Know your rights: What are the rules about face masks?

Wearing a
face covering – not a face mask – is recommended for situations where social
distancing is difficult, for example, in public indoor areas or on busy public
transport.

A face
covering is not a medical mask, which should be reserved for healthcare
professionals. It is material (usually cotton or linen) that you wear across
your nose and mouth using elastic or string. You can buy a face covering
or make a face covering.

It is not
compulsory to wear a face covering in Ireland and they are not suitable for
some people, including for children under 13.

How do I use a face covering?

You should
always wash your hands before
putting on your face covering. Avoid touching it while you are wearing it (and
if you accidently touch the front, wash your hands straight away).

Make sure
that the material fully covers your nose and mouth. You should check that it is
tied securely and fits snugly against the side of your face.

Keep your
spare face coverings in a clean, waterproof bag (such as a ziplock bag). You
should carry a similar bag for used face coverings. Label these bags clearly so
that you do not mix them up.

If you are a
smoker, do not lift up your face covering to smoke. Instead, remove it
completely and place it in your ‘used’ ziplock bag.

When you are
removing your face covering, do so using the strings at the back. Do not touch
the front.

If your face
covering is disposable, throw it in a bin immediately after use. If it is
re-usable, you should wash it in hot water (60 degrees or hotter) with
detergent.

During
the COVID-19 pandemic, Citizens Information Centres are offering a phone and
email service. You can access information and advice from:

• The Citizens Information Phone Service: call 0761 07 4000, Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
• Our national call back service: visit citizensinformation.ie/callback to book a phone call from an information officer.
• Your local Citizens Information Centre: find the phone number on the Find a Centre page on citizensinformation.ie.