Wearing a face mask reduces the spread of coronavirus in the community. It helps to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets from people infected with coronavirus. This helps to stop people who are not aware they have the virus from spreading.We are all now very familiar with the wearing of face masks yet incorrect use of face masks does not provide the necessary protection as we go about our daily lives. Make sure you wear your mask correctly .

By law, you have to wear a face covering on public transport, and in:

  • shops, including pharmacies
  • shopping centres
  • libraries
  • cinemas and cinema complexes
  • theatres
  • concert halls
  • bingo halls
  • museums
  • nail salons
  • hair salons and barbers
  • tattoo and piercing parlours
  • travel agents and tour operators
  • laundries and dry cleaners
  • bookmakers
  • schools and universities
  • restaurants and cafes until seated

 

You should also wear a face covering:

  • when staying 2 metres apart from people is difficult
  • in a healthcare setting – this includes hospitals, GP surgeries, care settings, nursing homes and dental practiceswhen
  • visiting anyone who is more at risk from coronavirus – such as people aged 70 or over or people who are medically vulnerable.

 

How to wear one

A face mask should cover the nose and go under the chin and:

  • fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • be secured with ties or ear loops
  • include at least 2 layers of fabric
  • allow for breathing without restriction

Cover your mouth and nose with it and make sure there are no gaps between your face covering.

To safely dispose of a single-use mask:

  • remove it from behind – do not touch the front of the mask
  • throw it away immediately into a closed bin
  • wash your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
  • dispose of it in your general ‘black bag’ waste bin at home or work, or a litter bin if you’re outside
  • do not put them in a recycling bin as they cannot be recycled
  • take them home with you if there is no litter bin – do not drop them as litter

 

For more details on face masks, medical masks and disposable gloves you can visit the HSE website here. To order face masks or PPE please contact our dedicated PPE Team on 021 4618000 or email ppe@mmsmedical.ie