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Wearing of face coverings at City College Plymouth

To protect the health, safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and the wider community, the College has taken the decision to introduce the wearing of face coverings in all internal communal areas. From Thursday 3rd September, the new rule will be in place at all City College Plymouth sites and will apply to all students, staff, contractors and other visitors unless they are exempt in line with the Government guidance.

The College strongly believes this is the best course of action to allow us to safely return to onsite teaching.

Please read through the following drop-down sections for more information.

What counts as a face covering?

A face covering is something that safely covers the nose and mouth of the wearer. These can be reusable or disposable cloth coverings that are the same as the ones you are currently expected to wear in other settings such as shops and when using public transport. 

Clear face visors or shields may also be worn, but they must cover the face around the sides and beneath the chin. 

Where must I wear a face covering?

Face coverings must be worn in the following internal communal areas, settings and occasions: 

  • internal corridors, entrance ways, foyers and thoroughfares 
  • when visiting an office space that is not your own 
  • during meetings with colleagues outside of your operational or line management group 
  • when queuing for food and drink services 
  • when queuing for administrative support services, such as main Reception or cash office 
  • when talking to those providing administrative support over the counter 
  • when providing a support service to others when no ‘sneeze screen’ is in place, such as over-the-counter Reception services 
  • College transport where there is more than one person in the vehicle 
  • when giving first aid treatment where 2m distancing cannot be observed 
  • when dealing with an individual that claims to be suffering from COVID-19 symptoms 
  • library 
  • students’ union 
  • during one-to-one teaching or instruction where 2m distancing cannot be observed, including workshops, Skills Development and Learning Support 
  • as a client in settings that provide close contact services, such as hair and beauty and sports clinics 
  • visitor and public events, including drop-in sessions and open days 
  • areas provided for faith and worship 
  • audiences for performances, briefings, presentations and lectures where 2m distancing cannot be observed or attendees are from different groups or operational settings.

    • When can I remove my face covering?

    Face coverings can be removed in the following locations or settings:

  • in classrooms and teaching spaces, once seated/stationed and hand hygiene has been completed 
  • in the office space in which you are typically located, once seated/stationed and hand hygiene has been completed 
  • when delivering/receiving teaching or instruction whilst maintaining 2m distancing between staff and students 
  • if you have an exemption from wearing a mask (guidance below) 
  • when providing services to others where a ‘sneeze screen’ is provided, such 
  • when seated in an area provided for the consumption of food and drink 
  • while undertaking physical activity, but able to maintain social distancing 
  • in situations where the person you are communicating with relies upon lip reading 
  • when taking medication 
  • when receiving a professional treatment on the face, such as a facial beauty treatment
  • in situations where you are asked to prove your identity 
  • in an emergency situation where you may need to give or acknowledge commands and clarity of communication is required. 

    • Exemptions

    Support will be given to those that have a requirement to be exempt from wearing a face covering under current Government guidelines. Further information on exemptions can be found by clicking here.

    If you are exempt from wearing a face covering, please inform your line manager or tutor who will support you with this.

    Guidance surrounding the wearing of face coverings

    Please be aware of the correct procedures for applying, wearing and the safe removal of face coverings.  If you are in need of some guidance regarding this matter, please watch the following video:

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