Protective face masks now mandatory on public transport and in Ubers

Mandatory Face Covering requirement on Public Transport 

Since the outset of lock down measures in England, the stance on protective face masks has been fraught with varying advice. Many months on from their initial proposition, the take is somewhat clearer. As of 15 June, government guidelines require anyone travelling on public transport and in hospitals to wear a protective face mask, while private enterprises such as Uber, re-opening entertainment venues and many returning offices will also make face masks compulsory.

Don't panic if you're yet to get your hands on one; many a free face mask will be handed out at railway stations and elsewhere. That said, just as any stylish man would be unlikely to wear a government-sanctioned sweater, there are plenty more stylish takes on the protective face mask than the clinical-looking, powder-blue paper kind. Brands have increasingly risen to the challenge of making 2020's most worn accessory an altogether more stylish prospect, without any compromise of its protective abilities. Here's what to know before you buy.

What to look for in a face mask

It remains the case that those more effective, surgical-grade face masks and personal protective equipment should remain reserved for NHS staff and frontline workers. When it comes to daily use, the everyman who's working from home and venturing out a little more in accordance with the latest government guidelines should be seeking out a non-medical face mask. 

There are a few things to consider beyond a stylish design alone. Most important is the fit. Will it sit comfortably against your face – over both nose and mouth – while still allowing you to breathe without restriction? This being an accessory to facilitate your good health and hygiene, you’ll also want to make sure it can withstand a regular spin in the washing machine and you might consider one that's fitted with a pocket for replaceable air filters.

Who should be wearing a face mask?

The order of importance here is largely a matter of common sense. Frontline workers and NHS staff on duty should be wearing something that has the surgical seal of approval, rather than the fabric kind in our edit below. For the everyman, these fabric face masks work for easing back into work and additional time spent out and about in shops, pubs and restaurants. Children under the age of eleven, disabled people and people with certain health conditions will be exempt from compulsory public transport wear.

When you should wear a face mask?

With England's alert level recently having lowered and public spaces such as restaurants, pubs and cinemas reopening their doors, it seems there will be plenty more opportunity to be wearing a mask in the coming weeks. 

As per the latest guidance from minister Grant Shapps, protective face masks are mandatory on public transport, with those who don't comply liable to have travel prohibited and incur a fine of up to £100. Aside from public transport, private travel companies including Uber will also require passengers to wear face masks and while masks won't be compulsory at newly reopening pubs and restaurants, many will dictate that you should be wearing them when ordering at the bar.

Why buy from Vinki.co.uk ?

Here at Vinki, we work with our in-house team of UK tailors who are using newly developed machinery to design, print and produce 100% high quality twill cotton face masks. Our contemporary designs are ever changing to meet market demand. All Face Masks are tailored using 100% Twill Cotton. Vinki prides it's self with it's 1-2 Day Prime Delivery Service. VINKI provides FREE UK Delivery.  

Check our latest designs here.