This archive report was first published on 14 May 2020.
As cities begin to reopen and people start moving again, Uber is taking a cautious approach to safety. The company has announced that it will make face masks mandatory for drivers and passengers, effective Monday, May 18, 2020.
According to Uber's chief executive, Dara Khosrowshahi, the new policy aims to help each other stay healthy when traveling. 'We will all have a role to play to help each other stay healthy when traveling,' he said.
Uber is also committing an additional $50 million to buy masks and sanitizing supplies. The company will update its app with a safety checklist and other tools for both riders and drivers.
Under the new policy, Uber drivers in the United States, Canada, India, and most of Europe and Latin America will not be allowed online if they are not wearing a face cover. The policy will be in place through the end of June and reviewed based on local public health needs.
Uber is also introducing a rating system for both drivers and passengers who are not wearing face masks. 'Accountability is key — and it goes both ways,' Khosrowshahi said.
Drivers and riders who repeatedly violate mask policies risk losing access to Uber, the CEO warned.
