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Face mask regulations change frequently; check out the latest rules across Australia. As of September 9 2022, masks are no longer compulsory on domestic and inbound flights into Australia. While you do not need to wear a mask in most outdoor settings, it is recommended to wear one when social distancing cannot be maintained.
Face masks are still strongly recommended in many public settings. Because COVID-19 continues to evolve with highly transmissible variants, a reusable face mask may not provide a sufficient level of protection.
The Australian standard for a respiratory protection mask is a P2 mask. It promises to filter out 95% of particles, while keeping a secure fit on your face and preventing air leakage. The Australian P2 standard is similar to the American N95 standard and the Chinese KN95 standard.
Although Amazon doesn't stock first-class masks, similar P2 masks are available. You can find a wide range of P2 masks thanks to the variety of sellers at hand.
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What's the difference between a P2, FFP2, KN95 and N95 face mask?
Depending on your location, different face mask types are more widely used. For example, in the United States and Canada, N95 are common; in Australia and New Zealand you'll see P2 masks more often; in China, KN95 is the standard. Mask manufacturer 3M, which specialises in filtering facepiece respirators (FFR) masks, offers the following explanation of the main differences between each mask type.
Certification/Class
N95
FFP2
KN95
P2
Korea 1st Class
DS
Filter performance
≥ 95%
≥ 95%
≥ 95%
≥ 94%
≥ 94%
≥ 95%
Test agent
NaCl
NaCl and paraffin oil
NaCl
NaCl
NaCl and paraffin oil
NaCl
Flow rate
85 L/min
95 L/min
85 L/min
95 L/min
95 L/min
85 L/min
Total inward leakage (TIL)
N/A
≤ 8% leakage
≤ 8% leakage
≤ 8% leakage
≤ 8% leakage
Inward Leakage measured and included in User Instructions
Inhalation resistance
≤ 343 Pa
≤ 70 Pa (at 30L/min)≤ 240 Pa (at 95 L/min)≤ 500 Pa (clogging)
As of 9 September 2022, it is no longer mandatory to wear a face mask on domestic flights. This is in line with earlier changes making it optional to wear a mask in airports. Face masks are strongly recommended on public transport, including taxi and rideshare services.
Frequently asked questions about N95, KN95 and P2 face masks
Face masks were mandatory in many parts of Australia during COVID lockdowns. Wearing a face mask is no longer required by law, but they remain recommended on public transport and in indoor, non residential settings.
Face masks can cost anywhere from $15-$20 to upwards of $150. The average price for a face mask in Australia is $22.47. If you're buying for the whole family, you can save money by purchasing multi-packs in a variety of colours.
Yes. If you need to use a mask multiple times, most of the sites listed above will sell multi-packs. Alternatively, you can check out where to bulk buy P2 and N95 masks in the list above if you're in need of multiple masks, say for an essential workplace. 3M also makes masks with replaceable filters.
Generally, a P2 mask works for about 8-10 hours before needing to be replaced as it will become less effective. According to the World Health Organization you should also replace any single-use mask once it gets damp.
N95/P2 masks are designed for optimum blocking of particles and protection with a seal around the nose and mouth. They block at least 95% of very small (0.3 micron) airborne particles. Surgical masks are loose fitting. They are designed to protect against large-particle droplets, splashes and sprays.
No. Even if it is your partner or child and you live in the same household, sharing the same face mask isn't advisable unless it has been thoroughly washed. You can easily assign a specific face mask to each family member by buying different colours. You can check out where to bulk buy P2 and N95 masks in the list above if you're in need of multiple masks, say for an essential workplace. 3M also makes masks with replaceable filters.
According to the Australian Department of Health and the World Health Organisation, the people who will benefit the most from use of a face mask are those who are already sick and healthcare workers who have close contact with sick people.
While a face mask will not make you immune to COVID-19, it can stop particles that are released when you cough or sneeze from travelling too far in the air. Face masks also serve as a reminder to stop touching your face, which the World Health Organization has said is important in preventing the transfer of the virus from surfaces to your nose, eyes or mouth.
Angus Kidman is the international editor-at-large at Finder. He's an award-winning journalist who has reported on technology, travel, finance and other topics for over 25 years. Angus appears regularly on Sunrise, Today, The Project, Seven News and other TV and radio shows.
Hi,
I heard from 2 GB radio, that there is a reusable face mask made from Australia, website Australiafacemasks.com.au, but I couldn’t get to the website, please check for me.
You might be referring to the N95 face masks also called P2 or respirator masks are designed to filter out fine particles when fitted properly and airtight. While the KN95 is the equivalent version of this mask in China.
While the online stores listed on this page does not advertise where the masks are made, please know that it may vary depending on the manufacturer. Masks sold online are made globally by manufacturers from different locations. Where suppliers have specified that they ship from Australia, that means they import the product first into an Australian-based warehouse under local and state regulatory guidelines and standards, and then process shipments from their Australian locations.
Hi, we are an importer of medical supplies of the country. As you may aware the Coronavirus situation is getting serious and may get even fiercer in the wintertime that medical masks would be one of the necessities for the country. Currently, we are selling our masks to the United States and Europe where our masks are FDA and Europe standard complied. Locally, you may see our presence in petrol station chains and pharmacy stores.
We are seeking an opportunity to add our contact at finder.com.au for advertising our face masks. As such, I am wondering what’s the process to do so? Thanks.
Thanks for getting in touch with Finder. I hope all is well with you. 😃
It’s nice to hear you’re interested in working with us. We’ll be glad to have your company on our Finder website. To do this, please go to our partnership page. On that page, there’s a form that you can fill out. Once you’re have submitted that to us, our team will check your details and will get in touch with you accordingly.
I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out again.
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Hi,
I heard from 2 GB radio, that there is a reusable face mask made from Australia, website Australiafacemasks.com.au, but I couldn’t get to the website, please check for me.
Regards
Reju
Have COPD What mask should I be buying Want a filtered one Thanks. Australian made onlt
Hi Bon,
Thanks for leaving a comment.
You might be referring to the N95 face masks also called P2 or respirator masks are designed to filter out fine particles when fitted properly and airtight. While the KN95 is the equivalent version of this mask in China.
While the online stores listed on this page does not advertise where the masks are made, please know that it may vary depending on the manufacturer. Masks sold online are made globally by manufacturers from different locations. Where suppliers have specified that they ship from Australia, that means they import the product first into an Australian-based warehouse under local and state regulatory guidelines and standards, and then process shipments from their Australian locations.
I hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Faye
Hi, we are an importer of medical supplies of the country. As you may aware the Coronavirus situation is getting serious and may get even fiercer in the wintertime that medical masks would be one of the necessities for the country. Currently, we are selling our masks to the United States and Europe where our masks are FDA and Europe standard complied. Locally, you may see our presence in petrol station chains and pharmacy stores.
We are seeking an opportunity to add our contact at finder.com.au for advertising our face masks. As such, I am wondering what’s the process to do so? Thanks.
Regards,
David
Hi David,
Thanks for getting in touch with Finder. I hope all is well with you. 😃
It’s nice to hear you’re interested in working with us. We’ll be glad to have your company on our Finder website. To do this, please go to our partnership page. On that page, there’s a form that you can fill out. Once you’re have submitted that to us, our team will check your details and will get in touch with you accordingly.
I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out again.
Have a wonderful day!
Cheers,
Joshua