BC residents who use public buses will have to wear a face covering as of August 24.
BC Transit is proceeding with mandatory use of masks across the province as of August 24, according to a media release.
“The implementation of a mandatory mask policy is in response to feedback from our customers,” stated BC Transit president and CEO Erinn Pinkerton. “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.”
While face coverings will be mandatory, the policy will be implemented as an educational step without enforcement, according to the release. Accommodations will be permitted for children under the age of five and those who cannot wear a face covering for health reasons.
“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,” stated provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry. “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.”
BC Transit stated that customers have indicated making the use of face coverings mandatory will create a more comfortable environment, adding that the crown corporation will work hard to ensure customers are aware of our new policy over the coming weeks, and work together to make transit a comfortable environment for staff and customers.
BC Transit and its government partners are working on plans to hand out promotional face coverings later this summer. For more details about the mandatory mask policy, go to bctransit.com.
