The importance of P2 masks

During the 2019-20 fire season many fires caused smoke to cover large parts of Australia leading to hazardous air quality. Members of the public and CFA firefighters were so concerned that they asked for advice from CFA’s health and safety advisers. The two most common questions were, “What can I do to best protect myself from the adverse effects of smoke in the air?” and “Do P2 masks really work in a smoky environment and on the fireground?” The NSW and Victorian Government health departments both recommended using P2 masks. This is also CFA’s minimum protection requirement. When worn correctly disposable P2 face masks (also known as P2 respirators) can filter out very fine particles from the air. They help reduce exposure to bushfire smoke, poor air quality and associated health effects. But it’s important to know that these masks are not perfect. Unlike the mask used in breathing apparatus, P2 masks don’t have a perfect seal which means their effectiveness depends on the quality of the fit. For example, facial hair restricts the seal to the person’s face. However, using a P2 mask with an imperfect seal is still much better than using nothing. Some concerned volunteer firefighters have asked whether they could protect their health more effectively by using a P3 canister-style respirator on the fireground. Mark Tarbett, CFA’s State Manager for PPE/C, explains the differences between the two types. “A P3 canister-style respirator gives the same level of protection from airborne particulates as a P2 disposable respirator,” Mark said.

“The P3 designation means this mask is a reusable full or half rubber face mask fitted with replaceable filter cartridges which provide protection from particulates, gases and vapours depending on the filters fitted. “P3 respirators fitted with a cartridge-type filter need greater effort to breathe through, and it can be difficult to achieve an ongoing facial seal because of sweat and facial hair.” The 3M 9322+ (Aura) P2 Disposable Respirator is the only unit currently approved by CFA for use in bushfires. This respirator was selected in 2013 after user trials with CFA firefighters found it had excellent particulate filtration ability and exceptional facial fit. A face mask must also be certified to the AS/NZS 1716 standard. For more information search the intranet (members.cfa.vic.gov.au) for the publication Safety Tip: Smoke exposure.