The FFP2 masks protect better against corona viruses than surgical or fabric masks do. But due to their higher filter performance, breathing under the masks is made more difficult. This raises the question of how long FFP2 masks can be worn at all.
The nationwide regulation to wear an FFP2 protective mask or a surgical mask in all shops and public transport raises many questions about the correct use. FFP2 masks and surgical masks prevent the unhindered spread of corona viruses, which can reduce the possible risk of infection.
Experts: No exact wearing time of the FFP2 mask
In contrast to surgical and fabric masks, FFP2 masks offer self- and third-party protection, as they protect the wearer from particles, droplets and aerosols. To do this, they must sit correctly and fit snugly. In a press conference of the RKI , President Prof. Lothar Wieler emphasized how important this correct application is: “FFP2 masks are masks that are used for medical occupational safety. And these are masks that have a high impact when they are worn correctly and when the people who wear them are really educated on how to wear them.”
The FFP2 masks belong to the protective equipment from the craft sector and were actually not developed for private use. This is also the reason why the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) does not yet have any exact data on the exact duration of wearing the FFP2 masks. The RKI relies on the recommendation of the professional association for health services and welfare , which in turn adheres to the rules on the “use of respiratory protection devices”. These state that the maximum wearing time of an FFP mask without an exhalation valve should be 75 minutes. The mask should then be removed for about 30 minutes, to keep the increased breathing resistance as low as possible Since the FFP2 masks have an increased breathing resistance due to their filter performance, this can have health effects on older people or people with chronic respiratory diseases.
The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWM has used mathematical simulations to determine how long FFP2 masks can be worn – but with moderate success. A simple rule of thumb could therefore not be derived. The institute advises that the mask should be changed at the latest when it is completely soaked. How quickly and how much the mask is moistened depends primarily on the physical exertion when wearing it.
