Do shop workers have to wear face masks?
14 July 2020, 13:27
From July 24, wearing masks will be mandatory for the public in shops, but what about shop workers?
This week it was announced England would be following in Scotland's footsteps and making face masks compulsory in shops.
The new policy will come into place on July 24, with people facing a £100 fine if they don't comply.
But what about shop workers, are they also expected to wear face coverings?
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Do shop workers have to wear face masks?
Matt Hancock is expected to be giving a speech on July 14 regarding face coverings in shops, when more specific details will be revealed.
However, it has been reported shop workers will not be forced to wear face coverings like their customers.
The Environment Secretary George Eustice told BBC this week: "They’re not being covered by this but I think if you go into most shops you will see that staff for a longer time now have either been wearing face shields or face masks.
“It won’t be a compulsory requirement because it won’t always be right for every setting in a retail environment, particularly those working behind the tills and so on.”
Do children have to wear face masks in shops?
The new policy on face coverings does not include children under 11.
This age bracket is exempt from wearing face coverings, alongside people with certain medical conditions.
When does the new face covering rule start?
The Government's new policy on face coverings will start from July 24.
From this date, everyone – except those who are exempt – will be required to wear a face mask or covering when shopping in any store.
People not complying with the rules will face a potential fine of £100, which can be dropped to £50 if paid within 14 days.
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