FFP2 or Surgical Mask (Type IIR)? The Difference

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The medical face mask, colloquially known as a surgical mask or mouth-nose protection, is a medical device and is tested in accordance with the EN 14683 standard. The standard distinguishes between Types I, II and IIR. The suffix "R" denotes an additional requirement for resistance to fluid splashes.

Medical Face Mask (Surgical Mask, Type IIR)

This mask is designed primarily to protect the surrounding environment from particles emitted by the wearer (protection of others). It fits loosely and does not seal tightly against the face at the edges. Typical areas of use include activities in practices, clinics and care facilities where the release of droplets from exhaled air is to be limited.

Filtering Half Mask (FFP2, FFP3)

FFP2 and FFP3 masks are filtering half masks and are classified as personal protective equipment (PPE). They are tested in accordance with the EN 149 standard and are divided into the classes FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. In contrast to the medical mask, they are designed to retain airborne particles and thus primarily protect the wearer (self-protection).

For self-protection to be effective, the mask must fit tightly against the face. Models with an exhalation valve reduce the protection of others, as the exhaled air is not directed through the filter material. In a professional setting, the selection of the protection class is based on the risk assessment.

Which Mask Is the Right One?

The two types of mask serve different purposes and follow different standards. Where protecting the surrounding environment is the priority, the medical face mask is frequently used; where the aim is to protect the wearer from airborne particles, filtering half masks are intended. The decisive factors are the specific activity, the facility's internal requirements and the risk assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a surgical mask a medical device or PPE?

The medical face mask (surgical mask) is a medical device and is tested in accordance with EN 14683. FFP masks, by contrast, are classified as personal protective equipment (PPE) and are tested in accordance with EN 149.

What does the "R" in Type IIR mean?

The "R" stands for an additional test for resistance to fluid splashes. Type IIR thus meets the requirements of Type II plus this splash-protection requirement.

How do protection of others and self-protection differ?

Protection of others means that the surrounding environment is protected from particles in the wearer's exhaled air; the medical face mask is designed for this. Self-protection means that the wearer is protected from airborne particles; this is the design purpose of filtering half masks in accordance with EN 149.