Summary
Singapore began distributing free N95 masks on Oct 14 after PM2.5 levels rose sharply in parts of the country.
Eligible seniors and selected healthcare and assistance card holders can collect one pack containing two masks at designated vending machines or community clubs.
Pregnant women, children aged seven to 16, and people with medical conditions must collect their masks at community clubs and provide supporting documents where required.
SINGAPORE: Singapore began a phased rollout of free N95 masks on Oct 14 after a sharp rise in PM2.5 levels in parts of the country. The scheme focuses on people more vulnerable to haze-related health effects and those who may struggle to obtain masks.
Eligible residents can collect one pack containing two masks at designated vending machines or People's Association community clubs. The eligible groups include Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation members, CHAS Orange and Blue card holders, medical fee exemption card holders, and people receiving ComCare assistance.
Pregnant women, children aged seven to 16, and people with medical conditions such as asthma can collect masks at community clubs only, Channel NewsAsia (CNA) reported (Oct 15).
Free N95 masks available at vending machines in transport hubs and community clubs
Vending machines are being rolled out at 37 public transport hubs and Social Service Offices. However, not every planned location has masks available yet.
Checks at around noon on Oct 15 found that machines at 30 planned locations were either unavailable or out of stock. Residents should check the government’s HazeMaskGoWhere website before making a trip.
Eligible Singaporeans can scan their NRIC barcode at a vending machine to verify their eligibility. The machines don’t store NRIC details. Someone else can collect the masks on an eligible person’s behalf by scanning that person’s NRIC.
The machines are restocked regularly. If supplies run out, residents can use HazeMaskGoWhere to find another collection point. Those facing technical problems can call 6727 5594 between 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Supporting documents are needed at community clubs
People collecting masks at community clubs should bring their NRIC. Pregnant women must also show proof, such as an antenatal appointment card, a maternity health booklet, a medical memo, or a digital appointment record.
People with chronic conditions should bring supporting documents, such as a medical appointment card, medical memo, or medication record. Those without documents must make a self-declaration of their pregnancy status or medical condition.
These checks allow staff to verify eligibility for groups without a specific card that proves their status.
N95 masks are prioritised for vulnerable groups as retail supplies remain available
The government is prioritising Singaporeans who face greater health risks from haze or have limited means to obtain masks.
Singapore’s haze task force said there were still sufficient N95 stocks in retailers’ warehouses and government reserves. It also noted that N95 masks are generally unnecessary for short outdoor trips, such as travelling between home and school or work, or when indoors.
The sensible approach is to check local air quality, limit outdoor activity when conditions worsen, and use a suitable mask when needed. Free supplies help those most at risk, while checking availability before travelling saves time and effort.