Government issues reminder that masks are superior to visors

The Irish Government and the HSE have reminded the public that cloth face coverings or masks are superior to visors as a measure for the prevention of transmission of Covid-19.

Expert opinion and international guidance indicates that cloth face coverings or masks are more effective than visors.

“We are grateful to all members of the public who are helping to suppress Covid-19 in our communities by taking daily protective actions,” said Dr John Cuddihy, director of the HSPC, which is part of the HSE.

“These include wearing face coverings, which help to stop the spread of the virus. Following a recent review of evidence, we know that visors are less effective than cloth face coverings, and yet we are all seeing visors being used day to day. So our message is to please wear a face covering, and please don’t see a visor as ‘just as good’. It’s not just as good, and really only suitable for specific circumstances.

“Face coverings are one part of a range of public health actions we need to take, including limiting our contacts, keeping physical distance, cleaning hands and covering coughs and sneezes. All the measures work together to protect people. Cloth face coverings should be of multiple layers of suitable fabric and correctly applied.”

Habic has also been urging its members to use face masks in hair and beauty businesses. “For us working in the hair and beauty sector, face masks should be worn by you, your team and your clients,” it said in a blog post.

“Face masks save lives, it’s that simple. Our Government has advised the wearing of face masks in all hair and beauty salons and barbershops. Surgical or cloth face masks are preferable, with or without a visor. Visors should not be worn alone. Wear them with a face mask should you wish, but avoid wearing a visor on its own where possible.”

The Irish Hairdressers Federation has also stressed the importance of face masks, and requested that the Irish Independent remove an “inaccurate” reference to hairdressers wearing visors in an article published about the possibility of the use of visors being outlawed.

“We are very proud of how our industry has acted with health and safety at the forefront to protect both our teams and clients, and the wearing of masks has been adopted by over 90% of the industry,” it said.