Mandatory face cover for ferry and hospital visits

Prevent the spread of coronavirus by wearing a face covering, is the simple message coming from ferry operator CalMac.

 

The Scottish Government issued new guidelines last week that face coverings are mandatory when travelling on an enclosed area of a ferry. Such face coverings, according to the World Health Organisation, offer protection to other people from the Covid-19 virus.

 

CalMac's director of operations, Robert Morrison, said: 'Wearing a face covering on an enclosed area of a ferry is now mandatory with a few exceptions for medical or physical conditions.

 

'By covering your nose and mouth you are showing that you care for other passengers and our staff, providing you with a service. I'd strongly urge passengers to abide by the new guideline and help keep our island communities safe.

 

'Health experts say the evidence is now clear that face coverings can help prevent the spread of Covid-19 and that the more people wearing them, the better.'

 

Meanwhile, anyone visiting hospitals will now be asked to wear a face covering throughout their visit. This includes when attending hospital appointments.

 

Professor Hazel Borland, nurse director, explained: 'Anyone visiting our hospitals will notice that staff in clinical areas – for example, wards or outpatient departments - will be wearing face masks. However, we now need to expand on this to include anyone visiting a clinical area.

 

'So, if you are visiting the hospital or have an outpatient appointment, be prepared, and wear a face covering. This doesn’t need to be a surgical mask, but a fabric face covering of the type recommended by the Scottish Government for use on public transport.

 

'If you come to the hospital without a face covering, we will be able to provide you with one. However, it is better if you bring your own.'

 

Visitors to our hospitals should also remember that hand hygiene and physical distancing remain the most important measures in reducing the transmission of Covid-19. Hand sanitisers will be available throughout NHS buildings and visitors should ensure they wash their hands before and after they enter. Signs will be visible throughout the buildings to encourage physical distancing and correct direction of travel.

 

Professor Borland added: 'We know that these measures may prove challenging for some people. However, washing your hands, physical distancing and wearing a face covering is vital if we are to reduce infection rates. Stay safe. Protect others. Save lives.'