Compulsory coverings
It is now mandatory to wear a face covering when entering shops throughout England from today, as it has been in Scotland since 10 July. This includes entering post office branches.
All colleagues should ensure they are aware of the mandatory guidance when delivering or collecting mail. Face coverings are also required across the UK when using public transport, except in Wales where it is currently recommended, but will become mandatory from Monday 27 July.
Customer Service Points (CSPs) are classified as shops for the purposes of this guidance and therefore, all customers using these facilities in England and Scotland will need to wear a face mask/covering.
It is not mandatory for colleagues who work in CSPs to wear a face covering, however, face masks remain available through line managers for anyone who chooses to wear one.
The law provides discretion to people who have a health condition, a disability and other groups. Such conditions will not always be visible, so colleagues should continue to serve all customers who enter CSPs, including those not wearing face coverings.
Removing and disposing of a mask
- To remove the mask, remove it from behind (do not touch the front of the mask).
- Discard immediately in a waste bin. Do not place the mask on surfaces or frames.
- Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Drivers should take a polythene bag with them, dispose of any waste that they generate into it immediately after use, and then place the bag in the bin in their office when they return to the unit.
Latest Government guidance on wearing or making a face covering
- A cloth face covering should cover your mouth and nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably. It can be as simple as a scarf or bandana that ties behind the head.
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitiser before putting on the face covering and after taking it off. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth at all times, and store used face coverings in a plastic bag until you have an opportunity to wash them.
- Do not touch the front of the face covering, or the part of the face covering that has been in contact with your mouth and nose. Once removed, make sure you clean any surfaces that the face covering has touched.
- You should wash a face covering regularly. It can go in with other laundry, using your normal detergent.
- When wearing a face covering, take care to tuck away any loose ends.
You may find the following guides on how to make a face mask useful:
