Information on Face and Respiratory Protection

What kind of protection for situation?

Type IIR masks (surgical face masks)

Standard in medical and therapeutic practices. Protects patients from droplet transmission by staff—and vice versa. “IIR” stands for: splash resistance, bacterial filtration efficiency ≥ 98%. Required for treatments involving close physical contact and for patients at increased risk of infection.

FFP2 masks

Provide significantly better protection for the wearer than Type IIR masks. Filter efficiency of at least 94% for and particles. Should be used in situations with known infection risks, when treating immunocompromised patients, or in rooms with poor ventilation and frequent patient turnover.

FFP3 masks

Filter efficiency ≥ 99% – rarely required in outpatient settings. Standard practice in the treatment of patients with highly contagious infectious diseases (tuberculosis, SARS).

What every practice should know about respiratory protection

Masks with exhalation valves protect only the wearer, not the person across from them—they are not suitable for protecting patients.

Disposable masks have a limited shelf life once the package is opened. Never save unused masks to reuse them.

Stock reserve: Maintaining a stock level equivalent to 4–6 weeks of consumption is a simple safeguard against supply shortages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Type II and Type IIR?

Both have similar filtration performance, but the Type IIR is splash-resistant—which is important for procedures involving aerosol generation or contact with bodily fluids.

How long can an FFP2 mask be worn?

Most manufacturers recommend wearing the mask for no more than 8 hours, or until it becomes damp and uncomfortable. for , changing the mask after every other treatment is a good rule of thumb.

Advice & Ordering

Questions about compliance with standards or bulk orders? Our team is here to help—by phone, email, or at our Zurich showroom. Next-business-day delivery; free shipping on orders of CHF 50 or more.