Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury’s face mask policy as England updates face covering rules

Face masks have become a part of the “new normal” since the coronavirus pandemic broke out, but in the UK guidance has not been changing over the last few months. Face coverings are currently only mandatory on public transport in England and in taxis. However, a new announcement means that as of next week it’s all change as stricter rules come into place.

The news comes as supermarkets have been easing some of the lockdown rules they had in place.

At the start of the lockdown, supermarkets became one of the potential coronavirus hotspots as Britons were told to stay at home and only shop for essentials. 

Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons and other key brands have been implementing safety measures in store as well as changing online delivery rules to keep the process contact-free. 

But while face coverings have been advised by some and PPE has been provided for staff, it has never been compulsory. 

The stores have instead focused on implementing social distancing measures, limiting how many people are in store at any one time and even adding one-way systems. 

However, Tesco has recently scrapped the one-way measures despite criticism from shoppers. 

But while some supermarkets are already easing their rules, with longer opening hours and fewer product restrictions, the new legislation will mean shoppers will have to wear a face mask when they buy their groceries from Friday 24 July. 

Research has shown that wearing a face covering can protect others – so if everyone wears one, it can dramatically reduce the chances of spreading the virus. 

 

Asda’s CEO Roger Burnley had already shared an update with customers to say the company will respect any new rules, just hours before the new guidance was announced. 

In a message to customers, he said: “Parts of the UK are also now refining their safety measures to protect our health – be that new social distancing guidelines in England and Northern Ireland, or the compulsory wearing of face coverings in shops in Scotland.

“And as these new changes are implemented, I want to reassure all our customers – no matter where you shop with us – that we will respect the guidelines.”

However, shop staff are not expected to enforce the rule themselves, something that will be left up to the police. 

Anyone who is able but doesn’t wear a mask risks of a fine of up to £100, which will be reduced to £50 if people pay within 14 days.

source: express.co.uk