Masks have become one of our best allies to stop Covid-19 all around the world. That is why today we bring you a new article where we will talk in depth about this new key player in our lives that has become so important in the last year.
We will be informing you about the types of face masks, both for adults and children and the basic differences between them. In addition, we will also explain which mask to use depending on the situation. A very useful article for everyone. Keep reading and don't miss it!
What are the different types of face masks?
There is a great variety of masks and this can lead to doubts. For example, which mask should I choose: hygienic or surgical? What is the difference between FFP2 masks and FFP3 masks? What types of masks are there for children? Well, it all depends on the situation of the person or their environment. For this reason, we explain the different types of masks, their use and their main characteristics, and so it will be much easier for you to know which one to choose based on your needs.
Hygienic Masks
Hygienic masks must be used by people who do not present any symptoms, and can only be used by one person. It is recommended for these masks to be of one use only, however they can be used several times for short periods of time, but then they must be discarded. Hygienic masks cover mouth, nose and chin and are fitted with built-in straps that go around the head or over the ears. They can also be disposable (must be disposed of after recommended use) or reusable (the manufacturer will indicate the maximum number of washes and beyond that point, the effectiveness of the mask will no longer be guaranteed).
Main characteristics of hygienic face masks
- Excellent quality and comfortable during use
- Filtration: BFE>95%
- Fabric: 3 layers of TNT fabric, ultrasonically stitched
- Type: disposable
- Color: blue
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 9.5
- Quantity: 50 units
- UNE 0064-1 2020 and UNE-EN 14683:2019 + AC certified
- VAT: 21%
Surgical masks
Surgical masks act as a barrier preventing viral spread when the person wearing them has the virus or suspects he/she has it. It is important to note that there are no reusable surgical masks. The masks shown below are rectangular in shape, comfortable, with elastic fastening to the ears. Created to prevent the transfer of microorganisms, body fluids and particulate material.
Main characteristics of surgical masks
- High quality and very comfortable design for pleasant breathing
- Filtration: BFE>98%
- Fabric: 3 layers, ultrasonically sewn together
- Type: disposable
- Color: blue
- Dimensions: 17.5 cm x 9.50 cm
- Quantity: 50 units
- CE Certified
- VAT: 4%
Therefore...
What are the basic differences between hygienic and surgical masks?
The most important thing to consider is the situation of the person. That is, if the person is healthy and has no symptoms, the hygienic mask should be used, but if, on the other hand, the person is sick or suspected of being infected, a surgical mask should be used.
- Hygienic masks can be reusable or disposable, but surgical masks are only disposable
- The bacterial filtration efficiency (BEF) in hygienic masks can be 95% in disposable masks and 90% in reusable masks. Unlike surgical ones, the filtration efficiency will be type I (95%) or type II (98%) EFB.
- The VAT is currently different for both masks: hygienic 21% VAT, surgical 4% VAT
FFP2 masks
The FFP2 mask is one of the existing types of filtering face masks (in addition to the FFP1 and FFP3 masks). Who does the FFP2 mask protect? This type of mask has type P2 particulate filter and serves mainly to protect people from dust, smoke, aerosols but does not protect against gases or vapors. It is designed to cover the nose and mouth and is composed of different filtration materials. Its filtration efficiency will always be above 90%, which means that it offers a high level of safety against Covid-19, especially in enclosed spaces.
The recommended time of use for the FFP2 mask is 8 hours, considering that its prolonged use for more than these hours will not provide a safe protection. In Dentaltix you can find FFP2 masks (below we show you their characteristics) that stand out mainly for their high filtration efficiency to offer maximum protection against biological agents. You can find them in the colours black or white in different units. They are packaged in small bags for easy and careful use, complying with the ISO 9001 international quality certificate. It is important to remember to keep the FFP2 masks in cool and dry places where the maximum temperature is 50º and the minimum is 9º.
Main characteristics of FFP2 masks
- FFP2 mask without valve for adults
- Filtration: BFE>95%
- Fabric: 50 gsm pp non-woven + 30 g/m2 melt blown
- Type: disposable
- Color: black and white
- Dimensions: 16 x 10.5 cm
- Quantity: 10, 20, 100 or 500 units (the latter only available in white color)
- CE: 2163 EN 149:2001 + A1:2009
- VAT: 21%
FFP2 masks made in Spain
The white FFP2 masks are ideal for protection against pathogenic biological agents and are suitable for all types of people due to their design. They are manufactured and certified in Spain and comply with ISO9001 and ISO13485 standards through strict controls in the production processes. Manufactured using sustainable materials.
Main characteristics of the Spanish FFP2 respirators:
- Filtration: BFE>99%
- Fabric: 5 layers of reinforced filtration
- Type: disposable
- Colour: white
- Dimensions: 16cm x 11cm
- Quantity: 50 units
- Complies with ISO9001 and ISO13485 standards.
- VAT: 21%