Differences Between N95, R95, P95, and P100 Respirators and Their Applications
The NIOSH standard classifies respirators based on filtration efficiency and resistance to oil into three main categories:
- N-Series (Not resistant to oil)
- R-Series (Resistant to oil, limited use)
- P-Series (Strongly resistant to oil, prolonged use)
Below is a comparison of N95, R95, P95, and P100 respirators:
|
Type |
Filtration Efficiency |
Oil Resistance |
Application |
Usage Duration |
|
N95 |
≥ 95% |
❌ Not resistant |
Dust, viruses, bacteria (non-oily particles) |
Up to 8 hours (replace if damaged) |
|
R95 |
≥ 95% |
✅ Short-term resistant |
Paint spraying, pesticide use, automotive repairs |
Up to 8 hours (single use) |
|
P95 |
≥ 95% |
✅ Long-term resistant |
Oil mist, industrial processing, refineries |
no set time limit but should be replaced |
|
P100** |
≥ 99.97% |
✅ Long-term resistant |
High-toxicity environments (asbestos, lead, heavy metals) |
no set time limit but should be replaced |
**If you need more high filtration efficiency, we have the P100 serie , it is be your best choose.
As for any filter, service time will be limited by considerations of hygiene and increased breathing resistance due to filter loading.
Best Applications:
- N95: Healthcare settings (virus protection, flu prevention), construction sites, dust protection.
- R95: Temporary exposure to oil-based particles, such as painting, pesticide spraying, or automotive work.
- P95: Prolonged exposure to oil-based particles, like refineries, metalworking, and food processing.
- P100: Highest level of protection, suitable for asbestos removal, lead exposure, and hazardous industrial environments.
Choosing the right respirator depends on whether oil-based particles are present and the required filtration efficiency.
The information provided above is non-binding information. The specified protection classes for the various areas of application are minimum requirements and are only for guidance. It is the responsibility of the user to check before use whether the breathing apparatus meets the requirements regarding hazardous substances and concentrations. For the selection of the correct personal protective equipment, an assessment must always be carried out on site by the professional association or comparable institutions. FIDO MASKS CO., LTD. assumes no liability for the information provided.