DIFFERENCE BETWEEN P1 AND P2 MASKS: UNDERSTANDING RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

WHAT IS A RESPIRATOR, AND WHAT IS A P1 AND P2 MASK?

A respirator is a protective device designed to help protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous dust, fumes, vapours, or gases. Respirators are commonly used in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and other high-risk environments. These masks form a seal around the nose and mouth, providing effective filtration of airborne particles. Respirators are classified based on their filtration efficiency, with P1 and P2 masks being common in Australia. A P2 mask offers a higher level of protection compared to P1 masks, filtering out at least 94% of airborne particles. N95 masks, similar to P2 masks, filter out at least 95% of airborne particles but are governed by the U.S. NIOSH standard. It's important to select a mask that meets the appropriate standards for your specific environment and protection needs.​

​Respirators are classified based on their filtration efficiency, with P1 and P2 being the two most common types used in Australia. These classifications are defined under the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1716:2012, which specifies performance requirements for respiratory protective devices.

WHAT IS A P1 MASK?

A P1 mask is a respiratory protective device designed to filter out low levels of dust and non-toxic particles. It is commonly used in environments where dust exposure is minimal and the contaminants are not highly hazardous. P1 masks provide a basic level of protection against solid particles such as dust from concrete, wood, and other non-toxic materials.

P1 masks are suitable for low-risk environments, but they do not offer a high level of filtration for finer particles or toxic substances. They are often used in industries such as general construction, agriculture, and in situations with minimal airborne contamination.

WHAT IS A P2 MASK?

A P2 mask, on the other hand, offers a higher level of protection than the P1 mask. It filters out a wider range of harmful particles, including dust, smoke, and fumes, and provides a higher level of protection against harmful airborne particulates, including those produced by certain chemicals, wood dust, and fine dust from cutting, grinding, or sanding. P2 masks are essential for industries where the risk of inhaling dangerous airborne particles is higher, such as construction, mining, and certain healthcare environments.

A P2 mask can filter out at least 94% of airborne particles, offering more protection against harmful substances compared to the P1 mask, which only filters about 80%.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN P1 AND P2 RESPIRATORY MASKS

The key difference between P1 and P2 masks lies in their level of filtration. While both masks are designed to protect the wearer from dust and particles, P2 masks offer superior filtration and a higher degree of protection compared to P1 masks.

• P1 Masks: Provide basic protection for low-risk dust, such as wood or concrete dust. They are suitable for environments where air contaminants are minimal.

  
  

• P2 Masks: Offer a higher level of protection and can filter finer particles, including hazardous substances like chemicals and finer dust particles produced by industrial processes.

WHEN TO REPLACE A RESPIRATOR

A respirator should be replaced when:

• It becomes damaged or deformed

• It no longer fits securely or provides a proper seal

• The filter material is saturated or ineffective

• The mask shows signs of wear or contamination

Proper maintenance of your respirator is essential to ensuring continued protection. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning your respirator, replacing filters and parts, and proper storage to extend the life of the respirator.

PUTTING ON AND CHECKING THE MASK

The effectiveness of your respirator depends on how well it fits and how securely it seals around your face. Here are some key steps:

• Select the correct size and style: Choose a mask that fits comfortably and securely. Options include rigid or foldable masks, with or without an exhalation valve.

• Fit check: A fit check is crucial each time you put on your respirator to ensure there are no gaps in the seal around the edges of the mask, nose, and face. A proper seal is essential for effective protection.

STEPS FOR PUTTING ON A P2 FACE MASK

1. Wash Your Hands: Begin by thoroughly cleaning your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This step minimizes the risk of contaminating the mask's surface and ensures that any potential pathogens are removed from your hands before touching the mask.​

   
   

2. Inspect the Mask: Before wearing, check the mask for any visible damage, such as tears or deformities, and ensure that the straps and nosepiece are intact. Using a damaged mask can compromise your safety.​

   
   

3. Position the Mask: Place the mask over your nose and mouth, ensuring that the metal nosepiece is at the top, resting against the bridge of your nose. This positioning aids in achieving a secure fit and effective seal.​

   
   

4. Secure the Straps: Pull the straps over your head, positioning one at the base of your neck and the other at the crown of your head. Adjust the straps to achieve a snug fit without causing discomfort. Proper strap placement ensures that the mask remains securely in place during use.​

   
   

5. Mold the Nosepiece: Using your fingertips, press the metal nosepiece against the bridge of your nose, molding it to your facial contours. This step is crucial for creating a tight seal, preventing air and particles from entering through the nose area.​

   
   

6. Perform a Fit Check: After donning the mask, conduct a fit check to ensure there are no leaks:

   • Positive Pressure Check: Gently exhale while covering the mask's surface. A proper seal will cause the mask to bulge slightly, and no air should escape around the edges. If air leaks, readjust the mask and retest.​CDC+1aphl.org+1

     
     

   • Negative Pressure Check: Gently inhale while covering the mask's surface. A correct fit will cause the mask to collapse slightly inward, with no air entering from the edges. If the mask doesn't collapse or air leaks, reposition and repeat the check.​

     
     

   • Performing these checks each time you wear the mask is essential, as factors like facial hair, makeup, or changes in facial structure can affect the fit.

