Not sure what the latest rules are for face masks and coverings? Confused about all the different types of face masks and coverings out there? We've done the hard work for you and broken down everything you need to know so, sit back and relax and enjoy our ultimate guide to face masks and coverings!
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Masks vs Coverings - What's the difference?
In the context of the Coronavirus pandemic, a "face covering" is a general term that applies to reusable scarfs, bandanas, homemade fabric masks and shop-bought face masks which cover the two main confirmed sources of transmission; the nose and mouth. Face coverings do not qualify as official PPE (personal protection equipment) and are predominately worn by members of the general public, compared to medically graded face masks which are designed for health care professionals. Face coverings do not offer much protection to the wearer but instead, help us to protect each other and reduce the spread of the virus from people who are contagious but have no symptoms, or are yet to develop symptoms.
Alternatively, face masks are made from thin material (typically white and blue coloured), feature elasticated ear loops and designed to be disposed of after each use. Medical grade masks are intended for health care professionals or anyone who encounters work-related risk of Coronavirus as they have at least a 95% droplet filtration system and consist of several layers of non-woven material for extra protection. |
Why and When Should You Wear a Face Covering?
Face coverings help reduce the spread of Coronavirus droplets from sneezes, coughs and speaking and protect the public from those who may be asymptomatic.
As well as having a moral duty to help others, members of the public are now obliged by law to wear a face covering in most indoor settings and when travelling on public transport in England. Despite continuous changes to the rules, it has been compulsory to wear a face covering when in shops, supermarkets and shopping centres since 24th July and this policy is predicted to remain for the foreseeable future. In regards to the education setting, the Daily Mail reports that it's now compulsory for pupils in secondary schools to wear a face covering when moving between lessons and in school communal areas.
Although the rules and guidelines are rigid, there are some exceptions in special circumstances. Children under the age of 11 (in England), those with a physical or mental disability which prevents them from wearing a mask, and anyone assisting someone who relies on lip reading to communicate are exempt from wearing a face covering.
It's important to remember that while face coverings and face masks offer protection against the spread of viruses, it will not stop the spread of Coronavirus single-handedly. We must also regularly wash our hands for at least 20 seconds, sneeze and cough into tissues and practice social distancing.
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Disposable vs Reusable - Which is more sustainable?
According to Plastic Free Seas, if everyone in the general public were to wear a disposable mask every day for a year, we would have 3 trillion masks to dispose of. As most disposable face masks cannot be recycled or reused, they're sadly destined for one place... landfill. In fact, The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has warned that if historical data is a reliable indicator, 75% of used masks as well as other pandemic-related waste will end up in our oceans or landfill sites and become a hazardous danger to the environment.
Therefore, although disposable face masks are a cheap and quick solution to the current pandemic, a more sustainable outlook should be adopted to protect our planet.
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Our Top Picks
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Want your brand to stand out from the crowd? This face covering is a great marketing opportunity to promote a vibrant logo on a large surface area.
Branding Area: Full colour dye sublimation print
Comfort: Features double ear loop for extra comfort
Protection: Three-layer protection
Minimum quantity: 10
Cost: From £2.67
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Looking for a face covering with a little something extra? This face covering offers antimicrobial protection for up to 50 washes.
Colours: Black, grey and white
Branding Area: Spot colour or full colour transfer (35mm x 30mm)
Comfort: Adjustable ear hoops and made from 100% cotton
Protection: Two-layer protection and antimicrobial protection for up to 50 washes
Minimum Quantity: 50
Cost: From £2.09
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A face shield is less restrictive than a face covering or face mask but still protects the wearer by blocking droplets and bacteria - perfect for whose looking for protection and comfort over a long period of time.
Branding Area: Full colour digital print to the front (38mm x 415mm)
Comfort: Anti-fog and features an adjustable head strap
Protection: Helps block dust, bacteria, aerosol liquids, viscous materials and pollen germs
Minimum Quantity: 100
Cost: From £4.91
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With over 70 possible colour options, this face covering has something for everyone.
Colours: A wide variety (71 pending availability)
Branding Area: Spot colour or full colour with screen printing or embroidery
Comfort: Stretchy ear loops
Protection: Single fabric layer but has 73% filtration efficiency of surgical masks
Minimum Quantity: 250
Cost: From £2.25
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A cheap and quick solution, this disposable non-surgical face mask helps to protect the wearer with three layers (3 ply).
Branding Area: Comes unbranded
Comfort: Elastic stretchy ear loops for comfort
Protection: three-layer protection
Minimum Quantity: 50
Cost: From £0.60
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Designed for those who rely on lip reading to communicate, our lip reading face cover features an eco and foldable clear window made from TPU material.
Branding Area: Full colour/dye sublimation to the face cover
Comfort: Elastic stretchy straps and microrubber buckles for adjusting strap length
Protection: two-layer protection
Minimum Quantity: 100
Cost: From £3.44
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Looking for smaller quantities or the option to personalise? Visit our friends at Work Safely for more options.
Want to discuss the right face covering or mask for your needs?
Get in touch at [email protected] or 01245 382600
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01245 382600
