Facemasks now ‘legal requirement’ at livestock marts

Farmers, crofters and livestock hauliers are being reminded it is now a legal requirement to wear a face covering in auction marts.

Auctioneers body, the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), says face coverings are now mandatory in all enclosed areas of auction markets in Scotland.

The new rules, which came into force on Monday and coincide with updated Scottish Government coronavirus guidelines, do not apply to those who are not able to wear a face covering for specific medical reasons.

“Market staff operating in livestock handling areas will also be exempt from wearing face coverings due to the material risk of harm from handling livestock,” said IAAS.

“This is due to the need to be in constant communication with others when handling livestock and face coverings present a risk of muffling speech and communication.”

The rules were in place at the Stirling Bull Sales earlier this week.