We are living in a COVID-19 fueled dystopian world where we have to wear masks to protect ourselves. This has changed how we live and work and has forced businesses to change how they conduct their work.
Uber has now said that from next week, all Uber riders, drivers and couriers will be required to wear a mask when taking a trip.
Also, any driver or courier will be asked to take a selfie to verify they are wearing a mask before taking a trip. The software will use object recognition technology to identify whether the driver is wearing a mask. Any driver who is not wearing a mask will not be able to go online. Uber will also not charge you if you cancel a ride where a driver is not wearing a mask.
Uber has implemented other COVID-19 safety measures too. Drivers will also be asked to confirm whether they have taken additional safety measures like sanitizing the car or making hand sanitizer available to their riders. Interestingly enough, Uber has partnered with Unilever to provide “hygiene” kits to drivers in the UK. They have plans to expand to more countries in Europe, Middle East and Africa soon. These kits include anti bacterial spray and Lifebuoy alcohol-based hand gel.
In Kenya, Uber is working to provide masks to drivers and they have worked with Zydii and rescue.co to launched a free SMS based driver education programme aimed at providing tips on preventing COVID-19 infection during trips.
The company will implement these features on Monday 18th which is next week and will stay in effect until the end of June where they will be reviewed based on the latest official health guidelines.
This announcement by Uber follows what its competitor, Bolt did recently. Bolt announced a new category which has enhanced COVID-19 prevention measures.
