Uber will require drivers and riders to wear face masks or face coverings when using the platform, according CNN Business. The policy will be applied to the U.S., among other markets, since Uber is preparing to restart its ride-hailing service amid the coronavirus pandemic.
LABS contacted the company about whether there are plans for this policy in Latin America, and it said that as it has been doing since the beginning of the pandemic, Uber continues to advise its partners and users on the recommendations and determinations of health authorities and local authorities regarding COVID-19. “At this time, we continue to ask users to stay at home if they can avoid going out, while providing resources for partners to purchase masks and hygiene items to keep them safe. The communication sent deals with the recommendation to use masks for all users and partners – use that is already mandatory due to the regulation of some locations.”
According to CNN, it’s expected that the measure will be rolled out in the coming weeks. The media outlet also reported that the company is working to develop a technology that can detect if drivers and riders are wearing face masks before accepting trips. The company already operates face verification technology to confirm its drivers’ identities. Currently, Uber only suggests the use of face masks but it is not required.
As countries reopen, Uber is focused on safety and proceeding with caution. Today, we continue to ask riders to stay home if they can, while shipping safety supplies to drivers who are providing essential trips. At the same time, our teams are preparing for the next phase of recovery, where we will all have a role to play.
Uber’s head of safety communications, andrew hasbunin, in a statement to cnn business
With the new policy, drivers will be required to wear a face mask or covering, such as a bandana, regardless of whether they received a mask from the company – drivers in New York have received masks and disinfect sprays from Uber in the past month.
