How to use face coverings

By law, you have to wear a face covering:

• when you use public transport
• in shops and shopping centres

You should also wear a face-covering:

• in a healthcare setting - this includes hospitals, GP surgeries, care settings, nursing homes and dental practices
• when staying 2 metres apart from people is difficult. They may help prevent people who do not know they have the virus from spreading it to others.

How to safely wear a face covering

You should still do the important things necessary to prevent the spread of the virus.

These include:

• social distancing
• covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough and sneeze
• washing your hands properly and often and by using hand sanitiser in shops and on public transport.
• not touching your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean

Find out more about face coverings

Some people should not or do not have to wear face coverings. Read about who should not wear one.

See: HSE's 'How to use face coverings' poster