Can respirators other than N95 be used to help reduce exposures to biological agents?
WHO and CDC have recommended NIOSH-certified N95 respirators for healthcare workers. These respirators are not approved under European regulations, however, some European countries have issued guidance /regulations concerning the appropriate respirator for use against SARS. To date we are aware of five European countries that have issued guidance ranging between FFP2 and FFP3. Additionally, there have been some countries in Asia that have issued guidance. If your country does not currently have guidance, please contact 3M for information on what other countries are recommending. Most surgical masks are not approved as respirators and are not designed to prevent the wearer from inhaling airborne hazards.
