What’s the Difference between P2 Mask and N95 Mask

February 16 2024, by Aussie Pharma Direct, 16 min reading time

Article last updated: 6/2/2026

A mere handful of years ago, the idea of wearing masks in our day-to-day lives seemed confined to medical dramas or distant cultural practices. Fast forward to today, and masks have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of our routines, becoming an emblem of caution and a shield against unseen threats. What began as a precautionary measure during the pandemic has now evolved into a broader concept, encompassing protection from a variety of factors beyond the virus.

Amidst this newfound awareness of respiratory safety, terms like "P2 masks" and "N95 masks" have become household conversation starters, yet their precise distinctions often leave us puzzled, prompting more questions sometimes muddled by the sea of information.

In this blog, we will explore the key distinctions between P2 masks and N95 masks to help you make informed decisions when choosing the right mask for your needs.

P2 vs N95 masks: Quick summary

Both offer high-level filtration of fine airborne particles
P2 = Australian/New Zealand standard
N95 = United States standard
In Australia, P2 masks are generally preferred for local compliance
Effectiveness depends on fit, seal, and correct use

Standards and certifications

While P2 and N95 masks serve a similar purpose, they originate from different regions and have slightly different certification processes and criteria.

P2 masks:

P2 masks are primarily used in Australia and New Zealand. The "P2" designation comes from the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1716:2012, which establishes the requirements for respiratory protective devices.

N95 masks:

N95 masks are widely used in the United States and they are certified by NIOSH, a part of the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Comparing N95 and P2 masks for their filtration capabilities

In comparing the filtration capabilities of P2 masks and N95 masks, it's important to have a clear understanding of their differences and similarities. To aid in this comparison, we highlight the key distinctions in the table below (referenced from 3M).

To help you understand each of the terms above:

1. Filter performance

Refers to the assessment of a mask's ability to effectively reduce the concentrations of specific aerosols present in the air that passes through its filtering material. This evaluation provides insights into how well the mask captures and retains airborne particles.

2. Test agent

Aerosol that is generated during the filter performance test to simulate real-world airborne particles. This is to evaluate how efficiently the mask's filtration system can capture and retain particles of a certain size, contributing to the determination of the mask's overall effectiveness.

3. Total Inward Leakage (TIL)

Quantifies the combined volume of a specific aerosol that enters a tested respirator face piece through both filter penetration and face seal leakage. This evaluation occurs while a wearer undertakes a series of prescribed exercises within a controlled test chamber.

4. Inward Leakage (IL)

It is the measured quantity of a specific aerosol that infiltrates the tested respirator face piece when a wearer engages in normal breathing for a period of 3 minutes within a controlled test chamber. This evaluation focuses on evaluating how effectively the mask prevents the ingress of particles during typical breathing activities.

4. Pressure drop

Refers to the resistance encountered by air as it flows through a medium, such as the filtering material of a respirator. In the context of face masks, pressure drop measures the force required for air to pass through the mask's filter. A higher pressure drop indicates greater resistance and may impact the wearer's comfort and ease of breathing.

What is the usual design and shape of a P2 and N95 respirator?

Variations in design and shape:

N95 masks often feature a cup-shaped design with an adjustable metal nose clip that helps secure the mask in place and ensure a snug fit.

P2 masks may exhibit a similar cup-shaped design or incorporate a flat-fold structure. The flat-fold design allows for easy storage and portability, making it a practical choice for professionals who need to carry multiple masks.

Fit and comfort:

Both N95 and P2 masks prioritise fit through features like adjustable nose clips and straps. To ensure a well-fitting mask, knowing how to measure your face for a face mask is paramount. Different face shapes call for different mask sizes. A mask that fits snugly along the contours of your face reduces gaps and enhances protection.

For industries that require workers to wear masks, such as healthcare, construction, mining, manufacturing, and other environments where employees are exposed to airborne contaminants, a respiratory fit test may be needed to evaluate how well a mask fits your face and whether it seals securely. Fit testing is particularly essential for healthcare professionals who deal with contagious diseases.

Applications of the face masks: When to choose one over the other

P2 and N95 masks are now widely used beyond their early pandemic role and are considered important respiratory protection tools across workplaces, healthcare settings, and everyday environments. Choosing the right mask depends on your location, exposure risk, and the level of protection required.

P2 respirator masks

P2 masks are commonly used in Australia and New Zealand for protection against fine airborne particles in a range of settings:

Dust and pollen – Suitable for moderate exposure to dust and pollen, such as gardening, home maintenance, and outdoor activities.
Bushfire smoke and poor air quality – P2 masks are effective at filtering fine smoke particles during bushfire events and smoke haze, helping to reduce inhalation of airborne particulates.
Healthcare and general workplace use – In environments where the risk of exposure to highly contagious airborne pathogens is lower, P2 masks may be used as part of broader respiratory protection measures, in line with workplace policies.

N95 respirator masks

N95 masks are primarily used in regions where US standards apply and are commonly selected in higher-risk clinical or regulated environments:

Healthcare and medical settings – N95 masks are often specified in healthcare environments where exposure risks are higher or where US-based standards are required.
Situations requiring NIOSH certification – In workplaces or industries that follow US guidelines, N95 masks may be the preferred option.

In Australia, P2 respirator masks are generally preferred as they align with local standards and regulatory requirements. Both P2 and N95 masks can offer similar levels of particulate filtration when fitted and worn correctly.

