Wearing face coverings which cover the nose and mouth is currently recommended in the UK while in enclosed spaces and situations where social distancing is not always achievable. This includes face coverings such as face masks and respirators.
In June, the UK government published COVID-19 secure guidance for employers, employees and the self-employed. This guidance suggests that where social distancing is not possible, a simple face covering may be worn covering your mouth and nose - such as a 3-ply mask.
As of 15 June, face masks or coverings are mandatory when travelling on public transport in England, including trains, buses, and the London Underground. Although masks are not compulsory in other environments such as offices, industry, and commercial premises, wearing a protective face mask can help to reduce the risk of transmission. As per the government guidance, face coverings are also recommended where social distancing is not possible or practical, such as certain workplaces.
Whether you are looking for washable or disposable face masks, FFP2 masks or respirators, we have a wide variety of suitable products to meet your requirements.
Our priority is to ensure that those who need face masks have sufficient supply to meet demand. We have assisted the government through their Safer Working Supplies Initiative alongside supporting our customers directly across the public sector and the NHS to provide priority access, before making our stock available to our wider customer base.
With three core face mask types available, we are here to help you and your employees stay safe. Wearing protective face masks can help to reduce the possibility of spreading the virus and protect against the risk of infection.
Disposable Face Masks
A disposable face mask covers the wearer’s mouth and nose, reducing the risk of transmission. They are lightweight and one-size-fits-all, ideal for single use.
Washable Face Masks
A washable face mask covers the wearer’s mouth and nose and is designed to be worn multiple times. Offering a more sustainable solution than single-use disposable masks, reusable face masks should always be washed between uses.
FFP2 Masks
An FFP2 mask or respirator can help to minimise the risk of transmission and protect the wearer’s respiratory system. FFP2 masks are designed to filter 94% of particles.
An FFP2 / N95 disposable mask using a multi-layered filtration material, tested and certified according to EN 149:2001+A1:2009 – FFP2.
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Non-woven three-layer mask consisting of Polyethylene + Melt blown + Polyethylene with elastic band with flexible nose clip.
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Protects the wearer's partial or entire face and the eyes from spray or droplets. Tested to EN 166:2002
Buy Now >Properly fitting your face mask is key to ensuring its efficiency and the importance of this should not be overlooked.The image below shows you how to securely fit a face mask.
Do Face Masks Protect Against Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Face coverings do not protect against coronavirus (COVID-19). Face masks can, however, help to reduce the risk of transmission and it is currently compulsory to wear them in certain situations in England.
Face masks should not be seen as alternatives to self-isolation. Social distancing should still be observed where possible, along with regular hand washing and avoiding touching your face.
Where Should Face Coverings Be Worn?
Face masks in the UK are not currently mandatory requirements except for those travelling on public transport in England. However, it is recommended to wear face coverings where social distancing is not possible or in environments where you may encounter larger numbers of people.
How Should A Disposable Face Mask Be Worn?
Most disposable face masks are one-size-fits-all. The mask should sit over the lower half of the face, covering the mouth and nose and secured by the ears. More detailed fitting instructions may be available on the packaging.
Once the mask is fitted and properly secured, it is important to avoid touching it. You should also wash your hands after fitting the mask and if you need to adjust the mask, make sure to wash your hands both before and after.
What is the Difference Between a Face Covering and a Face Mask?
A face mask is high-quality and designed to provide higher levels of protection, depending on the standard of the mask. This can include medical-grade and surgical face masks. On the other hand, face coverings are typically less standardised and can include a wide range of different types.
What is the Difference Between Surgical and FFP2 Masks?
Type II or surgical face masks are made up of a protective 3 ply construction that prevents large particles from passed through and are manufactured to EN14683.
N95 face masks (EU CEN standardisation) and similarly FFP2 / P2 masks offer a minimum of 94% filtration percentage and a maximum of 8% leakage to the inside providing greater levels of protection versus a surgical or medical 3-play mask.
What is the Best Face Mask?
The best face mask will ultimately depend on your requirements. Protective face masks are available with a range of standards, each designed for particular conditions or levels of protection.
