verylittlehelps

Very Little Helps => Stores => Topic started by: Welshie on 10-07-20, 10:20AM

Title: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 10-07-20, 10:20AM
So from today face masks are mandatory in shops in Scotland,  do staff have to wear masks , are these being provided? Where you briefed on this before today to allow anyone with a medical condition time to get an exemption certificate?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 10-07-20, 11:54AM
Yes to all the points! and medical exemption certificate isn’t needed, though you can go and get in I’m if u want
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 10-07-20, 12:39PM
Hopefully the rest of the nations will follow suit, and make all instore shopping mandatory for face masks.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redboy1 on 10-07-20, 01:24PM
I’m sorry guys I’m new on here. How do I raise a question without replying to you?
I’m hearing there is going to be job changes to senior team and was wondering if anyone knows anything, but I can’t post the question. Apologies for being thick and hijacking your post... thanks
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 10-07-20, 01:42PM
You need to register to become a supporter  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redboy1 on 10-07-20, 02:02PM
Thank you 👍
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bacons on 10-07-20, 04:59PM
This is just wee jimmy crankie being a hysterical bell end as usual.

Bit like some people on this forum...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 11-07-20, 07:38AM
Are you on something or just trying to get yourself noticed  ???

Wee little trolls come and go all the time on this site  :-X
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: stockcontroller on 11-07-20, 08:02AM
Quote from: Bacons on 10-07-20, 04:59PM
This is just wee jimmy crankie being a hysterical bell end as usual.

Bit like some people on this forum...

So you'll say the same thing about Boris who's just said the same thing is likely to happen in England?  ???
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 11-07-20, 09:04AM
Just been on the news so the science is leaning towards face masks.......scotland are doing it right from the off I would say.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 11-07-20, 02:26PM
I think Scotland and northern Ireland (until last week) have handled it very well , Boris is now panicking because people are not running out to shops now that they're allowed . Now telling people to go to work after telling them to work from home if they can because people in offices are the ones that keep sandwich bars etc going .
Hopefully masks will become compulsory in shops throughout the UK .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: person7 on 13-07-20, 05:04PM
I hope they make it mandatory in England.

I can't work on shop floor until after 6pm as part of medical assessment.

So there's not much to do at all until after dinner.

4 hours of nothing and then 1 hour break then 3 hours left to do everything
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 13-07-20, 05:11PM
What are people’s views on wearing face masks while working if/ when it becomes mandatory?

My role at is a fairly physical one- pushing heavy trolleys, bending and lifting. Not to mention our store has the heating on all year round so it’s tropical in there in the height of summer.

Personally I think shop staff who have physical roles shouldn’t have to wear them.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 13-07-20, 05:50PM
Join the club in terms of tropical store temperatures!! Even the freezer aisle is not that cold anymore - I actually work on checkouts - and used to dread being on basket tills/tills near the freezers - but for the last ten weeks, heating on - every time I complain there's nothing anyone can do - all down to head office - surely someone can contact head office!!

Anyway - this might be different for shop floor workers and checkout staff - but on the same basis that bus drivers do not have to wear masks (because they are behind a plastic screen) then I cannot see how checkout staff would need to either. Clearly this doesn't apply to shop floor staff.

I still don't think the govt will make it mandatory.

How can shops be mandatory but not pubs and restaurants? Which are smaller - and people are likely to spend more time in there - but clearly going out for food and drink and having to wear a mask just doesn't tally does it?

anyway - if masks stopped shoppers from grazing, that would be a blessing in disguise!!

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 13-07-20, 05:53PM
Admin>

seems to be two threads on face masks - can they be merged?

[admin]Done[/admin]
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 13-07-20, 06:44PM
What happens in Scotland about masks, if someone forgets or refuses to use one are they denied entry or ejected from the store ?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 13-07-20, 07:41PM
can't see it becoming mandatory and even if it was there would be so many exceptions that it would be a nightmare to police.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BlueToon on 13-07-20, 08:54PM
Quote from: penguin on 13-07-20, 06:44PM
What happens in Scotland about masks, if someone forgets or refuses to use one are they denied entry or ejected from the store ?

No.
According to the glorious leader of Scotland, it is NOT down to the store(s) to refuse entry.
It is the responsibility of police Scotland.
This is of course assuming that they have nothing better to do!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: StinkyPoo on 13-07-20, 10:39PM
Masks to be worn from 24th July in shops, just seen on news...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Siwel123 on 13-07-20, 11:04PM
Yep, bit of a delayed order don't you think? If masks and face coverings should be worn to limit the spread of covid, wouldn't this have been better at the start?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: darklighter on 13-07-20, 11:12PM
I think it is needed now because more premises have been allowed to open and the social distance may/will be shorter due to non adherence by some people but I agree in respect that it should have been mandatory in shops that were allowed to remain open through necessity.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 13-07-20, 11:40PM
They say the police are going to enforce the wearing of masks in shops... good luck with that, I already know it's going to be left to us to enforce and we will have to deal with some absolute bellends who refuse to wear one...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 14-07-20, 12:03AM
Anyone else think this is just a panic measure, now its become obvious a lot of people are worried about going to shops and other business permitted to be back open so the Government are hoping everyone wearing a mask will reassure people, as others have said if it was for health reasons it should have been done back in March if not sooner.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 14-07-20, 01:54AM

Not truly a panic measure , its more to do with Advice the so called experts are now putting out  , shops have been packed out since they opened in London half with masks on and other not so , Today when my wife went out she found nearly  every one had one on not just in shops but also walking about ,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hammer10 on 14-07-20, 02:04AM
Does that mean staff as well what about bakers and behind the scenes.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 14-07-20, 02:17AM

I have been told that those off the shop floor are also to have them on , I especially asked her about M&S, Greggs ,and That pizza place and all the staff had one on , She said in the Tesco express Some had it on others did not , but then the same store staff told her before they did not like putting them on but will now have to since they have been told to do so ,,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 14-07-20, 06:05AM
I don't mind wearing one except when I have my glasses steam up. I can't see properly without them either.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 14-07-20, 06:47AM
Be interesting to discover how the company will police those staff that refuse point blank to wear a mask.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fixxer on 14-07-20, 08:08AM
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-53389212

Compulsory in England from 24th
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: StinkyPoo on 14-07-20, 08:38AM
Just read retail staff are exempt on one article, will see if that's true.
'Environment Secretary George Eustice told BBC Breakfast the new mandatory rule for face coverings in shops does not apply to retail staff.'
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 14-07-20, 09:29AM
As a Scottish store the wearing of face coverings has gone down well. In my store most people were wearing them anyway, before it became mandatory. There has been a high percentage of people wearing them all along and this has just pushed the remaining few into doing so too.
It's not required in the back but most still do so. It's not required behind till screens but most still do, just a few at checkouts with asthma just wear to cross shop floor but they can no longer go on self service. The offices are all limited to max of two people at a time. Training room allows more but still very limited.
We are in an area that has not been badly hit, we know that and want to keep it that way. It was on the rigs but they were locked down and the fear of it coming into the community from the rigs has been the biggest fear.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Started2008 on 14-07-20, 10:24AM
I don’t see why everyone is getting so wound up about this. I have severe respiratory problems and I manage to wear a mask just fine.

The reason it’s being implemented now and not since the start of lockdown is more shops are now open, not just retail so the risk of catching it is higher now more places are open and more people are going about their days.

It’s about consideration for others not just yourself
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucky 456 on 14-07-20, 01:23PM
Hi all I work nights, store closes at midnight, will we have to wear masks until midnight or will we have to wear them regardless ??
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 14-07-20, 02:14PM
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51205344 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51205344)

QuoteHowever, the rules won't apply to shop workers, government minister George Eustice told the BBC
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Preacherpauly on 14-07-20, 02:41PM
Do all children have to wear them as well?

Edit: found out under 11s dont have to
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 14-07-20, 03:57PM
I’ve read that retail staff will be exempt. I’d like to try and see Tesco force the issue if the guidance says that that retail staff don’t have to.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: renown on 14-07-20, 03:57PM
Quote from: lucky 456 on 14-07-20, 01:23PM
Hi all I work nights, store closes at midnight, will we have to wear masks until midnight or will we have to wear them regardless ??

We wear ours till the shop shuts at midnight,then off they come,until opening at 6am. We then wear them till 7am when we finish.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 14-07-20, 04:49PM
Quote from: lemons84 on 14-07-20, 03:57PM
I’ve read that retail staff will be exempt. I’d like to try and see Tesco force the issue if the guidance says that that retail staff don’t have to.

what would happen if the Company decide they wanted every one to have one on including workers ? if its part of policy then ?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fixxer on 14-07-20, 06:13PM
If it's part of policy then it'll be mandatory.
I imagine there'll be a suitably inspirational email in the next few days telling us what's what.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 14-07-20, 07:34PM


Love the way you put it  :D :D :D
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Link110 on 14-07-20, 08:09PM
Quote from: londoner83 on 14-07-20, 06:47AM
Be interesting to discover how the company will police those staff that refuse point blank to wear a mask.

I think staff would liable to facing a disciplinary or a Let's Talk warning given that wearing masks will be required by law (and of course Tesco's HO, area managers, etc). The only time to remove masks would be off the shop floor.

Going off topic, I apologise. I have landed myself with a new job. Been at the company for 8 years as a CA. What is the notice period for me? As I can't find info on OurTesco.com, as my contract says to go on there for info on it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hammer10 on 14-07-20, 08:51PM
 1 weeks notice unless your skilled then it’s a month.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 14-07-20, 09:19PM
Lot of reporting by a lot of media outlets that Retail Staff will not be required by law to wear a face covering and George Eustice also stated this
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: sammy on 14-07-20, 10:00PM
Only if your  behind a screen, which is great for checkouts
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 14-07-20, 11:51PM
Face masks not compulsory for retail staff to wear a fask and the same one for a whole shift is liable to trap more germs and viruses than it protects you from any arguments speak to your hs rep or local environmental health dept
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: adamski26 on 15-07-20, 09:21AM
You don’t know what you’re talking about. The link is on colleague help.
In Scotland you have to wear a face covering in any customer facing role & that includes walking about on the shop floor. If it’s good enough for Scotland, then the same policy will have to suit England. Tesco provides face masks & shields for everyone.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mildew on 15-07-20, 09:39AM
The government guidance is now published.  “ It is not compulsory for shop or supermarket staff to wear face coverings. “. It’s now there in black and white.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 15-07-20, 09:49AM
Think each company will introduce their own policies regarding the wearing of masks in customer facing roles.
I for one, would not choose to shop in a store where I would be in continuous close contact with numerous unmasked people!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 15-07-20, 11:55AM
Tosco will some how find a way round it becauae they don't like to p**s customers off

Quote from: Mildew on 15-07-20, 09:39AM
The government guidance is now published.  “ It is not compulsory for shop or supermarket staff to wear face coverings. “. It’s now there in black and white.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bleh on 15-07-20, 12:52PM
Zoom call I was on yesterday said staff would be required to wear them.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 15-07-20, 02:06PM
My Store Manager was on that Zoom call and told us he that initially we would have to but would have to wait to see what government guidelines stated

Quote from: Bleh on 15-07-20, 12:52PM
Zoom call I was on yesterday said staff would be required to wear them.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Toady on 16-07-20, 03:36PM
what about those working hot deli do they have to wear maskx as no screen for them
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 16-07-20, 05:17PM
Hello I'm new here :) I work in a store in Scotland and we've been forced to wear these " face co erings" for the past week, it is horrendous, staff are struggling to breathe, feeling faint and dizzy, struggling to see, staff are losing their voices and getting sore throats, puffy, sore and irratated eyes,  people are also getting sores and skin problems around their nose and mouth area, they are suffering from headaches and dehydration, people are having panic attacks and hyperventilating, when your glasses or face visors steam up its difficult to see where your going or what your doing,  it's almost impossible to communicate effectively with each other or customers, these things were not designed for use in a retail setting where people are doing heavy physical jobs at the same time as having to manoeuvre around customers and communicate with them and each other, staff are also having to spend a small fortune supplying their own coverings and visors as the tesco issued ones aren't suitable for many people, there aren't enough visors so people are having to buy their own, it's a nightmare and we're only a week into it, the thought of this for at least another 15 weeks is unbearable.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 16-07-20, 05:56PM
As per Tesco style our store manager had no clue on face coverings and said he was ‘awaiting ‘guidance from Head Office’

Will keep you posted!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Shoestring on 16-07-20, 05:56PM
Agree with Hopeful soul completely.
I will not be forced to wear a gag against my will, if you can prove I have the cold then I would be willing to wear it for everyone else's peace of mind.
I am asthmatic and could not cope with having my airways blocked akin to having your head permanently under cover.
I do not want to be forced to breathe in my own carbon dioxide all day long, it is bad enough in hot humid weather as it is and my asthma is under control, this will trigger it constantly as we all have different triggers. You only get one reliever a month and it wouldn't last the duration with constant use. Don't tell me to get a certificate because there is not one, you get your inhalers by prescription and I am not going to jump through simple Simon's hoops to have to constantly prove my condition and having to advertise it to everyone.

This is a government mandated request, it is not a statute act that can be backed by law so is not enforceable by law.
Retail staff have been given exemption and this should be respected and staff who want to wear one can and no one should be made to fear their role if they choose not to.
This is out of control and the level of blind compliance is staggering beyond belief. Absolutely insane what fear can get people to do, that is another discussion. This is the worst kind of division tactics ever witnessed in my history and everyone just goes along with just like another brick in the wall and can't see through the nonsense because the Mickey Mouse farm said so.
I am not going to risk my health on a whim and shouldn't be pressured to do so, I have no virus and don't care about it and I'm sick of this BS, maybe more people should do a lot more research and stop being simple Simon's lackey!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 16-07-20, 06:55PM
Absolutly agree, they are not designed for jobs like ours

Quote from: Hopeful soul on 16-07-20, 05:17PM
Hello I'm new here :) I work in a store in Scotland and we've been forced to wear these " face co erings" for the past week, it is horrendous, staff are struggling to breathe, feeling faint and dizzy, struggling to see, staff are losing their voices and getting sore throats, puffy, sore and irratated eyes,  people are also getting sores and skin problems around their nose and mouth area, they are suffering from headaches and dehydration, people are having panic attacks and hyperventilating, when your glasses or face visors steam up its difficult to see where your going or what your doing,  it's almost impossible to communicate effectively with each other or customers, these things were not designed for use in a retail setting where people are doing heavy physical jobs at the same time as having to manoeuvre around customers and communicate with them and each other, staff are also having to spend a small fortune supplying their own coverings and visors as the tesco issued ones aren't suitable for many people, there aren't enough visors so people are having to buy their own, it's a nightmare and we're only a week into it, the thought of this for at least another 15 weeks is unbearable.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 16-07-20, 07:37PM
And yet doctors and nurses have been using them without sounding like children like some of you lot.
“suffering from headaches and dehydration“ yeah there’s a cure for that, it’s called having a glass of water
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 16-07-20, 08:03PM
Scotland store employees/workers do not need to wear facial coverings. It is only a strong recommendation.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 16-07-20, 08:05PM
And also PPE for Dr and Nurses is designed for that job. Face coverings is not designed for retail work
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 16-07-20, 08:31PM
Then how come over in countries like Japan it’s been the norm for decades to wear masks I’ve been many times and I’ve seen them use it in supermarkets loads of times.
And not designed for retail work??  ;D ;D ;D What a load of rubbish they are designed to be used in ANY field.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 16-07-20, 08:39PM
Quote from: Shoestring on 16-07-20, 05:56PM
Agree with Hopeful soul completely.
I will not be forced to wear a gag against my will, if you can prove I have the cold then I would be willing to wear it for everyone else's peace of mind.
I am asthmatic and could not cope with having my airways blocked akin to having your head permanently under cover.
I do not want to be forced to breathe in my own carbon dioxide all day long, it is bad enough in hot humid weather as it is and my asthma is under control, this will trigger it constantly as we all have different triggers. You only get one reliever a month and it wouldn't last the duration with constant use. Don't tell me to get a certificate because there is not one, you get your inhalers by prescription and I am not going to jump through simple Simon's hoops to have to constantly prove my condition and having to advertise it to everyone.

This is a government mandated request, it is not a statute act that can be backed by law so is not enforceable by law.
Retail staff have been given exemption and this should be respected and staff who want to wear one can and no one should be made to fear their role if they choose not to.
This is out of control and the level of blind compliance is staggering beyond belief. Absolutely insane what fear can get people to do, that is another discussion. This is the worst kind of division tactics ever witnessed in my history and everyone just goes along with just like another brick in the wall and can't see through the nonsense because the Mickey Mouse farm said so.
I am not going to risk my health on a whim and shouldn't be pressured to do so, I have no virus and don't care about it and I'm sick of this BS, maybe more people should do a lot more research and stop being simple Simon's lackey!
completely agree, in the store where I work staff have been told that no one is e exempt unless they provide a medical certificate to say so, which doesn't exist, if we don't wear them or if we lift or remove them on the shop floor we face disciplinary or suspension, I've seen staff members in the back air propping themselves against cages gasping for breath and yet everyone is afraid to say anything, one girl spoke up and was immediately classed as a trouble maker by certain managers
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 16-07-20, 08:47PM
Quote from: dotnochance on 16-07-20, 07:37PM
And yet doctors and nurses have been using them without sounding like children like some of you lot.
“suffering from headaches and dehydration“ yeah there’s a cure for that, it’s called having a glass of water
it's people like you undermining the real concerns and difficulties that people are having with this situation that help give tesco the right to toss aside permanent health and safety regulations in favour of temporary covid measures that will probably change again in a few weeks, who are you to insult and poke fun at people in distress, if you wish to wear a mask I would never stop you,  people are different, with different physical and mental health situations, it cannot be a case of "stick something on your face or else"
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 16-07-20, 08:55PM
Quote from: Rumblerumble on 16-07-20, 08:05PM
And also PPE for Dr and Nurses is designed for that job. Face coverings is not designed for retail work
exactly, I don't remember going into store and performing surgery on anyone, also ppe at work is quite rightly heavily regulated by the hse and bss, this is not being classed as ppe for tesco staff as none of it is certified or regulated for use in a retail environment, check out the hse page on ppe at work, if someone in tesco has an accident or health complication as a result of whatever face covering they are using then tesco won't be held liable as its not classed as company issued ppe, it's a personal item for personal use
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 16-07-20, 09:15PM
 :)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Preacherpauly on 16-07-20, 09:18PM
I don't mind wearing them. Some people wear them in my store but couldnt stop touching there face or readjusting them. One even complained that its so hot in store that they had to take it off.



Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 17-07-20, 03:29AM
In a clinical environment masks are part of the ppe uniform for staff including gowns gloves etc and have to be a certain standard and changed within a specific time frame in construction their masks are a different standard to keep out brick dust cement dust etc and anyone who has worn one will know that once they become damp with moisture from your breath the dust starts coming through no masks have any guidance for use in the various retail environments and could be even more risky than no mask you touch dirty products with or without gloves and at some point put your hand in your pocket for a pen etc you may touch mask to adjust it or take said mask offon your break and put in your pocket where you put your dirty hand and later you put said mask back on your face........ Its simply not comparable with wearing a mask while you do your shopping or if your a health care worker or any other worker anyone who lacks the mental capacity to understand this needs to wear more than a mask before being unleashed on society
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: grim up north on 17-07-20, 10:08AM
I was speaking to a member of staff in my local T yesterday. The only member of staff there that has been wearing a mask was directing people to checkouts. The store had 14000 masks delivered in Early April. All masks had gone in a week...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Started2008 on 17-07-20, 11:23AM
I don’t mind wearing a facemask, yes it’s not comfortable for a 9 hour shift but I’d rather wear one and reduce the risk of infecting myself, family and other customers.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 17-07-20, 04:35PM
My view is probably just "heard it all before":

But ......if you've been wearing face masks for the last 15 weeks, then good on you. I admire your principles and despite the mixed messages from scientists, the WHO, Government and others, then if it has made you feel safer, and made you feel less likely to spread anything, then good on you.

