Joint Position Statement on The Use of Clear Face Masks

Joint Position Statement on The Use of Clear Face Masks

The Irish Academy of Audiology and Irish Association of Speech and Language Therapists have today issued a joint statement on the Use of Clear Face Masks. The COVID 19 pandemic has seen a marked increase in the use of face masks, in line with public health guidance, to prevent the spread of infection. We understand that, across a variety of settings, masks provide essential protection for staff and members of the public generally. However, as a consequence of the wearing of opaque face masks people with communication difficulties are experiencing significant barriers to communication, which can lead to a range of negative and potentially dangerous situations