Protective masks are used to protect the face or parts thereof and the respiratory tract and organs. They protect against injuries or act as a filter against gases, vapors and fine dusts and/or annoying odors.
The mandatory wearing of masks, which has been introduced in many countries (including Germany since April 2020), has led to a public debate regarding the protection of oneself and others by wearing protective masks in the wake of the COVID 19 pandemic. The everyday masks worn by many are not officially considered protective masks, but rather mouth-nose protection (MSN) or makeshift protective masks. Wearing these masks provides only minimal self-protection.