Face masks now compulsory in shops and supermarkets in UK
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Face coverings have now been made compulsory in shops, supermarkets, indoor shopping centres and transport hubs in Britain as part of the next stage of the UK government's official guidance to curb the spread of coronavirus.
Under the new regulations, people will need to wear face coverings -- such as a fabric covering, scarf or bandana -- that cover the nose and mouth in additional enclosed public spaces, as announced by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier this month.
It will be compulsory to wear a face covering when buying food and drink to takeaway from cafes and shops.
Face coverings will not be mandatory for anyone under the age of 11, those with disabilities or certain health conditions, such as respiratory or cognitive impairments that make it difficult for them to wear a face covering.
Also, businesses are encouraged to take reasonable steps to encourage customers to follow the law, including through signs and providing other information in store.
Wearing a face covering will not be made mandatory in other venues that have measures in place to protect staff and the public from COVID-19, including eat-in restaurants and pubs, hairdressers and other treatment salons, gyms and leisure centres, cinemas, concert halls and theatres.
For transport hubs in England, the requirements mean face coverings must be worn in indoor train stations and terminals, airports, maritime ports, and indoor bus and coach stations or terminals.
Anyone who doesn't abide by the regulations, and is not exempt under one of the categories set out in the regulations, could face a fine by the police of up to GBP 100, as is currently the case on public transport in most parts of the UK.
People wearing face coverings are still strongly advised to wash their hands or use hand sanitiser before putting one on or taking it off, avoid taking it off and putting it back on again a lot in quick succession, store it in a plastic bag in between washes or wearing, and avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth while wearing one.