South Yorkshire Police issue warning to those refusing to wear face coverings

Since Monday June 15, the government has required everyone using any form of public transport to wear a face covering, unless they have an exemption for health, age or equality reasons.

From Friday, July 24, the requirement was extended to cover transport hubs, so face coverings must also be worn at stations and interchanges.

Though the majority of passengers are playing their part by following the rules drivers and customers have raised concerns that some people are refusing to wear a face covering.

In response police have confirmed that there will be increased patrols and spot checks on public transport to enforce the laws around face coverings, and issue fines to those who disobey.

Chief Inspector Lydia Lynskey said: “The wearing of a face covering on public transport is a legal requirement, and it has been introduced to keep yourself, drivers and other passengers safe.

“Officers have increased patrols on public transport and we do carry out spot checks to evaluate the level of compliance. Our officers are supporting drivers and will encourage all passengers to wear a face covering.

"Anyone who refuses will be asked to disembark and could be issued with a fine, not only by us but also by other authorised parties.”

Bus and tram operators, First South Yorkshire, Stagecoach Bus and Supertram, have introduced a raft of safety measures including limiting capacity, socially distanced seating layouts, additional cleaning processes and apps to track buses and passenger numbers.

However, these can only have their desired effect if followed alongside the face covering rules, transport bosses say.

Rob Hughes, Operations Director at First South Yorkshire said; ”I am receiving regular reports from our drivers who are stating that most people are staying safe and adhering to the new rule but there is a minority of people who are choosing to ignore it and are refusing to wear a face covering.

“It is irresponsible behaviour not to wear a face covering unless a person is exempt, and people are breaking the law which could result in a heavy fine being issued for noncompliance.”

Tim Bilby, Managing Director at Stagecoach Supertram added: “For those small number of people who continue not to wear one, or wear it without covering their nose and mouth, please remember this is about protecting everyone else in our communities, not just yourself. Please do the right thing and cover up.”

Department for Transport guidance states that public transport drivers are exempt from wearing face coverings as it can affect their ability to drive.

They are enclosed in their cabs or behind screens in most cases and are following all other hygiene precautions laid down by their employers for controlling coronavirus.