Transit drivers exempt from mask bylaw
Posted Sep 8, 2020 1:15 pm.
Last Updated Sep 8, 2020 1:16 pm.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – You are required to wear a mask if you’re taking Calgary Transit but your driver might not have to.
Under the city’s face coverings bylaw, transit workers don’t have to wear a mask in an indoor public place, if they are alone and behind a plastic shield.
All buses in Calgary have been equipped with different barriers between the driver and riders.
“On our community shuttle we have full plexiglass, permanent style barriers,” said Stephen Tauro with Calgary Transit. “On LRT, they’re obviously behind the driving cab. On our buses, we’ve installed temporary vinyl.”
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Tauro added while drivers are exempt, they are encouraged to cover up.
“We at Calgary Transit believe that it’s very important for us to be community leaders and help support a safe transit system. As part of our own mask policy at Calgary Transit, we require operators to wear masks.”
Although the masks are encouraged for riders, it can’t be enforced because the workers fall under one of the exemptions.
Other exemptions for the bylaw include those with underlying health conditions, participating in fitness activities, or while eating or drinking inside restaurants.