However, what I don't go along with is that we "have to start protecting ourselves and others" NOW. Ok, I realise the virus is still around - but all reports are that it is nowhere near as prevalent as before.  And to be frank, if I was going to catch it from customers or other colleagues it probably would have happened sometime in the last four months. Equally, who knows how many people I have infected over the last four months by not wearing a face mask (and also them choosing not to wear one either).

I realise it's the Govt's decision, but as others have said, there is also an exemption for retail staff - so if Tesco do try to force us into wearing one, then I feel that would not be appropriate.

Regardless of the "effects" (headaches etc.) that some may mock, if the Govt advice is that we are exempt, then Tesco should follow that to the letter - obviously if workers choose to wear one, that's their prerogative.

Anyway - the "law" is for face coverings - so would Tesco mind if I wear a yellow bandana? Or any other colour in fact?

Clearly, wearing one of the "comical" masks is probably less appropriate.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 17-07-20, 04:58PM
Barafear , I only see the need for masks now we're down to 1 metre social distancing and not the last 16wks , however I think the government are very late on bringing it in and also the policy is ridiculous that you need a mask in a shop but not to go to get a take out coffee or in  a sandwich bar.  Without a clear direct message people won't adhere to it and I'm sure the police have better things to do .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 17-07-20, 05:49PM
Welshie> appreciate the reply - and yes I do understand the "so called " reasons....

i.e. the reduction in social distancing:

Well, as far as I'm aware Tesco are still advising 2m - so no change there. And as for customers, whether it was 2m before or 1m+ now, the majority of them are not that concerned to stick rigidly.

The other reason is that supposedly now that lockdown measures have been eased so much more, then there are more people about - I understand that - although the opposite probably applies for supermarkets - now that a wider range of shops are open, then people have a choice of where to go - previously there were queues of people in our stores.

I do think these rules are being applied more for "smaller shops" - you must have seen it since June 15 - a lot of shops have been limiting numbers in their shops - to silly numbers like 5 or less - so after a while, people don't want to be hanging around - so the mandatory wearing of masks just means that shops will be more comfortable letting more people in - obviously, at this time, Tesco did the opposite - and started letting more in.

Yes, the rules differences between shops is ridiculous - and also pubs - so it's fine to sit/stand in a pub for hours on end with no mask - but heaven forbid a 40 min walk around the shops where you're unlikely to be "enclosed" by other people on very many occasions, but now you must wear a mask.

I'm not here to debate the Govt's decision - just comment on some of the lack of logic about it all.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 17-07-20, 07:51PM
So, we are a week away from face coverings having to be worn in shops by customers but still no word as to whether or not we will have to wear one.

Surely the boffins at Tosco Towers have made up their minds about us wearing them or not by now?

My store manager - when I spoke to him today- said that he thinks it won’t be compulsory for us to wear them. He said he’s got stock of 5000 disposable masks but given there’s 600 staff at our store they won’t last long !
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 17-07-20, 10:26PM
As someone who is shielding to protect their OH , I haven't been out much and am not sure what's going on in the big bad world but I have noticed that all the delivery drivers are much more relaxed  , Tesco included . I cant imagine wearing a mask for a full shift but will in the future be happy to wear one into a shop . I will wear full protective hasmet suit if It meant i could get a holiday  ;D
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 17-07-20, 10:38PM
As a delivery driver I *am* more relaxed in my attitude as I have become accustomed to the new delivery protocols and worked out how to do things like ring door bells and open gates without touching them with my hands.  But I am *not* more relaxed in strictly applying the protocols and reminding customers to step back while I unload their shopping (usually) onto their doorstep.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 18-07-20, 12:02AM
Gomezz , it was an observation.  .not a criticism.  As I say I am rarely out , I'm assuming other people have got used to what's going on.
It will be very strange for shielders come 1st August and they have to get used to the way things are now .  Some people have literally not been out of their homes for 16wks and its probably been the most surreal 16wks with the biggest changes in day to day life since wartime .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 18-07-20, 11:16AM
No worries.  I was thinking more about some customers being more laissez-faire in distancing etc which in part seems to be because some of my colleagues are also being less scrupulous (allowing customers to take the bags from the trays themselves, for example).
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 18-07-20, 01:27PM
Yep , that's what happens here . They sat trays on doorstep , we take out the bags , then set tray to the side , they set down more trays . It's an odd one with us though as we know most drivers .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 19-07-20, 04:23PM
I wonder if in WW2 when the government issued gas masks and advised people to wear them to prevent deaths from gas attacks people had the attitude displayed by many on here to masks.

If admitted to hospital how many would turn down a oxygen mask or ventilator as is a muzzle on their face?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: VladPutin on 19-07-20, 08:09PM
I've been wearing face coverings of various types since Lockdown started. Yeah, they can be uncomfortable at time, especially during busy periods when you are rushing around trying to get things done. But they are the lesser of two evils.

If someone has a genuine medical condition, like asthma, tell your manager. They should be alright with you not wearing a mask. They are in my store.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 20-07-20, 12:03AM
Quote from: londoner83 on 19-07-20, 04:23PM
I wonder if in WW2 when the government issued gas masks and advised people to wear them to prevent deaths from gas attacks people had the attitude displayed by many on here to masks.

If admitted to hospital how many would turn down a oxygen mask or ventilator as is a muzzle on their face?
exactly. So many have the "you're not telling me what to do" attitude but when it goes wrong they are the first to scream " you didn't tell me"
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: person7 on 20-07-20, 12:15AM
Quote from: dotnochance on 16-07-20, 08:31PM
Then how come over in countries like Japan it’s been the norm for decades to wear masks I’ve been many times and I’ve seen them use it in supermarkets loads of times.
And not designed for retail work??  ;D ;D ;D What a load of rubbish they are designed to be used in ANY field.

Exactly! I mean even with my asthma the Japanese/Chinese masks I can breath through and many don't steam up as they are/can be shaped well around nose due to elasticity or nose pinchers.

And they been wearing them since 1920s before most of us were born and yet they manage to work in retail and everything without fainting.

Granted some will have more serious breathing issues but there's face guards. Worst case use a face guard instead of a mask. Simple as that if customers all wear them.

I can't wait as due to my asthma and medical review Tesco can't let me work on shop floor until past 6pm so 60% my shift is wondering around their back-stock as there's no masks or face guards (even though I'm supposed to have my own personal one as signed by the contract to return as I'm still moderate risk).
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Piggo64 on 20-07-20, 01:00PM
WoW loads of ignorance on here. Do your own research on the effectiveness of face coverings. Particularly the effect on wearing them for long periods of time.Never just blindly comply to anything!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: trivi on 20-07-20, 02:11PM
For those working in shops, the Government now strongly advises that face coverings are worn. As we have throughout the pandemic, we will be following Government advice and will be asking colleagues to wear face coverings. It will not be mandatory, but colleagues should be strongly encouraged to wear a face covering, discussing with their manager if they feel they have a reason not to.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: adamlad on 20-07-20, 02:38PM
Our shop has been told it is mandatory to wear them and can only be removed when eating or drinking. Apparently it is policy and came down today albeit I have not seen anything in writing
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: trivi on 20-07-20, 03:05PM
definatly not mandatory but strongly encouraged
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Theodore on 20-07-20, 03:08PM
Mandatory in our store .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: trivi on 20-07-20, 03:20PM
What I posted is word for word what came down in comms centre this afternoon. Any managers saying it mandatory are ignoring policy and law
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Theodore on 20-07-20, 03:42PM
I'm only repeating what I have been told. We are all being told to wear masks from Friday. So it will be interesting to see where we all stand. Can our store manager force us to wear them etc.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 20-07-20, 03:43PM
Is there an update yet on the staff portal or Our Tesco?

I work alongside a lot of part time staff who aren’t at work until later in the week so it would be helpful to actually see something somewhere.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Siwel123 on 20-07-20, 03:54PM
Should our managers update as soon as possible if it has come down on Comms? I've been in all afternoon and when a manager was asked they said they hadn't heard anything
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 04:24PM
Just heard from my manager he has word from Tesco that from Friday face masks are compulsory while on shop floor unless the store is closed.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: trivi on 20-07-20, 04:48PM
3. What should I do if a colleague refuses to wear a mask?

Wearing a face covering can be uncomfortable and you should take the time to understand the colleague’s concerns and if they are exempt for any reason. It is strongly recommended by the Government, that colleagues working in store wear a mask, but it is ultimately an individual’s choice and responsibility. Where there is a significant concern, we should offer a face visor (if available) as an alternative to a mask before considering non-customer facing duties.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: beentheredoneit on 20-07-20, 05:18PM
Shop workers do not legally have to wear masks
The company would strongly advise all colleagues to follow the government's advice and wear one.
This will obviously stop customers from asking why we don't have to. Briefing pack down today - every one should be briefed by their line manager. Ask if not been briefed.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 05:29PM
Quote from: beentheredoneit on 20-07-20, 05:18PM
Shop workers do not legally have to wear masks
The company would strongly advise all colleagues to follow the government's advice and wear one.
This will obviously stop customers from asking why we don't have to. Briefing pack down today - every one should be briefed by their line manager. Ask if not been briefed.

I've had a completely different message from my store today. The management at my store have said that Tesco as a company have made it compulsory for all colleagues to wear a facemask on the shop floor... is my store lying?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 20-07-20, 06:27PM
Yes theyre lying.... No surprise there though
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 06:35PM
Would be useful if there was actually some official communication from tesco on ourtesco or via email. Instead we're getting mixed messages from management
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 20-07-20, 06:39PM
I think management like to use fear as a tool instead of working with staff.. it’s a power trip for some of them and if they can get away with it they will only give you half the information you need.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: expressman77 on 20-07-20, 09:04PM
Sainsburys are making it compulsary .
its being added to terms and conditions as part of uniform .
cant see what the big deal is , if your manager ask you to wear mask why do people want to be argue just for
sake of it ,
if Tesco dont ask you to wear it and you became ill you will be the first people compining you wasnt protected
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 09:38PM
So the briefing from Tesco is that it's not mandatory then?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BadHairDay on 20-07-20, 09:47PM
Is any one hear from a store based in Wales? I was under the impression that wearing face masks was being enforced in England and Wales it was voluntary. I was told today that everyone had to wear a mask regardless.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 09:49PM
Quote from: BadHairDay on 20-07-20, 09:47PM
Is any one hear from a store based in Wales? I was under the impression that wearing face masks was being enforced in England and Wales it was voluntary. I was told today that everyone had to wear a mask regardless.

Not from a Welsh store, but according to the document that I've seen regarding Tesco's policy (which covers, England, NI, and Wales), face masks are not mandatory, but strongly advised to be worn by colleagues, in line with government advice.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BadHairDay on 20-07-20, 09:54PM
I am based in a Welsh store and we have been told we have to wear a face mask from Thursday and failure to comply would result in potential disaplinary action.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 09:55PM
Quote from: BadHairDay on 20-07-20, 09:54PM
I am based in a Welsh store and we have been told we have to wear a face mask from Thursday and failure to comply would result in potential disaplinary action.

That's madness.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 20-07-20, 11:32PM
https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/face-coverings-to-be-mandatory-in-shops-and-supermarkets-from-24-july

From this, I'm of the understanding that from the 24th July (In England at least) the government will push through legislation to make it mandatory that all people must wear facemasks when in stores and restaurants as is current practice with Uber cabs and buses, failure to comply may lead to a £100 fine.

Although I can't find any mention of employees being exempted, I would assume that it applies to everyone, as we all know, law > company policy.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 20-07-20, 11:41PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 20-07-20, 11:32PM
https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/face-coverings-to-be-mandatory-in-shops-and-supermarkets-from-24-july

From this, I'm of the understanding that from the 24th July (In England at least) the government will push through legislation to make it mandatory that all people must wear facemasks when in stores and restaurants as is current practice with Uber cabs and buses, failure to comply may lead to a £100 fine.

Although I can't find any mention of employees being exempted, I would assume that it applies to everyone, as we all know, law > company policy.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

It is not compulsory for shop or supermarket staff to wear face coverings, although employers should consider recommending their use where appropriate and where other mitigations are not in place.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: T69 on 20-07-20, 11:45PM
Why can’t Tesco be more transparent in what they are issuing. As per usual there is so much confusion between different stores in different parts of the U.K. Some stores say all staff must wear masks yet others say it’s optional. Whether you agree or disagree with the wearing of masks Tesco need to make a stance and be uniform at all stores.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fixxer on 21-07-20, 08:12AM
Why? Because if they made it absolutely 100% compulsory for all staff to wear a face covering at all time it'd have to be issued, there would need to be enough, presumably disposable, in the store at all times and cover several changes of mask per shift. Although it's shown in most studies that a disposable mask is good for 8 hours that goes out the window if it gets dirty or contaminated in any way.

Allowing for say 3 masks per 6-8 hour shift. For every single worker, plus a few extra for good measure would be a huge amount. (let's not forget the amount that will go in peoples bags to cover themselves and family while shopping)
If it's that compulsory then what happens if they run out? People start panicking and saying they can't work because there's no issued masks. Some will work with their own and some will stand ground to "prove a point"

That's why it's been as clear as mud. If every store had a 7 day stock of masks and guarantee that could be topped up then you can be sure they'd have it in the T's and C's we should all be wearing them all the time.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 21-07-20, 01:03PM
The link to government webpage in reply 104 gives all the info about shop workers and the wearing of facial coverings. Do not listen to colleagues who have little/no interest.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 21-07-20, 03:20PM
Yeah so I'm 100% certain my stores' management team is misleading our employees on the shop floor. They're briefing us and saying that Tesco have said it's 100% compulsory to wear a mask while on shop floor during trading hours. Yet, the policy from Tesco themselves that I have seen states that "it is not mandatory for colleagues to wear a face mask" and "ultimately it is an individual's choice and responsibility" to wear one. Which falls in line with the UK government's guidelines in that they also state that it is not compulsory for shop workers to wear face coverings. Tesco have been very explicit in saying that they have been following the guidance of the UK government, including in this most recent face covering policy they delivered to managers yesterday.

I was going to wear a face mask anyway, regardless of what Tesco's policy was going to be, but it's just the fact that my store's management team have purposefully not given employees all of the information that was passed down to them from Tesco HQ that grinds my gears. I believe they're just trying to get people in masks so they don't have to deal with rowdy customers saying "why do I have to wear a mask when one of your employees isn't?". It seems like this is happening in other stores too where management are threatening staff who don't wear a mask with disciplinary action.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: adamlad on 21-07-20, 03:40PM
Thats true of my shop. Its strange but the communication in comms centre was deleted by this am to support the facade
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: trivi on 21-07-20, 04:39PM
Comms have gone out in my shop conveniently missing out the not mandatory part
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 21-07-20, 04:49PM
Quote from: manbearpig on 21-07-20, 03:20PM
Yeah so I'm 100% certain my stores' management team is misleading our employees on the shop floor. They're briefing us and saying that Tesco have said it's 100% compulsory to wear a mask while on shop floor during trading hours. Yet, the policy from Tesco themselves that I have seen states that "it is not mandatory for colleagues to wear a face mask" and "ultimately it is an individual's choice and responsibility" to wear one. Which falls in line with the UK government's guidelines in that they also state that it is not compulsory for shop workers to wear face coverings. Tesco have been very explicit in saying that they have been following the guidance of the UK government, including in this most recent face covering policy they delivered to managers yesterday.

I was going to wear a face mask anyway, regardless of what Tesco's policy was going to be, but it's just the fact that my store's management team have purposefully not given employees all of the information that was passed down to them from Tesco HQ that grinds my gears. I believe they're just trying to get people in masks so they don't have to deal with rowdy customers saying "why do I have to wear a mask when one of your employees isn't?". It seems like this is happening in other stores too where management are threatening staff who don't wear a mask with disciplinary action.

This is exactly what is happening. Management should never challenging a customer or a colleague and they have been told this. Threats are all it is. Maintain distancing from customers and members of the public whilst working in stores and you should not be challenged for not wearing a covering. If customers are becoming rowdy walk away. If management are questioning you on not wearing a covering let them do as they want. No matter what we think of the government guidelines and the leadership the information is there in black and white. Wearing of coverings for workers is only strongly recommended. The management are not interested in you showing them the policy because they know you are on the right and simply want everyone to wear a mask incase there is a customer as you describe. We could all be passing the virus on to the customer by contacting a few thousand products before shop opens to public or giving ourself the virus by touching our face as the tannoy call goes out at 6am to put masks on as customers are now entering. Kidding the customers on is all it is. With the exception to nhs etc who can enter during closing times...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Pathfinder on 21-07-20, 06:27PM
As i read the policy .. all customer facing staff will be asked to wear a face mask or face covering.  Any staff who cant wear one must have a valid reason to why they cant. And a visor may be given as a second choice . If any member of staff who is customer facing then still does not want to wear one then they may be moved to a non customer facing roll. If your behind a screen you do not have to wear one . In warehouse you do not have to wear one . This affects all stores in England . Wales . And N Ireland... only .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 21-07-20, 06:51PM
Wearing a face mask is ridiculous this late in the covid game. I don't want to be struggling to breath for 8 hours wearing them and making me feel ill. When are the people going to stand up, our freedoms are just evaporating every day, this worse than George Orwell 1984.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 21-07-20, 07:25PM
The local policy is force staff to wear face coverings during opening hours or provide medical evidence. But they forget nhs worker come in through the night and there is hoards of dotcomers without masks and others have contacted 1000s of products during the night. Then they expect compliance when a tannoy call goes out at 6am as they open to all.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 21-07-20, 09:09PM
As a dot.com driver I will be maintaining my current practise of only wearing a face covering if unloading the shopping for a frail customer inside their home as the rest of the time I will be suitably distanced in the fresh air outside.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 21-07-20, 11:31PM
We on nights have to told we HAVE to wear them from 10pm till 12 then 6am till 7. Store manager "insists". So ignore the swarm of dot comedy piling on the aisle but wear them for 1 or 2 customers coming in. Also wearing them 4 months into a pandemic is like bringing condoms to a baby shower
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:03AM
Quote from: Paulie on 21-07-20, 06:51PM
Wearing a face mask is ridiculous this late in the covid game. I don't want to be struggling to breath for 8 hours wearing them and making me feel ill. When are the people going to stand up, our freedoms are just evaporating every day, this worse than George Orwell 1984.

The only reason it is believed to be " this late in the Covid game" is because the country went into lockdown, far too late in my opinion, to fight the transmission of this DEADLY virus. To just abandon the precautions is what's ridiculous. Has everyone forgotten how many people have died over the last four months, including all the NHS, carers and frontline workers, the majority of whom died scared and alone!
I don't think playing Russian roulette, by choosing not to wear one, is exercising your rights of freedom of choice, It's not a fashion statement, it's using everything possible to maintain the defence against this unseen deadly enemy.
If you were in a trench on the frontline, would you refuse to go over the top without your rifle, because it was heavy, hurt your shoulder carrying it, and was giving you a headache  :-X
Anyone with a genuine medical reason for being unable to wear one, should be protected from face to face contact with customers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:07AM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 21-07-20, 11:31PM
We on nights have to told we HAVE to wear them from 10pm till 12 then 6am till 7. Store manager "insists". So ignore the swarm of dot comedy piling on the aisle but wear them for 1 or 2 customers coming in. Also wearing them 4 months into a pandemic is like bringing condoms to a baby shower

I would have thought YOU would be insisting on wearing one at all times, having read your past posts regarding your family's ill health  ???
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 22-07-20, 09:07AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:03AM
The only reason it is believed to be " this late in the Covid game" is because the country went into lockdown, far too late in my opinion, to fight the transmission of this DEADLY virus. To just abandon the precautions is what's ridiculous. Has everyone forgotten how many people have died over the last four months, including all the NHS, carers and frontline workers, the majority of whom died scared and alone!
I don't think playing Russian roulette, by choosing not to wear one, is exercising your rights of freedom of choice, It's not a fashion statement, it's using everything possible to maintain the defence against this unseen deadly enemy.
If you were in a trench on the frontline, would you refuse to go over the top without your rifle, because it was heavy, hurt your shoulder carrying it, and was giving you a headache  :-X
Anyone with a genuine medical reason for being unable to wear one, should be protected from face to face contact with customers.

