Please show your respect to shop workers

AS new rules on face covering come into force in England, Usdaw is calling for the public to support shopworkers.

Retail trade union Usdaw is reminding shoppers that the wearing of face coverings is mandatory in England.

Usdaw asks shoppers to follow the law and help to protect shopworkers and other customers by wearing a face covering, while following existing social distancing and hygiene procedures.

Shopworkers are not responsible for enforcing the law, and abuse should not be part of the job.

We encourage everyone to support shopworkers by remembering to wear a face covering, unless you are covered by an exemption.

We’ve been talking to employers about this and making sure that they have clear policies and procedures in place.

We expect employers to put up clear signage to remind customers about the rules.

The Government has said that shopworkers are not expected to enforce this law, but we are concerned that it may be a flashpoint for abuse of staff.

Although the Government has said that shopworkers are not legally required to wear a face covering, employers might encourage or require staff to wear them in some circumstances.

Employers must be aware that staff will need regular breaks when they can take their face covering off and have the opportunity to replace it.

We also want to make it clear that face coverings are not a replacement for social distancing measures that are already in place. We also ask you to remember that shopworkers are doing their best and to always treat them with respect.

Paddy Lillis Usdaw General Secretary