Face Covering Exemptions
Who is exempt from wearing a face covering on public transport?
- Following an Equalities Impact Assessment, exemptions will apply to those with:
- Breathing difficulties and other respiratory conditions.
- Conditions effecting their dexterity, meaning they are not able to put on a face covering.
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety or panic disorders.
- Other non-visible disabilities such as autism.
- Cognitive impairments, including dementia, who may not understand or remember the need to wear a face covering.
- Visual impairments, with a restricted field of vision, particularly if any residual vision is at the lower edge of the normal field of view.
- Impairments which would make it difficult to put on or take off a face covering safely, accurately, consistently or without pain.
- We also expect there to be reasonable judgement to ensure people can respond appropriately to avoid the risk of harm to themselves or others, and seek emergency medical assistance if required.
- The exemptions also apply to those who rely on lip reading. This would include carers who are travelling with someone for whom a face covering will inhibit communication.
- You will also be able to remove your face covering for eating/drinking if necessary and taking essential medication.
- The regulation will not apply to children under 11, or children on dedicated school transport services.
- We expect everyone to wear a face covering if they can.
- The above list of exemptions is not exhaustive and would extend to someone who has a justifiable reason for not wearing one on the grounds of health or disability not outlined above