We have been fine the last 4 months in the trenches without our rifle, a virus so deadly that I do not know one colleague tested positive despite thousands of customers weekly coming through the doors.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 09:32AM
Was there a ceasefire in those trenches for 4 months?

Do you think, without lockdown, social distancing and shielding, that those fortunate people in your little world would have remained unaffected ???

Put your mask on, take a couple of headache tablets and demist those rose tinted glasses!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Morris999 on 22-07-20, 11:23AM
I really do not see people’s issues with having to wear face masks at work, other than to have something else to moan about.

I remember when this virus first landed, a lot of colleagues were demanding Tesco provide face masks to them for their safety, they were consistently slamming Tesco for not providing them.
Tesco then did and most of those same colleagues never wore them even once.
In fact until Boris announcement about them in my store we still had pretty much the entire allocation.
Then suddenly colleagues were taking large quantities of them, not for use at work mind, but for when they go shopping, just so they don’t have to spend about £5 buying some.
It’s these same colleagues that were complaining about Tesco not supplying them, that are now complaining that they might have to wear them and it’s disgusting that Boris has done it!

Just think for one minute how the Extremely Vulnerable colleagues are going to feel, when from the 2nd August they return to work, many leaving the house for the first time since March, walk into the store, to find some customers refusing to wear them and Tesco not enforcing it, some colleagues refusing to wear them because they don’t want too, the Police saying they have better things to do and won’t enforce it, and yet apparently Tesco will be a Covid safe place for them to work in!
Then you will have the comments from certain colleagues about how they have had a 18 week paid holiday while others have been at work the entire time.
It will be a great first day/week back for their mental wellbeing won’t it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Started2008 on 22-07-20, 11:42AM
Absolutely this! I’m one of the many who have had to shield this whole time, I’m due back on the 3rd August and at the moment the advice for people shielding is still not to go into shops however I have Just so that my first experience going into a shop is that overwhelming that I can’t do my job. The whole mask thing is stupid, people will complain about anything until it happens to them.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 22-07-20, 11:51AM
Have you actually read the negative health benefits to wearing them. If masks were so safe why are asthmatic excluded etc
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 12:24PM
Because they have restricted breathing, as do some other vulnerable colleagues.

You said yourself, breathing is uncomfortable...how do you think they'd cope?
I've read and heard many theories, during this pandemic, of pros and cons...Let's see...
Herding is best.. no it's not now.
Don't wear face masks...wearing of face masks mandatory.
Go to work...don't go to work
Use hand sanitiser...soap and water is best
Can't visit another household...can go clean any household...
Etc....etc....etc...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Tulip on 22-07-20, 02:19PM
Having shielded for the past few months I’m appalled that work colleagues are even questioning whether they should wear face masks or not. There is absolutely no reason not to, I have asthma and yes, it’s hot uncomfortable and claustrophobic but I can still breathe. I’ll be wearing a mask, not for myself, but for everyone else. It’s bad enough that they’ve removed the one way systems and the stores are like a rugby scrum without colleagues acting like children
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 22-07-20, 02:43PM
I have no issue with wearing a mask and have been wearing one for the past week or so. The problem is the management team at my Tesco store seem to be purposefully withholding information on Tesco's official communication and policy on face masks in an attempt just to get everyone in face masks so they don't have to deal with rowdy customers who question why some colleagues aren't wearing one.

They haven't told anyone that they may be exempt from wearing one due to physical or mental illness, for example. My management team also haven't told employees that Tesco policy states it actually isn't mandatory to wear a face mask for colleagues, it is only "strongly advised" and "ultimately it is the choice and responsibility of the individual" according to the briefing that was sent down to managers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hammer10 on 22-07-20, 04:04PM
Yet again holding back info.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gaz123 on 22-07-20, 05:08PM
How can people not understand how risky facemasks are? I mean, history is rife with stories of surgeons and operating theatre staff keeling over in the middle of surgery through lack of oxygen. In fact, it's a wonder how anyone in a hospital ever gets any work done at all, given that they're all collapsed in corners of the room fighting for breath.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: letmego on 22-07-20, 11:37PM
The message / team 5 posted on Our Tesco yesterday about masks has been removed, probably due to hundreds of comments around the mandatory wearing of masks for colleagues. The brief was it's mandatory to wear one the truth is it's not. A u turn on the scale of Donald Trump is on the cards.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 23-07-20, 01:24AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:07AM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 21-07-20, 11:31PM
We on nights have to told we HAVE to wear them from 10pm till 12 then 6am till 7. Store manager "insists". So ignore the swarm of dot comedy piling on the aisle but wear them for 1 or 2 customers coming in. Also wearing them 4 months into a pandemic is like bringing condoms to a baby shower

I would have thought YOU would be insisting on wearing one at all times, having read your past posts regarding your family's ill health  ???
I do wear one you utter *******
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 23-07-20, 01:25AM
Quote from: Paulie on 22-07-20, 09:07AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:03AM
The only reason it is believed to be " this late in the Covid game" is because the country went into lockdown, far too late in my opinion, to fight the transmission of this DEADLY virus. To just abandon the precautions is what's ridiculous. Has everyone forgotten how many people have died over the last four months, including all the NHS, carers and frontline workers, the majority of whom died scared and alone!
I don't think playing Russian roulette, by choosing not to wear one, is exercising your rights of freedom of choice, It's not a fashion statement, it's using everything possible to maintain the defence against this unseen deadly enemy.
If you were in a trench on the frontline, would you refuse to go over the top without your rifle, because it was heavy, hurt your shoulder carrying it, and was giving you a headache  :-X
Anyone with a genuine medical reason for being unable to wear one, should be protected from face to face contact with customers.

We have been fine the last 4 months in the trenches without our rifle, a virus so deadly that I do not know one colleague tested positive despite thousands of customers weekly coming through the doors.
same in our store. Nobody has caught it
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 23-07-20, 07:26AM
 8-)You mind you don't fall off that bandwagon mate 8-)

Can't be arsed to check, but pretty sure you were extremely vocal on the threads regarding Tesco lacking in their duty of care regarding....social distancing, vulnerable colleagues, shielding etc...etc...etc...

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 23-07-20, 07:33AM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 23-07-20, 01:24AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:07AM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 21-07-20, 11:31PM
We on nights have to told we HAVE to wear them from 10pm till 12 then 6am till 7. Store manager "insists". So ignore the swarm of dot comedy piling on the aisle but wear them for 1 or 2 customers coming in. Also wearing them 4 months into a pandemic is like bringing condoms to a baby shower

I would have thought YOU would be insisting on wearing one at all times, having read your past posts regarding your family's ill health  ???

I do wear one you utter *******

Then kind of makes your initial post pointless and nonsensical, especially the last sentence...bet you've been wanting to use that comparison for ages, haven't you  :thumbdown:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: bornfree on 23-07-20, 09:28AM
Our night team have been told to wear masks for there whole shift. Worries me if we run out, there won't be any left for day shift to wear when we are more vulnerable than nights due to less social distancing and a lot more people around.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fixxer on 23-07-20, 10:04AM
We had a briefing for the Twilight staff Yesterday.
All the managers have agreed that they will be wearing face coverings and have said that although it's not compulsory for staff to wear them they have suggested it is a good idea and that there would be a plentiful supply for everyone.

To be honest they pitched it just right and quite maturely (for Tesco)
There were lots of "Well I won't wear one because XYZ" but actually talking the staff as humans and saying "Look, all the customers HAVE to wear them, It's not comfortable to wear them all the time but as a company we're here to make our customers feel as happy as possible while shopping and it's likely that a good deal of people will feel reassured if the staff in the place they are mandated to wear a covering also wear something. You won't be forced to wear one, or punished if you don't, but it'd really help if you could give it a go wherever possible. Even if you try it and don't get on with it then speak to your manager and that'll be the end of it - even if it's just you wearing one in the busiest periods for short lengths of time it might help"

Not a bad approach to be honest. Full marks.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 23-07-20, 10:57AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 23-07-20, 07:33AM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 23-07-20, 01:24AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 22-07-20, 08:07AM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 21-07-20, 11:31PM
We on nights have to told we HAVE to wear them from 10pm till 12 then 6am till 7. Store manager "insists". So ignore the swarm of dot comedy piling on the aisle but wear them for 1 or 2 customers coming in. Also wearing them 4 months into a pandemic is like bringing condoms to a baby shower

I would have thought YOU would be insisting on wearing one at all times, having read your past posts regarding your family's ill health  ???

I do wear one you utter *******

Then kind of makes your initial post pointless and nonsensical, especially the last sentence...bet you've been wanting to use that comparison for ages, haven't you  :thumbdown:
not really.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Siwel123 on 23-07-20, 11:25AM
Agreed, now our managers have spoken to us, a lot of people feel reassured and understand the policy. They were also sensible in saying they will wear them but no worker will face consequences for not doing so, however it's strongly encouraged to show a united front between staff and customers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 23-07-20, 01:23PM
Quote from: Fixxer on 23-07-20, 10:04AM
We had a briefing for the Twilight staff Yesterday.
All the managers have agreed that they will be wearing face coverings and have said that although it's not compulsory for staff to wear them they have suggested it is a good idea and that there would be a plentiful supply for everyone.

To be honest they pitched it just right and quite maturely (for Tesco)
There were lots of "Well I won't wear one because XYZ" but actually talking the staff as humans and saying "Look, all the customers HAVE to wear them, It's not comfortable to wear them all the time but as a company we're here to make our customers feel as happy as possible while shopping and it's likely that a good deal of people will feel reassured if the staff in the place they are mandated to wear a covering also wear something. You won't be forced to wear one, or punished if you don't, but it'd really help if you could give it a go wherever possible. Even if you try it and don't get on with it then speak to your manager and that'll be the end of it - even if it's just you wearing one in the busiest periods for short lengths of time it might help"

Not a bad approach to be honest. Full marks.

Sounds like you have a decent management team.

The management team in my store have pretty much decided to do things their own way and ignore government advice and Tesco policy. In my store they're now saying you must wear a mask even if you're working behind a screen on checkouts, which goes against Tesco's own policy which states that it is optional. The feeling in my store is that they're trying to avoid backlash from customers who may see colleagues without a mask on and kick off, so the management team have just decided to tell floor staff it's 100% mandatory to wear one; no mention of exemptions on mental health or physical health grounds - basically they didn't mention 85% of what was included on the briefing that was sent down from managers, which seems to be quite common across a few stores I'm hearing - SMs having an ego trip and just deciding their own policies honestly.

There's a lady on checkouts who has a condition that prevents her from wearing and taking of a mask safely, yet management are forcing her into a mask. It's disgusting really.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: 1man2jobs on 23-07-20, 01:51PM
do we have to wear the face masks when we turn up to gang fills?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 23-07-20, 02:15PM
1man2jobs

A face covering should be the least of your worries.  :)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 23-07-20, 02:40PM
Quote from: manbearpig on 23-07-20, 01:23PM
Quote from: Fixxer on 23-07-20, 10:04AM
We had a briefing for the Twilight staff Yesterday.
All the managers have agreed that they will be wearing face coverings and have said that although it's not compulsory for staff to wear them they have suggested it is a good idea and that there would be a plentiful supply for everyone.

To be honest they pitched it just right and quite maturely (for Tesco)
There were lots of "Well I won't wear one because XYZ" but actually talking the staff as humans and saying "Look, all the customers HAVE to wear them, It's not comfortable to wear them all the time but as a company we're here to make our customers feel as happy as possible while shopping and it's likely that a good deal of people will feel reassured if the staff in the place they are mandated to wear a covering also wear something. You won't be forced to wear one, or punished if you don't, but it'd really help if you could give it a go wherever possible. Even if you try it and don't get on with it then speak to your manager and that'll be the end of it - even if it's just you wearing one in the busiest periods for short lengths of time it might help"

Not a bad approach to be honest. Full marks.

Sounds like you have a decent management team.

The management team in my store have pretty much decided to do things their own way and ignore government advice and Tesco policy. In my store they're now saying you must wear a mask even if you're working behind a screen on checkouts, which goes against Tesco's own policy which states that it is optional. The feeling in my store is that they're trying to avoid backlash from customers who may see colleagues without a mask on and kick off, so the management team have just decided to tell floor staff it's 100% mandatory to wear one; no mention of exemptions on mental health or physical health grounds - basically they didn't mention 85% of what was included on the briefing that was sent down from managers, which seems to be quite common across a few stores I'm hearing - SMs having an ego trip and just deciding their own policies honestly.

There's a lady on checkouts who has a condition that prevents her from wearing and taking of a mask safely, yet management are forcing her into a mask. It's disgusting really.
They can't actually do that......ffs report these scumbags.....papers if need be stir some s*** up for this joke of a company.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: adamlad on 23-07-20, 02:51PM
The policy is on colleague room
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 23-07-20, 03:56PM
Bullies need to be exposed ........ too much of it going on.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 23-07-20, 05:19PM
My point was that why do we have to wear masks when there's only a couple of customers but not when there's a swarm of dot comedy piling on your aisle? I'll be wearing mine from 4am.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Halftone84 on 24-07-20, 09:27AM
Going to be interesting in express.

Mask on shop floor, bell rings to jump on till, remove mask behind screen, dispose of mask, finish serving, replace mask before walking onto shop floor.  5 minutes later, bell rings, repeat.

Also, where have the government "strongly advised" masks are worn by retail staff ? All I've found is George Eustice saying retail staff aren't covered by the new ruling.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: jester21 on 24-07-20, 10:32AM
Ello Halftone84 you dont have to wear a mask its only tesco asking us to wear them by law we dont need to so you can refuse polity lol
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Halftone84 on 24-07-20, 10:44AM
At the moment, I'm planning on politely refusing, but the mask policy document printed and left on our staff room table this week says the government "strongly advised" retail staff to wear them.  I hadn't seen that ANYWHERE, and just wondered if it was made up by tesco for that document.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: coffee_tea on 24-07-20, 10:57AM
The strongly advised was in a news bulletin yesterday, so for once, Tesco haven't grabbed the wording from thin air.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: bobby:):):) on 24-07-20, 03:38PM
You won’t be catching me in a mask!!!!! Should have been done from day 1 not month 5.  To hot to be filling a cage with it on. Gov uk website states we don’t have to so I won’t be. I not being told by my SM I have to wear one. Just for publicity make Tesco look good. Should be down to choice not saying YOU GOT to wear one. I am 30 years of age and not got to do anything I don’t want to do to or which is not law!!!!!.

Also managers telling my friends in a other store to wear one what right have you got to make someone wear a mask!!! Only reason she should wear one is to stop her smelling the bad smell of the manager. 👍👍
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gaz123 on 24-07-20, 04:37PM
Jeez, the 'special snowflakes' on this thread....
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: me-only-me on 24-07-20, 05:04PM
Am a night worker..and been told there will be consequences if we don't wear face covering, as I replenish shelves (that's posh for shelf filler), i am on and off of stools and find this ludicrous, the government said highly recommended  stores are saying abide by our  laws. Having worn mask for 20 minutes  and found it hard to breath, how many workers will drop before Tesco realise these masks should be  there for anyone that need and wants to wear , not threatened and bullied into it, for once the government has thought of retail workers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 24-07-20, 06:14PM
Heard it all threats of disciplinary, consequences and suspension for not wearing a mask/visor. Let them try it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 24-07-20, 06:30PM
Tesco are allowed to make any rules they want as a private company, that don’t break any laws! if you don’t like it quit.
“ Having worn mask for 20 minutes  and found it hard to breath, how many workers will drop before Tesco realise.” lol what?? Man some people are literal children.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 24-07-20, 07:49PM
Nice advise obviously a friendly type ...... anyway out of trading hours which I believe covers nights unless 24hours you shouldn't be made to wear a mask......includes back areas when trading no masks unless you want to.Nice sensible advise not dictating what to do......challenge them and get it in writing official,bet they won't push it.You don't work for twatco to be bullied.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 24-07-20, 07:55PM
And just add you will probably be better using a visor over a mask,have you been offered these ....????
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: oldfashionedplayer on 24-07-20, 09:22PM
Quote from: me-only-me on 24-07-20, 05:04PM
Am a night worker..and been told there will be consequences if we don't wear face covering, as I replenish shelves (that's posh for shelf filler), i am on and off of stools and find this ludicrous, the government said highly recommended  stores are saying abide by our  laws. Having worn mask for 20 minutes  and found it hard to breath, how many workers will drop before Tesco realise these masks should be  there for anyone that need and wants to wear , not threatened and bullied into it, for once the government has thought of retail workers.

Just read the bit on covid information, there's a q and a final that was sent to managers and been made available to all, it's only strongly advised, so if you don't want to wear one then it's your choice. Not your managers choice.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Halftone84 on 24-07-20, 10:44PM
A friend that works dotcom has had a meeting today and has been told she HAS to wear a mask, and has to buy and wear her own mask by next shift ...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Preacherpauly on 24-07-20, 11:48PM
Tesco leaving it up to the shopper if they want to wear  a mask. People on twitter asking why staff don't enforce it. Why should we, the wage isn't worth the abuse from people who refuse to wear one.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 25-07-20, 01:17AM
We've had a colleague today who has a medical condition that prevents her from wearing a mask, she had a signed doctor's note and even referenced Tesco and government policy on mask wearing: her manager didn't want to know and just said you're going to wear one. I think she's going to the union about it though, but it's madness it needs to go that far when it's black and white in Tesco's own policy which managers were briefed on.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fredthered on 25-07-20, 02:21AM
Security are just letting people in without masks and saying nothing to stop them
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: chris9997 on 25-07-20, 03:56AM
Quote from: me-only-me on 24-07-20, 05:04PM
Am a night worker..and been told there will be consequences if we don't wear face covering, as I replenish shelves (that's posh for shelf filler), i am on and off of stools and find this ludicrous, the government said highly recommended  stores are saying abide by our  laws. Having worn mask for 20 minutes  and found it hard to breath, how many workers will drop before Tesco realise these masks should be  there for anyone that need and wants to wear , not threatened and bullied into it, for once the government has thought of retail workers.
Tesco policy is if your store is not open there is no requirement to wear a mask, if your store is closed overnight your MM are not permitted to make their own rules, otherwise if all stores had their own rules and did not follow HO instructions the workplace would be chaos, oh wait a minute it is.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: oldfashionedplayer on 25-07-20, 04:37AM
your also not required at all to wear one if you don't want to wear one, it's only advised that you do.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 25-07-20, 06:48AM
Quote from: Fredthered on 25-07-20, 02:21AM
Security are just letting people in without masks and saying nothing to stop them

I work in a Scottish store and we have had the masks longer. It's not up to us to police the masks. We can only advise, it's not up to us to police. We should not judge those who can't wear a masks due to a medical condition. Most people do comply, it's mostly just the few that have forgotten but there is a huge rise in the tubular walking masks in our area.
Colleagues are complying too, only issue is with a couple of people who have asthma that find it difficult to even wear a visor. One who can't wear one works on self service so has been moved to checkouts, no big deal. Some have chosen to buy masks and visors. A couple of colleagues are making them. In all the time we have done this we have had one complaint about 30 mins in about a customer not wearing one but we now put out regular a tannoy to say some people can't wear due to medical condition.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 25-07-20, 02:23PM
Quote from: Preacherpauly on 24-07-20, 11:48PM
Tesco leaving it up to the shopper if they want to wear  a mask. People on twitter asking why staff don't enforce it. Why should we, the wage isn't worth the abuse from people who refuse to wear one.

Just seen video of Dolly Parton hit Jolene parodied to "Karen, please just wear a mask " on a late night American talk show. It shows the violent reaction of some shoppers refusing to wear a mask, and public figures condemning the wearing of them.
We all know that what happens in America, makes its way over here, just hope the British culture of polite constraint withholds.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Totot on 25-07-20, 02:34PM
First day in my shop so many people dont wear it and didnt care. We still let them in and serve them.
Later in the evening, a police officer came in, bought something, and a man with no mask came in, walk next to him, not saying anything, pretend to look somewhere else.

