Face coverings
Where must they be worn and what are the exemptions?
Where must they be worn and what are the exemptions?
Face coverings have become an increasingly necessary measure to be worn in many public settings.
It is important to understand that whilst they are required in many workplaces, they are not personal protective equipment (PPE) and are not covered by heath and safety law.
Face coverings reduce the spread of Covid droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking.
They are worn to protect other people from coronavirus, rather than the wearer themselves. They must cover the nose and mouth, otherwise the covering will not be effective.
GMB believes that where a face covering is required in the workplace, or during any work activity, the employer must be responsible for providing them – free of charge – to ensure that they are effective and meet the required standard.
World Health Organisation Standards should be the minimum specification provided. The covering should have 3 layers:
Face coverings are now compulsory across the UK when:
In Wales, face coverings must be worn in all indoor public places by customers and staff.
In Northern Ireland, they must be worn in "any other indoor place where goods or services are available to buy or rent".
Some people are exempt from wearing face coverings. They include:
These exemptions will be accepted, but not wearing a face covering when one is required if now a legal offence if you are not exempt.
People can be refused travel for not following the rules, and can be fined.
In England, the police can issue a £200 fine to someone breaking the face-covering rules. In Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, a £60 fine can be imposed. Fines increase for repeated offences.
The UK Government does not recommend that face coverings are worn in schools, as the Department for Education believes that handwashing, cleaning and social distancing are enough to control the risk.
However, each nation is adopting different rules: