What do FFP protection classes mean?
FFP stands for Filtering Face Piece. The three classes – FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 – indicate the level of protection provided against airborne particles. Each class is defined by:
- Minimum filtration efficiency
- Maximum inward leakage
- Assigned Protection Factor (APF)
Class | Minimum filtration | Maximum leakage | APF | Protection level |
| FFP1 | 80% | 22% | 4 | Low |
| FFP2 | 94% | 8% | 10 | Medium |
| FFP3 | 99% | 2% | 20 | High |
Assigned Protection Factor (APF) indicates how much the respirator can reduce exposure when correctly fitted and used. For example, an FFP3 mask can reduce exposure to airborne particles to 1/20th of the concentration in the air.
How do particle-filtering face masks work?
Particle-filtering face masks offer effective protection against dust, mist and fumes. The densely woven filter fabric prevents solid materials from passing through and the internal layers are electrostatically charged to ensure that hazardous materials adhere to them and cannot be inhaled. The classifying system consists of the three FFP classes, the abbreviation FFP stands for "filtering facepiece". A respirator mask covers mouth and nose and is constructed of various filter materials and the mask itself. Their use is mandatory in working environments exceeding the occupational exposure limit value (OEL). This is the maximal concentration of dust, smoke, and/or aerosols in our breathing air that won’t result in harm to health. In case of transgression, respirator masks must be worn.
Respirators are given an ‘assigned protection factor’ or APF classification to help the wearer select the right level of protection.
In the UK, we also have the Standard Assigned Protection Factor (APF) to help employers comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), aimed at controlling exposure to and protecting workers health when working with chemicals. The APF is an estimate of how much protection a respirator provides. When fitted (face fit test) and worn correctly an FFP1 respirator should reduce exposure to airborne particles by a factor of 4, an FFP2 by a factor of 10 and an FFP3 by a factor of 20.
Important: What FFP masks do and do not protect against
FFP respirators are designed to protect against:
✔ Dust
✔ Mists
✔ Fumes
✔ Airborne solid and liquid particles
🞮 They do not protect against gases or vapours.
Where these hazards are present, alternative respiratory protection (such as masks with appropriate filters) must be used.
FFP1 – Low protection
FFP1 masks provide the lowest level of protection and are typically used in environments where exposure to non-toxic dusts or particles is low.
Typical applications:
- Basic dust protection - Emptying heavy-duty vacuum cleaners, sweeping commercial warehouses, or cleaning out dusty storage units.
- Textile manufacturing - Working around coarse cloth dust, cotton fibers, and lint.
- Home DIY and general maintenance - Dealing with kicked-up floor dust, dried mud, and general debris.
- Non-hazardous environments
FFP2 – Medium protection
FFP2 masks offer a higher level of filtration and are suitable for environments where moderate levels of hazardous particles are present.
Typical applications:
- Cutting and handling softwoods and MDF - Sanding, routing, or cutting softwoods, plywood, and especially Medium-Density Fibreboard.
- Plastering and tiling - Mixing dry plaster powder, bagging cement, or cutting tiles, which creates thick, hazardous airborne dust.
- Brake dust and automotive repair - Changing brake pads or working on clutches, where friction material dust is common (assuming it is modern, asbestos-free material).
- General industrial use
FFP3 – High protection
FFP3 masks provide the highest level of protection against airborne particles and are used in higher-risk environments.
Typical applications:
- Cutting stone, concrete, and brick - Power-cutting or chasing these materials releases Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS).
- Handling hardwoods - Cutting, routing, or sanding hardwoods (like oak, beech, or mahogany) produces dust classified as a confirmed human carcinogen
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing - Handling highly concentrated, active chemical compounds, powdered medicines, or toxic enzymes before they are diluted into pills or liquids.
- Welding heavy metals - Welding stainless steel creates toxic hexavalent chromium fumes. FFP3 is required to protect the lungs from these carcinogenic particles.
How to fit a flatfold P2 mask
How to fit a preformed mask
Looking for further guidance?
Choosing the right PPE can make all the difference when it comes to safety, comfort, and compliance. If you’d like tailored advice or want to trial uvex products in your environment, get in touch via our quick contact form or email marketing@uvex.co.uk.
FAQ's
FFP3 masks provide a higher level of protection, with greater filtration efficiency and a higher Assigned Protection Factor (APF 20 vs APF 10).
No. FFP masks only protect against particles such as dust, mist and fumes. Gases and vapours require different types of respiratory protection.
Yes. Tight-fitting respirators must be face-fit tested to ensure they provide an effective seal and the expected level of protection.
FFP3 masks are typically required when working with high-risk airborne contaminants, such as fine silica dust or toxic fumes, particularly where exposure levels are high.
Yes. Facial hair prevents a proper seal between the mask and the face, significantly reducing the effectiveness of the respirator.