The Use of Face Coverings, Face Masks and Respirators in Construction during Coronavirus

There has been a lot of advice about face masks and face coverings due to the COVID-19 outbreak.  The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) have recently revised their advice on the appropriate use of each type of covering.

Which face mask type should you be wearing?

According to government guidelines face coverings help protect individuals and those around them from COVID-19. Face covering are, defined as fabric or cloth coverings for the mouth and nose. These coverings are not considered PPE and are not produced to a recognised standard and do not protect you from work related hazards, such as dust. The guidance states that face coverings should be worn in enclosed spaces where socially distancing isn’t possible and if you are mixing with people that you wouldn’t usually meet.

Surgical masks are not considered PPE in the construction industry although they are made to recognised standards. They are designed to limit the spread of infection and resist splashes and fluid. These are considered appropriate for health care workers and don’t provide suitable protection from industrial workplace hazards.

Visors, typically used to protect the eyes and face offer protection from infection to the wearer, but not others. Bryson stock a range of PPE appropriate face visors.

In the construction industry, respirators are considered PPE and the correct type of respirator should be selected for the type of hazard. They should be used when the hazard cannot be reduced or eliminated in any other way. Often these come with FFP ratings, which define what would be considered appropriate for each hazard. These should be provided free of charge by employers.

Bryson stock a range of JSP Force8 half masks, they fall under the category of respirators. They come with filters that make it easy to ensure the mask is fitted correctly using the fully adjustable four point cradle. These masks offer a Typhoo exhalation valve to allow for easy breathing. They also conform to a number of regulation standards, ensuring that you remain safe while working.

Government advice on facemasks

Government guidance on Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) – Construction and other outdoor work states that: Workplaces should not encourage the precautionary use of extra PPE to protect against COVID-19 outside clinical settings or when responding to a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19.  They also state that Supplies of PPE, including face masks, must continue to be reserved for those who need them to protect against risks in their workplace, such as health and care workers, and those in industrial settings like those exposed to dust hazards.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provide more clarity and classification of respirators, surgical mask or face covering on their website.