USING a face covering when using public transport or visiting hospital will become mandatory as of tomorrow (June 15).

The Government brought in the measure as it tries to balance an easing of lockdown restrictions with efforts to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

Earlier, it had recommended that members of the public wear a face covering when visiting shops.Under the new rules, public transport operators will be able to prevent passengers who refuse to follow the rules from travelling and police will be able to issue fines of £100.Hundreds of thousands of face coverings will be handed out for passenger use at many locations across the rail network in England from Monday. The one-off initiative, which will run for several days at a number of stations, will see coverings provided free of charge to support passengers and help them travel safely

A ’face covering’ is not the same as a medical face mask and can be as simple as a scarf or bandana tied so that it goes over the mouth and nose. While face coverings can be purchased online, in shops, or from local makers, the Government has also provided instructions for making your own from a t-shirt, or for sewing your own from a piece of fabric.

Hospital staff will be required to wear surgical masks at work.

The British Medical Association (BMA) has said that it is ’vital there are enough supplies of facemasks for staff, and adequate provision of face coverings for outpatients and the public by the 15th June’.

’Stopping the spread of the virus between staff, patients and visitors in hospitals is extremely important as we move forward through this pandemic and wearing face coverings is an important part of this,’ said BMA consulatnts committee chair Dr Rob Harwood.

’That being said, there is little detail on offer about how this will be implemented, where supplies of masks will come from, and how outpatients and hospital visitors will be given them.

’Given the lack of PPE supplies throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, it is absolutely crucial that the Government ensures there are enough supplies.

’As hospitals adapt to providing non-covid care again, it is vitally important that staff working in hospitals do not feel at risk, that patients feel safe receiving care, and that the public feel assured they can visit loved ones without risk of infection.’