The state-mandated mask requirement when shopping will no longer apply in large parts of Germany when the shops open on Monday – but certain protective measures could remain. “With the amendment to the Infection Protection Act, the legislature decided that the obligation to wear masks can only be ordered in exceptional cases and in special hotspots,” said the chief executive of the German Trade Association (HDE), Stefan Genth, on Wednesday of the German press Agency Regardless of this, it can be assumed that many customers would voluntarily continue to wear the mask when shopping.
Genth explained that the policy, which is democratically legitimized and advised by numerous experts, sets the framework for combating the pandemic. “For years, retail companies have been doing everything they can to implement the specifications as best and as quickly as possible.” At the same time, it cannot be ruled out that retailers outside of corona hotspots will make use of their domiciliary rights and prescribe masks when shopping. “The next few weeks will show the extent to which this is practiced.”
According to the new Infection Protection Act, the federal states will only be able to set a few everyday requirements for masks in clinics and nursing homes from Sunday. You can impose further measures, including mask requirements in retail, in regional hotspots if the state parliament determines that there is an impending critical corona situation. For the time being, such hotspots are only planned in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Hamburg.
HDE General Manager Genth emphasized: “The trading companies continue to take the health protection of their staff very seriously.” According to the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, employers must determine the necessary measures through a risk assessment and define them in company hygiene concepts. For a continued mask requirement for the staff, it is important whether other organizational and technical protective measures cannot be implemented or are insufficient. “In case of doubt, it depends on the individual case and the specific circumstances on site.” Stricter mask regulations could continue to result from state regulations on hotspots.
With a view to disinfectant dispensers at the shop entrance and plexiglass walls at checkouts, the association assumes that many companies will continue to take at least some of these precautions. “Also because it often corresponds to what the majority of customers want and is perceived as a special service,” said Genth. This could remain the case even if such protective measures are no longer required outside of hotspots. (dpa)