FFP2 versus N95

Manufacturing juggernaut 3M is one of the world's largest and arguably most recognized producersof N95 face masks. The ongoing COVID pandemic has created a severe shortage in the supply of N95 masks. This is occurring at the same time as the number of positive coronaviruses cases have skyrocketed. Whilst 3M, Honeywell, and other mask manufacturers have shifted gears to ramp up production, especially to for healthcare and other essential workers, both the shortage and demand for NP5 masks continue unabated.

I want people to know we are doing all we can to meet the demands of this extraordinary time and get supplies from our plants to where they’re most needed as quickly as possible... We are working with the U.S. and other governments, investigating alternate manufacturing scenarios, and exploring coalitions with other companies to increase capacity further”— Mike Roman, 3M CEO.

Alternative but similar-capacity N95 face masks s have now entered the US supply chain with the legislature to back the inclusion.

Respirator Face Mask Global Standards

Medical face masls the world over are governed by infection-prevention regulations. The standards vary depending on the the category of mask; for example. surgical or respirator masks — and type of mask like N95 or N99. They set the rules on how the masks filter potemtially harmful micro-particles and liquids and protect users against germs, bacteria and viruses like influenza and COVID-19. .

When epidemics, pandemics or emergency situations occur, it is these regulations and standards that health authorities often reference when making face mask rrecommendations. For example during this coronavirus pandemi leaders have called on thier populations to use N95 (US), FFP2 (Europe), or similar” respirator. he

• N95 (United States NIOSH-42CFR84)
• FFP2 (Europe EN 149-2001)
• KN95 (China GB2626-2006)
• P2 (Australia/New Zealand AS/NZA 1716:2012)
• Korea 1st class (Korea KMOEL - 2017-64)
• DS2 (Japan JMHLW-Notification 214, 2018)

FFP2 & KN95 Face Masks to the Rescue

According to 3M, the FFP2 (European) and KN95 (Chinese) standard masks are equivalent to the US N95 respirator masks (Source). Filter Capacity (% particles removed that are 0.3 microns in diameter or larger) is depicted in the bar graph chart below.