   
   

7. Adjust as Necessary: If, during the fit checks, you detect air leakage or discomfort, remove the mask, adjust its position, and repeat the fit checks. Achieving a proper seal is vital for the mask's effectiveness.​

   
   

8. Avoid Touching the Mask Surface: Once the mask is in place, avoid touching the front surface. If you need to adjust it, do so by handling the straps or edges. This practice prevents contamination and maintains the mask's integrity.​

   
   

9. Remove the Mask Safely: When it's time to remove the mask, do so by handling the straps at the back of your head and neck. Avoid touching the front of the mask. Dispose of single-use masks properly, and store reusable ones according to the manufacturer's instructions.​

   
   

By meticulously following these steps each time you wear a P2 face mask, you ensure optimal protection against airborne particles. Consistency in proper mask usage is key to safeguarding your health and preventing respiratory infections.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A P2 MASK, N95, AND SURGICAL MASKS

While P2 and N95 masks are both designed to provide respiratory protection, the key difference is that N95 masks are subject to a specific certification standard (NIOSH in the United States) and are generally used in environments with high exposure to airborne contaminants.

P2 MASKS:

P2 masks are the Australian standard for respiratory protection, designed to filter out at least 94% of airborne particles. They are commonly used in industries such as construction, mining, and agriculture to protect workers from inhaling dust, fumes, and certain non-volatile chemicals. P2 masks require a tight seal around the nose and mouth to function effectively, and proper fit testing is essential to ensure optimal protection.​

N95 MASKS:

N95 masks adhere to the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) standard, requiring filtration of at least 95% of airborne particles. While similar in filtration efficiency to P2 masks, N95 masks are primarily regulated in the United States. It's important to note that not all N95 masks available in Australia may meet local standards, so verifying certification is crucial. Additionally, N95 masks often require fit testing to confirm an adequate seal, ensuring the wearer's safety.​

SURGICAL MASKS:

Surgical masks are primarily designed to protect patients from the wearer's respiratory emissions during medical procedures. They are typically made from multiple layers of material to block large droplets and splashes. However, surgical masks do not provide a tight seal around the face, and do not have filters, allowing airborne particles to enter through gaps between the mask and skin. Therefore, they are not suitable for protecting the wearer from inhaling airborne pathogens or fine particulate matter. In environments where both patient and wearer protection are necessary (like patients in isolation), specialisd surgical N95 respirators are recommended.

Understanding the distinct purposes and certifications of these masks is essential for selecting appropriate respiratory protection based on specific needs and regulatory standards.​

WHAT DOES A P2 MASK PROTECT AGAINST?

A P2 mask is designed to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous airborne particles, including dust, smoke, fumes, and aerosols. P2 masks are essential for tasks such as:

• Cutting, grinding, or sanding materials like concrete, brick, and stone

• Exposure to dust

• Working in environments with industrial smoke, wood dust, or asbestos

These masks are vital for maintaining worker health and safety, especially in high-risk environments.

RESPIRATOR STANDARDS ACROSS THE WORLD

There are similar respiratory protective standards across the globe, and P2 masks are equivalent to:

• United States: N95

• Europe: FFP2

• China: KN95

• Australia/New Zealand: FFP2

• Brazil: PFF2

• Japan: DS (Dust and Spray)

• South Korea: KF94

• India: FFP2

However, in Australia, it’s recommended to choose P2 respirators that are certified with the Standards Australia mark (AS/NZS1716:2012) to ensure the product has undergone the proper testing and certification processes.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT MASK FOR PROTECTION

Whether you choose a P1 mask for light-duty tasks or a P2 mask for more hazardous environments, understanding the difference between these respirators is essential for maintaining worker safety. Make sure to perform fit checks and select the right style to ensure optimal protection.

For those working in high-risk environments or industries requiring strong respiratory protection, the P2 dust mask provides the best defense against harmful airborne particles. Always follow proper fitting techniques to ensure maximum effectiveness.