Are P3 & P100 Respirators the Same? Get to Know the Difference
, by Tatianna Gerard, 15 min reading time
Most of us are familiar with respirators labelled P2 or N95, which are commonly used for protection against dust, smoke, and airborne pathogens. However, when respiratory hazards are at their highest — from toxic dusts and fine particulates to hazardous fumes — standard P2 or N95 respirator masks may not provide enough protection.
Choosing the right respirator can be confusing — especially when you find other types of respirators labelled as P3 and P100. Are they different types of protection? Is one better than the other? And which one do you actually need? They’re more similar than most people realise.
Both are designed for maximum filtration efficiency, capturing at least 99.95–99.97% of airborne particles. The difference isn’t in their performance, but in where they’re certified: P3 is used in European and Australian/New Zealand standards, while P100 follows NIOSH standards in the United States. They are designed for use in high-risk industrial, medical, or hazardous environments where the smallest airborne particles pose significant health risks.
In this article, we’ll explain what P3 and P100 mean, how they compare, and which is best suited for different industries and applications.
What do P3 and P100 mean for respirators?
P3 and P100 are classifications for the highest level of particulate filtration offered by disposable and reusable respirators — but they belong to two different certification systems.
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P3 is the designation used under the European EN 143 and Australian/New Zealand AS/NZS 1716 standards.
- P100 is the equivalent under the NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) standards in the United States.
Despite the difference in naming, both refer to high-efficiency particulate filters capable of capturing at least 99.95% (P3) or 99.97% (P100) of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns — including dust, fumes, smoke, mists, and even some biological contaminants like bacteria and viruses.
The small difference in percentage (99.95% vs. 99.97%) is negligible in real-world use. What matters more is the testing protocol and certification body:
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P3 respirators undergo testing under EN or AS/NZS standards, focusing on total inward leakage and filter penetration. They’re widely used across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
- P100 respirators are tested under NIOSH protocols, which evaluate filter performance against both oil and non-oil aerosols, breathing resistance, and airflow.
Because the two systems are based on different regulatory frameworks, you’ll often see products labelled differently depending on where they’re sold — but their protective capabilities are essentially equivalent. If you need maximum particle filtration, either a P3 or a P100 respirator will deliver it.
What are the key similarities and differences between P3 and P100 respirators?
While P3 and P100 respirators are often treated as separate categories, they’re far more alike than they are different. In fact, they both sit at the top tier of particulate filtration for offering maximum protection in hazardous environments. But they do have a few technical distinctions worth understanding — especially if you’re choosing gear for specific industries or conditions.
✅ What they have in common
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Extremely high filtration efficiency: Both P3 and P100 filters capture almost all airborne particles, including dust, smoke, welding fumes, mists, and even some bacteria and viruses.
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Tiny particle filtration: Both are tested against particles as small as 0.3 microns, the most penetrating particle size, making them suitable for environments with fine particulates.
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Reusable and disposable options: Available in a range of respirator types, from disposable filtering facepieces to half-face and full-face reusable respirators.
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High-risk use cases: Commonly used in industrial, construction, chemical, mining, laboratory, and healthcare settings where lower-rated respirators (like P2 or N95) may not provide enough protection.
- Fit-dependent performance: Both rely on a proper seal to achieve their rated filtration efficiency — without a snug fit, even the best filter won’t protect effectively.
Where they differ
|
Feature |
P3 Respirator |
P100 Respirator |
|
Certification Standard |
EN 143 (Europe), AS/NZS 1716 (Australia/New Zealand) |
NIOSH 42 CFR Part 84 (United States) |
|
Filtration Efficiency |
≥ 99.95% |
≥ 99.97% |
|
Oil Resistance |
Tested primarily against non-oil-based particulates (though still effective in most cases) |
“P” indicates fully oil-proof; maintains efficiency even in oil-based aerosol environments |
|
Leakage Testing |
Includes total inward leakage testing, which considers both filter efficiency and fit |
Focuses on filter performance and airflow resistance |
|
Common Uses |
Widely used across Europe and Australia in construction, mining, healthcare, and hazardous dust environments |
Often required in U.S. industrial, chemical, and healthcare settings, especially where oil aerosols are present |
What these differences mean in practice
The filtration performance difference — 99.95% vs. 99.97% — is so small that it’s virtually irrelevant for most real-world applications. The main distinctions lie in certification approach and oil resistance.
