Spence: Police to trial face mask to protect them from spitting

Police Minister Judy Spence said police in the Metropolitan North Region will trial a special face mask designed to protect them from offenders who spit.

Ms Spence said: “The “Fluidshield” Face Mask is a surgical wraparound splashguard which provides protection to the eyes, nose and face.

“It is worn by officers only and is not placed in anyway on people police may be dealing with.

“It’s designed for single use only and should be disposed of after use to avoid transmission of communicable diseases.

“Police will be able to use the face mask anytime they suspect they could be spat on such as removing an offender from a police vehicle.

“Police will do a formal six month trial with officers from the Metropolitan North Region.

“It will start Monday 11 February and police who use the mask will be asked to fill in an evaluation sheet.

“Spitting at someone who is doing their job is a disgusting act.

“Offenders can have diseases such as Hepatitis or HIV.

“Police officers who are spat on have months of worry while they wait for extensive and expensive medical tests, and often need psychological treatment,” Ms Spence said.

Ms Spence said while the number of assaults on police had decreased by 16 per cent in the past three years, any assault on a police officer was unacceptable.

“I have introduced tougher measures for dealing with people who assault police.

“Spitting, biting or throwing bodily fluids at an officer, are now classed as serious assault and carry a maximum 7 year sentence.

“I note and welcome the recent comments on this issue by Chief Justice Paul de Jersey in the Court of Appeal.

“In the meantime we will continue to look at ways to protect the safety and health of police officers,” Ms Spence said.

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