Mask matters
Beginner’s guide for when to wear and when to not
MANY Gold Coasters are confused about when and where they need to mask up.
Face covering has been mandatory in southeast Queensland since June 29, and it was extended on July 15 until 6am on July 23.
But across the city there appears to be a haphazard approach to mask wearing, with many unsure exactly when they are required to don one.
Queensland Health says if in doubt wear one, with those caught not wearing one without an exemption liable for a $206 on-the-spot fine.
Here are your questions answered:
When I’m collecting a drive-through order, do I need to wear one? Yes.
If I’m in the car with someone from my family do I need to wear one? No.
What about if I’m travelling with a person outside of my family? Yes, because you can’t socially distance.
Do I have to wear one if I’m having my photo taken? No.
When I’m at work, do I have to wear a mask? Yes, if you can’t socially distance from your colleagues.
When I watch my daughter playing netball, can I take my mask off to drink my takeaway coffee? Yes, but be sure to socially distance until you’re done.
I work behind a counter serving the public, do I need to wear a mask? Yes.
I’m appearing in court, must I wear one? Yes.
When I’m outside exercising strenuously, do I need to wear one? No.
What if I go for a beach walk by myself? No, as long as you keep 1.5m from others.
I drive a forklift and a mask makes my job unsafe.
Do I need to wear one? No.
At my son’s weekday soccer practice, do I need to wear a mask? Yes.
When I go out for brunch do I need one? No, as long as you’re sitting down and eating or drinking.
Should my waiter be wearing a mask? Yes.
My Uber/taxi driver wasn’t wearing a mask, should they be? Yes.
My job involves teaching people who are hard of hearing, do I need to wear a mask?
No, not if your work requires clear communication or visibility of your mouth.
I’ve got a serious skin condition on their face. Am I exempt? Yes.
Do my children have to wear masks? Yes, if 12 or older
When I collect kids from school or daycare, do I need a mask? Yes.
I’ve got a breathing issue, do I need to wear a mask? No.
When I visit my doctor to receive medical treatment, do I need to wear a mask?
No, unless it’s for respiratory symptoms.
As a result of past experiences, I find it traumatic wearing one, am I exempt? Yes, particularly if doing so will cause adverse psychological impacts.
My elderly father is in a residential care facility and doesn’t need a mask. Do I? Yes you do, but he is exempt.
I feel claustrophobic, stressed and anxious wearing a mask, do I need one? No, those with a mental health condition are exempt.
I’m attending a wedding/ funeral, do I need one? Yes, but the bride and groom are exempt.
I visited someone in a prison/detention centre and staff weren't wearing masks, should they be? No, subject to the facility’s policies.
I’m about to visit an airport, do I need a mask? Yes, but there’s exceptions such as if you’re asked to remove it for identification by a customs officer.