Face Coverings

In the context of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, a face covering is something which safely covers the nose and mouth and can include a scarf, bandana, or hand-made cloth covering but these must securely fit round the side of the face. Face coverings are largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of virus that causes coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

A face covering does not include a face visor or shields because these are not considered to adequately cover the nose and mouth.

Face coverings are not compulsory for children under the age of 12. However children of primary school age who can tolerate wearing a mask should do so where possible.

There are further exemptions to the requirement to wear face coverings and in all cases wearing will be subject to a reasonable excuse. These include:

• if a person cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability
• if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause a person severe distress
• if a person needs to speak to or provide assistance to someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expressions to communicate, or if wearing a mask will cause distress to the person someone is assisting
• in order to take medication

If any of the exemptions apply to you, we have created an exemption card and images that you can carry with you. In addition sunflower lanyards can be worn and will be available from the following locations: 

• Alliance
• Beau Sejour Leisure Centre
• Co-Op Grand Marche (St Martins and St Sampson)
• GP surgeries
• Iceland (Cobo)
• M&S (St Martins, St Peter Port & L'Islet)
• Morrisons (St Peters)
• Waitrose (Admiral Park and Rohais)

The exemption card and images can be downloaded from the bottom of this web page. 

Carrying a lanyard or proof of exemption is however a personal choice and is not required by law.

Face coverings are largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of virus that causes the coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

Face coverings should be changed regularly (every 4 hours if possible or sooner if they become damp or if you have touched it).

Single-use face coverings should be disposed of carefully in a waste bin and not in the recycling.

Face coverings that can be laundered should be washed at 60 degrees, dried in a tumble drier (if possible) and ironed.