Face Mask Effects
A poster explaining the importance of masks for preventing the spread.
Does this Queensland Government direction about face masks apply to Hutchies' sites and offices in the 11x LGAs?
Yes. Hutchies' sites and offices are not exempt from the face mask requirements directed by the Government if they are within the affected LGAs (listed above).
Do I have to wear a mask at a Hutchies' office?
Yes. You must wear a face mask at all times unless you are eating/drinking. You have to wear a mask while in meetings with others as well as at your workstation even if you can stay 1.5 metres away from others.
Do I have to wear a mask whilst seated at my desk?
Yes. You cannot remove your mask when seated at your desk except to eat or drink.
Do I have to wear a mask in a meeting?
Yes. You cannot remove your mask when in a meeting, even if you can stay 1.5 metres away from other people.
Do I have to wear a mask if I am by myself in an office or meeting room with the door closed?
If you are working alone in an office or meeting room with the door closed, you do not have to wear a face mask. If someone enters the office or meeting room, you must put your face mask on.
Do I have to wear a mask at an outdoors workplace?
Yes, except if it is not safe to do so. This includes Hutchies' construction sites. You may remove your mask if you are alone outdoors. You must not remove your mask if you are on a construction site where you will come into contact with others.
Why are these mask rules in place?
The Delta variant is thought to be spread by tiny airborne particles that can linger for a long time. Mask wearing helps prevent the transmission of these particles from one person to another. This is why mask wearing is now necessary everywhere at both indoors and outdoors workplaces.
Does wearing a mask prevent Coronavirus from being transmitted?
Masks are not 100% guaranteed to stop transmission of the virus. However, research by the University of NSW shows that they are effective in minimising the spread of airborne particles that are released from our mouths and noses when speaking, coughing, sneezing, etc. Think of masks as like a barrier – similar to when you might wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
How can I stop my face mask fogging up my glasses?
Try one of these tips to help prevent your face mask fogging your glasses:
- make sure your face mask is fitted and pinched on your nose if possible
- put your glasses on after your mask
- wash your glasses with detergent and water to create a film to prevent fogging
- you can also use micropore tape (available at all pharmacies) to tape the mask along the bridge of your nose and cheeks, then put your glasses on top
- put a folded tissue across the bridge of your nose, then put your mask on and your glasses on top.
