Third national distribution of reusable masks to begin on Monday at over 800 locations
SINGAPORE — Temasek Foundation will embark on its third national distribution of reusable masks from 10am on Monday (30 November) to 11.59pm on 13 December, via its vending machines at more than 800 locations across Singapore.
In a media release on Thursday, the foundation said that each Singapore resident can get a free mask kit by scanning the barcodes of government-issued IDs at the vending machines. Alternatively, they may opt to key in their ID information via the touch screens on the machines.
Residents may also collect on behalf of their family members and friends, by scanning the barcodes of their respective government-issued IDs.
The public may go online to check the locations of the vending machines for the different sizes and stock levels, from Monday 10am onwards. Stock availability will be updated regularly once collection starts.
They can also purchase additional masks may be done online or via the DBS PayLah! app at $12 per mask kit, subject to availability. These masks may also be collected at the vending machines.
There are ample stocks of mask kits available, said Temasek Foundation.To avoid early-bird crowds, it has advised residents to collect the masks after the first two days, or during off-peak hours.
Two masks and three reusable filters per kit
Each kit contains two black MaskFit ProShield reusable masks and three reusable filters. The masks are available in S, M, L, and XL sizes. Sizing guides are available online.
Exchanges or refunds after collection are not allowed for hygiene reasons. Residents are advised to check out their sizing before collecting their free masks.
The new mask has three layers: the outer antibacterial layer repels water droplets, the middle layer is a filter liner, and the inner layer absorbs saliva.
The three additional reusable filters are made from nano-fibre non-woven fabric, and provide added protection from saliva droplets or dust particles. They may be used with the MaskFit ProShield mask, or with other DIY or 3D-shaped masks with filter pockets. .
The filters and reusable masks may be washed up to 50 times. Thus, the two masks and three filters in each kit can provide reusable protection for more than three months on a daily “wear one, wash one” cycle.
After 50 washes, the masks can continue to be used like ordinary masks with lower antimicrobial performance. More information on how to use, wash and care for the masks and filters can be found online. Information on the specifications of the masks can be found at Proshield’s website.
Nearly 17 million masks distributed
Temasek Foundation said that nearly 17 million free reusable masks have been collected by Singapore residents, since the beginning of its distribution exercise in June.
It added that these reusable masks help to replace over 500 million single-use masks, and reduce waste as well as waste incineration energy.
“We continue to see huge waves of new COVID-19 cases elsewhere. Hence, we must remain vigilant and take great care to avoid outbreaks,” Temasek chairman Lim Boon Heng said.
“With reusable antimicrobial masks, we can stay safe, and do our part for our planet and home. I hope the new reusable masks will give more options for residents to go about their lives safely and comfortably.”
The public can call the hotline 1800-7382000 for queries about the mask collection from now until 13 December, 9am to 9pm daily (except on public holidays). Enquiries or feedback may also be emailed to staymasked@temasekfoundation.org.sg.
Stay in the know on-the-go: Join Yahoo Singapore's Telegram channel at http://t.me/YahooSingapore
Other Singapore stories:
OBITUARY: Brilliance of Diego Maradona's genius overshadows the darkness of his life
Diego Maradona: An extraordinary life in photos
Man who imported stun gun into Singapore jailed 5 days, fined $3,000