Another  hour another police officer came in, no mask, saw me, stop and seem cant decide then walk through the isle and do shopping. Who are we anyway a mere ca can stop people not wearing mask entering the shop or tell them to wear it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 25-07-20, 03:50PM
Were no masks made available at the front of store for people to purchase, As stated on by a Tesco spokesperson?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 25-07-20, 06:08PM
The store manager where I work was walking up to the younger members of staff and bullying them into wearing a face covering. He didn’t dare try it with some of us ‘older’ members of staff.

He was asking people why they were wearing one and was then telling them that it made Tesco look bad if the didn’t wear one.

He also had the cheek to say that ‘Tesco are doing it to protect their staff’

Where were the masks and other PPE 5 months ago when we were really in the thick of it? Too little too late!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: sammy on 25-07-20, 06:55PM
Yesterday morning all staff had them on by lunchtime only a very small number had them on. Today only 4 people had them on and this is in a big extra store
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mutti on 26-07-20, 09:35PM
I'm on checkouts, behind a screen obviously, and have worked throughout the pandemic without wearing a mask.
However, I started wearing the ones supplied by Tesco on Friday and will continue to do so as long as customers are required to.
I don't like it much, it's hot, annoying and makes my specs steam up, but it honestly doesn't affect my breathing.
When it gets on my nerves, I manage to stop myself from being such a wuss by thinking about my daughter wearing one for an entire 12 hour shift.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gaz123 on 27-07-20, 12:12AM
At last, someone talking sense!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Halftone84 on 27-07-20, 10:48AM
Quote from: lemons84 on 25-07-20, 06:08PM
He also had the cheek to say that ‘Tesco are doing it to protect their staff’

Isn't the whole point of masks to stop you passing it on, not to stop you contracting the virus ?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bingo on 27-07-20, 02:56PM
I felt safer when no one wore a mask and they kept their distance away from me. For some reason people think if they wear a mask they can practically clamber all over you whilst you are trying to put stock out.  They’re not even wearing them covering both their nose and face.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 27-07-20, 03:18PM
Got to protect that chin
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 27-07-20, 03:44PM
Quote from: Mutti on 26-07-20, 09:35PM
I'm on checkouts, behind a screen obviously, and have worked throughout the pandemic without wearing a mask.
However, I started wearing the ones supplied by Tesco on Friday and will continue to do so as long as customers are required to.
I don't like it much, it's hot, annoying and makes my specs steam up, but it honestly doesn't affect my breathing.
When it gets on my nerves, I manage to stop myself from being such a wuss by thinking about my daughter wearing one for an entire 12 hour shift.

There's a bit of a difference having to wear a mask while replenishing shelves and wearing one while just sitting at a checkout. If you're replenishing shelves you're having to pull heavy cages, lift and move stock, it's a very physical job which is only made harder due to wearing the masks. I'm literally sweating within 10 minutes and the moisture builds up instantly inside the mask.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: oldfashionedplayer on 27-07-20, 04:41PM
yep as mbp says, it's extremely difficult to wear one doing other stuff, especially on nights, like god damn you're sweating and struggling....
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 27-07-20, 04:42PM
Bingo I agree

Dotnochance  :D

manbearpig couldn’t of put it better the masks and visors are not suited to filling and emptying a warehouse.

There were no issues for not wearing masks for months during the height of the pandemic and now with things allegedly improving its constant reminders.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mutti on 28-07-20, 12:11AM
Quote from: manbearpig on 27-07-20, 03:44PM
Quote from: Mutti on 26-07-20, 09:35PM
I'm on checkouts, behind a screen obviously, and have worked throughout the pandemic without wearing a mask.
However, I started wearing the ones supplied by Tesco on Friday and will continue to do so as long as customers are required to.
I don't like it much, it's hot, annoying and makes my specs steam up, but it honestly doesn't affect my breathing.
When it gets on my nerves, I manage to stop myself from being such a wuss by thinking about my daughter wearing one for an entire 12 hour shift.

There's a bit of a difference having to wear a mask while replenishing shelves and wearing one while just sitting at a checkout. If you're replenishing shelves you're having to pull heavy cages, lift and move stock, it's a very physical job which is only made harder due to wearing the masks. I'm literally sweating within 10 minutes and the moisture builds up instantly inside the mask.

I worked nights for 15 years so I know what's involved.
Now been 'retired' on to checkouts because of arthritis.
I do sympathise, but there's a reason we're being asked to do this.
I hope you're not buying your own masks but using the ones Tesco supply and making sure you have a new one after every break.
Wearing one on checkouts has issues too, but I shall continue to do so in solidarity with the customers and, as mentioned earlier, those who have no choice but to wear a lot of uncomfortable PPE for long, hard shifts in the NHS.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 28-07-20, 07:02AM
exactly my thoughts....

Many industries/professions wear PPE all the time. Yes its unusual and feels strange but I suspect overtime we will all get used to it.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 28-07-20, 11:54PM

I would think that non of us wants to be out on a Thursday clapping for all those in the NHS that Had to wear full PPI , unable to eat or drink for hours on end during which time they were sweating away, to scared to even touch the face masks , Not being able to have a extra mouth full of water before they changed into the PPI in case they had to go for a pee ,,

Yes not every one is ok with having to wear a mask , but then some months ago no one ever stopped to think that doing so would or could just save life's ..........
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 29-07-20, 12:55AM
Why do people keep comparing us supermarket workers to nhs staff with regards to face coverings? It's very strange and unsettling to have people putting those of us who don't want to or feel the need to wear face masks on some weird guilt trip by constantly comparing us to NHS staff in ppe, "we're shop workers"  it's not even in the same league of risk as working in a hospital,  and as for standing in solidarity with customers, no chance! The same customers who were shoving me out of the way just to get their hysterical hands on mass amounts of bog roll, the same ones who have done nothing but complain and curse for the last 4 months about having to queue to get into store, product restrictions, swearing at staff when being asked to follow the one way system, practically stampeding the booze aisle on a daily basis and now a lot of customers are blaming us for the face masks, I got a mouthful of abuse the other day from a man after I accidentally walked out onto the shop floor without my face covered, I have no desire to stand in solidarity with these selfish people, they didn't care a few months ago that my face wasn't covered when they were fighting over the last bags of pasta on the shelf so why the hell should it bother them or anyone else if my face ain't covered now
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gumbonumber5 on 29-07-20, 01:08AM
Well said
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 29-07-20, 05:21AM

I am not comparing you to The hard working Nurses and other's in hospital nor am i asking you to care about those around you that behaved them self's during the madness that went around in the Stores ,
Why should you feel unsettled about it all , i mean that would mean that you do care in some way for those that did get the Virus some 45 thousand of who died , Some being those Nurses doctors .porters and other health workers that did not have the time to rush around grabbing loo rolls or bags of pasta ,after all it would seem that you dont care that these very same workers are the ones you want to put at  risk if you and anyone else gets the Virus and end up needing help from , Just becaurse you have feel hard done by those that upset you ,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 29-07-20, 05:57AM
I am all for masks/visors but there are occasions when they are unsuitable. Packing shelf’s the mask was soaking after 20 minutes and not fit for purpose. Trying the visor doing same it kept steaming up and falling down. You should only be required to wear one in back corridors/areas where distancing cannot be maintained. Most wear them when working an aisle now even when no ones about but come clock out they are shoulder to shoulder without them diving over the top of each other to access lockers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 29-07-20, 10:58AM
I find the whole concept that in a confined space, shops and other places, that there seems to be practices based on the premise, "I can give it to them, but they can't give it to me.", i.e. customers v staff.

I am no fan of the masks.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 29-07-20, 12:14PM
Quote from: notsofunny on 29-07-20, 05:21AM

I am not comparing you to The hard working Nurses and other's in hospital nor am i asking you to care about those around you that behaved them self's during the madness that went around in the Stores ,
Why should you feel unsettled about it all , i mean that would mean that you do care in some way for those that did get the Virus some 45 thousand of who died , Some being those Nurses doctors .porters and other health workers that did not have the time to rush around grabbing loo rolls or bags of pasta ,after all it would seem that you dont care that these very same workers are the ones you want to put at  risk if you and anyone else gets the Virus and end up needing help from , Just becaurse you have feel hard done by those that upset you ,
this is exactly the kind of emotional black mailing and guilt tripping that has come to rule this country recently,  viruses kill millions of people around the world every year, it's no one's fault, it just happens, it's always tragic and sad when someone dies in the line of their duty, but people shouldn't be made to feel like mass murderers just cause there face ain't covered, so save the self righteous preaching for someone else,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 29-07-20, 01:09PM
This may be somewhat a controversial post...but I've got broad shoulders so here goes....

Yes it's agreed viruses kill millions of people and animals around the world, and the initial outbreak is indeed nobody's fault. It continues to spread in the initial stages, due to lack of awareness and ignorance on how the contagion can be controlled.

Now we know more, it is proven that face masks can help prevent the virus spreading from close contact...yet still some are determined to act in such a kamikaze way, and refuse to accept any responsibility or blame for their actions? Their refusal isn't based on any strong beliefs or deep religious grounds...just that they find it somewhat of an inconvenience or suffer a slight discomfort.

So to all those who think they are exercising their human rights to go unmasked...let me ask you this...would you knowingly refuse to use any precautions and have unprotected sexual intercourse with someone infected with AIDS?

People with AIDS have been prosecuted and received jail sentences for knowingly infecting others with it. Maybe not mass murderers, but certainly not far off  :-X
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 29-07-20, 01:56PM
I totally get that people don't want to wear masks all day but as the extremely vulnerable colleagues return to work next week , has anyone any other ideas how they are going to be kept safe ? Tescos  are legally obliged to provide a covid safe environment for everyone , the problems (and I'm sure there are some) will be highlighted next week as this group of colleagues start to return .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 29-07-20, 01:58PM
Adding to my post....Would you be happy to sit unmasked,in close proximity or get personal with someone you knowingly had COVID 19??
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 29-07-20, 02:01PM
Now we're bringing aids into the face mask debate lol this is becoming farcical, covid might actually reduce the spread of aids, with social distancing, face masks, reduced ability to socialise, mass redundancies and the overwhelming stench of hand sanitiser it's a wonder that anyone would still feel like having a bonk :P.        On a more sensible note, aids has killed over 30 million people around the world and yet no one seems to be panic buying the condoms  :D
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 29-07-20, 02:11PM
The human race has survived well up to now without face masks. Two Chinese kids died this week doing PE with face masks on. Watch an ex GP Vernon Coleman on youtube go in depth on the subject.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 29-07-20, 02:21PM
Quote from: lucgeo on 29-07-20, 01:09PM
This may be somewhat a controversial post...but I've got broad shoulders so here goes....

Yes it's agreed viruses kill millions of people and animals around the world, and the initial outbreak is indeed nobody's fault. It continues to spread in the initial stages, due to lack of awareness and ignorance on how the contagion can be controlled.

Now we know more, it is proven that face masks can help prevent the virus spreading from close contact...yet still some are determined to act in such a kamikaze way, and refuse to accept any responsibility or blame for their actions? Their refusal isn't based on any strong beliefs or deep religious grounds...just that they find it somewhat of an inconvenience or suffer a slight discomfort.

So to all those who think they are exercising their human rights to go unmasked...let me ask you this...would you knowingly refuse to use any precautions and have unprotected sexual intercourse with someone infected with AIDS?

People with AIDS have been prosecuted and received jail sentences for knowingly infecting others with it. Maybe not mass murderers, but certainly not far off  :-X

I was reluctant to join this discussion - because regardless of people's views, there's always the counter argument that "they are wrong" - it's quite an emotive subject - and people quoting that 45,000 people (it's probably more) have died puts things into perspective. And I understand that science and the understanding of the virus moves on with time - so what's now deemed to be "right" wasn't necessarily right three months ago (i.e. how effective are face masks?)

Just to answer your analogy with intercourse with someone with AIDS - this is the crux of the facemask debate - it's about the length of time you wear one for -

If I go into a shop as a shopper, I am happy to abide with the guidelines - because I know I can leave that shop at any time - I also know if I am short of breath or having a hot or dizzy spell I'll be able to take it off momentarily and no-one is likely to challenge me - ok might get a few weird stares from other shoppers.....

But working a full shift and being told by Tesco management that you MUST wear a mask at all times is just unreasonable (and goes against the Govt guidelines which state that staff are exempt.

Clearly, the obvious question is "why now?" when the infection rate is thought to be very low -

And if the answer is "vulnerable people are coming back to society" therefore we must bring in extra measures to protect them, then that sounds like anyone who has been out and about since lockdown (i.e. to do their shopping or because they work in a shop) don't really matter as much as the vulnerable - let them get the virus.

It's such an emotive topic and unless you've done lots of research not many of us really know the full details of the science behind decisions.

All most of us can apply is what we believe to be simple logic - and the idea that face masks mandatory use is good now but not 14 weeks ago is illogical.

Similarly - close contact - do we really have proof that this causes "instant infection" - there was an update on the Bournemouth statistics recently after the much publicised packed beach scenario a few weeks ago.  They compared the infection rate in the weeks before and after that day - and there was barely a ripple in the difference.

It's not for me to tell others how to live their lives but the current situation all seems a bit alarmist (I know, shoot me down in flames, 45k people have died) - I'm not neglecting those facts - but how much should we all walk around believing everyone is infected and that by walking within 1m of someone or someone leaning over you to grab that reduced item will infect you instantly - the risk is so minimal - I don't know how to compare it - I'm not trying to trivialise things - but it's almost like the risk of getting struck by lightning if you walk around your local park for 20 mins, or the risk of dying if you fly in a plane - of course, there have been air crashes, people have died.
There's also been several million flights where no-one has died.

Similarly, there have been several million shopping trips in the last 14 weeks where no-one has been infected - no one has suffered - no one has died.

This raises the subject of what Tesco are telling us - I know there's a confidentiality issue around sickness - but don't we have a right to know how many of our colleagues have been off sick due to confirmed positive tests/strongly suggestible symptoms - if the chance of infection is so great, how much risk have we all been from being with these colleagues for hours on end and for several days?

As I started my post with.....such an emotive subject -

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 29-07-20, 04:07PM
Beautifully written barafear, I completely agree and am relieved that sanity has been restored (for now lol) to the face mask debate,  wish I could put my point across in such an intelligent way,   
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: me-only-me on 29-07-20, 04:32PM
Nicely put barafear ,  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 29-07-20, 04:33PM
I am under investigation for not wearing my mask.  (-*-) :-X
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 29-07-20, 04:53PM
Surely tesco managers can't investigate you for not wearing a mask, if the customers can't and aren't being forced to wear them then it's a double standard to investigate any staff members that aren't wearing them,  although I was threatened with being sent home and suspended if I continued to refuse to wear one, so it was either cover my face or potentially lose my job, what a lovely world we now live in  :o
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 29-07-20, 08:07PM
Quote from: lucgeo on 29-07-20, 01:09PMNow we know more, it is proven that face masks can help prevent the virus spreading from close contact
It is not proven.  The evidence that it does is equivocal at best.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 29-07-20, 08:14PM
Quote from: Jackanory on 29-07-20, 04:33PM
I am under investigation for not wearing my mask.  (-*-) :-X
Are you exempt from wearing one as per the offical advice, if so then this investigation should be over once management are informed, did you simply forget to put on a mask at some point, given this is a new rule you would hope a simple reminder is all management need to give out and no way would it need to be a formal meeting etc, if your simply refusing to wear one you could be on iffy ground, as it could be considered a reasonable instruction given its in compliance with government advice and current company policy.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 29-07-20, 10:41PM
Go on the sick with stress and anxiety caused by wearing mask.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: jester21 on 30-07-20, 01:28PM
Tesco can not force you to wear maks and it is not law to wear masks by work collegues,


Its tesco wanting you to wear them but they cant force you,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 30-07-20, 03:19PM
jester21, the law has little to do with it, unless one has medical grounds to not wear a mask then one can face action for refusing a reasonable request.

I may not be their biggest fan but there are some things they are entitled to do, one of which is setting reasonable rules for their employees.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 30-07-20, 04:48PM
No one should be required or forced to wear anything over their face, not us or the customers, it is pointless, masks/face coverings ain't gonna stop the spread of covid, if they were so effective then this virus and quite a few others would never have spread within China the way it did, as we all know the Chinese people wear masks all the time in public and have done so for many years, yet most (not all) new strains of flu, coronavirus etc originate from this part of the world, the argument for or against the usefulness of masks in public really ends there, its obvious they don't work, look around the store when your at work and all you'll see is customers and staff repeatedly adjusting, pulling on their masks, rubbing their eyes and noses, it's unavoidable as they are so uncomfortable, then people are touching all the stock then rubbing at their faces again then touching more stock, it's one sure fire way to spread not only covid but a host of other things, most people don't have their nose covered and quite a few have it on their chin, then they leave the store and shove it in their pocket only to whip it out again to pop into another shop, by which point its covered in goodness knows what, it's the most backward example of virus control I've ever seen
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 30-07-20, 05:17PM
 :) :-X ;)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Started2008 on 30-07-20, 05:45PM
All I can say is I’m glad I don’t work with a lot of you.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: grim up north on 30-07-20, 06:33PM
I did my first 'big shop' today wearing the mask. It wasnt as bad as I thought it was going to be. Although towards the end my face felt a bit moist, the mask wasnt once i was out of the store and took it off. I don't know what it would be like to wear one whilst working though.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 30-07-20, 06:56PM
Me too “started2008” a lot of children on here.

[admin]Some of them aim insults at other members because their opinion differs.[/admin]
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 30-07-20, 07:26PM
Quote from: Paulie on 29-07-20, 10:41PM
Go on the sick with stress and anxiety caused by wearing mask.

You will have a lot more stress and anxiety when you get a phone call informing you your mum is currently in hospital with coronavirus on top of an already serious underlying problem, I speak for experience and find your flippancy around wearing a mask highly offensive, several months on and my mum is only just getting to the stage in her recovery where she feels reasonably well again, this illness is not something to joke about.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 30-07-20, 07:47PM
penguin, best wishes to your mum, I have close family with several serious underlying health problems.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 30-07-20, 08:13PM
You can't force people to wear masks, i don't care about heartbreak stories of elderly parents with a bunch of existing health problems. I'm old myself, but I can see the damage mentally already with the younger generations. I don't want to tell my grandchildren in a few years there used to be a time where we never wore face masks at work. Let's get life back to normal, shield people who are vulnerable and rest of us get on with it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 30-07-20, 09:45PM
Nomad thank you for the good wishes for my Mum, as for Paulie I wont even bother replying as those comments show what kind of person you are, need I say more.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: stockcontroller on 30-07-20, 10:01PM
I don't understand peoples problem with wearing a face mask? If it reduces the risk of spreading COVID even by a bit surely everyone should do their bit and just put up with it and wear a mask. I can assure you that wearing a mask for your shift is a lot more comfortable than being ventalised onto a ventilator.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 30-07-20, 10:41PM
Quote from: Paulie on 30-07-20, 08:13PM
You can't force people to wear masks, i don't care about heartbreak stories of elderly parents with a bunch of existing health problems. I'm old myself, but I can see the damage mentally already with the younger generations. I don't want to tell my grandchildren in a few years there used to be a time where we never wore face masks at work. Let's get life back to normal, shield people who are vulnerable and rest of us get on with it.

