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IStock / City Presse
The misfortune of some always makes the happiness of others.
While the coronavirus pandemic is undermining many professions and sectors of activity, health rules have paved the way for a new business: that of protective masks.
If the price of single-use surgical models is capped by law (95 cents per unit or 47.50 euros per box of 50), the price war is raging between the brands.
It must be said that the budget devoted to this health equipment can quickly explode.
With at least two different masks during the day (it should not be worn for more than 4 hours in principle), a scrupulous individual must use between forty and fifty each month.
This is why more and more individuals are turning to reusable fabric alternatives, the trade of which is also prolific but much less supervised.
Almost every store goes there with its models in various colors and patterns, but not always up to standard ...
People at risk and workers
But not everyone has to break the bank in purchasing protective masks.
A large part of the population can indeed obtain this health equipment free of charge.
This is first of all the case for the most modest citizens, who benefit from complementary health solidarity (CSS) or medical aid from the State.
As for people considered vulnerable because they are likely to develop severe forms of Covid-19, they can obtain masks free of charge in pharmacies on medical prescription.
The same goes for those who are affected by the virus or who have been identified as having been in contact with sick people.
In addition, employees and civil servants do not have to finance the masks they must wear in the office.
Insofar as this equipment is considered necessary for the safety of the personnel, it is entirely the responsibility of the employer, who must provide enough to protect his teams throughout their working day (i.e. two masks per day for 8 hours of presence).
And if the company opts for reusable masks, it is also up to them to clean them or to pay compensation to their employees to do it themselves.
Finally, the masks for professionals in the health and medico-social sectors are provided by the State.
In order to promote the employment of people with disabilities, the cost of their inclusive masks (with transparent window) can be covered by Agefiph, under certain conditions.
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What sanction?
since September 1, 2020, failure to comply with the obligation to wear a mask in enclosed public places and non-individual offices is liable to a fine of 135 euros.
Poverty
Protection
Job
Covid 19
Purchasing power
Coronavirus
Legislation