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If you’re working in environments with oil-based aerosols (like spray painting, certain manufacturing processes, or chemical handling), a P100 respirator’s oil-proof rating may be preferable.
- If you’re in construction, mining, demolition, or healthcare within Australia, New Zealand, or Europe, P3 respirators are typically the standard and widely accepted.
Ultimately, both offer top-level protection, and your choice will usually come down to the certification standard recognised in your industry or location and the specific hazards you’re dealing with.
Side note: Some workplaces or regulatory environments require respirators certified under a specific standard. Always check your local safety guidelines (such as Safe Work Australia or OSHA in the U.S.) before purchasing or deploying PPE.
When to use P3 vs. P100
Choosing the right one isn’t just about filtration efficiency; it’s about matching the respirator to the specific hazards, industry requirements, and work conditions you’re dealing with.
Below are the most common scenarios where each type is used and how to decide which one is right for your situation.
P3 respirators
Because they comply with EN 143 and AS/NZS 1716, P3 respirators are widely used in industries and workplaces where regulations follow European or Australian standards. They’re particularly suited for environments with high levels of dust, fine particles, or hazardous aerosols.
Common applications:
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Construction and demolition: Protection from silica dust, concrete dust, and other fine particulates released during cutting, drilling, or grinding.
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Mining and quarrying: Defence against respirable crystalline silica, coal dust, and metal particulates.
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Healthcare and laboratory settings: Protection against airborne pathogens, biological aerosols, and infectious particles in high-risk zones.
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Asbestos removal and hazardous material handling: Required PPE in environments with dangerous fibres and particulates.
- Welding and metal fabrication: Filtering welding fumes and metallic particulates that can cause respiratory irritation or long-term lung damage.
Why choose P3:
If you’re working in Australia, New Zealand, or Europe — or under safety codes that reference AS/NZS 1716 or EN 143 — a certified P3 respirator is likely what your workplace requires. They’re ideal when dealing with dusts, fumes, fibres, and airborne pathogens in non-oil environments.
P100 respirators
Because P100 filters are tested against both oil-based and non-oil-based aerosols, they’re often the go-to choice in the United States and in industries where exposure to oil mists and chemical aerosols is common. The “P” stands for “oil-proof,” meaning they maintain their filtration efficiency even in challenging conditions.
Common applications:
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Spray painting and coatings: Protection from oil-based paint particles, solvents, and chemical mists.
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Petrochemical and chemical manufacturing: Defence against oil aerosols, chemical particulates, and hazardous fumes.
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Pharmaceutical production: Protection from potent active ingredients and fine powder aerosols.
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Industrial maintenance and cleaning: Suitable for environments where oil-based lubricants and chemical aerosols are present.
- Healthcare and emergency response (U.S.): Used in high-risk medical environments, particularly where airborne infectious particles are present.
Why choose P100:
If your work involves oil-based particles or chemical aerosols, or if you’re operating in the United States or other regions that follow NIOSH standards, a P100 respirator is the best choice. It’s also commonly required in industries where OSHA regulations mandate NIOSH-certified equipment.
P3 vs. P100: A quick comparison by use case
|
Environment / Task |
Best Choice |
Why |
|
Construction, demolition, silica dust |
P3 |
Standard under EN/AS/NZS; excellent for fine dust and particulate hazards |
|
Asbestos removal |
P3 |
Required PPE in asbestos handling under Australian/European standards |
|
Welding and metal fabrication |
P3 |
Filters welding fumes and fine particulates effectively |
|
Spray painting or chemical aerosols |
P100 |
Oil-proof filtration maintains efficiency with chemical mists |
|
Petrochemical or industrial chemical environments |
P100 |
Designed for both oil and non-oil aerosol protection |
|
U.S. healthcare and lab work |
P100 |
NIOSH certification required in many medical and emergency settings |
|
Australian or European healthcare settings |
P3 |
Meets AS/NZS or EN standard requirements for pathogen protection |
Other factors to consider when choosing a respirator
While filtration efficiency and certification (P3 vs P100) are crucial, they’re not the only things that determine how well a respirator protects you. A high-rated filter is only effective if the respirator fits properly, is suited to your task, and is comfortable enough for you to wear it for the duration required. Below are key factors to weigh before making your choice:
1. Fit and seal
Even the best filter in the world won’t protect you if the respirator doesn’t fit properly. Air — and the particles you’re trying to avoid — will always take the path of least resistance, slipping through any gaps between the mask and your face.
