Uber Will Require Both Drivers and Passengers to Wear Masks

Company executives of Uber approved a decision to require passengers and drivers to wear face masks during the current coronavirus pandemic, CNN Business reported.

The new requirement will be implemented soon, with the company developing technology to detect compliance. This will be built upon the facial recognition technology being used to verify the driver’s ID.

“As countries reopen, Uber is focused on safety and proceeding with caution,” head of safety communications Andrew Hasbun told the network in a statement. “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.”

In April, Uber announced that it has begun shipping masks and disinfectant spray to delivery workers and drivers. In May, it added that it would buy and ship tens of millions of masks to its workers around the world. It cautioned, however, that this may take some time because of a shortage of supplies. Priority will be given to drivers in cities and states which currently require face-coverings.