Department of Health Regional Office 6 said that the eyeglass-type face shield is acceptable as long as it covers the whole face.
DOH Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) made the clarification on Friday after some posts that went viral in social media saying that the said type is not allowed.
“Recognizing that there are different styles and variations of face shields available in the market, the DOH WV CHD clarifies that minimum standards or requirements/ specifications are issued by the Health Department to ensure that the device serves its purpose. If there are variations such as the eyeglass-type face shield, these can be considered acceptable as long as it meets the recommended requirement that it should completely cover the full face including the sides and length of the face,” DOH said in a statement.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) made the wearing of face mask and face shield in public transportation and workplaces, respectively, starting August 15.
[Related: Workers must wear face shields starting August 15.]
DOH is also encouraging the use of face shields in all public settings and public transportation especially in areas with increased local cases of confirmed COVID-19.
In their Memorandum No. 0345 dated August 10, 2020, DOH provided the suggested retail price (SRP) for emergency essential medicines and medical devices including face shields.
The health department recommended that SRP for non-medical grade face shield for community use is only between P26.00 and P50.00. The face shield should be of the following specifications: clear plastic or acetate material, provides good visibility, fog resistant, adjustable band attached firmly around the head, fit snuggly against the forehead, full face coverage, made of robust material that can be easily cleaned and disinfected, disposable or re-usable.
DOH reiterated that face shields are used as an additional protective barrier especially when in public places where physical distancing is a challenge.
“Face shield should not be used as a substitute for face mask,” DOH added.
The public is continuously reminded that physical distancing, use of face mask, and face shield should be observed to protect one’s self from the risk of virus transmission.