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Fit testing: For tight-fitting respirators (like half-face or full-face models), a fit test is essential. This ensures the respirator forms a complete seal around your face. Many workplaces require annual fit testing for compliance.
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Facial hair considerations: Beards and stubble can prevent a tight seal. Clean-shaven skin is typically required for respirators to work as intended.
- Adjustable features: Look for models with adjustable straps, flexible nose pieces, or silicone seals to improve fit and comfort.
✅ Pro tip: If your respirator leaks around the edges or shifts when you speak or move, it’s not providing the protection it’s rated for — even if it’s a P3 or P100. Proper fit is essential for the respirator to work as intended. And if you need help with that, our team at Aussie Pharma Direct offers professional respirator fit testing services to ensure your PPE is sealed correctly and performing at its highest standard.
2. Respirator type: Disposable vs reusable
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — the right respirator type depends on how often you’ll use it, your work environment, and the level of protection needed.
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Disposable respirators (Filtering Facepiece Respirators – FFRs):
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Lightweight, convenient, and often more affordable.
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Ideal for short-term or intermittent use.
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Typically rated as P2 or P3 (in Australia/Europe) or N95/P100 (in the U.S.).
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Must be replaced after each use or when soiled, damaged, or hard to breathe through.
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Lightweight, convenient, and often more affordable.
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Reusable respirators (Half-face or full-face):
-
Provide a more secure seal and better long-term value.
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Filters can be replaced as needed.
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Full-face versions also protect eyes and face from splashes and irritants.
- Often preferred for ongoing exposure in industrial, chemical, or hazardous settings.
-
Provide a more secure seal and better long-term value.
✅ Quick tip: If you work with hazardous particulates daily, a reusable half-face or full-face respirator is a worthwhile investment for comfort and cost-effectiveness.
3. Comfort and wearability
A respirator’s protective qualities won’t matter if you can’t wear it for long periods. Comfort directly affects compliance — workers are more likely to remove or adjust uncomfortable respirators, compromising safety.
Key comfort features to look for:
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Lightweight materials: Reduce fatigue during long shifts.
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Breathable design: Valved respirators or advanced filter media make breathing easier.
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Soft seals and cushioned edges: Prevent irritation and pressure points on the face.
- Ergonomic design: Contoured shapes provide a better fit and seal with less discomfort.
💡 Especially in hot or humid environments, prioritising comfort can make a huge difference in whether your respirator stays on — and stays effective.
4. Task-specific requirements and regulations
Different jobs come with different risks — and often, with specific PPE requirements. Always consider:
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Workplace standards: In Australia, respirators must comply with AS/NZS 1716. In the U.S., NIOSH certification is required for most regulated environments.
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Nature of hazards: Oil mists, chemical vapours, or highly toxic particles may demand specific filter types or additional protection.
- Duration and frequency: Continuous use may justify a reusable respirator, while occasional tasks might only require a disposable one.
Tip: Always consult your workplace safety officer or relevant authority (e.g., Safe Work Australia or OSHA) to confirm which respirator standard and type are required for your job.
5. Maintenance and storage (for reusable respirators)
If you opt for a reusable respirator, proper care is essential to keep it functioning at peak performance:
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Clean regularly: Wipe down the facepiece with mild detergent or disinfectant after each use.
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Replace filters: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter lifespan — replace immediately if breathing resistance increases or filters become damaged.
- Store correctly: Keep respirators in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight, chemicals, or extreme temperatures.
Here’s the takeaway: P3 or P100 — both mean top-level safety
At the end of the day, P3 and P100 respirators both deliver top-tier filtration efficiency, capturing more than 99.9% of airborne particles, including hazardous dusts, fumes, mists, and even many biological contaminants. The main difference is in where they’re certified — with P3 following European and Australian/New Zealand standards, and P100 following U.S. NIOSH standards.
The right choice often comes down to your location, industry regulations, and specific work environment. If you’re working in Australia, New Zealand, or Europe, a P3 respirator will likely meet the requirements. If you’re in the U.S. or dealing with oil-based aerosols and chemical mists, P100 might be the better option.
No matter which you choose, remember that proper fit and correct usage are just as important as filtration level. Even the best-rated respirator can’t protect you if it doesn’t seal correctly — so regular fit testing and proper training are essential for safety and compliance.
