As local governments ease lockdown orders, Lyft is planning to increase health and safety standards for ride-sharing to ensure public health during the coronavirus crisis. In that vein, the firm has announced a "health safety program," which requires that all drivers and riders wear face masks during rides. Both drivers and riders are being asked to not use the service if they"re feeling unwell. The firm has stated that it would provide the drivers with face masks, and cleaning supplies.
The self-certification is being implemented in view of the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and local governments" directions. Both drivers and passengers will be requested to promise that:
- They will wear a face mask or covering
- They will not ride or drive with Lyft if they have COVID-19, think they have it, or have related symptoms
- They will keep vehicles clean and sanitize their hands frequently
- They will leave windows open when possible and avoid recirculated air when possible
- Passengers will not ride in the front seat
Anyone who does not adhere to the guidelines will be barred from using the service. Although Lyft offered ride-hailing services to medical workers during the pandemic, its operations have decreased significantly. Resultantly, it laid off nearly 1,000 employees (17% of its workforce) last week.