Respirators and Surgical Masks—Exploring the Differences

Filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) and surgical masks may appear similar in design, but are quite different. When worker protection from inhalation hazards is necessary, a respirator, not a surgical mask, must be selected. For FFRs to protect wearers, however, wearers must be trained in wearing and using them properly, determine they fit by being fit tested, perform a user seal check each time FFRs are put on, and be medically evaluated to ensure they are physically able to wear FFRs while working.