Shame on you  :thumbdown: :-X :-X

Let's hope your grandchildren don't just leave you to it, not bothering or caring when you're the elderly relative with a bunch of health issues.
I'm really at a loss to understand how the younger generation can be mentally damaged from wearing a face mask ??? ???
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 31-07-20, 12:58AM
In a few weeks or a couple of months the "scientists" will be reversing the advice for mandatory face masks on the basis of some new study that shows they are not really effective at controlling the spread of covid, is it any coincidence that a lot of countries which have introduced mandatory face masks in public over the last few weeks are now seeing significant rises in infection rates,      on a more general work related point, in the store that I work in we have become extremely quiet since the mandatory mask rule came in, we literally over night went from very busy to very quiet and it has remained that way for the past 3 weeks (I'm in Scotland) customers are also spending less time and money in the store when they do come in, many have commented that they just want to get back out of the store as quickly as possible so they can take their mask off,   also in the last 3 weeks thefts within the store have increased hugely, particularly high value non food items, don't know if this has anything to do with the face mask situation or not but any would be shop lifters will have realised that having their face covered will work to their advantage with regards to being able to identify them, 
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 31-07-20, 05:34AM

Sorry I have been looking for the country's you could be talking about that are showing a rise , Are you taking into account that it could take a few weeks for any slowdown in Infections no matter what action we  take ? also that the ones that are infected then passing it onto someone else will then take another few weeks , and is it not possible that other factors could be playing a part in how effective a mask is ?, Like People not washing hands and so on or are you saying that washing hands is a waste of time as well ? as to  things going quiet and no one shopping , would that not mean that people have stopped eating drinking ,,, or could it just be that a lot of people are just using up all those loo rolls they have in stock at home , as to shop lifters you seem to be saying that is a reason to ignore what the rules are or to change them just to protect stock in which case i would think someone's life is more important than baby milk ,or some bottles of wine ,,,,,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 31-07-20, 06:52AM
The virus is still spreading in China where they seem to manage well wearing the masks. What nobody is saying is how bad it could have been if they had not worn masks. It could all have been so much worse.
For us it could have been worse without lockdown, that was the whole point in lockdown. There will always be experts that argue against things but I have yet to hear an argument to say NHS staff don't need Ppe. There are figures being put out about the flu after the war but there was no lockdown and no mask wearing then. There are still things like flu and other viruses going about but people still have accidents and get ill for all sorts of reasons. Nobody has ever said that all non-COVID related issues stop during COVID. COVID is in addition to and not replacing.
I have heard an expert say that it's not really happening. There are experts to argue the world is flat and that nobody has ever landed on the moon.
Add to this that hindsight is wonderful.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 31-07-20, 06:58AM
Quote from: lucgeo on 30-07-20, 10:41PM
Shame on you  :thumbdown: :-X :-X

Let's hope your grandchildren don't just leave you to it, not bothering or caring when you're the elderly relative with a bunch of health issues.
I'm really at a loss to understand how the younger generation can be mentally damaged from wearing a face mask ??? ???

Have a look in a few months at the post when school children will have to wear masks mandatory, not being able to speak to the friends maintaining six feet distances. Let's see the mental health of people when the overhyped second wave comes from October on when your locked in your homes again not being able to see your family over, police at check points on the streets again. maintaining unproven distances again.

I do have a lot of health issues, I have lived my life and dying tomorrow doesn't bother me. I do care for the world my children and grandchildren are going to live in and the moment it's just tyranny. Face masks today, what tomorrow? I will leave you with Thomas Jefferson quote and won't bother posting again on the subject. We have agree to disagree, it's passionate subject from both sides and I do get the point of wearing a mask, but five months too late for that argument.

"I prefer dangerous freedom over peaceful slavery".
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 07:19AM
Jesus, you sound demented
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 31-07-20, 07:30AM
I had a child in store stare and stare at me yesterday. All the masks and visors are strange for them but her mother said it was the first time she had been out since lockdown. By the end of serving her the child was smiling and talking to me, children will adapt and do so quickly. Easier than adults. The new normal to us quickly becomes the never been any different to them. They live in the now and this is the reality of now.
I have grandchildren too. I don't like them seeing the harsh realities of life but you can't wrap them up and protect them from everything. We have to tell them to not talk to strangers etc but they still manage to play, make friends and enjoy life.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 31-07-20, 09:59AM
Quote from: Redshoes on 31-07-20, 06:52AMThere are figures being put out about the flu after the war but there was no lockdown and no mask wearing then
Actually there was.  As there has been for pandemics and plagues down through ages.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 10:40AM
Even in the Middle Ages they were using masks in times of a plague, those bird like mask, they weren't just wearing those to look cool, if people in the Middle Ages could wear one so can we.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 31-07-20, 12:49PM
That was only the doctors who wore that plague mask,that didn't work either
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 01:27PM
They did work though, it just wasn’t understood why! at the time they believed  miasma theory of disease, and that is disease travels through the air and are present in bad smells, their theory was wrong but they where half right
But moving on to present time, mask wearing to prevent the spread of disease has had extensive research been put into it for the past 100 years, if you really wanted to educate yourself there are plenty of papers out there that explain the benefits, the fact that people on this sub have been saying scientists are wrong and they will changer their mind in a few months and say there was no need for masks  is just worrisome. Wearing face masks tyranny Now??? let’s be honest most people who have a problem with masks and are refusing to wear out of discomfort nothing else.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 31-07-20, 04:20PM
Still there are staff who don’t even attempt to practice social distancing. Then you’ve the ones where it goes out the window because they’ve a face covering on. Usually removing it to speak with you.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Morris999 on 31-07-20, 08:05PM
So my experience in a Tesco extra on way home this evening,
About 5 people waiting patiently for a old gentleman to move from the frozen section, was clear they all wanted same mod as him, a Tesco colleague without a mask on who was clearly doing her shopping, decided to barge past everyone, move the old gentleman’s trolley out the way, stand literally on top of him, reach past him and take what he was about to pick up!
With no thought whatsoever about any social distancing or his safety.
The glares from everyone said it all, the colleague said in response  “ I don’t have to wear a mask as I work here!”
To which a customer said” you are clearly at this point a customer and not working”
She quickly put her head down and stormed off.
Now bearing in mind this colleague was clearly in her late 50’s early 60’s and clearly obese you would have thought she would be more careful.
At which point the young colleague on the aisle came up and apologised, and stated that while Tesco does strongly encourage colleagues to wear masks, some in store are making a point of not wearing them.

Now if this is the actions and attitude of those colleagues not wearing them, then as far as I’m concerned Tesco or the government need to make it mandatory for shop workers to wear masks.
This isn’t the only time I’ve seen shop workers act like this since the introduction of them, and it’s mostly Tesco colleagues that I’ve witnessed doing it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: trivi on 31-07-20, 11:03PM
How did everyone find it in the heat today?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 12:20AM
Quote from: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 10:40AM
Even in the Middle Ages they were using masks in times of a plague, those bird like mask, they weren't just wearing those to look cool, if people in the Middle Ages could wear one so can we.
plague was spread by flea bites lol so if face masks were being worn to try and stop the spread of it then no wonder it continued to spread for years unabated
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 01:03AM
Quote from: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 01:27PM
They did work though, it just wasn’t understood why! at the time they believed  miasma theory of disease, and that is disease travels through the air and are present in bad smells, their theory was wrong but they where half right
But moving on to present time, mask wearing to prevent the spread of disease has had extensive research been put into it for the past 100 years, if you really wanted to educate yourself there are plenty of papers out there that explain the benefits, the fact that people on this sub have been saying scientists are wrong and they will changer their mind in a few months and say there was no need for masks  is just worrisome. Wearing face masks tyranny Now??? let’s be honest most people who have a problem with masks and are refusing to wear out of discomfort nothing else.
the difference between people like you and people like me is that I do not believe I or anyone else has the right to tell you not to wear a face mask, I would never dream of dictating to you or anyone else what you should do with regards to your health, so explain to me why it's alright for this government and people like you to force me to cover my face,  free will is the backbone of all democratic nations and I will not have my free will and ability to think for myself and make my own judgements in life taken from me, I don't believe masks will stop or slow the spread of covid, if I'm brutally honest I don't think anything can slow or stop this, if it is as contagious as we're being told then the harsh reality is that no amount of lockdowns and face coverings will help, and maybe its time that people just accepted that, our way of life has been damaged, our economy has been destroyed, our health service is rapidly becoming overwhelmed by a backlog of regular everyday health issues that were put on hold for covid, half the population seem to have been brainwashed into becoming irrational hypochondriacs, cancer patients who had a chance to get treatment now find themselves as terminally ill, the little minds of children have been warped (perhaps forever) by all this cowardly c**p by adults, cases of mental illness are through the roof, domestic violence has risen, we are being dictated to on a daily basis about what we can and can't do by a bunch of people who really haven't got a clue (today you can visit your mum but tomorrow you can't kind of nonsense) and all of this because of a virus, there are over 3000000 different viruses that have and do circulate this globe, millions of different types of bacteria and yet shockingly enough there are still over 7 billion of us humans roaming the earth, the year 2020 will go down in history as the year the world's rubbish jumped back inside its body


Covid 19 - the most successful anarchist the world has ever witnessed

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: alf on 01-08-20, 04:36AM


"irrational hypochondriacs"

Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 12:20AM
I've seen staff members in the back air propping themselves against cages gasping for breath

Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 12:20AM
staff are struggling to breathe, feeling faint and dizzy, struggling to see, staff are losing their voices and getting sore throats, puffy, sore and irratated eyes,  people are also getting sores and skin problems around their nose and mouth area, they are suffering from headaches and dehydration, people are having panic attacks and hyperventilating,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 01-08-20, 05:51AM
Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 01:03AM
Quote from: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 01:27PM
They did work though, it just wasn’t understood why! at the time they believed  miasma theory of disease, and that is disease travels through the air and are present in bad smells, their theory was wrong but they where half right
But moving on to present time, mask wearing to prevent the spread of disease has had extensive research been put into it for the past 100 years, if you really wanted to educate yourself there are plenty of papers out there that explain the benefits, the fact that people on this sub have been saying scientists are wrong and they will changer their mind in a few months and say there was no need for masks  is just worrisome. Wearing face masks tyranny Now??? let’s be honest most people who have a problem with masks and are refusing to wear out of discomfort nothing else.
the difference between people like you and people like me is that I do not believe I or anyone else has the right to tell you not to wear a face mask, I would never dream of dictating to you or anyone else what you should do with regards to your health, so explain to me why it's alright for this government and people like you to force me to cover my face,  free will is the backbone of all democratic nations and I will not have my free will and ability to think for myself and make my own judgements in life taken from me, I don't believe masks will stop or slow the spread of covid, if I'm brutally honest I don't think anything can slow or stop this, if it is as contagious as we're being told then the harsh reality is that no amount of lockdowns and face coverings will help, and maybe its time that people just accepted that, our way of life has been damaged, our economy has been destroyed, our health service is rapidly becoming overwhelmed by a backlog of regular everyday health issues that were put on hold for covid, half the population seem to have been brainwashed into becoming irrational hypochondriacs, cancer patients who had a chance to get treatment now find themselves as terminally ill, the little minds of children have been warped (perhaps forever) by all this cowardly c**p by adults, cases of mental illness are through the roof, domestic violence has risen, we are being dictated to on a daily basis about what we can and can't do by a bunch of people who really haven't got a clue (today you can visit your mum but tomorrow you can't kind of nonsense) and all of this because of a virus, there are over 3000000 different viruses that have and do circulate this globe, millions of different types of bacteria and yet shockingly enough there are still over 7 billion of us humans roaming the earth, the year 2020 will go down in history as the year the world's rubbish jumped back inside its body


Covid 19 - the most successful anarchist the world has ever witnessed
I would find your comment funny if it wasn’t so absolutely dangerous
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 01-08-20, 06:29AM

Seems that those that seem to feel that placing a face mask over the mouth and nose is something that deprives them of free will , Rights deprived and all that ,

Same free will that they give away when they drive on the road instead of the footpath since that would mean a fine or jail , Then I suppose they would also refuse to put a seat belt on both in a car or a plane ,, seems crazy but some do think that way  or god forbid do what a manager tells them to do in store , But then i suppose they would willingly give up that free will just  so they don't end up on dole ,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 01-08-20, 09:17AM
Quote from: triviup on 31-07-20, 11:03PM
How did everyone find it in the heat today?
Inside the air-conditioned stores?  Not as bad as it was for us dot.com drivers out on the road I will wager!   :(
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 01-08-20, 09:56AM
You guys have air conditioning in your stores???
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 01-08-20, 10:26AM
Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 01:03AM
.......... free will is the backbone of all democratic nations ......

Would those be the democratic nations that have governments that the people elect to govern and to tell them (the people) what they should/should not or can/can't do in times of emergency.

8-)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 01-08-20, 11:21AM
Quote from: triviup on 31-07-20, 11:03PM
How did everyone find it in the heat today?

Everyone 😂😂😂 where I lived it reached a max 21 and it rained from 11am till after midnight.  If it ever gets to 23 here its classed as a heatwave and bbq stuff sells out
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mr Brightside 24 on 01-08-20, 12:46PM
Biggest drama queen post of the year goes too...

Quote from: alf on 01-08-20, 04:36AM


"irrational hypochondriacs"

Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 12:20AM
I've seen staff members in the back air propping themselves against cages gasping for breath

Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 12:20AM
staff are struggling to breathe, feeling faint and dizzy, struggling to see, staff are losing their voices and getting sore throats, puffy, sore and irratated eyes,  people are also getting sores and skin problems around their nose and mouth area, they are suffering from headaches and dehydration, people are having panic attacks and hyperventilating,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Theodore on 01-08-20, 07:34PM
Jason Tarry's email on 15th July....

"....We actively track confirmed cases amongst colleagues, which thankfully across the UK are falling. Overall our total figures are far below the national average and we have no reason to believe that retail workers are more at risk than the general population."


Really? If we're not, then who is and why are we all being forced to wear masks this late in the game?

I wonder if those advocating wearing these things have really thought through the possible end game here.

Masks everywhere outside the home?

How many years will we be wearing them? Forever? Until we've all had a vaccine?

None of this makes any sense whatsoever.


Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: miriam on 01-08-20, 08:21PM
I was told no cases in my store


I know that is not true
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 02-08-20, 12:41AM
Quote from: Hopeful soul on 01-08-20, 01:03AM
Quote from: dotnochance on 31-07-20, 01:27PM
They did work though, it just wasn’t understood why! at the time they believed  miasma theory of disease, and that is disease travels through the air and are present in bad smells, their theory was wrong but they where half right
But moving on to present time, mask wearing to prevent the spread of disease has had extensive research been put into it for the past 100 years, if you really wanted to educate yourself there are plenty of papers out there that explain the benefits, the fact that people on this sub have been saying scientists are wrong and they will changer their mind in a few months and say there was no need for masks  is just worrisome. Wearing face masks tyranny Now??? let’s be honest most people who have a problem with masks and are refusing to wear out of discomfort nothing else.
the difference between people like you and people like me is that I do not believe I or anyone else has the right to tell you not to wear a face mask, I would never dream of dictating to you or anyone else what you should do with regards to your health, so explain to me why it's alright for this government and people like you to force me to cover my face,  free will is the backbone of all democratic nations and I will not have my free will and ability to think for myself and make my own judgements in life taken from me, I don't believe masks will stop or slow the spread of covid, if I'm brutally honest I don't think anything can slow or stop this, if it is as contagious as we're being told then the harsh reality is that no amount of lockdowns and face coverings will help, and maybe its time that people just accepted that, our way of life has been damaged, our economy has been destroyed, our health service is rapidly becoming overwhelmed by a backlog of regular everyday health issues that were put on hold for covid, half the population seem to have been brainwashed into becoming irrational hypochondriacs, cancer patients who had a chance to get treatment now find themselves as terminally ill, the little minds of children have been warped (perhaps forever) by all this cowardly c**p by adults, cases of mental illness are through the roof, domestic violence has risen, we are being dictated to on a daily basis about what we can and can't do by a bunch of people who really haven't got a clue (today you can visit your mum but tomorrow you can't kind of nonsense) and all of this because of a virus, there are over 3000000 different viruses that have and do circulate this globe, millions of different types of bacteria and yet shockingly enough there are still over 7 billion of us humans roaming the earth, the year 2020 will go down in history as the year the world's rubbish jumped back inside its body


Covid 19 - the most successful anarchist the world has ever witnessed
The thing is though, there's a difference between what you believe and what is fact. This is quite a common problem unfortunately, humans give so much credence to subjectivity they forget objectivity supercedes it.  You say you don't believe face masks will stop or slow the spread of Covid, but it's fact that it will, no amount of belief or will power will change the facts.

You can toot democracys horn all you want, just because it is the best system we can utilise at the moment doesn't mean it's the best system and without its flaws, No, that awards goes to an automated autocracy, one completely objective, sentient, omniscient A.I decreeing how we all should live, unfortunately, omniscience isn't quite in our grasp yet, if it were, then our political thoughts would become obsolete. One of my issues with democracy is that it gives people who have no clue the same voting power as everyone else, it is far from a perfect system.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 02-08-20, 08:08AM
Staff not even attempting to social distance even on the shop floor when customers are about. Face coverings not covering nose and mouth. Chin guards becoming the new normal.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 02-08-20, 01:02PM
Sadly until every colleague suffers a bereavement due to covid way too many will think they are immune from the virus......if you moan about a face mask, would you equally turn down a oxygen mask or a ventilator
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: jonty on 02-08-20, 08:14PM
Ouch

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8584347/amp/Customer-numbers-fall-compulsory-face-masks-introduced-shops-figures-reveal.html?__twitter_impression=true
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 02-08-20, 10:16PM
Quote from: londoner83 on 02-08-20, 01:02PM
Sadly until every colleague suffers a bereavement due to covid way too many will think they are immune from the virus......if you moan about a face mask, would you equally turn down a oxygen mask or a ventilator

well said  :thumbup: :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 02-08-20, 10:20PM
Quote from: notsofunny on 02-08-20, 10:16PM
Quote from: londoner83 on 02-08-20, 01:02PM
Sadly until every colleague suffers a bereavement due to covid way too many will think they are immune from the virus......if you moan about a face mask, would you equally turn down a oxygen mask or a ventilator

well said  :thumbup: :thumbup:

Does not say what  it was compared to last years school holidays , and at the same time does it mean that sales have fallen , or that people are no longer going to buy food ? or tht on line sales have gone up ,,,  I don't read to much into it
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Panicworker on 03-08-20, 07:54AM
Day 5 without a mask been into store manager office for a chat they don't like it when you tell them you have health problems.
I think they are bullying staff to wear masks it to cut out the 2 meter rule .
Tesco doesn't follow the science just the money
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 03-08-20, 09:18AM
If you have genuine health problems you’re exempt, if they continue to harass you! tell them you will rase a grievance for disability discrimination, and you will be informing head office as well. Tesco head office takes disability discrimination very seriously. Well I don’t know what’s wrong with you but if any of your health problems are classed as a disability then the above is valid, I have asthma and it’s classed as a disability, even though I wear a mask my manager has said I don’t need too
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 03-08-20, 09:42AM
" if any of your health problems are classed as a disability then the above is valid"

Not quiet true, it has to be a disability or health problem that wearing a mask would cause problems or distress.

A disability related solely to your legs does not excuse one from wearing a mask.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 03-08-20, 10:04AM
Yes I fully sympathise with the people who genuinely are unable to wear a mask, and I am sure every store and their manager is aware of these colleagues who probably have loads of info on their file from GPs, Hospitals etc  to back this up.

However in my branch there are a sizeable minority who won't wear a mask coz they don't like it, won't be told what to do etc who have never logged on their health declaration any underlying breathing illnesses, have never had time off due to sickness for underlyimg breathing issues, have never requested shift swaps to see a GP for breathing issues...  ...yet pull out a random asthma pump and say they are exempt.

Yes its not comfortable, yes a few years ago I laughed at tourist's in London wearing face coverings but you know what - if everyone that could, did actually wear a mask this virus would slow its spread and life might return to normal. I'd hate a vulnerable customer to come in shopping and leave with their goods, clubcard points and a death sentence having caught Covid from.a unmasked colleagues.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bacons on 03-08-20, 02:45PM
Quote from: dotnochance on 03-08-20, 09:18AM
If you have genuine health problems you’re exempt,

Everyone is exempt by virtue of face masks not being mandatory.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lackofinterest on 03-08-20, 04:13PM
very true. it's a colleagues individual choice whether they wear a mask or not. no reason required!!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 03-08-20, 04:32PM
Everyone is exempt mask are not mandatory. No need to be a Sunflower.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 03-08-20, 04:53PM
Wonder how many who say they do not have to wear a mask as it is not mandatory, wear staff uniform because they are told they have to, or other company rules to keep their employment.

