The list of places where face coverings are now mandatory was expanded on August 7 to include museums and galleries, along with venues such as cinemas and libraries.
Unlike in England, auction houses were not mentioned specifically on the list but they would seem to be encompassed under indoor venues which are “open to members of the public and used for the retail sale or hire of goods or services” where the new rules apply.
In England, while face coverings have been mandatory in shops since July 24 (including dealers’ premises and antique centres), they were made compulsory in auction houses on August 8.
In Northern Ireland, face coverings became mandatory on August 10 in shops, shopping centres and “any other indoor place where goods or services are available to buy or rent”.
The guidance, though, also states: “It is not mandatory to wear a face covering in a business that is able to maintain social distancing by using a system of ticketing or appointments.”
In Wales face coverings are mandatory on public transport and recommended for enclosed spaces where social distancing is not possible. The Welsh government recommends a minimum of three-layer covering in line with the World Health Organisation’s latest technical advice.
