Respiratory Protection

What is the difference between disposable respirators, medical/surgical masks, and face coverings?

Understanding the levels of protection each face covering provides

Different types of face coverings are designed for different purposes and offer varying levels of protection. It’s important to understand the distinctions between them to ensure the correct product is used for the right application.

Respirators
Disposable respirators are designed to filter the air the wearer breathes in, offering protection against airborne particles. They form a tight seal around the face to reduce inward leakage and are classified as personal protective equipment (PPE). Disposable respirators must conform to the EN 149 standard or an equivalent recognised certification.

Medical and surgical masks
These masks are designed primarily to protect others by capturing droplets exhaled by the wearer. They can also help protect the wearer from splashes or sprays of bodily fluids. Medical and surgical masks must comply with EN 14683 or an equivalent standard. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises that these masks are not considered PPE outside of healthcare environments.

Face coverings
Face coverings are intended to help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets from the wearer to others. They do not provide protection to the wearer and do not form a tight seal around the face. Face coverings are not PPE and are not required to meet any EN or ISO standards.

Further guidance from the HSE on face coverings and face masks can be found here: HSE Guidance

Key points:

  • Disposable Respirators protect the wearer by filtering inhaled air and form a tight seal on the face. They must meet EN 149.
  • Medical/surgical masks help protect others and offer limited splash protection to the wearer. They must meet EN 14683.
  • Face coverings protect others from droplets but offer no protection to the wearer. They are not PPE and have no standard requirement.
  • identify the correct respirators for use.
  • The HSE does not classify surgical masks or face coverings as PPE outside of healthcare settings.

If you need further support, please contact our Technical Support Team using the email: technical@jspsafety.com or contact us via WhatsApp. 

 

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