Why do they do that  :o  8-)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 05-08-20, 10:51AM
Large Aldi last Friday, very few people wearing masks, definitely no staff..as a resort area popular with Manchester/Liverpool, large influx of caravan sites, hotels and day visitors, shopping, mingling in large groups, no social distancing whatsoever  :-X

Popped into small local Tesco today 8am...really reassuring to see ALL staff wearing face masks or looser scarf/face mask combined, including SM (who, as usual was filling) Customers following suit, and being reminded of barrier line at checkout. More impressive being, this is in Wales, where the wearing of face coverings is NOT mandatory  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lemons84 on 06-08-20, 02:44PM
In our store Dotcom team leaders are going around asking the pickers why the aren’t wearing face masks.

Many of us have our reasons- Health/ anxiety etc and have previously stated why they aren’t wearing one. Fair enough..

This is being done under the guise of a ‘Service check’ on staff.. checking uniform etc..

This is being done on the shop floor in front of customers and other staff- staff are expected to explain themselves on the shop floor which in my opinion isn’t professional ( Tesco professional?!) Considering we’re divulging personal information I think it’s out of order.

Are they allowed to do this or would a quick chat off the shop floor be more appropriate? I’m unsure who to complain to about this !
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Hammer10 on 06-08-20, 03:15PM
At their meeting before their shift starts should be when it is addressed.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gaz123 on 06-08-20, 05:33PM
"Anxiety"? FFS.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taliahad on 06-08-20, 05:46PM
Quote from: Nomad on 03-08-20, 04:53PM
Wonder how many who say they do not have to wear a mask as it is not mandatory, wear staff uniform because they are told they have to, or other company rules to keep their employment.

Why do they do that  :o  8-)

Lots of people I should imagine but then again wearing a uniform is a reasonable rule.  I'm happy to wear a uniform, it's comfortable, provided free and saves me the effort and expense of buying my own work clothes.   Masks however are uncomfortable and they're hot and they get in my way, they're a bother and a nuisance  That's the difference. 
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 06-08-20, 07:38PM
You don't have to wear a mask there's your answer it's not compulsory not essential to your employment no other explanation needed
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bacons on 06-08-20, 07:40PM
Quote from: Nomad on 03-08-20, 04:53PM
Wonder how many who say they do not have to wear a mask as it is not mandatory, wear staff uniform because they are told they have to, or other company rules to keep their employment.

Why do they do that  :o  8-)

Uniform and rules are mandatory. Face masks aren't. It's quite simple. It is stated explicitly in the missive posted few pages back.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 06-08-20, 08:17PM
Bacons, care to point out where that is.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 06-08-20, 08:35PM
Quote from: Bacons on 06-08-20, 07:40PM
Quote from: Nomad on 03-08-20, 04:53PM
Wonder how many who say they do not have to wear a mask as it is not mandatory, wear staff uniform because they are told they have to, or other company rules to keep their employment.

Why do they do that  :o  8-)

Uniform and rules are mandatory. Face masks aren't. It's quite simple. It is stated explicitly in the missive posted few pages back.

As a Retail employee, it isn't mandatory to wear a facemask at work as it's stated so in the law, however, the law lends itself to the unsavoury category of state of exception, or to apply to some but not to others. In fact it shows how subjectivity in the lawmaking process leads to nonsense being forced on to the people ( and why people need to leave the law making to the  500 iqs, not the politicians).

So yes, it isn't mandatory, but common sense that a mask should be worn while working as not to upset the antiestablishmentarians out there (there's more than people think.) As well as the obvious of preventing infection.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 06-08-20, 09:07PM
Mandatory, can be that which is ordered by legislation OR by a person, company or organisation that deem it to be mandatory.

I.E. if company/management state you must wear certain uniform including a mask etc then it is mandatory (bar exceptions).

Mandatory is not a word that applies solely to government legislation.

I.E.  It is mandatory for you to wipe your foot wear before entering my home.  if you do not then I can refuse you entry.   8)


Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 06-08-20, 09:46PM
I wasn't aware that Tesco themselves made it mandatory, I thought it was more of a managerial style choice.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 06-08-20, 10:31PM
Even if it is a local management decision then it may still be mandatory under the 'reasonable request' principle.

If I had no exception due to health, then I would not want to argue that it was unreasonable.

We can go round in circles.  However, and I hate to say this, the basic principle of employee - employer( and by extension MM) relationship is that they can tell one what one is required to do (within reason).
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: alf on 06-08-20, 11:36PM
3. What should I do if a colleague refuses to wear a mask?
Wearing a face covering can be uncomfortable and you should take the time to understand the colleague’s concerns and if they are exempt for any reason. It is strongly recommended by the Government, that colleagues working in store wear a mask, but it is ultimately an individual’s choice and responsibility. Where there is a significant concern, we should offer a face visor (if available) as an alternative to a mask before considering non-customer facing duties. 

That's for England/Wales/NI, reading the policy it seems the wearing of face coverings is different in Scotland, as it is legally mandatory for retailworkers as it is for customers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 07-08-20, 08:00AM
That is as it should be, it's a senseless provision to only make it so for one category of people but not for others.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 07-08-20, 11:29AM
Alf, thank you.  That does seem to make it clear that company policy, exc Scotland, removes the ability for local MM to make it mandatory for local staff to wear masks.

Agree NightAndDay. I and my family member, who is in the high risk category, have been shopping early this morning and I would have lost count, had I been trying, of the number of staff who not only passed very close but came and stood nearby to achieve their task(s), and yes I do appreciate some of them may have a health exception.

I am sorry for taking this thread a little of track due to, in my opinion, that there were those who either felt or believed that the term mandatory could only be applied to government legislation.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: manbearpig on 07-08-20, 05:02PM
Face masks make the customers feel invincible like the virus is gone. I've been filling shelves and have at least 5-6 customers per shift either come up right beside me or literally over me to grab something off the shelf, not even an "excuse me" or nothing, it's like I'm invisible to these people. Social distancing has gone out the window.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: expressman77 on 08-08-20, 10:34PM
Quote from: gaz123 on 06-08-20, 05:33PM
"Anxiety"? FFS.
Not sure what you mean "anxiety FFs", you think that's not  a reason for not wanting to wear one.
Guess you don't suffer from it and and how sometimes having something over your face can make you feel more stressed and anxious.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: expressman77 on 08-08-20, 10:37PM
Quote from: taliahad on 06-08-20, 05:46PM
Quote from: Nomad on 03-08-20, 04:53PM
Wonder how many who say they do not have to wear a mask as it is not mandatory, wear staff uniform because they are told they have to, or other company rules to keep their employment.

Why do they do that  :o  8-)

Lots of people I should imagine but then again wearing a uniform is a reasonable rule.  I'm happy to wear a uniform, it's comfortable, provided free and saves me the effort and expense of buying my own work clothes.   Masks however are uncomfortable and they're hot and they get in my way, they're a bother and a nuisance  That's the difference.

I think catching Covid and needing a ventilator is more of a nuisance, don't think wearing a mask to help not spread it isn't that unreasonable.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 09-08-20, 11:38AM
I would imagine there would be some claustrophobics that have a problem with having a mask over their nose and mouth.  Some may even work in a supermarket due to its general nature of being large and open.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Duff McKagan on 09-08-20, 11:47AM
Pretty much nobody is wearing face masks in our store...a handful of staff including myself and that’s it..nobody is challenged. There’s one tiny sign on the front door and that’s it...it’s not taken seriously at all...the whole pandemic hasn’t been taken seriously to be honest, it’s been a joke.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 09-08-20, 12:18PM
Quote from: expressman77 on 08-08-20, 10:34PM
Quote from: gaz123 on 06-08-20, 05:33PM
"Anxiety"? FFS.
Not sure what you mean "anxiety FFs", you think that's not  a reason for not wanting to wear one.
Guess you don't suffer from it and and how sometimes having something over your face can make you feel more stressed and anxious.
I suffer from anxiety,I take medication daily, I'm wearing a mask. Just wear the darn thing. It's amazing how many people now seem to suffer from anxiety, asthma, claustrophobia etc.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gaz123 on 09-08-20, 12:51PM
Quote from: Mark calloway on 09-08-20, 12:18PMIt's amazing how many people now seem to suffer from anxiety, asthma, claustrophobia etc.
So many 'special snowflakes' these days.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 09-08-20, 12:56PM
Certainly is.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 09-08-20, 01:29PM
So many opinionated,entitled there are as well.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: expressman77 on 09-08-20, 02:06PM
Quote from: Nomad on 09-08-20, 11:38AM
I would imagine there would be some claustrophobics that have a problem with having a mask over their nose and mouth.  Some may even work in a supermarket due to its general nature of being large and open.
i did mean if you havent a health issue
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 16-08-20, 04:25PM
I received a written message from the manager to sign:
Dear Tesco Employee,
........
It is essential we adhere to looking(?) after our welfare within work and we request the folowing:
1.When entering and exiting the premises you were(?)face coverings at all times
2.When on your breaks-purchasing-going outside-or-canteen/cafe you wear face coverings
There are not Tesco request,these are purely stated by the Goverment as part of its Law implemented Strategy set out for Shoppers protection.
It is Vital you read,understand and fully comply to this letter as any further occurrences may lead to investigatory due to Gross misconduct and could lead to your dismissal from the Company.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Morris999 on 16-08-20, 05:11PM
I fail to see what the issue is with the letter other than some bad spelling.
If you are physically not being paid, then you wear a face covering on the shop floor unless you are covered by the exemptions.
Seems there’s an issue either with yourself or in your store where colleagues are failing to adhere to government guidelines/law, and the managers are reminding you off that.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 16-08-20, 05:54PM
Quote from: taichi on 16-08-20, 04:25PM
I received a written message from the manager to sign:
Dear Tesco Employee,
........
It is essential we adhere to looking(?) after our welfare within work and we request the folowing:
1.When entering and exiting the premises you were(?)face coverings at all times
2.When on your breaks-purchasing-going outside-or-canteen/cafe you wear face coverings
There are not Tesco request,these are purely stated by the Goverment as part of its Law implemented Strategy set out for Shoppers protection.
It is Vital you read,understand and fully comply to this letter as any further occurrences may lead to investigatory due to Gross misconduct and could lead to your dismissal from the Company.

No issue with face masks but where has that letter come from, was it just something your boss wrote up or is it an actual Tesco document ?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 16-08-20, 06:19PM
If an “employee” you do not have to wear a face covering during working hours by law it is only a Tesco recommendation. I have been told it is policy but have yet to see one. I have also been told it is a  “reasonable request” for a manager to ask/question colleagues on the wearing of a covering. We do not question customers and an employee is no different.

If a “customer” you have to wear a face covering by law. The police however are never going to enforce this as they do not have the resources. People could also have an medical reason not to wear a covering and police have no power to probe about individuals private medical matters.

Long and short face coverings only need to be worn if using or entering/exiting the store when not considered an “employee” as per your paid working hours unless you are exempt as a “employee” and “customer”.

Have heard managers say  “how can we expect customers to wear coverings when none of the employees are” This should not even be a consideration we are not working to be an example to the customer.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 16-08-20, 08:04PM
Quote from: Morris999 on 16-08-20, 05:11PM
I fail to see what the issue is with the letter other than some bad spelling.
If you are physically not being paid, then you wear a face covering on the shop floor unless you are covered by the exemptions.
Seems there’s an issue either with yourself or in your store where colleagues are failing to adhere to government guidelines/law, and the managers are reminding you off that.

Its seems to be pointing out that when you are not working , Like shopping in store you are just like anyone else ,just a customer so should be sticking to the rules ,, It maters not if it is if it comes from head office or if its something that's been pointed out by Managers ,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 16-08-20, 09:30PM
Quote from: penguin on 16-08-20, 05:54PM
Quote from: taichi on 16-08-20, 04:25PM
I received a written message from the manager to sign:
Dear Tesco Employee,
........
It is essential we adhere to looking(?) after our welfare within work and we request the folowing:
1.When entering and exiting the premises you were(?)face coverings at all times
2.When on your breaks-purchasing-going outside-or-canteen/cafe you wear face coverings
There are not Tesco request,these are purely stated by the Goverment as part of its Law implemented Strategy set out for Shoppers protection.
It is Vital you read,understand and fully comply to this letter as any further occurrences may lead to investigatory due to Gross misconduct and could lead to your dismissal from the Company.

No issue with face masks but where has that letter come from, was it just something your boss wrote up or is it an actual Tesco document ?

This document was given to each employee.No one signed it as the author.There is no indication that this is an official Tesco document.There is only room for my and my manager's signature and the date of course.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 16-08-20, 09:41PM
Quote from: notsofunny on 16-08-20, 08:04PM
Quote from: Morris999 on 16-08-20, 05:11PM
I fail to see what the issue is with the letter other than some bad spelling.
If you are physically not being paid, then you wear a face covering on the shop floor unless you are covered by the exemptions.
Seems there’s an issue either with yourself or in your store where colleagues are failing to adhere to government guidelines/law, and the managers are reminding you off that.

Its seems to be pointing out that when you are not working , Like shopping in store you are just like anyone else ,just a customer so should be sticking to the rules ,, It maters not if it is if it comes from head office or if its something that's been pointed out by Managers ,

I agree, but it also says:
"There are Medical exemptions to not using Face PPE,for this we request you provide your direct Team Manager documentation of your exemption as to make other arrangements and to support you within your role and dept."
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 16-08-20, 09:56PM
Quote from: Morris999 on 16-08-20, 05:11PM
I fail to see what the issue is with the letter other than some bad spelling.
If you are physically not being paid, then you wear a face covering on the shop floor unless you are covered by the exemptions.
Seems there’s an issue either with yourself or in your store where colleagues are failing to adhere to government guidelines/law, and the managers are reminding you off that.

No Tesco official document requires you to wear a mask, so information about possible disciplinary action and / or dismissal is a bit exaggerated.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gaz123 on 17-08-20, 01:24AM
If that's word-for-word a copy of what your manager wrote, then clearly a shortfall in basic literacy skills is no barrier to an ascent into management with Tesco.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 17-08-20, 02:31AM
[mod]Please do not quote immediately prior post(s).[/mod]

There is one more interesting fragment in this document:
"..............every individual must adhere with No PPE(Personal Product Protection)......"
Apparently he was trying to write something on his own and it didn't work out well.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bacons on 17-08-20, 04:59PM
Quote from: taichi on 16-08-20, 04:25PM
I received a written message from the manager to sign:
Dear Tesco Employee,
........
It is essential we adhere to looking(?) after our welfare within work and we request the folowing:
1.When entering and exiting the premises you were(?)face coverings at all times
2.When on your breaks-purchasing-going outside-or-canteen/cafe you wear face coverings
There are not Tesco request,these are purely stated by the Goverment as part of its Law implemented Strategy set out for Shoppers protection.
It is Vital you read,understand and fully comply to this letter as any further occurrences may lead to investigatory due to Gross misconduct and could lead to your dismissal from the Company.

Write F on it before you give it back to her.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bacons on 17-08-20, 05:02PM
Quote from: gaz123 on 17-08-20, 01:24AM
If that's word-for-word a copy of what your manager wrote, then clearly a shortfall in basic literacy skills is no barrier to an ascent into management with Tesco.

Education is the main barrier to Tesco's institutionalisation of its management.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 17-08-20, 08:15PM
Most store managers are illiterate or innumerate, chances are he/she printed it off.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Poolboy77 on 17-08-20, 08:43PM
Can I just ask what would happen if there was a chemical attack and we had to all wear masks would people refuse to wear them due to health grounds. It going against the grain here but it’s down to everyone to wear a mask to keep infection rates down. I completely agree that as a colleague you should be made to sign a disclaimer that your are refusing to wear one. If you were to then be infected would you then end up putting a claim in against the company ? I think the company should protect it self from any potential claim that people will no doubt put in.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 17-08-20, 09:52PM
If a chemical attack had taken place, the mask that Tesco offers to workers would not help at all. -))
TESCO does not force anyone to sign a non-sue commitment, as it is impossible to prove whether someone was infected at work or elsewhere.

I put the content of the document mainly to ask if other colleagues received a similar form?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 18-08-20, 12:25PM
I think the point being made was... If a threat of chemical attack, would people refuse to don a chemical protective face mask  ???
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: sammy on 25-08-20, 04:37PM
Today Tesco and USDAW have written a joint letter to all colleagues asking for their support in wearing face coverings in stores across the UK.

Dear colleagues,

The last few months have been challenging to say the least for all our colleagues in stores who have been working hard to serve our customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. We recognise that for some this challenge has been compounded by the recently introduced requirement for customers to wear face coverings in stores. Face coverings are also mandatory for colleagues in Scotland and strongly recommended for colleagues in all other parts of the UK.

Please do remember though, that the guidance stresses, that as well as wearing a face covering, everyone must:

• practice safe social distancing;
• wash or sanitise your hands regularly; and
• frequently clean and disinfect objects and surfaces
as these are the most effective ways that you can protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
Face coverings are mainly intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of the virus that causes infection from COVID-19.We recognise that some colleagues and customers are exempt from wearing face coverings. It has been made clear that retailers are not expected to police/enforce the wearing of face coverings by customers. However, we have used clear signage reminding customers of the need to wear them in store. We believe this is the best approach to protect colleagues from unnecessary confrontations with customers and line with Tesco’s values of treating people how they want to be treated. For our colleagues, we are strongly encouraging those who are not exempt from wearing face coverings to wear them in customer facing areas of the store and have made masks available to colleagues who choose to wear them since April.

We are committed to creating a safe environment for our colleagues and customers and from the outset of the pandemic in the UK have implemented measures across our stores to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission to colleagues and customers. However, none of us knows if we are carrying the virus asymptomatically at any given time and unwittingly infecting others and colleagues must stay vigilant to the need to comply with the Government’s COVID-19 guidance. Disappointingly we are now starting to see the usage of face coverings decline amongst colleagues in stores to a level which is making other colleagues who do wear them feel unsafe and unprotected. We understand that wearing a face covering is uncomfortable and unpleasant for many, particularly during hot weather which we have seen recently. We would ask you to think about your fellow colleagues and customers and please wear a face covering whenever you are in a customer facing area â€" unless you are behind a protective screen or have a valid exemption. If you believe you are exempt or have any concerns about using a face covering then please speak to your manager.

We acknowledge that there have been some challenges in implementing this change but we hope that by continuing to take this voluntary approach on face coverings, which is supported by USDAW, we can ensure that our colleagues and customers continue to be protected and return home safe to their family and loved ones every day.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 25-08-20, 05:34PM
So they want colleagues to wear masks in customer areas ? It's really about wanting to look safe to customers or does the virus not exist in warehouse,  canteen etc.   They obviously only care about appearances .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: StinkyPoo on 25-08-20, 07:29PM
How come other supermarkets don't wear them then? Don't USDAW represent them too?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 25-08-20, 09:40PM
Got me on creating a safe environment......the jokes keep coming 👌😂😂😂😂
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 26-08-20, 12:14AM
Quote from: StinkyPoo on 25-08-20, 07:29PM
How come other supermarkets don't wear them then? Don't USDAW represent them too?

