In Wales new rules are now in place (as of Mon 27th July) to make it compulsory to wear a face covering on public transport, including taxis. Across the border in England, face coverings are also mandatory in shops and supermarkets and in enclosed spaces.

This article covers gives you all the information you need to help you to comply to these new rules.

What is the difference between a face covering and a face mask?

A face covering is worn to protect others by reducing airborne transmission of Covid-19 but will not protect the wearer from infection from others where as a well fitted medical mask is designed to protect the wearer from infection. This is why throughout the pandemic it has been vital that frontline staff that are most at risk from being in close contact with patients wear protective masks.

What is the Welsh Government Policy on face masks and face coverings for the general public?

The Welsh Government are advising the use of three-layer, non medical face coverings in circumstances where it may be difficult to stay 2 metres away from others. This is inline with the World Health Organisation’s latest technical advice.

The most effective way to protect yourself from infection from others as the evidence suggests is to follow social distancing rules, avoid touching surfaces and your face, and wash your hands regularly. The use of face coverings is not a substitute for this advice, it is an additional precaution to help you to protect others.

How to make a three-layer, non medical face covering 

How to wear a fabric mask safely

To provide any protection to others, face coverings need to be made, worn, handled and disposed of in a certain way. Unfortunately, many of the home made masks being worn offer little protection to the wearer or those around them. The WHO recommends a minimum of three layers in a face covering.

Single Use Face Coverings

Disposable single-use face coverings contain plastic. If you are concerned about the environmental impact of using one of these, you can buy or make a washable face covering or mask (see video abve).

If you are using single-use face coverings then you will need to dispose of them responsibly in a litter bin. Please do not put them in the recycling as they can’t be recycled.