This archive report was first published on 14 May 2020.
Uber to Protect Drivers and Couriers with Free Masks and Hygiene Kits ¶
As cities begin to reopen and people start moving again, Uber is taking unprecedented measures to help everyone stay safe and healthy, every time they use the app.
Uber has announced it is allocating $50 million globally to help provide drivers and couriers with access to the protective equipment, cleaning and sanitising supplies they need to work more safely on the Uber app.
Locally in Kenya, Uber is working with Zydii and rescue.co to launch a free SMS-based driver education programme, aimed at providing tips on preventing infection with COVID-19 while travelling with passengers.
Uber and Unilever will also provide hygiene kits to drivers and couriers in the UK, then expand to more countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa soon. The kits will include Cif (Jif) Antibacterial Multi-Purpose Spray and Lifebuoy alcohol-based hand gel, among other items.
Before drivers and couriers go online, they will be asked to take a selfie to verify they are wearing a mask or face covering using new object recognition technology. Any driver or courier who is not wearing a mask or other face covering will not be able to go online.
These new safety measures will be introduced on Monday 18 May and stay in effect until the end of June, when they will be reviewed based on the latest official health guidance.
Other safety measures announced today include a safety checklist for couriers, free cancellations for safety concerns, a new health and hygiene feedback system, and safety education materials.
Uber has also provided public health information in its apps, introduced contactless delivery on Uber Eats, and provided active drivers and couriers diagnosed with COVID-19 – or those having to self-isolate – with financial assistance from Uber for up to 14 days.
