KUALA LUMPUR: The public must ensure the safe disposal and handling of used face masks to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Alliance for Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said while face masks are now an essential part of the community's personal protective equipment, it is important to pay serious attention when disposing of them after use.
This, he said, was also highlighted by Pola Singh, Exco Member of the TTDI Residents Association in a letter to the New Straits Times today.
He said to dispose of used masks, one must first fold them up and place them in small plastic bags, before dumping them into public garbage bins.
"This matter is now urgent, given the fact that more and more people are using face masks in public places, as advised by the director-general of the Health Ministry. However, when it comes to disposing of them, the face masks are either thrown in public rubbish bins or worse – discarded indiscriminately in back lanes or into drains.
"Experts say that improperly discarded masks, especially those that are soiled or have respiratory secretions on them, could be potential health hazards should others come into contact with them," he said in a statement today.
Lee said the most vulnerable group will be the garbage collectors who could then be a source of infection for whoever they come into contact with.
He said indiscriminate disposal of masks will also have a negative effect on the environment, especially on marine life, when they find their way to rivers and seas.
"Or it could lead to clogged drains, with their attendant consequences.
"The authorities and civic minded non-governmental organisations concerned must do more educational campaigns to educate the public on the proper ways to dispose of the masks, not only in public places, but also at homes. The question is how many will follow such advice?"
Lee said if educational and awareness campaigns do not work, the authorities should consider legislation to discourage irresponsible behaviour or punish recalcitrant offenders in the interest of public health.
Legislation, he said, should only be the last resort if advice, persuasion and admonition fail.
"Manufacturers of face masks could also print and distribute with the masks a set of instructions on how to use and dispose of them, as how is done by manufacturers of other goods that require proper handling and care," he added.