Disposable Respirators

The FF abbreviation stands for Filtering Facepiece and P1, P2 and P3 are ratings based upon leakage and particulate filtering – FFP1 offering 80% filtration, FFP2 – 94% and FFP3 – 99%. Disposable respirators are classed as such because they are not designed to be re-used, they should be disposed of after an eight hour shift or when breathing becomes difficult.

Designs of disposable respirators can be specific to particular brands but the most popular types are:

Fold Flat; this style of mask has a crease which typically runs down the centre of the facepiece enabling flat storage, many fold flat masks are also individually packed for convenience and hygiene. The crease on a fold flat mask can run vertically or horizontally.

Moulded; this design is already shaped to fit the face and only requires some adjustment of the nosepiece and straps. Ultimately, once the correct filtration category has been determined, choosing a fold flat or moulded mask depends on user preference and optimum fit.

Disposable respirators sometimes feature an exhalation valve on the front of the mask. The valve is used to make the mask more comfortable to wear by allowing exhaled air to leave the facepiece rapidly by not being filtered. Valved respirators reduce heat buildup and perspiration inside the mask and can also help to reduce fogging of spectacles and goggles. As the valve eliminates the filtration process of exhaled air, it can make this type of mask unsuitable for applications such as infection transmission. In these cases, a valve free mask must be used. Disposable respirators are subject to face-fit testing to ensure that a good seal between the mask and face is achieved.

Protrade stock a range of disposable respirators from trusted brands such as 3M™, Alpha Solway, Valmy, Portwest and JSP.