Worth checking out:
Any businesses or staff who challenge people who are not wearing a face mask may end up dealing with someone who has a disability and, depending on how the situation develops, they may find they have committed:

an offence for which they are liable on summary conviction to pay a fine of up to £5,000 - section 112 (Aiding contraventions) of the  Equality Act 2010; and/or

an act of disability discrimination and be ordered to pay to any individual who suffers injury to feelings compensation between £900 and  £9,000 - section 119 (Remedies) of the Equality Act 2010.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: 1man2jobs on 26-08-20, 12:45AM
Practice safe social distancing.. oh yeah gang fill on aisles 22, 23 and 24
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Pathfinder on 19-09-20, 11:43AM
Hi just asking what is happening in stores regarding customers entering the store without face masks .   Having just been brought in Wales somewhat behind England   ...are customers stopped at door or freely allowed to wander into the store. We have been told to let anyone into the shop mask or no mask . We are getting more abuse from customers wearing masks for allowing non wearing customers to walk in the shop.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: fscer on 19-09-20, 12:16PM
Tell the customer its not for them or you to police. Its none of their business.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 19-09-20, 12:46PM
remind them they are free to go elsewhere. 
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: whatajoke2019 on 19-09-20, 04:45PM
I’ve had it a couple of times where customers have asked me why I’m not stopping people coming in who aren’t wearing masks. Just apologised and said we haven’t got the powers to enforce it.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 19-09-20, 07:25PM
Looking at the infection rate, the 2nd wave is here, BoJo's announcing new nationwide restrictions next week, looks like we're heading into lockdown territory.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Bacons on 19-09-20, 08:07PM
Testing rate is 2000x what is was at the peak of first wave so it's hardly that bad. Another lock down would be economic suicide.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 20-09-20, 07:17AM
We put out tannoy S to say not everyone can wear masks due to health issues. We have been wearing for ages now as I'm in a Scottish store, tannoy was only needed in the beginning.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 20-09-20, 10:47AM
Quote from: Bacons on 19-09-20, 08:07PM
Testing rate is 2000x what is was at the peak of first wave so it's hardly that bad. Another lock down would be economic suicide.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/09/20/second-lockdown-uk-new-rules-another-national/ looks like a "short circuit" 2nd lockdown is on the cards, reduced opening times from imposed 10pm curfews looks likely to happen next week.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Piggo64 on 20-09-20, 03:50PM
Quote from: King1999 on 09-08-20, 01:29PM
So many opinionated,entitled there are as well.
so true
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 20-09-20, 05:26PM
Everyone’s entitled to an opinion ;D
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 20-09-20, 09:33PM
Of course they are.That’s the problem 😉
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 21-09-20, 08:33AM
Face masks are the greatest thing to be ever introduced to retail, annoying customers being dicks, well face masks hid me mouthing f*** YOU to every single one of them!!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 21-09-20, 09:45AM
 8-) nice one  :thumbup:

Won't be long till Tesco insist on clear masks, so that you can be seen to be smiling, whilst being verbally abused  ;D
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: thor god of thunder on 21-09-20, 10:02AM
im sure I read somewhere Tesco was having its own masks made...as part of uniform? don't know if any one else had heard this? they are great though lets face it no smiling and a nice barber between you and customers, its harder for people to just look at you and know they want something so you can just carry on like they are not there....apart from the masses who seem to have just developed asthma overnight of course
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Piggo64 on 21-09-20, 12:50PM
Quote from: lucgeo on 30-07-20, 10:41PM
Quote from: Paulie on 30-07-20, 08:13PM
You can't force people to wear masks, i don't care about heartbreak stories of elderly parents with a bunch of existing health problems. I'm old myself, but I can see the damage mentally already with the younger generations. I don't want to tell my grandchildren in a few years there used to be a time where we never wore face masks at work. Let's get life back to normal, shield people who are vulnerable and rest of us get on with it.

Shame on you  :thumbdown: :-X :-X

Let's hope your grandchildren don't just leave you to it, not bothering or caring when you're the elderly relative with a bunch of health issues.
I'm really at a loss to understand how the younger generation can be mentally damaged from wearing a face mask ??? ???
Hope you feel the same when you are only allowed out for 1 hour per day. If you are at a loss then get your head out of the sand and do some research.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 21-09-20, 02:48PM
Getting "back to normal" when Covid rates are at 4,400+ cases a days is just moronic, I'm actually of the position that people should do what they want, I've had enough of the government trying to make everything idiot-proof, let natural selection work as intended I say and weed out the intellectually challenged.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 21-09-20, 02:58PM
 :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
"DO SOME RESEARCH"
:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
That line is always from the same people who have never read a book never mind doing research
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 23-09-20, 10:03AM
Same as our shop, Dot Com pickers making excuses for not wearing facemasks, never known a department that has so many staff with medical problems

Quote from: lemons84 on 06-08-20, 02:44PM
In our store Dotcom team leaders are going around asking the pickers why the aren’t wearing face masks.

Many of us have our reasons- Health/ anxiety etc and have previously stated why they aren’t wearing one. Fair enough..

This is being done under the guise of a ‘Service check’ on staff.. checking uniform etc..

This is being done on the shop floor in front of customers and other staff- staff are expected to explain themselves on the shop floor which in my opinion isn’t professional ( Tesco professional?!) Considering we’re divulging personal information I think it’s out of order.

Are they allowed to do this or would a quick chat off the shop floor be more appropriate? I’m unsure who to complain to about this !
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 23-09-20, 03:55PM
Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make your own
Updated 23 September 2020.

Those who have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering should not be routinely asked to give any written evidence of this, this includes exemption cards. No person needs to seek advice or request a letter from a medical professional about their reason for not wearing a face covering.

Some people may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering. This could be in the form of an exemption card, badge or even a home-made sign.

This is a personal choice and is not necessary in law.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 23-09-20, 07:47PM
Taichi  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: notsofunny on 24-09-20, 02:38AM
Quote from: taichi on 23-09-20, 03:55PM
Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make your own
Updated 23 September 2020.

Those who have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering should not be routinely asked to give any written evidence of this, this includes exemption cards. No person needs to seek advice or request a letter from a medical professional about their reason for not wearing a face covering.

Some people may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering. This could be in the form of an exemption card, badge or even a home-made sign.

This is a personal choice and is not necessary in law.

All it would take is for someone to contact the local authority to make a complaint to say store staff are not complying to new Law which says staff are to use face covering ,
this in turn will lead Those that be to ask staff to comply or show medical letter to say they cant have one on ,
Or as is the case in one store the staff member has told those that be to insure all staff are covering the face  and store is following covid law as far as the store workings goes ,if not then she should not have to work and will report it to health authority and Union ,

I do know that a few that have said they cant have been told they will be on the tills or off loading at the back door ,, ???
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fixxer on 24-09-20, 12:23PM
Quote from: notsofunny on 24-09-20, 02:38AM
I do know that a few that have said they cant have been told they will be on the tills or off loading at the back door ,, ???

Makes sense, if you can't comfortably do your job in the govt mandated protection then move you to a job that can be done without that protection.
Not only is it "reasonable adjustment" it might help focus the mind of some who are perhaps just using the fact they one were issued an inhaler 20 years ago to stop them having to wear a mask now because they really don't find it comfortable.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 24-09-20, 02:56PM
So why is anyone under the impression backdoor staff do ot need face coverings the guideline says all retail staff, backdoor staff are still classed as such and come into contact with drivers etc, wearing a face covering is not just about customer facing roles, it is also for each other, delivery drivers, company reps etc. Being exempt on health grounds is not a reason to be moving anyone's hours or departments that would be health discrimation
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 24-09-20, 04:00PM
Quote from: notsofunny on 24-09-20, 02:38AM
Quote from: taichi on 23-09-20, 03:55PM
Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make your own
Updated 23 September 2020.

Those who have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering should not be routinely asked to give any written evidence of this, this includes exemption cards. No person needs to seek advice or request a letter from a medical professional about their reason for not wearing a face covering.

Some people may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering. This could be in the form of an exemption card, badge or even a home-made sign.

This is a personal choice and is not necessary in law.

All it would take is for someone to contact the local authority to make a complaint to say store staff are not complying to new Law which says staff are to use face covering ,
this in turn will lead Those that be to ask staff to comply or show medical letter to say they cant have one on ,
Or as is the case in one store the staff member has told those that be to insure all staff are covering the face  and store is following covid law as far as the store workings goes ,if not then she should not have to work and will report it to health authority and Union ,

I do know that a few that have said they cant have been told they will be on the tills or off loading at the back door ,, ???

"staff are not complying to new Law"
It's not a law.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 24-09-20, 05:48PM
It is.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/592/contents/made
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 24-09-20, 06:29PM
I was in a Tesco today - not where I work - and noted that a couple of the dotcom pickers were not wearing masks; as far as I could tell, most other staff were wearing masks bar a couple who were wearing the sunflower lanyard so presumably exempt.

Not sure on the impact on customer service if we're all wearing masks for the next six months -

I know.....customers and staff will be safer by wearing masks......so six months of non-communication/customer service is a small price to pay.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 24-09-20, 08:56PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 24-09-20, 05:48PM
It is.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/592/contents/made

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings on Public Transport) (England) Regulations 2020? :) :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Siwel123 on 24-09-20, 09:40PM
Just because they were not wearing the landyard doesn't mean they're not exempt. The landyard wasn't even designed for being exempt for masks anyway. And regardless our store ran out of the landyards at the start and never have enough stock for all exempt staff.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 24-09-20, 10:39PM
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings in a Relevant Place) (England) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2020
Made23rd September 2020

Coming into force at 12.01 a.m. on 24th September 2020.
In accordance with section 45R of that Act the Secretary of State is of the opinion that, by reason of urgency, it is necessary to make this instrument without a draft having been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of Parliament. 8)

These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings in a Relevant Place) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/791) such that employees and other persons providing services in public houses will be required to wear face coverings when they are in close proximity to members of the public unless they are exempt or have a reasonable excuse.

No regulatory impact assessment has been prepared for these Regulations.

An Explanatory Memorandum has been published alongside this instrument at www.legislation.gov.uk.

"unless they are exempt or have a reasonable excuse"

Guidance
Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make your own
Updated 24 September 2020

Those who have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering should not be routinely asked to give any written evidence of this, this includes exemption cards. No person needs to seek advice or request a letter from a medical professional about their reason for not wearing a face covering.

Some people may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering. This could be in the form of an exemption card, badge or even a home-made sign.

This is a personal choice and is not necessary in law.



Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Tossgo on 25-09-20, 07:49AM
So all colleagues need to wear a mask whilst on the shop floor (unless medically exempt).
Does this include in offices and out in back areas such as the warehouse not on the shop floor? As our store seem to be trying to enforce wearing a face mask in ALL areas of the store even in offices etc?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 25-09-20, 09:12AM
Quote from: taichi on 24-09-20, 08:56PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 24-09-20, 05:48PM
It is.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/592/contents/made

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings on Public Transport) (England) Regulations 2020? :) :thumbup:
https://fullfact.org/online/police-mask-fines-arrests/  :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Also https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

The reason the pandemic is still going on is because people like yourself don't wear a mask in public places because you think it's a conspiracy theory, stop spreading misinformation.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 25-09-20, 09:13AM
From the government web site (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own)

QuoteStaff in indoor settings

Face coverings must be worn by retail, leisure and hospitality staff working in areas that are open to the public and where they’re likely to come into contact with a member of the public.

Quite clear that backroom areas are not included and neither are dot com drivers unless they enter a customer's home but stay outside.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 25-09-20, 02:27PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 25-09-20, 09:12AM
Quote from: taichi on 24-09-20, 08:56PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 24-09-20, 05:48PM
It is.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/592/contents/made

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings on Public Transport) (England) Regulations 2020? :) :thumbup:
https://fullfact.org/online/police-mask-fines-arrests/  :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Also https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

The reason the pandemic is still going on is because people like yourself don't wear a mask in public places because you think it's a conspiracy theory, stop spreading misinformation.

"stop spreading misinformation"
Do you call the official government website "misinformation"? 8)
Not good.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 25-09-20, 02:39PM
Quote from: Tossgo on 25-09-20, 07:49AM
So all colleagues need to wear a mask whilst on the shop floor (unless medically exempt).
Does this include in offices and out in back areas such as the warehouse not on the shop floor? As our store seem to be trying to enforce wearing a face mask in ALL areas of the store even in offices etc?

So all colleagues need to wear a mask whilst on the shop floor (unless medically exempt).
Yes.

As our store seem to be trying to enforce wearing a face mask in ALL areas of the store even in offices etc?

I suggest you politely ask for a written justification, of course signed by the person responsible for it.
Don't waste your time - let the tesco managers do the work :)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 25-09-20, 11:41PM
I don't want to wear a mask no one does but it's to protect ourselves, other workers our family's and friends so wherever we work let's just wear one,only part of my working week is customer facing I have never worn a mask but I  always will now partly out of fairness to those who are going to have to wear one all the timel so just be adults about it and be thankful we're still alive with jobs to moan about. I have friends in real dire straits due to covid facing hunger and homelessness having to wear a mask to work just doesn't compare some of you get a grip
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 26-09-20, 03:32AM
Quote from: Tossgo on 25-09-20, 07:49AM
So all colleagues need to wear a mask whilst on the shop floor (unless medically exempt).
Does this include in offices and out in back areas such as the warehouse not on the shop floor? As our store seem to be trying to enforce wearing a face mask in ALL areas of the store even in offices etc?

Could it be that you have a colleague in your store that has tested positive.

Could it be that you have a colleague working in the back areas that feels vulnerable and unsafe.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Tossgo on 26-09-20, 05:05PM
UPDATE - Can colleagues wear a face visor instead of a face covering?
No - Face visors can be worn in addition to face coverings but not instead of.

So basically everyone wearing a face shield/visor has to wear a mask/covering underneath,
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lackofinterest on 27-09-20, 08:18AM
a visor is a face covering!!!! has the government stated this rule?????
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 27-09-20, 10:09AM
Yes, they have stated what counts as face covering if you look at the information on their web site.  A visor does not meet those criteria.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Deckard55 on 27-09-20, 10:09AM
Evidently a manager was telling me that all store managers had a message from the SD`s last week that visors were not allowed without a mask and masks have to be worn in the warehouse and were not allowed to be taken off. Seems a bit harsh as when in the warehouse nearly all the time have nobody else anywhere near me and it was nice just to take them off for a little bit just to have a bit of a "breather". All the Government advice I have seen states that masks must be worn when dealing in customer facing areas and nothing about when you are in the warehouse?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lackofinterest on 27-09-20, 10:58AM
in that case i'll wear it as a chin warmer and spend more time outside the store in 8-)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 27-09-20, 01:50PM
 8-) you may as well...lots of shoppers and retail staff on Friday, dropping their masks to chin straps, or half mast under their noses..mainly the elderly customers I may add. Also only visors and no masks with some staff.  :-X
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 27-09-20, 02:13PM
Quote from: lackofinterest on 27-09-20, 10:58AMmasks have to be worn in the warehouse and were not allowed to be taken off
That is out of date guidance seemingly based on the original government announcement.  Subsequently clarified on the government web site where it makes it clear that not needed where not likely to come in contact with customers and proper distancing can be maintained.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 27-09-20, 06:36PM
The info that came down on coms re face coverings has been printed off and put up by clock in machine at our store NO Visors without a mask. No masks if behind a screen. No masks needed in back areas unless social distancing is not possible. Masks for shop floor unless exempt
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mark calloway on 28-09-20, 11:08PM
We've been told that even those who are exempt from wearing a mask HAVE to wear a visor on the shop floor as it's law. Is it correct?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 29-09-20, 11:50AM
It is not law, the English government hasn't made amy guidelines surrounding this. It would however probably be advised if it didn't trigger off whatever condition the person has that exempts them from wearing a face mask.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Munchkin on 29-09-20, 02:35PM
If your exemp on health grounds physical or mental you do not have to wear a face covering anywhere or provide any proof other than your spoken reason for not wearing one
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 29-09-20, 04:23PM
That I believe makes the whole law pointless, as everyone could say I have such and such and therefore exempt from wearing one, I believe that a form of ID should be worn by the applicable (and can only be given out by GPs) and should be amended into the law as to not make it completely pointless.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 29-09-20, 04:59PM
oh i like that, how about an armband? i choose a star for the armband symbol!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 29-09-20, 05:01PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 29-09-20, 04:23PM
That I believe makes the whole law pointless, as everyone could say I have such and such and therefore exempt from wearing one, I believe that a form of ID should be worn by the applicable (and can only be given out by GPs) and should be amended into the law as to not make it completely pointless.

I think you should officially propose this to the government. The next step is the armbands with the appropriate inscription or symbol. There were already such solutions, in Germany in the 1930s and 1940s.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 29-09-20, 05:08PM
Quote from: dotnochance on 29-09-20, 04:59PM
oh i like that, how about an armband? i choose a star for the armband symbol!

:thumbup:  :)
star inscribed with the image of corona 19  :)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: hesketh on 29-09-20, 05:20PM
Search 2010 Equality Act
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 29-09-20, 05:26PM
Search covid infection rates  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: barafear on 29-09-20, 06:32PM
Yes, exemptions make things difficult to "police" - apparently there is no such thing as "doctors giving out exemption letters" - I also believe (as someone else said) that there is no onus on a person to "prove" they are exempt.

However, for those genuine people who don't wear face masks, it can be hard for them as everyone is staring at them - or staff/security "tell" them to put a mask on.

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 29-09-20, 08:17PM
Which makes the law pointless, if the equality act 2010 gets in the way of making this common sense amendment enshrined in law then it needs reviewing in light of current circumstances.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 29-09-20, 09:57PM
With the amount of aggrieved customers seeing others not wearing masks properly or at all surely its time government changed the rules.

Very few people genuinely can not wear a cloth mask for the hour or so they are shopping. Those that cant probably should if they can afford to  be shielding as infection rates rise.

Personally believe all shops should be no mask, no entry, with a couple of limited 1hr slots across the week when we will allow those without masks in (like nhs or elderly hour). We wouldn't let customers into a burning building, why are we letting them in to stores in areas with high covid rates without necessary protection
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: taichi on 30-09-20, 02:17PM
Quote from: NightAndDay on 29-09-20, 08:17PM
Which makes the law pointless, if the equality act 2010 gets in the way of making this common sense amendment enshrined in law then it needs reviewing in light of current circumstances.

The powers that ministers are using to respond to the pandemic are based on two Acts of Parliament.

The Coronavirus Act, an emergency piece of legislation fast tracked through Parliament at the end of March, grants extensive powers to the authorities to tackle Covid.

It was used to close schools, postpone elections and stop mass gatherings. It also allows the authorities to forcibly quarantine anyone testing positive for the virus.

It is due to remain in force for two years, although there is a six-month review on Wednesday, when MPs will decide whether it should continue.

But most of the major interventions - including the national lockdown and the current local restrictions across England - are based on much-older legislation going back nearly 40 years.

The 1984 Public Health (Control of Disease) Act, passed by Parliament during the Thatcher era, gave her government and its successors very broad powers to deal with medical emergencies.

Successive measures to control the virus, such as the mandatory wearing of face masks in shops and the "rule of six" limit on gatherings, have been introduced through regulations linked to this law.

Regulations are legislative instruments which must be approved by Parliament but are often not debated.

They can subsequently be amended to authorise further restrictions although ministers are required to review the initial regulations every 28 days when Parliament is sitting.

The Health Protection Regulations 2020, which introduced the lockdown, came into force when Parliament was not sitting in late March and were retrospectively approved in early May.

In some cases during the pandemic, government policy has been based on voluntary guidance which, while it does not have legal force, has often been more restrictive. :thumbup:

Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mutti on 06-10-20, 02:52PM
And now we have the Dept of Business telling councils to stop enforcing the mask legislation.

Barking & Dagenham council served enforcement notices on Sainsbury's, B&M and Morrisons for not ensuring compliance with the law, and Alok Sharma's department contacted the council telling them to
Quote
the BEIS official, who said she was acting on behalf of Sharma, asked the council “to refrain from taking any further action against Lidl, B&M, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons supermarket operations.”

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2020/oct/05/row-after-london-council-is-warned-off-enforcing-mask-rules-in-shops
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Mutti on 06-10-20, 03:06PM

Digressing from the mask issue for a mo, has any attempt at encouraging social distancing been abandoned in all Tesco stores or is it just the one I work in?

Fading stickytape and spots on the floor are so familiar to customers now that they don't notice them and there's noone to prevent queues of 2 or 3 trollies at checkouts. 
People are back to shopping in family groups of 4 or 5 with most of them hovering in the barely wide enough corridor between checkouts and there's nothing done to discourage it.

