Define: EN 14683

Definition updated 19th February 2024

EN 14683 is the European standard for medical face masks intended to prevent infection from spreading from patients to staff in medical settings. 


Type I and Type II (R)

Medical face masks specified in EN 14683 are classified into two types, Type I and Type II, according to their bacterial filtration efficiency. Type II is then further divided into whether the mask is splash resistant, specified with an 'R'. 

Type I masks are used for patients to reduce the risk of infections, for example in pandemic or epidemic situations. Type I masks are not suitable for healthcare professionals in an operating room or in other medical settings. 


The Globus Group Glossary

We've compiled a list of terms and definitions in our glossary to help you better understand the terminology used on this website.

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