The Cast, Tayammum and Repeating Salah

1. The Shafi’i school’s stance regarding the above query is quite strict. The specific details are as follows:

1.1. If the covering or cast is covering a limb of wudu then the covering must be removed and a complete wudu performed, provided that removing the cast or covering does not cause harm.

1.2. If removing the cast or covering would result in harm, as confirmed by a reliable and trustworthy individual, then it should not be removed.

1.3. In the event that the individual has been informed by an upright, trustworthy individual that the cast should not be removed then it is no longer obligatory for the part of the limb that is covered to be washed.

1.4. In this case, it is essential to ensure that the cast or covering does not extend beyond what is necessary to keep it in place, without covering any additional healthy skin.

1.5. Furthermore, the person will perform tayammum (dry ablution) in place of the covered part of the limb. He will also wipe over the cast or bandage with water if there is no harm in doing so.

1.6. If the cast or bandage was applied while the person was not in a state of wudu, they must perform all the above steps. He should also re-perform all prayers made during the duration of wearing the cast or bandage once removed.

2. The Hanafi school, however, presents an alternative position that the questioner may

adopt. According to the Hanafi school:

2.1. Wudu is not a prerequisite before applying a bandage or cast.

2.2. Simply wiping over the bandage or cast is sufficient; there is no need for tayammum.

2.3. Prayers do not need to be repeated.

والله تعالى أعلم