Masks to become mandatory on BC Transit and at Walmarts

Aug 6, 2020 | 12:41 PM

Starting Aug. 24, it will be mandatory for people to use face coverings when using BC Transit buses.

“BC Transit recognizes the advice from health professionals, including provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, has been to wear face coverings when physical distancing is not possible including on transit vehicles. Customers have indicated making the use of face coverings mandatory will create a more comfortable environment,” a news release from BC Transit said.

The new policy will be implemented as an educational step without enforcement.

Accommodations will be made for children under the age of five 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,” Erinn Pinkerton, BC Transit president and chief executive officer, said.

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Henry said 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. 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,” Henry said.

Meantime, people shopping at Canadian Walmarts will have to wear masks at all 400 of its stores starting next Wednesday Aug. 12.

The requirement will apply to customers and workers at all locations where a government mandate to wear a face covering isn’t already in place.

by Pete McIntyre

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