhaled air: the wearer remains protected, but those around them do not. That is why the TF Protect 10M is designed without a valve, to protect both the healthcare worker and their patients.
What is the difference between FFP2, KN95 and N95?
These masks look alike but fall under different standards: FFP2 under the European standard EN 149:2001 + A1:2009, KN95 under the Chinese standard and N95 under the American standard.
European certification is particularly demanding on inhalation resistance, which is on average lower than for KN95 and N95 masks: FFP2 masks therefore offer greater breathing comfort. European tests also cover solid aerosols (sodium chloride) and liquid aerosols (paraffin oil), and include the seal, which is not tested for N95 masks.
| Country or union | Standard | Equivalent class |
| European Union | EN 149:2001 + A1:2009 | FFP2 |
| United States | NIOSH 42 CFR 84 | N95, P95, R95 |
| China | GB 2626-2019 | KN95, KP95 |
| Australia and New Zealand | AS/NZS 1716:2012 | P2 |
| South Korea | KMOEL – 2017-64 | 1st class |
| Japan | JMHLW – Notification 214, 2018 | DS2, DL2 |
| Brazil | ABNT/NBR 13698:2011 | PFF2 |
| Mexico | NOM-AA6-2009 | N95, P95, R95 |
Does an FFP2 mask protect against respiratory viruses?
An FFP2 mask filters aerosols in both inhaled and exhaled air. It was strongly recommended for healthcare workers exposed to transmission risks, particularly during the Covid-19 epidemic, provided it is worn and fitted correctly.
Wearing a mask should be combined with regular hand washing.
Can an FFP2 mask be reused?
Only masks marked “R” can be reused, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Masks marked “NR”, such as the TF Protect 10M, are single-use.
How long can an FFP2 mask be worn?
Continuous wear time ranges from 6 to 8 hours; the TF Protect 10M can be worn for up to 8 hours. Change your mask sooner if it becomes damp — a wet mask is less effective — or visibly soiled.
How long can FFP2 masks be stored?
A mask can be stored for up to 5 years from its date of manufacture. The date of manufacture and the expiry date are shown on the packaging and in the instructions for use.
Beyond that, its effectiveness is no longer guaranteed: the elastic straps weaken, the nose clip may deteriorate and the electrostatic charge of the meltblown, which captures particles, disappears. Never wear an expired mask.
How do I wear an FFP2 mask correctly?
- Check the condition of the mask: if there is any visible wear or damage, do not wear it.
- Check the expiry date.
- Wash your hands before handling the mask.
- Position the mask and pull the elastic retaining straps behind your head.
- Adjust the nose clip with both hands.
- Check the seal: no air should escape around the edges when you exhale forcefully.
- If the seal is not perfect, do not use the mask.
Once the mask is correctly positioned, do not touch it again.
How can I tell whether the mask fits my face?
A well-fitted mask forms a perfect seal. Place both hands around the mask and exhale forcefully: if air escapes around the edges, readjust the nose clip and the elastic straps. Fogging on your glasses also indicates a poor fit.
Which standards do FFP2 masks comply with?
FFP2 masks meet the harmonised European standard EN 149:2001 + A1:2009, which sets out their characteristics and test methods, both in the laboratory and in real-life conditions.
As personal protective equipment, they must also comply with Regulation (EU) 2016/425: CE marking, EU declaration of conformity, identification number, name and address of the manufacturer, and clear instructions for use. You will find these documents on our Standards and certifications page.
In which situations is an FFP2 mask required?
| Sector | Examples |
| Healthcare |
|
| Construction |
|
| Other |
|