Stagecoach West Scotland has some top tips for school children aged five and over who, from Monday (31st August 2020), will be required to wear a face covering, unless exempt, while travelling on dedicated school transport – in line with the latest Scottish Government guidance.
The safety of customers and employees is Stagecoach West Scotland’s number one priority. The following guidance which already applies to adult passengers, will help pupils, and parents, who use the bus get to school safely.
- Allow passengers exiting the bus to get off before you get on.
- Before boarding all passengers should be wearing a face covering – unless exempt.
- Do not remove your face covering until you get off the bus.
- All Stagecoach drivers will ask school pupils to sit at the back of the bus alongside other pupils.
- Please remember to ring the bell, the driver will stop so that passengers do not have to queue to leave the bus. This will help all passengers on board to maintain social distancing and keep safe.
- Passengers are asked to observe social distancing at bus stations and bus stops. Keep a safe distance from others in the queue.
- Pay by your smartcard, contactless card or smart phone or have exact change where possible.
- Buses are fitted with protective screens for the safety of customers and drivers when boarding/alighting the bus. Drivers do not need to wear a mask but if they leave their cab for any reason, including assisting a passenger, they will put on a face covering.
Fiona Doherty, Managing Director of Stagecoach West Scotland, said: “At Stagecoach we’re following the latest Scottish Government guidance and unless they are medically exempt all passengers, aged five and over, must wear a face covering.
“The safety of passengers and employees is our priority so it’s really important that passengers, where possible, wear a face covering at all times while travelling and do not take it off until leaving the bus.
“Passengers can travel on our services with confidence. Our drivers regularly and thoroughly clean handrails, bells, seats and poles – everything our passengers come into contact with. I’m really grateful to all our staff and passengers who are following the guidance to ensure that everyone can travel safely with Stagecoach.”
Download the full press release here