Dust masks

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Updated - April 3, 2026

Dust protection masks are classified into FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3, each with increasing filter performance, as well as with and without an exhalation valve.

The permissible wearing time and break times are also regulated accordingly. For masks without a valve, the permitted wearing time is 75 minutes followed by a break of at least 30 minutes. With the valve, the wearing time is extended to 120 minutes with the same break time.

Up to three intervals may be carried out during a work shift, up to a maximum of five times per week.

Masks with the marking R (reusable) may be used again beyond one work shift. When dealing with radioactive or airborne biological substances, such as bacteria, mold or viruses, these masks may only be used for the duration of one shift.

With or without an exhalation valve?

It is generally not advisable to wear masks without an exhalation valve, as the CO2 concentration increases within a few minutes due to repeated exhalation and inhalation of the air within the mask space 422 ppm to 14,162 ppm increases (study on Download) and this can result in health damage and long-term consequences.

Mask choice

When choosing a dust mask, special attention should be paid to a comfortable but tight fit and high filter performance, ideally with an identifier R (reusable) and D (suitable for dolomite dust). These offer the highest filter performance.

There are various manufacturers of dust masks. An example is 3M with the FFP3 mask from Type 8835+ mentioned at about 13 euros / piece.

It is not advisable to purchase masks from unknown manufacturers without a corresponding (and verifiable) test certificate and often at remarkably low prices.

Reimbursement of costs by employers

Lt. §3 ArbSchG (Occupational Safety and Health Act) the employer is prohibited (§3(3) ArbSchG) from imposing the costs of occupational safety measures on the employee; he is therefore obliged to cover the costs of occupational safety measures.

Danger to health from dust

Various studies demonstrate the risk potential of exposure to dusts, such as building dust, gypsum or crystalline silicon dioxide:

• Occupational exposure to particles and increased risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A population-based cohort study in Stockholm, Sweden
• A Scoping Analysis of Cathelicidin in Response to Organic Dust Exposure and Related Chronic Lung Illnesses
• Oxidative stress and lung pathology following geogenic dust exposure
• Effect of exposure to dust on lung function of cement factory workers
• Acute lung function response to cotton dust in atopic and non-atopic individuals