Starting on Aug. 24, most BC Transit users will need to be wearing a face mask before riding the bus.
BC Transit said the move is in alignment with TransLink, which is also making face masks or coverings mandatory starting on Aug. 24.
“Across British Columbia, our response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been rooted in public health. Public transit continues to be an essential service that people rely on, and we appreciate the work of our transit operators to keep these services running throughout the pandemic response and recovery,” Minister of Transportation Claire Trevena said in a statement.
“Knowing your fellow bus passengers will also be wearing a non-surgical mask or face covering will help boost people’s confidence in choosing transit while contributing to a welcoming and safe environment on our buses.”
According to BC Transit, accommodations will be permitted for children under the age of 5 and those that cannot wear a face covering for health reasons.
“The implementation of a mandatory mask policy is in response to feedback from our customers. I am pleased to have the support of TransLink, Dr. Bonnie Henry and the Province of BC to implement this policy that will make transit more comfortable for our customers,” Erinn Pinkerton, BC Transit President and Chief Executive Officer, said in a statement.
While face masks or coverings will be mandatory, BC Transit said the policy will be implemented as an education step, without enforcement.
“While face coverings will be mandatory, the policy will be implemented as an educational step without enforcement. The educational position is aligned with TransLink and other transit agencies in Canada.”
“Transit is an important service for many British Columbians. BC Transit‘s decision to make masks mandatory on their vehicles will help make transit safer for fellow passengers,” Henry said in a statement.
“Find one that’s comfortable, and make time to get used to wearing them and taking them on and off as needed. Those of us who are able should be using masks on transit all the time. I do and I expect others to as well.”
More information about BC Transit’s response to COVID-19 can be found here: bctransit.com/together-we-ride.
You can also visit bctransit.com or call your local transit office.
For more details about the mandatory mask policy and BC Transit’s response to COVID-19, please visit bctransit.com or call your local transit office.
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