Transparent Masks

Please Note: the following document has been augmented 04/03/2010

Following the recent incident with a transparent mask in the European Junior Championships in Denmark, the Board has placed temporary restrictions on the use of certain transparent masks in the UK. These restrictions relate to foil and épée only.

All use of foil and épée transparent masks where the transparent visor consists of only one layer of transparent material is suspended until further notice.

Foil and épée transparent masks with visors fitted with two layers of transparent material (a main layer and an outer ‘scratch layer’) may continue to be used, as may all transparent masks at sabre. Only the mask manufacturer’s own outer scratch layer may be used. For the elimination of doubt, this includes fitted when new and retro-fit outer layers.

The Board does remind all fencers of Article t.15 of the Rules for Competitions in respect of their masks, transparent or otherwise, and indeed of all their equipment: "Fencers arm, equip and clothe themselves and fence at their own responsibility and at their own risk"

Users of transparent masks are reminded of the manufacturer’s instructions for the use of their masks.

They are also reminded of the FIE recommendations for taking care of masks in general and transparent masks in particular, which are as follows:-

Check that the mesh part of the masks (visor and traditional) is in good condition. This can easily be done by placing the metal wire mesh against the light. And regularly check that the mask and its bib are in good condition. -

• Keep the masks in their bags while transporting them.
• For all types of masks (visor or metal mesh), if the bib of the mask is wet, wait until it dries before putting it away in its bag.
• Do not use the masks to carry containers holding liquids or glues, or to carry clothing, gloves or shoes that are wet or damp from perspiration.
• Avoid all contact between the visors and chemical agents, in particular glues, acetones or other liquids that damage plastics and LEXAN.
• In the case of a mask with a transparent visor(s), change a visor when one of the following four situations occurs first:

a) Within a maximum of 2 years after the date marked on a visor;

b) Appearance of grooves or visible deep marks on the surface;

c) A visor is no longer transparent (opaque);

d) When a visor has been in contact with chemical agents.

• Always be equipped with a spare visor and the tools needed to replace a visor, ensure that all the screws are in place and that the frames and visor are correctly and adequately fitted.
• Only use Lexan or Makrolan visors bought from the mask’s manufacturer or its official representative.
• Clean the visor(s) with a soft cloth and only use neutral liquids such as water.