Uber launches mask verification as part of new safety measures
As part of a new in-app safety checklist, before drivers and couriers go online they will be asked to take a selfie to verify they are wearing a mask or face covering
As governments begin to lift lockdown restrictions, Uber is taking unprecedented safety measures to help everyone who uses its app stay safe and healthy.
From next week, all Uber riders, drivers and couriers in South Africa will be required to wear a mask or face covering when taking a trip.
As part of a new in-app safety checklist, 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.
Drivers will also be asked to confirm they’ve taken additional safety measures such as regularly sanitising their car and making hand sanitizer available for their riders. Passengers will be required to take safety precautions like washing their hands before getting in the car, sitting in the backseat and opening windows for ventilation.
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.
Uber is also, today, allocating $50-million globally to help provide drivers and couriers with access to the protective equipment, and cleaning and sanitising supplies they need to work more safely on the Uber app. Uber has also partnered with Youth Employment Service (YES), a non-profit corporation (NPC), to be part of their #Masks4All campaign, which will provide masks to Uber drivers across South Africa
Here is a list of the new safety updates:
• Uber will use new technology to verify all drivers and couriers are wearing a mask or face covering before taking a trip in South Africa.
• Uber has allocated $50-m for safety equipment globally and has also partnered with YES, a non-profit corporation (NPC), for their #Mask4All campaign to provide free masks to drivers across South Africa.
• Uber and Unilever will also partner to distribute hygiene kits to drivers and couriers across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
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