Bus passengers reminded over face-mask rules
SIf someone isn’t wearing a face covering, the driver will remind them of the rules. However, it is down to customers to follow the guidance Rob Pymm of First West
OME people are not wearing face coverings when travelling on buses in Bristol, the council has said.
The Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees has issued a reminder to residents in the city of the need to wear face masks in a recent email by Bristol City Council.
The email says: “We have been made aware that some people are not wearing face coverings when travelling on buses in Bristol.
“Everyone must wear a face covering when travelling on public transport unless you are exempt.
“You must also wear a face covering in predominantly enclosed areas such as bus or coach stations. If you do not wear a face covering in these settings you will be breaking the law and could be fined.”
It continues: “Please comply with this guidance to protect others travelling with you.
“Wherever possible, I encourage you to avoid public transport and walk, cycle or drive instead, but I understand that for some this may not be an option.
“We have an opportunity to address the spread of the virus, but only if we continue to adhere to the rules, guidance and behaviours that are required.”
The Post approached Bristol City Council for more information about the reports but no response was received.
People who refuse to wear a mask when required face a £100 fine because of rules introduced amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Face coverings have been mandatory on public transport since June 15, in shops since July 24 and in various other indoor settings since August 8, except for those with a special exemption.
Rob Pymm, commercial director at First West of England, said: “We are of course following Government guidance to engage, explain and encourage customers to wear face coverings and the majority of our customers are complying with the legislation when travelling on board, unless they have a medical exemption or are children aged 11 and under.
“Instructions are clearly indicated on our vehicles, but our drivers are not mandated to act as a legal authority to ensure compliance.
“If someone isn’t wearing a face covering, the driver will remind them of the rules.
“However, it is down to customers to follow the guidance and we would encourage them to respect their fellow passengers as we all have a collective responsibility when on board the bus to keep the environment as safe as possible.”