The U.S. Department of Transportation recently launched its Mask Up campaign to help ensure the safety of transportation workers.
“Throughout the pandemic, transportation workers have played a vital role connecting Americans to their jobs, keeping goods moving, and ensuring that vaccines get to where they’re needed,” Pete Buttigieg, U.S. transportation secretary, said. “With this campaign, we’ll send a clear message to people who travel: When you wear a mask, you’re protecting the safety of our essential transportation workers, your fellow passengers, and yourself.”
The purpose of the campaign is to educate transportation providers and travelers on their responsibility to wear a mask when traveling.
Everyone using any mode of public transportation must wear a mask, per orders by the Transportation Security Administration and the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Anyone failing to comply could receive civil penalties.
Transportation operators also are required to ensure passengers wear masks while boarding, riding, and disembarking.
Masks must cover the nose and mouth and secure behind the ears via ear loops, ties, or elastic bands.
Travelers can find further guidance on the CDC’s website.
The campaign is a joint effort between the Federal Aviation, Motor Carrier Safety, Railroad, and Transit Administrations.