Short answer: For ordinary construction dust such as plaster and filler, FFP2 is a common choice. For fine dust that is harmful to health, for example quartz-containing dust from concrete, FFP1 is not enough. Choose the class based on the risk assessment and go up a class rather than down: FFP3 or a half mask with a P3 filter. FFP1 is only for nuisance dust that is not hazardous. Whatever the class, the mask must fit tightly, and it does not protect against gases or vapours.
Which dust mask you need depends on what you are breathing in and how well the mask seals. Here is the difference between the classes, when to move up to a half mask with filters, and what to check before you start.
What do FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 mean?
FFP stands for filtering facepiece against particles and is described in the standard EN 149. The number shows the maximum share of air that may leak in through the filter, edge and valve when the mask is tested on people. The higher the number, the lower the leakage.
| Class | Maximum total leakage (EN 149) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| FFP1 | 25 % | Nuisance dust that is not hazardous, in low concentrations |
| FFP2 | 11 % | Sanding and sawing plaster, filler and paint, when the dust does not require a higher class |
| FFP3 | 5 % | Fine dust that is harmful to health, where the risk assessment requires high protection |
The limits apply to the individual test, not as a guarantee every time you put the mask on. That is why fit matters as much as the class.
When to use which?
FFP1
For dust that is merely a nuisance, in low concentrations. On construction sites FFP1 is often not enough, so only use it if the workplace assessment points to it.
FFP2
A common choice for construction dust: sanding filler and plaster and sawing board. Wood dust, including from hardwoods such as oak and beech, is on the list of carcinogenic substances. Remove the dust at the source first. If you need respiratory protection, the class is chosen according to the workplace chemical risk assessment.
FFP3
When the dust is harmful in small amounts or the task creates a lot of dust. One example is quartz-containing dust from concrete, brick and stone when cutting and grinding. Quartz dust can cause silicosis, and the Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet) requires a chemical risk assessment in which the dust is first removed at the source. If in doubt, go up a class.
Asbestos is a separate set of rules. A dust mask is not enough here, and the work is subject to stricter requirements from the Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet).
Half mask with filters: P3 and A2
A half mask is a reusable rubber or silicone mask where you change the filters. The mask follows EN 140, particle filters follow EN 143, and gas filters follow EN 14387.
- P3 filter: the same level of protection against particles as FFP3. White filter. Choose it for longer periods of work with dust, because you only change the filters and not the whole mask.
- A2 filter: gas filter for vapours from organic solvents with a boiling point above 65 degrees, for example from paint, varnish and glue. Brown filter. Class 2 is for medium concentrations.
- A2P3: combination filter when you have both vapours and spray mist or dust, for example when spray painting.
An ordinary FFP mask does not protect against vapours. If the mask only says FFP, it does not help against solvents. Check the safety data sheet for the substance and choose the filter accordingly.
Fit and stubble
A mask that does not seal tightly protects far worse than its class promises. Air takes the easiest route, and that is around the edge.
- Beard and stubble: break the seal against the skin. Shave where the mask sits if you want full effect. This applies to all masks with a tight-fitting edge.
- Straps: fit both elastic straps. The lower one should sit at the back of the neck below the ears and the upper one high on the back of the head. The straps must not cross, and they must not sit on the outside of a hood.
- Nose clip: shape the metal strip to the bridge of your nose with your fingers.
- Seal check: hold your hands around the mask, breathe out sharply and feel whether air escapes at the edge. With a valve mask you can also breathe in and see whether the mask is drawn in towards your face.
- Glasses and helmet: check that they do not lift the edge of the mask.
- Size: half masks come in several sizes. Try more than one if you get leakage.
How long can you use a dust mask?
There are two different answers. One is how many hours a day you may wear a mask. The other is when the mask is used up.
- Hours per day: filtering respiratory protection without a powered unit may be used for no more than 3 hours a day. Read more in the 3-hour rule for respiratory protection.
- Changing the mask: change it when it becomes hard to breathe, the mask is wet, dirty or damaged, or when it no longer seals tightly. Masks marked NR are single-use (one shift), while masks marked R can be reused according to EN 149 if they have not become damp or dirty.
- Filters in a half mask: change particle filters when the resistance increases. Gas filters have a limited service life, so follow the manufacturer's instructions and change them at the latest when you can smell or taste the substance.
Checklist
- Find out which dust or vapour the task produces. Use the safety data sheet.
- Remove the dust at the source first: extraction, water and ventilation. Respiratory protection is the last line of defence.
- Choose the class based on the risk assessment and safety data sheet. FFP1 is rarely enough on construction sites. Go up a class for hazardous fine dust.
- Use a gas filter (A) for vapours. A dust mask does not help.
- Check the fit every time, and keep your face clean where the mask sits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between FFP2 and FFP3?
FFP3 lets in less dust: a maximum of 5 % total leakage against 11 % for FFP2 in the EN 149 test. FFP3 is used for fine dust that is harmful to health.
Is FFP2 enough for construction dust?
For ordinary construction dust such as plaster and filler, FFP2 is a common choice. For quartz-containing dust from concrete and stone or other hazardous substances, choose the class based on the risk assessment and go up a class to FFP3 or P3.
Does a dust mask help against paint fumes?
No. Dust masks stop particles, not gases and vapours. For vapours from paint and solvents you need a half mask with an A filter, for example A2.
Can I wear a dust mask with a beard?
The mask does not seal tightly over a beard or stubble, so the protection is poorer. Shave where the mask sits, or choose a solution without a tight-fitting edge, for example a powered air hood.
See our range of respiratory protection. If you also need gloves and shoes for the same task, read about EN 388 and safety shoe classes. If you are unsure what to choose, call us on 89 88 67 26.
Source: EN 149, EN 140, EN 143 and EN 14387, and the Danish Working Environment Authority's (Arbejdstilsynet) guidance on respiratory protection. This article is for guidance only and is not an exhaustive review.
