Face mask guidelines

MASKS or face coverings are to be mandatory on public transport. Here’s a beginner’s guide to using face masks properly:

1. Wash or sanitise your hands before putting on a mask.

2. Put it on carefully, so that it covers your mouth, chin and nose, minimising any gaps around your face and the mask.

3. Don’t touch the mask while wearing it and don’t touch the front of the mask while taking it off as this could spread germs that are on it.

4. Replace your mask as soon as it becomes damp or dirty with a new one.

5. Get rid of disposable masks in a bin immediately after removal or put them in a sealable bag to dispose of later.

6. Don’t reuse single-use masks.

7. Clean your hands after removing the mask.

8. Under-13s or those who may have breathing difficulties or would be upset by wearing a mask should not do so.

9. Reusable cloth face coverings can be bought or made at home out of two layers of material such as cotton or silk.

10. Wash cloth masks after use at 60C in a washing machine or by hand with detergent. Allow to dry fully before using again.

Some experts have suggested sterilising masks with a hot steam iron or in an oven, or leaving used masks unworn for a number of days, but the HSE does not recommend this.

It also recommends carrying unused masks in a ziplock or watertight bag, and keeping a second bag for used masks.

Do not wear wet or dirty masks or face coverings, share face coverings or lower the covering to speak, smoke or vape.