Uber says it will require drivers and passengers to wear masks as it tackles the spread of the coronavirus.
In a statement released early this week, Uber said it will require everyone using its ride-hailing service in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe and most Latin American and Asian countries to wear a face covering. Passengers are also being asked to sit in the back.
“Before drivers are table to start accepting trips, they will be asked to take a selfie with a mask on,” Uber added. “Our new technology will verify the driver is wearing a mask or face covering and let the rider know when the driver is en route.”
The ride-sharing company will also roll-out an online checklist that riders and drivers can use to confirm they have taken the necessary precautions to limit the transmission of the coronavirus. App users will be able to report if they see passengers or a driver not properly practicing social distancing or adhering to public health protocols.
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“We are adding new options for feedback, including if a rider or driver is not wearing a mask or face covering,” Uber added. “Drivers and riders are being encouraged to cancel trips if they don’t feel safe, including if a user is not wearing a mask or face cover.”
In addition to requiring drivers to snap a selfie wearing a mask every day, the company is looking to add similar selfie verification for riders.
Uber executives say repeated failure to comply with the requirements can lead to account deactivation for both riders and drivers. Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi says the ride-hailing giant has allocated more than $50 million to buy masks and sanitizers for drivers and has so far distributed some five million face masks to drivers, Reuters reports.