There is a lot of confusion at the moment about disposable face masks. Here are the key questions that are being asked:

• Can disposable face masks be cleaned? 
• Which disposable face masks are best? 
• Can disposable face masks be used more than once?  

We thought it would be useful to write a simple guide on how to use, remove and then dispose of face masks safely. 

What To Do

1. Before putting on a disposable face mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
   
   
2. Cover mouth and nose with mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
   
   
3. Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
   
   
4. Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use single-use masks.
   
   
5. To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of mask); discard immediately in a closed bin; clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.

Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water. If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly. The World Health Organization infographics below show you how to do this: 

If you value the life of yourself, your family and people you work with, we recommend staying safe and getting protection. Remember, masks save lives.