Why P2 and N95 masks are used during smoke and poor air quality

Australia generally records lower average air pollution levels compared to many countries worldwide, particularly for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). However, air quality can vary significantly depending on location, season, and environmental conditions, with short-term pollution events often having the greatest health impact.

In urban areas, the most common contributors to air pollution include motor vehicle emissions, road traffic, industrial activity, and power generation. During winter months, domestic wood heating can become a major source of particulate pollution, contributing a significant proportion of ambient PM levels in some regions. In fact, wood smoke can account for a substantial share of winter particulate matter in Australian cities.

Outside major cities, natural events play a major role in air quality fluctuations. Dust storms and bushfires are among the most significant causes of severe, short-term air pollution events across Australia. Dust storms typically originate from dry inland regions, such as lake basins and desert areas, and can carry fine particles across vast distances. These events can dramatically reduce visibility and increase airborne particulate levels, sometimes affecting air quality across multiple states.

Bushfires remain one of the most serious air quality challenges in Australia. Fire smoke contains high concentrations of PM2.5, extremely fine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs. During major fire seasons, smoke pollution has been shown to cause widespread health impacts, particularly for people with asthma, cardiovascular conditions, or other respiratory sensitivities. Even outside large-scale fire seasons, planned burns and smaller fires can still lead to short-term spikes in poor air quality.

While Australia enforces strict national standards for PM2.5, other pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO₂) can still pose health concerns in areas near industrial activity or coal-fired power stations. Elevated levels of these pollutants have been associated with increased respiratory and cardiovascular risks, particularly during prolonged exposure.

Because air quality events in Australia are often episodic rather than constant, protection strategies tend to focus on reducing exposure during high-risk periods, such as smoke haze, dust storms, or pollution spikes. During these conditions, respirator masks such as P2 or N95 masks are commonly recommended, as they are designed to filter fine airborne particles when worn correctly. However, they do not protect against gases or chemical vapours and should be used alongside other protective measures, such as limiting outdoor activity where possible.

Common misconceptions about P2 and N95 masks

There’s a lot of mixed information out there about respirator masks, especially when it comes to P2 and N95 masks. Let’s clear up a few of the most common misunderstandings.

1. “N95 masks are always better than P2 masks”

Not necessarily. P2 and N95 masks are designed to offer a similar level of protection, but they’re tested to different standards. Under Australian and New Zealand requirements, P2 masks must filter at least 94% of airborne particles, while N95 masks are tested to a slightly higher minimum of 95% under US standards.

That said, filtration performance can vary by product. Some Australian-made P2 respirators now exceed the minimum P2 requirement, offering filtration levels comparable to N95 masks. For example, AMD P2 respirator masks have a tested particle filtration efficiency (PFE) of 99.66%, which is considered equivalent to N95-level performance when properly fitted.

2. “Any mask will do the same job”

This is a common assumption, but it’s not quite right. Cloth and surgical masks are mainly designed for droplet protection, helping to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets from the wearer to people around them. They’re often used as a source-control measure rather than for high-level filtration.

Respirator masks such as P2 and N95 masks, on the other hand, help protect the wearer from inhaling particles, while also reducing the amount of particles released into the surrounding environment.

Read related article: Surgical Masks vs. P2 Masks

3. “Higher filtration means you’re not getting enough oxygen”

P2 and N95 masks don’t reduce oxygen levels. They can feel a bit harder to breathe through, simply because the filter is doing its job, but this doesn’t mean oxygen is being restricted when the mask is used properly.

4. “Fit isn’t that important if the mask is certified”

Fit actually matters a lot. Even a high-quality respirator won’t work well if air can leak around the edges. A good seal around the nose and face is key to getting the protection the mask is designed to provide.

5. “Respirator masks protect against everything in the air”

It’s easy to think that way, but respirator masks such as P2 and N95 masks are designed to filter particles, not gases or chemical fumes. They help reduce exposure to smoke, dust, and other fine airborne particles, but they’re not a solution for all airborne hazards.

For protection against gases or chemical vapours, different types of respirators are required — typically reusable respirators fitted with appropriate gas or vapour cartridges, selected based on the specific substance involved.

6. “P2 and N95 masks are only for hospitals”

While they’re commonly used in healthcare, respirator masks are also used in many other settings — including aged care, construction, industrial environments, and during events like bushfires or dust storms.

Selecting the right mask

Choosing between a P2 and an N95 mask usually comes down to where you are, how you plan to use it, and any workplace or regulatory requirements. In Australia, P2 masks are generally preferred because they align with local standards, while N95 masks are more commonly referenced under US guidelines. In practice, both are designed to provide a similar level of particulate filtration when fitted and worn correctly.

Comfort, fit, and intended use also matter. Some people prefer a cup-shaped design for longer periods of wear, while others find a flat-fold style more convenient for everyday or on-the-go use. Ultimately, the most effective mask is one that fits well, feels comfortable enough to wear properly, and suits the environment you’re in.

Wearing a respirator mask isn’t just about meeting a requirement — it’s about making informed choices to reduce exposure to airborne particles and support respiratory wellbeing, particularly during smoke events, dust exposure, or poor air quality days.

Why choose AMD face masks?

AMD respirator masks are Australian made and designed to meet local respiratory protection standards. AMD P2 respirator masks exceed the minimum P2 filtration requirement, offering a tested particle filtration efficiency of 99.66%, which is considered equivalent to N95-level performance when properly fitted.

For those looking for reliable respiratory protection that aligns with Australian conditions and standards, AMD masks offer a trusted option for both workplace and everyday use, and you can find them online on Aussie Pharma Direct!

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