Given that PM2.5 levels have reached the very high range and taking into consideration that the 24-hour PSI may enter the very unhealthy range, the government began the phased distribution of N95 masks at community clubs and haze mask vending machines at selected public transport hubs, social service offices and People’s Association venues, NEA said.
N95 masks will be made available progressively at designated collection points and may not be immediately available at all locations, the agency added.
“The vending machines are being progressively deployed across the island from this evening and stocks will be replenished progressively and regularly,” it said.
Members of the public can visit the HazeMaskGoWhere website for more information on collection locations and live updates on mask availability at the vending machines.
“Members of the public are encouraged to check the website for availability before heading to a collection point.”
NEA also noted that N95 masks may be unavailable at some retail outlets due to a spike in demand, but said that “there are sufficient stocks of N95 masks in retailers’ warehouses and government stockpiles”.
“The Haze Task Force is working closely with retailers to replenish stocks and ensure the availability of N95 masks to the public.