New HSE research has revealed that respirators/masks which rely on ear loops (including those provided with clips, ‘snuggers’ or other means of tightening the fit of the mask) to hold the respirator/mask in place, do not protect people adequately when used as tight fitting respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

This relates to FFP2 masks, not surgical or other masks. If you have identified that tight fitting RPE is required in a risk assessment then you should note that HSE does not recommend using a mask/respirator which relies on ear loops to hold it in place.

Image by Marco Verch Professional Photographer CC BY 2.0 https://www.flickr.com/photos/30478819@N08/50894723071