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Quick picks
- Best everydayFFP3 valved disposable masks
- Best for heavy dustReusable half mask with P3 filters
- Light tasks onlyFFP2 disposable masks
Construction dust from MDF, plaster, concrete and stone causes serious lung disease, and it builds up over years. The right mask is cheap. The wrong one, or one that doesn't seal, does very little.
What to look for
- FFP3 for most site dust. FFP3 offers the higher protection. Use it for silica (concrete, brick, stone), hardwood and MDF dust.
- FFP2 for lighter tasks. Gives less protection. It suits short, low-dust jobs, but FFP3 is the safer default.
- Fit is everything. Tight-fitting masks used at work should be face fit tested. Stubble breaks the seal.
- Valve or no valve. A valve makes breathing easier and cuts fogging on long jobs.
- Disposable or reusable. Reusable half masks with P3 filters cost more up front, but save money if you're in dust daily.
Side by side
| Pick | Type | Protection | Best for | Price band |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FFP3 valved disposable masks | Disposable | Higher (FFP3) | Daily cutting and sanding | £ |
| Reusable half mask with P3 filters | Reusable | Higher (P3) | Heavy, daily dust | ££ |
| FFP2 disposable masks | Disposable | Lower (FFP2) | Short, light jobs | £ |
FFP3 valved disposable masks
FFP3 · valve · disposable
The everyday choice on site. Buy a box and bin them when they get damp, dirty or hard to breathe through.
Good
- High protection
- Easy to carry
- Valve keeps you cooler
Not so good
- Ongoing cost
- Must be fit tested to your face
Reusable half mask with P3 filters
Half mask · P3 filters
Better seal, more comfortable for long shifts, and cheaper over time if you're always in dust.
Good
- Good seal
- Cheaper long term
- Replaceable filters
Not so good
- Bulkier
- Needs cleaning and filter changes
FFP2 disposable masks
FFP2 · disposable
Fine for quick, low-dust tasks. Not the best choice for regular cutting of MDF, concrete or stone.
Good
- Cheap
- Comfortable
Not so good
- Lower protection than FFP3
Quick answers
Is FFP3 better than FFP2?
FFP3 gives higher protection. For most construction dust, FFP3 is the sensible choice.
What is face fit testing?
A test that checks a tight-fitting mask actually seals on your face. Employers should arrange it for workers who wear these masks.
Can I wear a mask with a beard?
Not a tight-fitting one. Stubble stops the seal. Bearded workers need a powered hood or similar.
How often should I change a disposable mask?
When it's damp, damaged, dirty or harder to breathe through. Usually at least every shift.
Verdict
Default to FFP3 and get face fit tested. Go reusable P3 if you're in dust every day.