Understand your protection.

Ash is tiny fragments of rock, minerals and volcanic glass. Protection depends on how it reaches you.

EXPLODED FILTER · SCHEMATIC

Outside air ↓ Face

Construction varies by manufacturer. This is a typical arrangement, not a universal three-layer specification.

Certified filtration. Fit still matters.

N95 is a NIOSH certification: at least 95% filtration under its prescribed laboratory test. That is not a guarantee of 95% less exposure on your face. Air can bypass the filter through gaps.

LAYER 2 / 3

Filter medium

A dense web of very fine fibres captures particles by interception, impaction and diffusion. Electrostatic attraction can also assist capture.

A close fit helps direct inhaled air through the material. Follow the manufacturer’s fitting and seal-check instructions each time.