On Wednesday, Uber announced that all its drivers, delivery workers and riders across the world must wear masks as a measure of combating Corona Virus. From Monday 18th May, all passengers will be required to sit in the back. Moreover, the number of standard passengers on normal Uber rides will be three instead of four.
The Company also set up other stringent measures to protect its workers and clients all over the world. While using the Uber app, the drivers will have to take a selfie every day with a mask before beginning work. Moreover, they will be asked to verify that they do not exhibit any COVID-19 symptoms, confirm whether they have sanitized their vehicles and agree to roll down their windows during rides.
If drivers and clients fail to comply with the new rules, this may lead to their account deactivation. Clients can also cancel trips if they have drivers who have failed to wear a mask.
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“If a driver shows up without a mask on, the rider can cancel the trip without penalty and report the issue to us via the app. Uber’s two-way feedback system has long helped ensure both riders and drivers uphold certain standards by requiring feedback. Now we are adding new options for feedback including having a face cover or mask. Drivers and riders who repeatedly violate mask policies risk losing access to Uber,” the statement from Uber reads.
Uber Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi said Uber had allocated $50 million to buy COVID-19 protective gear for its drivers. Those supplies will include face masks, sanitizers, gloves and disinfectants. This will help to protect Uber’s huge user base. Uber is available in more than 900 cities worldwide and the rules will be effected from Monday.
