The Minister of Health and Social Protection has adopted Order no. 425 dated 16.07.2020 “On the approval of the Guideline of the Public Health Institution on the use of protective barriers/masks in indoor public and commercial areas” (the “Order”). The said guideline (the “Guideline”) issued by the Public Health Institution indicates the areas where the use of protective barriers is obligatory and how to use them in order to lower the risk of potential transmission of COVID-19.
The Guideline provides for the following main requirements:
– The use of protective barriers/masks in indoor areas is obligatory.
– Protective barriers/masks should be used from all individuals with the exception of children younger than 10 years old.
– Protective barriers/masks should not be removed while conversing with someone.
The Guideline specifies that the obligation for the use of protective barriers/masks in indoor areas is a complimentary measure and does not substitute the main preventive measures such as social distancing, hygiene etc.
Indoor Areas where the Use of Protective Barriers/Masks is Obligatory
The Guideline defines “indoor areas” as:
- a space that has a ceiling or a roof, doors, windows or pathways that may be opened or closed and completely enclosed by walls or any other kind of permanent or temporary material;
- a space that has a ceiling or a roof, doors, windows or pathways that may be opened or closed and is enclosed by temporary or permanent walls that have a permanent opening (that cannot be opened or closed), with a surface lower than 50 percent of the total surface area of walls.
The public and commercial indoor areas where the use of protective barriers/ masks is obligatory include:
- all indoor areas;
- all premises of public and non-public administration;
- public transport;
- offices, banks, drug stores;
- all commercial centers, shops;
- all supermarkets, markets, and service units.
The Guideline stipulates that the protective barrier/mask should be put after having washed the hands and should cover completely the face from the nasal bridge to under the chin. The mask should not be shared with others.
According to the Normative Act no. 29, dated 15.07.2020 individuals that do not use protective barriers/masks as per the requirements set out by the Guideline shall be subject to a fine of Leke 2,000.
The Order is published in the Official Gazette no. 136 dated 21.07.2020 and entered into effect immediately.
Comments are closed.