Surely it's not beyond them to at least put out regular tannoy announcements thanking customers for remembering to give everyone a bit of space?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: fscer on 06-10-20, 03:42PM
Pandemic is over in Tesco.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: King1999 on 06-10-20, 04:36PM
They couldn’t careless.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 06-10-20, 05:13PM
im starting to get real worried with the massive increase of cases 14.5k cases, since im a vulnerable person and tesco seems to thing its over
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 06-10-20, 07:27PM
We have our traffic light system in now so will be interesting to see if it affects numbers .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 06-10-20, 10:14PM
Cue the excuses from customers who don't drive and claim not to understand what the different coloured lights mean.   8-)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 07-10-20, 07:48AM
Without someone manning the door as soon as it opens multiple people rush thru, and even hold it open to allow more in.....
Its a good idea in practice but fails to take account that many will find ways to reduce their queuing time....leading to arguments with our older customers who generally follow the rules.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 07-10-20, 09:37AM
This has worked well with Aldi near me...though I'm unsure if the doors are connected to the light system, in that they don't automatically open when on red. They also have a guy at the door outside monitoring, which would make sense as the entering is determined by the lights, not the assistant, but would help with those all claiming to be colour blind etc...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 07-10-20, 09:58AM
And the 'penalty' for entering on red is  :question:
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 07-10-20, 01:08PM
The penalty is some custom for the store.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: StinkyPoo on 07-10-20, 03:09PM
How will the staff get in? We use the main door so guess we could phone up and say, sorry I'm late, I'm waiting for the lights to change!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 07-10-20, 03:33PM
StinkyPoo  :thumbup: I like your thinking  :)
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 07-10-20, 05:37PM
There is a over ride button but again it soon becomes common knowledge and various people hit the button to avoid queueing.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Janey1959 on 08-10-20, 11:26AM
 How can masks be mandatory when anyone can down load or buy on line an exemption card even when there is nothing wrong with them ,  just because they don't want to wear a mask
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 08-10-20, 12:19PM
I know a few who find it uncomfortable wearing a mask so wear a exemption card lanyard when there is nothing medically wrong with them.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 08-10-20, 09:45PM
If they are not medically unfit to wear one, and the area they are working requires the wearing of a mask, then the managers are failing in their duty of care, by not establishing if the colleague is exempt or not. Tesco could be held liable, should that colleague contract the virus, and spread it, if they aren't medically exempt.
It's quite easy to have a meeting with each colleague claiming to be exempt and ascertaining, by way of a doctor's exemption certificate or their medical history, held in their personnel file, whether or not they are justified to go without a mask.
I would think a note placed in their file, stating that the colleague has claimed to be exempt, should be kept for future reference.

Nobody likes wearing a mask, most find it extremely uncomfortable, but I'd rather be wearing that, than fighting for breath on a ventilator, just because a selfish colleague wants to abuse the system, that helps keep us all safe.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: gomezz on 08-10-20, 11:16PM
Actually it is not easy as the way the government have implemented this policy does not allow for anyone's claim to be exempt to be challenged.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 09-10-20, 07:11AM
Anyone who is not able to wear a mask should have an adjustment passport. If they don't have one already they need one now.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 09-10-20, 11:15AM
"adjustment passport"

Is that mandatory  :question: if so is that by law or by company policy  :question: or neither  :question:
From where or whom does one get an adjustment passport  :question:
Do they need proof of exemption to acquire adjustment passport  :question:
if so who made that proof mandatory  :question:
If required is the proof and/or adjustment passport issued FOC  :question:

Just asking.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 09-10-20, 11:57AM
They introduce policy then tell you to read them in unpaid time. Then they get a surprise when you don’t know procedures.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 09-10-20, 01:47PM
Any Tesco literature you are requested to read/sign as read, is always done during your shift...NEVER in your own time.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 10-10-20, 06:07AM
It's nothing to do with mandatory. It's to do with duty of care. If a colleague has a health issue it should be documented, it's not a matter of proof or medication. It's to do with what support or adjustments that should be put in place.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 10-10-20, 10:48AM
Perhaps it is a health issue they wish to keep to themselves, as they are entitled to do.  Even more so considering the tendency for offices and MM to 'leak' confidential information.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 10-10-20, 04:57PM
Quote from: lucgeo on 09-10-20, 01:47PM
Any Tesco literature you are requested to read/sign as read, is always done during your shift...NEVER in your own time.

My manager used to try that one alot "can you just hang about for 10 mins after clocking out so we can do this training or I can go through this with you" I always refused but many others were only to happy to agree, and ten mins often turned into half an hour for them.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Rumblerumble on 23-10-20, 06:35PM
Not about Face Masks but along similar lines.

The people counter at front of the shop for traffic light system.
Where would you find out the max amount of head count alowed in store?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 03-11-20, 10:49AM
Anyone else who was off for the 12 weeks and have documented pre existing medical problems find it funny that all of us are wearing masks, and yet there are a large number of staff who have no medical issues are all wearing the lanyards and not using  masks.
Now I know they have no medical issues as I know everyone who was off for the 12 weeks, and have asked a few “how come their not wearing a mask”, most said it makes them feel uncomfortable and hot.
What pisses me off the most as someone who has a disability is seeing people abusing the lanyards that’s meant for disabled people
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Nomad on 03-11-20, 11:45AM
Wear a mask or shield, no ifs or buts.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 03-11-20, 12:15PM
Quote from: dotnochance on 03-11-20, 10:49AM
Anyone else who was off for the 12 weeks and have documented pre existing medical problems find it funny that all of us are wearing masks, and yet there are a large number of staff who have no medical issues are all wearing the lanyards and not using  masks.
Now I know they have no medical issues as I know everyone who was off for the 12 weeks, and have asked a few “how come their not wearing a mask”, most said it makes them feel uncomfortable and hot.
What pisses me off the most as someone who has a disability is seeing people abusing the lanyards that’s meant for disabled people

Maybe they do have a medical issue but do not see why they should discuss it with you. I know some who could have been off for 12 weeks but went to work. You would never ask a customer such questions so why do you think it is appropriate to ask coworkers. Lanyards are to highlight a disability and it is not policy or law that you wear one. There is better proof than a lanyard which anyone can get online when the mask is causing slight discomfort.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 03-11-20, 01:05PM
Because I know most  of them for 15 years, so I know, and I casually asked the ones I don’t really know, and they said they where uncomfortable in it, don’t use a disability lanyard because you feel discomfort from the mask
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: BUY TESLA STOCK on 03-11-20, 01:33PM
dotnochance

Ok
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 03-11-20, 02:36PM
Even in these scary times...speaking one's mind is still frowned upon...if people are unable to wear a mask, surely they should be doing all they can to alleviate other's concerns, when being in close contact...not just taking the stance " it's none of your business...I don't have to explain myself to you!! Etc.."

A simple identification symbol, is not an intrusion of liberties! Hearing dogs are identifiable, disabled badges are prominently displayed...people would openly challenge if not, so I'm failing to see the problem ???  Yes lowlifes do, and will, have fake exemption identification, but the majority are honest and keen to openly explain their rights, and use identification symbols to avoid the need to explain!

Whilst shopping last week, a young mother and child was shopping...the mum was not wearing a mask, there was no lanyard on show...she shopped up close to other customers, she approached an assistant for help, but didn't adhere to any social distancing, her whole actions showed total disregard to others wellbeing...yet no one challenged her, why?? It would seem the fear of accusations of being intrusive, contravening that persons rights, political correctness etc...would outweigh the fear of contacting a deadly virus from a selfish person, who puts her rights above other's health!
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 03-11-20, 03:09PM
Nobody would challenge her because the country is ran by people who didn't take STEM subjects at university resulting in illogical laws being made, physicists, computer scientists and mathematicians should run this country, not Etonian politicians.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 03-11-20, 07:41PM
Quote from: dotnochance on 03-11-20, 10:49AM
Anyone else who was off for the 12 weeks and have documented pre existing medical problems find it funny that all of us are wearing masks, and yet there are a large number of staff who have no medical issues are all wearing the lanyards and not using  masks.
Now I know they have no medical issues as I know everyone who was off for the 12 weeks, and have asked a few “how come their not wearing a mask”, most said it makes them feel uncomfortable and hot.
What pisses me off the most as someone who has a disability is seeing people abusing the lanyards that’s meant for disabled people

Exactly the same thing happening in our store , mostly dotcom who are all over the store putting others at risk .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lucgeo on 03-11-20, 08:50PM
Challenge it with your/their manager...if they have no real medical reason for not wearing one...then the manager will know....you have a right to a voice, use it. These people should not be allowed to swing the lead, this is your and yours health being put at risk by selfish, shallow individuals, who rate their slight discomfort higher than your right to be protected  >:(
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Welshie on 04-11-20, 01:37AM
Much as I totally agree with you , it doesn't affect me directly as I work pfs , others have complained to n/s manager who has raised it with store manager so will be interesting to see if this changes .
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: StinkyPoo on 04-11-20, 07:24PM
Same in our store, dot com all wore masks at beginning, now so many are exempt! It's annoying as they all tend to congregate together when they start round the locker room, sharing their germs with one another...
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: cosmosmallpiece on 16-11-20, 03:39PM
Hi are all stores wearing face masks all the time ie shop floor, back areas & when the store is shut ? Cheers
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NorthernJ on 16-11-20, 03:52PM
Our store we have all staff wearing them when on the shop floor if the store is open and you aren't behind a screen, but when the store is closed or in the back area you only have to wear them if you are close proximity to other people.

If you are exempt due to medical issues you've been moved to checkouts behind the screens, at least in our store.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Redshoes on 17-11-20, 04:51AM
We are wearing at all times,unless on a break in the canteen but you have to be sat at a table. We wear from store opening, before it opens to customers and at night when only colleagues are left. We wear in offices. Colleague in cash office puts on if second person visits cash office. Colleagues wear behind screens at till, one or two remove from time to time due to health issues,they are not forced to wear but opt to do so as much as they can.
On the other hand we have remained a relatively low infection area and during lockdown most colleagues were wearing masks before being asked to do so. There was great fear of it coming into the area by off shore workers or holiday makers.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lackofinterest on 17-11-20, 04:06PM
in my opinion students are the main culprits for "bringing it in" :-X
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Halftone84 on 17-11-20, 07:22PM
Been told tonight that warehouse, and staff room must be masked at all times. And "official policy has changed" but not been shown anything, just told it will be in a team5.

With that though, I was told it I get infected, and pass it round to the staff, I'll be in serious trouble.  Sounds like typical scare tactics, because how will they prove it was me, and not one of the hundreds of unmasked customers ?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Siwel123 on 17-11-20, 07:37PM
To be fair it needed changing. In our store we wear them on the shop floor, but not if behind a screen. Nights don't wear them if there's no customers and we don't wear them in the warehouse or staff areas. Now surprisingly we have tons of staff isolating, so hopefully we will have to wear them in the back
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Katarn2000 on 17-11-20, 10:08PM
Last I heard the masks don't actually do anything to stop the spread or might make it worse.  Haven't seen anything to the contrary but I haven't been looking.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: dotnochance on 18-11-20, 12:34AM
Going to post the scientific paper that backs that info up? Or is it a case of “my mate Dave down the pub told me”
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Fedupofbeingscrewed on 18-11-20, 01:40PM
i queried the removal of masks at 12pm on nights when customers left. I asked if they thought staff could not spread it between themselves but unfortunately there were that many moans and groans and people who came up with pathetic excuses not to wear them my resistance was futile. This week there are a dozen off 2 testing positive and loads having to self isolate because of contact tracing. You'd have thought this may have been a wake up call but NO in fact some are now downloading the track n trace app as they feel they are missing out, even projecting when's best time to try and get pinged so as to have christmas off. One guy actually hugged someone who had just got the message to islolate laughing and joking that he hoped he too will now get a message :(       
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Katarn2000 on 18-11-20, 01:47PM
Quote from: dotnochance on 18-11-20, 12:34AM
Going to post the scientific paper that backs that info up? Or is it a case of “my mate Dave down the pub told me”

No scientific paper. I'm referring to news reports about WHO advice from back in march when we were asking why we weren't being told to wear masks from the start.

I said last I heard, not last scientific paper I read but it feels like you're really saying you don't agree with me when all I'm saying is I'm surprised more people haven't raised the issue of the effectiveness of masks.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: jonty on 05-07-21, 05:28PM
With this evenings news, do you think Tesco will tell colleagues that they can use their own judgement from July 19th or will they continue with the current rules?
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Biscuit tin on 05-07-21, 05:40PM
Own judgement is the Government line so I should expect it to be that.
People forget that they weren't even mandatory during the 1st wave.
I'll keep wearing one so I don't have to go back to  putting up with the BO and farts of other staff.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 05-07-21, 09:31PM
Until the first lockdown staff were not even allowed to wear a mask in work, even a few days before March 23rd and the country shutting down Store Managers were still being told to report to group people partners if a staff member insisted on wearing a mask in work.

One hopes this time Tesco will take the sensible approach and allow staff to follow there own wishes on masks, I'll still wear mine when going into shops or public transport for a while, and although I no longer work in Tesco I'll keep wearing mine at work, cases are rising like mad in the area I live and it seems sensible to keep the mask for the forseable 
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Dontcaresowhat on 05-07-21, 10:54PM
As far as I am aware, Tesco rejoined the BRC then them and others asked the government to rethink masks in retail a few weeks ago. I worked in a store which had some managers who were COVID deniers and others who were 100% behind the restrictions. This lead to flip-flopping on what was in place dependent on the time of day or the day of week.

This lead to an environment of chaos, it was not a nice place to be and the bonus we go was a lot less than we deserved!

I think Tesco is now all about recovering the massive amounts of money they threw at COVID which was misspent by an overly incompetent team of Store managers and in reality it had no effect on COVID numbers at all due to inconsistencies across stores.

Tesco can not stop their staff wearing masks if they choose going forward, it would be another PR nightmare masks will be a personal choice by the end of July.

All I can say to all in retail is keep yourself safe, do what you believe to be right and hopefully no more variants appear that make the vaccine useless.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: londoner83 on 06-07-21, 06:04AM
Hopefully for fear of being sued by colleagues under health and safety at work laws, nothing will change after July 19th. Wearing a mask protects those around you so if we all become unmasked colleagues could potentially kill a customer or vice versa. The science doesn't support this move.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: mommydearest on 06-07-21, 06:18AM
I am hoping Tesco will allow staff to make their own decision whether to mask or not. If they do I will happily make a little bonfire of all my masks and hope that the government never enforce rules like this again.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lackofinterest on 06-07-21, 08:43AM
if customers don't wear masks then theres no way i will. if customers don't care about passing it on to me then why should i care about passing it on to them
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 06-07-21, 11:44AM
With infection rates at 25,000 per day and rising, an anti-mask stance now is just stupidity. Not enough people have been vaccinated twice to start contemplating removing face mask laws. Tesco pushing for removing coronavirus related laws is virtue signalling that they value profit over safety.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: Paulie on 06-07-21, 01:55PM
I can't wait to take the mask off on July 19th, I understand there will be some psychological problems with some to remove them, but time to man up. Most have been vaccinated, lets get back to something of the old normal quick before the government introduces more stupid laws. Wearing masks all day is not healthy, whatever your thoughts on it.   
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: forrestgimp on 06-07-21, 03:07PM
I dont get all this guff about tesco keeping masks mandatory or not, they have only ever been mandatory in name only. Dont want to wear a mask say you have an invisible disability and no one is allowed to contradict you nor should they be.

So the only thing changing on the 19th is its a personal choice officially so those who decided to wear one but cant be bothered anymore can remove it if they wish. Oh and there is no need to buy a fake exemption certificate from Amazon anymore. 
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: lol its me on 07-07-21, 01:16PM
Quote from: Paulie on 06-07-21, 01:55PM
I can't wait to take the mask off on July 19th, I understand there will be some psychological problems with some to remove them, but time to man up. Most have been vaccinated, lets get back to something of the old normal quick before the government introduces more stupid laws. Wearing masks all day is not healthy, whatever your thoughts on it.
Only person needing to man up is you, its a piece of cloth on your face. going to post any evidence that say "Wearing masks all day is not healthy"
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: forrestgimp on 07-07-21, 04:51PM
Lol, they wont post evidence because there is non. |The same person probably thinks the earth is flat.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 07-07-21, 06:40PM
QuoteI dont get all this guff about tesco keeping masks mandatory or not, they have only ever been mandatory in name only. Dont want to wear a mask say you have an invisible disability and no one is allowed to contradict you nor should they be.

Anyone taking such an approach during a pandemic should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: NightAndDay on 07-07-21, 09:45PM
The law makers should be ashamed for coming up with the law defeating provision.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: forrestgimp on 08-07-21, 09:17AM
Quote from: penguin on 07-07-21, 06:40PM
QuoteI dont get all this guff about tesco keeping masks mandatory or not, they have only ever been mandatory in name only. Dont want to wear a mask say you have an invisible disability and no one is allowed to contradict you nor should they be.

Anyone taking such an approach during a pandemic should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves.


Care to explain what you mean, all I did was point out the practicalities of it. You seem to enjoy a bit of hyperbole.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 08-07-21, 12:31PM
Yeah I mean anyone making up a disability to get out of wearing a mask during the pandemic should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves, I have nothing at all against those who are genuinely exempt its those who bend the rules and claim to have an exemption when its not the case I have an issue with.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: spike_pkh on 08-07-21, 06:12PM
Forget the coronavirus, I havent had a cold or flu in years due to masks and distancing. I'll be keeping mine on
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: forrestgimp on 08-07-21, 08:09PM
Quote from: penguin on 08-07-21, 12:31PM
Yeah I mean anyone making up a disability to get out of wearing a mask during the pandemic should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves, I have nothing at all against those who are genuinely exempt its those who bend the rules and claim to have an exemption when its not the case I have an issue with.

How do you tell the difference? bearing in mind you are not allowed to ask for evidence.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: oldfashionedplayer on 08-07-21, 08:48PM
Probably see if they wear them anywhere else if a colleague 😂
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 09-07-21, 06:14PM
Quote from: forrestgimp on 08-07-21, 08:09PM
Quote from: penguin on 08-07-21, 12:31PM
Yeah I mean anyone making up a disability to get out of wearing a mask during the pandemic should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves, I have nothing at all against those who are genuinely exempt its those who bend the rules and claim to have an exemption when its not the case I have an issue with.

How do you tell the difference? bearing in mind you are not allowed to ask for evidence.

Of course I cant ask and would never dream of it, but does not stop me feeling those who are not following the rules around masks without a valid reason are guilty of shameful behaviour.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: forrestgimp on 09-07-21, 07:27PM
Theres the thing though. Invisible disabilities are by definition not visible by you or anyone so you looking at someone and thinking 'Oh look more people behaving shamefully (or whatever nice epithet you decide to use) shows the kind of person you are.

Personally I think its you who needs to take a long hard look at yourself and stop patting yourself on the back for being virtuous when simply put you are nothing of the sort and judge people by your own very very low standards.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: alf on 09-07-21, 07:37PM
The point >







Your comprehension of the point.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: forrestgimp on 09-07-21, 07:50PM
Ok tell me what the point is then.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: penguin on 09-07-21, 08:05PM
Quote from: forrestgimp on 09-07-21, 07:27PM
Theres the thing though. Invisible disabilities are by definition not visible by you or anyone so you looking at someone and thinking 'Oh look more people behaving shamefully (or whatever nice epithet you decide to use) shows the kind of person you are.

Personally I think its you who needs to take a long hard look at yourself and stop patting yourself on the back for being virtuous when simply put you are nothing of the sort and judge people by your own very very low standards.

Where did I ever say I look at people and think there behaving shamefully, I simply made the point that those who are not exempt but claim to be should be ashamed of themselves, how hard is that to understand.
Title: Re: Face Masks
Post by: alf on 09-07-21, 08:08PM
Quote from: forrestgimp on 09-07-21, 07:50PM
Ok tell me what the point is then.

You established that people can and do make up invisible disabilities in order to have an excuse to not wear a mask.

penguin calls those people shameful.

You decide to miss your own point, and accuse penguin of judging those with invisible disabilities, despite the poor man/woman specifically excluding people who have invisible disabilities from their previous comments.