In light of new, more transmissible variants of the coronavirus and a winter spike in infections, a number of European countries, including France, Germany and Austria, are beginning to enforce the wearing of FFP2 filtering face masks in public. 
 
FFP2 is a European standard offering filtration similar to that of N95 or KN95 medical grade respirators. 
 
Masks certified as FFP2 provide effective protection against smaller airborne droplets, or aerosols and, when fitted correctly, can filter at least 94% of particles, including viruses. The Cambridge Mask™ PRO Series is certified FFP2 and provides this higher level of protection.
 
The European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC) recommends such face masks in both indoor and outdoor situations, particularly when physical distancing cannot be guaranteed.
 
 
How does the Cambridge Mask™ PRO Series work? 
 
Cambridge Masks™ are respirators (PPE) that incorporate UK military grade filtration technology. The masks filter out bacteria and viruses as well as dust and pollution particles using a unique, triple layer filtration system. The first layer catches larger pollution particles such as dust, followed by a particulate filter which stops nearly 100% of smaller particulate matter. The final, active carbon layer was developed by the UK’s Ministry of Defence and filters out viruses, bacteria and gas pollution.
 
All masks (except size XS) have an adjustable nose-clip and toggles at the jawline to help you achieve a better fit and the perfect seal. The below Size Guide will help you to choose the correct size for your face shape.
 
Access the Cambridge Masks™ Size Guide here.
 
 
Coronavirus: Surgical or cloth face-coverings vs FFP2 face masks
 
Cloth masks:
 
Cloth masks refer to the wide range of self-made and commercial masks produced and distributed within the community.
These non-medical masks have not been subject to formal testing and do not adhere to any recognised safety standard, therefore no guarantee is given that they will provide the protection needed against airborne contaminants.  
 
Surgical masks: 
 
A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, disposable mask (usually blue and white in colour) that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. 
Surgical masks comply with requirements defined in European Standard EN 14683:2014 and effectively catch  larger droplets as they leave the mouth.
These masks do not provide effective protection aganst smaller dispersed particles however, e.g. from coughs and sneezes.
Surgical masks do not provide complete protection from airborne contaminants due to the loose fit between the surface of the mask and the face.
 
FFP2 Face Masks: 
 
FFP stands for Filtering Face Piece, with each FFP mask equipped with integrated filtation technology to effectively protect against airborne contaminants including both larger and smaller particulate matter. 
Masks certified as FFP are classified as personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with requirements defined in European Standard EN 149:2001+A1:2009.
FFP can generally be adjusted to create a tight seal around the face, preventing droplets of air from entering or leaving the face mask except through the filter.
Laboratory-testing has proven FFP2 to protect both the wearer and those around them from inhaling dispersed particles making FFP masks a safer option for shopping, travelling on public transport and occasions where physical distancing is not possible.